Not everything old can be called a classic, but classical music stands the test of time. You can hear classical music in poignant cinematic moments, in public spaces, and echoed in some of your favorite tunes. While pop music and classical music may sound like they’re on opposite sides of the musical spectrum, some of the most popular songs of this century and the last were inspired by classical music. From iconic hits loved by generations of music fans to recent favorites, let’s explore some pop songs you may be surprised to learn were inspired by classical music.
The Beatles and Classical Music
Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 (Moonlight Sonata) is a balance of highs and lows that represent hope in the face of adversity, keeping listeners tuned to see which will win in the end. When John Lennon heard Yoko Ono (a classically trained musician) playing Beethoven’s “Moonlight Sonata”, he asked her to play it backward. The resulting tune inspired the song “Because” which appeared on The Beatles landmark 1969 album Abbey Road.
Moonlight Sonata isn’t the only classical influence recognizable in Beatles songs. A few more you might recognize include:
- “Blackbird” inspired by Johann Bach’s “Bourrée” in E minor
- “Panny Lane” inspired by Johann Bach’s “Brandenburg Concerto No. 2” in F major
- “Eleanor Rigby” inspired by Antonio Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons”
Queen’s Operatic Influences
If you’re familiar with Queen’s rise to fame in the 1970s, you’re likely familiar with the pop/rock masterpiece “Bohemian Rhapsody.” While the sounds of instrumental classics inspired The Beatles, Queen’s vibrant musical sounds and vocals were inspired by opera. The unique song begins with an introduction that leads into a piano ballad before a guitar solo leads to an opera section in the middle, followed by a hard rock finish. The song’s opera section is filled with choruses of multi-tracked and aria-like solos with heightened emotions and a complex plot. The resulting six-minute song, often referred to as a mini-rock opera, appeared on the fittingly titled “A Night at the Opera” album.
While not all influences are as easily recognized as those in “Bohemian Rhapsody,” Freddie Mercury and Queen weren’t the only artists inspired by opera. Other well-known musical icons with opera-inspired songs include:
- Janet Jackson
- Sia
- Phil Collins
The Enduring Appeal of Classical Music
Many contemporary pop artists are classically trained, while countless others look to timeless classics for inspiration. Music that is centuries old and played on instruments that seem out of place in the modern pop world still has the power to resonate with audiences today. These symphonies and operas are filled with emotion and composed with unforgettable musical elements to influence a lifetime of musicians and delight generations of music fans. Modern songs continue to be directly and indirectly influenced by beloved classics. Some examples include:
- Billy Joel’s “This Night” inspired by Beethoven’s “‘Pathétique’ Sonata”
- Lady Gaga’s “Alejandro” inspired by Vittorio Monti’s “Csárdás”
- The White Stripes’ “Seven Nation Army” inspired by Bruckner’s “Symphony No. 5”
- Nas’ “I Can” was inspired by Beethoven’s “Für Elise”
Studying classical music can enhance a musician’s appreciation for music in general and expand knowledge of varied sounds. The results of such influences are easily visible in the examples of some of pop’s most iconic titles.
The Classics Live On
Each year introduces new musicians to the world and new musical sounds. Artists who turn to classical greats for inspiration enhance pop and its many variants with a unique approach to proven tactics. Organizations like the Chicago Philharmonic play a pivotal role in preserving and promoting classical music with engagement programs and events including orchestra concerts, enabling classical music to be enjoyed by modern music lovers and inspire up-and-coming artists.