Harmonizing is a beautiful art form, bringing voices together to create something richer and more powerful than the sum of its parts. And what better way to explore this musical magic than by delving into a world of songs tailor-made for vocal harmony? This list celebrates the timeless appeal of songs that lend themselves perfectly to layered vocals, from the soaring power of a duet to the intricate tapestry of a four-part harmony. Whether you're a seasoned vocalist or just starting out, these tracks offer a gateway to discovering the joys of harmonizing, allowing you to explore the emotional depth and technical artistry that come with blending voices together.
| Song | Artist | Album | Release | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Perfect | Ed Sheeran | ÷ (Deluxe) | 2017 | 4B+ |
| 2. Titanium |
David Guetta Sia | Nothing but the Beat (Ultimate Edition) | 2011 | 2B+ |
| 3. Bohemian Rhapsody | Queen | A Night At The Opera (Deluxe Remastered Version) | 1975 | 2B+ |
| 4. Shallow |
Lady Gaga Bradley Cooper | A Star Is Born Soundtrack | 2018 | 2B+ |
| 5. Africa | TOTO | Toto IV | 1982 | 1B+ |
| 6. Stand By Me | Ben E. King | Don't Play That Song (Mono) | 1961 | 558M+ |
| 7. Can't Help Falling in Love | Elvis Presley | Blue Hawaii | 1961 | 418M+ |
1. Perfect (Ed Sheeran)
Barefoot on the grass, listening to our favorite song ”
Song information
| ArtistEd Sheeran | Release2017 |
| Time04:40 | View4B+ |
| Likes 22M+ | SuitableParejas enamoradas |
| Album÷ (Deluxe)Listen on Spotify | |
- Acoustic Guitar
- Acoustic Ballad
- Romantic Ballad
- Heartfelt Lyrics
- Romantic Love Song
"Perfect" by Ed Sheeran evokes a sense of pure romantic bliss, much like a classic love song that transcends time. The song's simple, yet heartfelt lyrics, combined with Ed Sheeran's warm vocals, create an atmosphere perfect for harmonizing.
For vocalists, "Perfect" offers a blend of "close harmonies" and "layered vocals." The song features a clear melody line, making it easy for a lead singer to carry the tune, while the chorus provides ample opportunities for harmonies to shine. The vocal range required is moderate, making it suitable for singers of various skill levels. The song's simplicity makes it relatively "easy" to harmonize with, making it a great choice for beginner vocal groups or those looking for a fun and engaging song to sing together.
2. Titanium (David Guetta ft Sia - 1970)
Song information
| ArtistDavid Guetta, Sia | Release2011 |
| Time04:06 | View2B+ |
| Likes 9M+ | SuitableGente joven |
| AlbumNothing but the Beat (Ultimate Edition)Listen on Spotify | |
- Trance
- Pop Dance
- Electro-house
- Progressive House
- David Guetta
"Titanium" by David Guetta featuring Sia is a powerful anthem that bursts with an emotional core. The song's driving beat, paired with Sia's soaring vocals, creates a sense of resilience and hope, making it a perfect choice for those looking to add a touch of drama and emotion to their harmonies.
This track lends itself beautifully to both close and layered harmonies, with Sia's melody providing a clear foundation for vocal arrangements. The song's structure, featuring a powerful chorus with a simple chord progression, makes it relatively easy to harmonize, though the high notes of the melody might require a singer with a wide vocal range. Whether you're a seasoned harmony pro or just starting out, "Titanium" offers a chance to add your own unique vocal flair to this timeless masterpiece.
3. Bohemian Rhapsody
Is this just fantasy? ”
Song information
| ArtistQueen | Release1975 |
| Time06:00 | View2B+ |
| Likes 13M+ | SuitableRock Fans |
| AlbumA Night At The Opera (Deluxe Remastered Version)Listen on Spotify | |
- Classic rock
- Progressive Rock
- Epic Rock
- Queen
- Opera Rock
Have you ever listened to a melody that unfolds like a story, taking you on a journey through different emotions? 'Bohemian Rhapsody' by Queen is one such song. This six-minute epic, with its unconventional structure and diverse musical sections, is a masterpiece of vocal harmony.
The song is known for its layered vocals, featuring intricate harmonies and counterpoint, creating a lush and dramatic soundscape. It requires a wide vocal range, encompassing high tenor and low alto, and is best suited for experienced singers who can handle the challenging transitions and dynamic shifts. While not necessarily "easy" for beginners, the memorable melody and strong chord progressions provide a solid foundation for harmonizing, making it a rewarding experience for those up for the challenge.
4. Shallow (2018)
Are you happy in this modern world? ”
Song information
| ArtistLady Gaga, Bradley Cooper | Release2018 |
| Time03:37 | View2B+ |
| Likes 8M+ | SuitableAmantes de la música |
| AlbumA Star Is Born SoundtrackListen on Spotify | |
- Love
- Emotional Ballad
- Love Ballad
- Powerful Vocals
- Lady Gaga
If you haven't yet listened to "Shallow" by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper, now is the perfect time to indulge in its captivating melody and powerful emotions. This duet, featured in the film "A Star Is Born," is a true masterpiece of vocal collaboration. The song lends itself beautifully to close harmonies, with its soaring melodies and intricate vocal arrangements. The vocal range required for the harmony parts is wide, spanning from lower alto to higher tenor, making it a challenging but rewarding experience for singers.
