More Popsicals

Recently, we started a series called “Popsicals”. This is a blog series and playlist of pop songs inspired by classical works. Like any other art form, music influences the creation of other art. Maybe you will even be inspired by these works!

Plaisir d’Amour by Jean-Paul-Égide Martini & Can’t Help Falling in Love by Elvis Presley

Everyone knows Elvis Presley’s ever so romantic ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love”. Did you know it’s inspired by composer, Martini, and his piece ‘Plaisir d’Amour’? Elvis Presley borrowed many classical themes, 7 other tunes use them.

Plaisir d’Amour – Jean-Paul-Égide Martini

Canon in D by Pachelbel & Graduation (Friends Forever) by Vitamin C

Next piece you may recognize is ‘Graduation (Friends Forever)’. This song is iconic for its connection to everyone’s big milestone of graduating! It is also inspired by the memorable ‘Canon in D’ by Pachelbel.

Moonlight Sonata by Beethoven & Neon Gravestones by Twenty One Pilots

Another band that references classical works is Twenty One Pilots. An alternative pop duo that has had many hits in the past 10 years. You may have heard their music before, but did you hear its’ classical influence. When listening to ‘Neon Gravestones’ you can’t help but hear the similarity to ‘Moonlight Sonata’! Hear the similarities in the piano.

twenty one pilots – Neon Gravestones

String Quartet No. 21 by Mozart & Mozart’s House by Clean Bandit ft. Love Ssega

Clean Bandit pushed the boundaries of pop music with this song by incorporating Mozart. The chorus uses the first phase of the Classical composer’s String Quartet No. 21 in addition to Italian musical terms in the lyrics. Even the title of the song shows the influence Mozart had on their song!

Mozart’s House by Clean Bandit ft. Love Ssega

Symphony No. 5 in B Major by Anton Bruckner & Seven Nation Army by The White Stripes

Not only is ‘Seven Nation Army’ a sports anthem but it is also created using Anton Bruckner’s ‘Symphony No. 5 in B Major’. The crowd favorite is popular for its powerful and memorable rock theme. The guitar resembles a repeating bass figure. Did you know Bruckner’s piece was also inspired by Mozart? Inspiration is everywhere!

Anton Bruckner Symphony No 5 in B Major

Want to listen to all the pieces from Popsicals Part 1 and 2? Check out our Popsical playlist on Spotify!