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)
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!
Sakura (Solo)Moriyama Naotaro
The music of Naotaro Moriyama, one of Japan’s leading singer-songwriters, uses cherry blossoms—a symbol of spring—as its theme.
This work is a poignant ballad centered on graduation and parting, expressing life’s farewells and new beginnings through the transience of sakura.
Released in March 2003 with an initial pressing of about 1,200 copies, it became an exceptional hit, reaching No.
1 on the Oricon chart in its ninth week.
Its gentle, piano-driven melody and Moriyama’s distinctive vocals resonate deeply with listeners.
It was also used as the ending theme for TBS’s Sekai Ururun Taizaiki and is beloved by many.
The chorus’s chord progression is a classic Pachelbel-style canon progression, a device often used effectively in hit songs.
Even played on piano alone, it’s enough to bring a tear to your eye!
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!
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.
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.
Please give me wingsakai tori
Songs by the folk group Red Bird have a charm that evokes beautiful harmonies and a sense of Japanese tradition.
Released in February 1971, this song became a beloved classic throughout Japan.
Its lyrics express a longing for freedom and pure wishes, reflecting the spirit of the times.
The desire to fly through the sky on white wings resonates as a message in many people’s hearts.
Since 1976, it has been included in music textbooks and has been sung across generations.
The chorus uses a canon progression, and when playing it on piano, it’s best to aim for a gently flowing melody while also conveying the strength inherent in the lyrics.