Songs that use the Canon progression that I want to try playing on the piano
The chord progression of the piece commonly known as “Pachelbel’s Canon” is called the “canon progression,” and it’s been used in many hit songs.
Even if you’re not well-versed in chords, if you compare several songs that use the canon progression—even just in part—you’ll likely sense a shared sound.
Because the canon progression has a very beautiful resonance, it fits perfectly in piano arrangements as well.
In this article, we’ve compiled songs that use the canon progression—both Japanese and Western—that you’ll want to try playing on the piano!
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Songs Using the Canon Progression You’ll Want to Try on Piano (1–10)
Don’t Look Back In AngerOasis
Oasis’s legendary rock song “Don’t Look Back In Anger.” Often called the “British national anthem,” this massive hit that has captured the hearts of the British people for many years also uses the canon progression.
The melody and lyrics are so striking that it’s hard to notice how simple the chord progression is, isn’t it? First, try memorizing the left-hand bass notes according to the chords.
Once you add the moving right-hand melody on top, the framework of the song will come together!
Love will winKAN
KAN’s “Ai wa Katsu” (“Love Will Win”) powerfully encourages those with unrequited love or struggling in romance, telling them, “If you keep believing, it will come true someday!” Some may think it’s hard to play on the piano because it modulates repeatedly.
However, each section actually follows the canon progression, repeating the same chords, so it’s surprisingly easy to memorize and get the feel for.
You might find you can play it more smoothly than you expect once you try.
If you’d like to perform a Heisei-era classic on the piano, give it a shot!
cherrysupittsu
Spitz’s smash hit “Cherry” portrays a new departure, taking a step toward a bright future.
The intro features the first half of the Canon progression, and the A section uses the Canon progression in its complete form.
Although the same chords repeat, the transition from the intro changes, so it never feels monotonous—many listeners might not even notice the Canon progression is being used.
Keep the accompaniment part of the Canon progression steady, and try playing while staying mindful of the light, floating melody line layered on top!
Songs that Use the Canon Progression You’ll Want to Try on Piano (11–20)
Can’t Help Falling In LoveElvis Presley
Elvis Presley, regarded as one of the best-selling musicians of all time and a legendary rock star whose memory lives on long after his passing, recorded “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” Over a Pachelbel-style chord progression, a beautiful melody unfolds that draws on the French song “Plaisir d’amour.” Simple yet moving, the music pairs wonderfully with the timbre of the piano.
Perform it slowly and gently, and savor the full beauty of the melodic line.
GO WESTVillage People
Covered by artists around the world and well-known as a soccer chant, “Go West” was originally a song by the American disco group Village People.
Its familiarity and ease of remembering may come from the simple canon progression it uses.
Once you’ve learned the chord pattern, all that’s left is to layer on a bright, energetic melody.
With an upbeat tempo, play it boldly as if you’re cheering yourself and those around you on!
TOMORROWMayo Okamoto
Mayo Okamoto’s signature song “TOMORROW” gives you a push on the back, saying, “Let’s live strongly toward tomorrow!” Many people have surely found their hearts saved by this song when feeling down or facing something sad.
The way it calms you and makes you feel positive probably comes not only from its piercing lyrics and her gentle, embracing voice, but also from the reassuring stability of the canon progression.
Try playing it while savoring the simple, beautiful chord changes in the left hand.
Tears Flowing EndlesslyNatsukawa Rimi
A gem-like ballad woven by a songstress from Okinawa.
This piece portrays the sorrow of losing someone dear and the powerful feelings for that person, wrapped in a gentle, comforting melody.
Built on a canon progression, the melody resonates deeply in the listener’s heart.
Rimi Natsukawa’s soft vocals feel as if they carry the Okinawan breeze, soothing and close to the soul.
Released in March 2001, it topped the annual charts at three radio stations in Okinawa.
It then gained nationwide popularity and was selected as the CM song for ANA’s Okinawa route campaign.
It’s a perfect piece for those who want to play with heartfelt thoughts for someone special.