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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I want to try playing these on the piano! A collection of songs that use the Canon progression (21–30)
No Woman No CryBob Marley
This is a song released in 1974 by Jamaican singer-songwriter Bob Marley under the band name Bob Marley & The Wailers.
Its lyrics vividly depict the struggles of people living in Jamaica’s slums, resonating deeply with many listeners and becoming a hit in places like the UK and New Zealand.
Over a simple, canon-like chord progression, a warm melody unfolds that contrasts with the gravity of the lyrics.
Its gentle, calm character pairs exceptionally well with the sound of the piano!
Over DriveJUDY AND MARY
A signature song by JUDY AND MARY, distinguished by its exhilarating sound and refreshing melody.
The lyrics, packed with YUKI’s unique worldview, vividly portray a girl freely running under the summer blue sky.
Brimming with positivity and an energetic vibe, this track became the band’s first entry into the Oricon Top 10 and went on to be a massive hit, selling over 670,000 copies since its release in June 1995.
When you want to feel bright and liberated, this piece—marked by its memorable canon progression—will surely give you the courage to take a new step forward.
Have You Never Been MellowOlivia Newton-John
The classic “Have You Never Been Mellow,” sung by Olivia Newton-John, was a huge hit in countries like the United States, Canada, and Austria.
In Japan, it’s beloved under the title “Soyokaze no Yūwaku” and is still used in commercials even decades after its release.
The chorus melody is memorable, but a simple canon progression is used on the way there.
You can create a lovely performance just by layering a melody over the bass line, so if you enjoy Western pop, give it a try casually!
Love is…Kato Miria
A love ballad by Miliyah Kato built on a Canon progression, featuring a poignantly moving piano accompaniment and a grand, memorable melody.
Gently singing of a vow of eternal love and the bond of two people supporting each other, this single was released in June 2007, chosen as the ending theme for the anime Toward the Terra, and reached No.
11 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
It was later included on the albums TOKYO STAR, M BEST, and M BEST II, and continues to be loved over time.
It’s a heartwarming medium-tempo ballad you’ll want to listen to when you’ve nearly lost sight of life’s meaning or when you want to reaffirm your bond with someone special.
The Door to TomorrowI WiSH
I WiSH’s debut song is distinguished by its gently enveloping, soothing piano melodies, the simple canon-style chord progression, and a lyrical melodic line woven together with a clear, transparent vocal.
Tenderly expressing pure young love and hope for the future, this captivating track gives you the courage to take a new step forward and the strength to keep looking ahead.
Released in February 2003, it quickly drew attention after being selected as the theme song for Fuji TV’s variety show “Ainori,” and was later included on the album “Tsutaetai Kotoba ~Namida no Ochiru Basho~.” Frequently used at life’s milestone moments such as weddings and graduation ceremonies, this is a highly recommended song for those embarking on a new path or wishing to convey heartfelt feelings.
Dragon NightSEKAI NO OWARI
Many of you might think, “SEKAI NO OWARI’s songs are too complicated to play!” It’s true that the rhythmic phrasing of the melodies is complex, and it may not be easy to recreate the atmosphere of the songs on piano.
However, if you analyze the chords of Dragon Night, you’ll find that it actually follows a simple canon progression.
Start by practicing the melody over just the bass notes or left-hand chords, then gradually add more tones and rhythm.
Step by step, you can get closer to the feel of the original track!
In conclusion
The canon progression is a chord progression that could be called a staple of hit songs, and once again, we’ve gathered nothing but tracks everyone knows.
If you actually try playing them on the piano, you’ll notice they all share a beautiful, slightly wistful progression, which is precisely why the unique character of each artist’s melody—giving each song a different vibe—really comes through.
Because they use the same progression, you’ll find the bass moves in similar ways, and you can sometimes play different songs with the same accompaniment.
It can be fun to listen to and try playing various pieces, then realize, “Hey, this is the canon progression!” If you can play the piano, use this article as a starting point and go discover more songs!