Ukulele masterpieces. Recommended popular songs
A roundup of classic ukulele tunes!
From hidden gems known only to aficionados to famous cover songs, we’ve picked a wide range of ukulele masterpieces.
The ukulele is a traditional Hawaiian instrument.
Many people associate the ukulele with a soothing, relaxing sound.
But in fact, the ukulele can sound incredibly cool in high-energy songs, too.
There are plenty of tracks that will make you think, “Wait, they even cover songs that intense on the ukulele?”
This time, we’ll introduce classic tracks while showcasing this fresh, unexpected side of the ukulele.
It’s a must-read for fans of Hawaiian music as well!
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Ukulele Masterpieces: Recommended Popular Songs (11–20)
A Whole New WorldAnna Damita
“A Whole New World,” used as the theme song for the Disney film Aladdin released in 1992, is an extremely well-known song in Japan as well, especially with the film’s remake.
This version is a ukulele cover of “A Whole New World,” sung by an artist named Anna Damita.
While she mainly performs covers, it seems she will be releasing an original song in 2020.
Definitely one to watch!
TryMandy Harvey
Singer-songwriter Mandy Harvey rose to fame after appearing on the popular American audition show America’s Got Talent.
In fact, she cannot hear due to a condition called a connective tissue disorder.
Even in such circumstances, she has continued her singing career to convey the importance of never giving up.
Her song Try carries a clear message within its slightly wistful mood.
Be sure to check it out!
Pua LililehuaNa Mary Kawena Pukui & Kahauanu Lake
A classic hula song, “Pua Lililehua.” If you regularly listen to Hawaiian music, you’ve probably heard it at least once.
Its melody and vocals, which resemble Okinawan folk music, are particularly striking.
Hawaiian music often likens people to flowers or plants, and in “Pua Lililehua,” the beloved is compared to the lililehua flower.
It’s recommended for those who want to enjoy slightly deeper Hawaiian music.
The ukulele tones are also soothing, so be sure to check it out!
Can’t Help Falling In Lovetwenty one pilots
Elvis Presley’s classic “Can’t Help Falling In Love,” produced and released in 1961, is a song I think everyone has heard at least once.
This version is arranged in a ukulele style.
It’s an arrangement by Twenty One Pilots, and the melody is crafted to be even more emotional than the original.
Tyler Joseph’s vocals further heighten the sense of poignancy.
La Vie En RoseCristin Milioti
The chanson classic “La Vie en Rose”—also one of Édith Piaf’s signature songs—is known in Japan under the title “Barairo no Jinsei” (“A Rosy Life”).
It’s a masterpiece among masterpieces, even receiving a Grammy Hall of Fame honor in 1998.
Here’s a ukulele cover of “La Vie en Rose,” performed by American singer Cristin Milioti, whose rendition captures an even more languid, wistful mood than the original.
Be sure to check it out!
MisirlouHonoka & Azita
Honoka & Azita are a ukulele duo from Hawaii.
Many people probably associate the ukulele with a laid-back image.
Their performances defy that expectation, featuring a lineup of very intense pieces.
Among them, the most intense is “Misirlou,” an Ottoman folk tune that was also used in the film TAXI.
Their arrangement feels close to the version from TAXI.
If you want to see a different side of the ukulele, be sure to check it out!
Ukulele Masterpieces: Recommended Popular Songs (21–30)
Lei PakalanaNā Wai ʻ Ehā
A harmony group formed by two sets of brothers from Maui, Nā Wai ʻEhā delivers a beautiful piece wrapped in gentle warmth.
Centered on the theme of the pakalana lei, a traditional Hawaiian flower, its graceful melody resonates deeply.
Featured on their November 2018 album “Nā Wai ʻEhā,” this track showcases the members’ clear, pristine vocals carried by the soft tones of ukulele and slack-key guitar.
While cherishing elements of traditional Hawaiian music, the captivating, modern-tinged sound design has won the hearts of many listeners.
Perfect for peaceful moments or as background music for hula practice, it creates a truly blissful atmosphere.
In conclusion
This time, I focused on introducing classic ukulele songs and standout ukulele covers.
We saw that many well-known tracks have been covered, didn’t we? A lot of people associate the ukulele with a soothing, healing vibe.
With this ukulele feature, hasn’t that image changed a bit? The ability to deliver powerful expression is also one of the ukulele’s strengths.
There are still many great songs that have been covered on the ukulele, so if you’re interested, be sure to check them out!