"Shallow" is an excellent choice for intermediate to advanced harmonizers. The song's catchy chorus and simple chord progressions make it easy to follow, while the emotional depth and dramatic shifts in the melody provide ample opportunity for vocal expression. The memorable melodies of both the lead and harmony lines make it a joy to sing, and the song's emotional resonance adds a depth to the harmonic experience, making it a truly impactful performance.
5. Africa
There's nothing that a hundred men or more could ever do ”
Song information
| ArtistTOTO | Release1982 |
| Time04:32 | View1B+ |
| Likes 5M+ | SuitableNostalgia Seekers |
| AlbumToto IVListen on Spotify | |
- Classic rock
- TOTO
- Oldies
- Rock Band
'Africa' by Toto is a classic choice for vocal harmony enthusiasts, offering a blend of accessible melodies and evocative harmonies. The song features layered vocal arrangements that lend themselves to both close and layered harmonies, making it suitable for a variety of group sizes and vocal styles. While the song's harmonies are generally considered intermediate in difficulty, they are achievable for singers with a decent vocal range, particularly those comfortable with higher and lower notes.
The song's iconic chorus provides a perfect platform for harmonizing, with its memorable melody and repetitive structure making it easy to pick up and sing along to. The verses also offer opportunities for layered vocals, adding depth and richness to the performance. Additionally, the song's simple chord progressions allow singers to focus on vocal blend and timing, creating a cohesive and satisfying sound.
6. Stand By Me
And the land is dark ”
Song information
| ArtistBen E. King | Release1961 |
| Time02:58 | View558M+ |
| Likes 4M+ | SuitableNostalgic Adults |
| AlbumDon't Play That Song (Mono)Listen on Spotify | |
- Love song
- Pop Music
- R&B
- Soul
- timeless classic
'Stand By Me' by Ben E. King is an excellent choice for vocal harmonies, offering a blend of simplicity and emotional depth that makes it resonate with listeners. The song lends itself to close harmonies, with its memorable melody providing a strong foundation for layered vocals. While the vocal range required is relatively moderate, the song's emotional intensity can challenge singers to deliver a heartfelt performance.
This song's appeal for harmonizing lies in its accessible structure. The chord progressions are simple and repetitive, allowing singers to focus on blending their voices and creating a harmonious soundscape. The catchy chorus, with its repeated "Stand by me" refrain, offers opportunities for impactful vocal interplay. Whether performed in a small group or by a larger choir, 'Stand By Me' provides a powerful platform for singers to express their unity and support through harmonious vocals.
7. Can't Help Falling in Love
But I can't help falling in love with you. ”
Song information
| ArtistElvis Presley | Release1961 |
| Time03:01 | View418M+ |
| Likes 4M+ | SuitableRomantics |
| AlbumBlue HawaiiListen on Spotify | |
- Love song
- Love Ballad
- Acoustic
- Classic rock
- Romantic Ballad
Elvis Presley's "Can't Help Falling in Love" is a timeless ballad that transcends generations, making it a perfect choice for harmonies. The song's simple chord progressions and catchy melody provide a strong foundation for building beautiful vocal arrangements.
"Can't Help Falling in Love" lends itself well to both close and layered harmonies, offering a versatile option for vocal groups. The vocal range is fairly manageable, making it approachable for singers with a variety of vocal abilities. While the song is primarily sung in a lower register, it does contain a few higher notes in the chorus, requiring some vocal flexibility. In terms of difficulty, harmonizing to this classic track falls into the "easy to intermediate" category. The simplicity of the melody and chord structure makes it relatively easy to pick up, while the opportunity to add vocal embellishments allows for creative expression and a touch of complexity.
8. California Dreamin' - 1970
And the sky is grey (and the sky is grey) ”
Listen online
Song information
| ArtistThe Mamas , the Papas | Release1965 |
| Time02:38 | View351M+ |
| Likes 2M+ | SuitableN/a |
"California Dreamin'" by The Mamas & the Papas is more than just a nostalgic pop song; it's a testament to the enduring power of harmonies and a testament to the human experience of longing. This song has become a cultural touchstone, evoking memories of sunny days, lost loves, and the yearning for something more. The lyrics, with their evocative imagery of "snowflakes falling on a summer's day," perfectly capture the bittersweet feeling of being out of place, a sentiment that resonates with listeners across generations.
For vocalists seeking a harmony challenge, "California Dreamin'" offers a blend of close harmonies and vocal layering that's both beautiful and challenging. The song features a wide vocal range, with parts that dip into lower registers and soar to higher notes, making it particularly suitable for groups with diverse vocal abilities. The simple chord progressions and memorable melody make it an ideal choice for intermediate to advanced vocalists looking to hone their harmonizing skills and create a truly captivating performance.
9. End Of The Road
Still I can't let go ”
Song information
| ArtistBoyz II Men | Release1992 |
| Time04:15 | View309M+ |
| Likes 2M+ | SuitableR&B Lovers |
| AlbumCooleyhighharmony (Bonus Tracks Version)Listen on Spotify | |
- R&B Ballad
- 90s Throwback
- Nostalgic Soul
- Boyz II Men
"End of the Road" by Boyz II Men wasn't just a smash hit, it earned the group Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals and Best R&B Song at the 1993 Grammy Awards, solidifying its place in music history. This song is a prime example of close harmonies, with the group's signature layered vocals creating a rich and emotionally resonant sound. The harmony parts require a fairly wide vocal range, spanning from high tenor to low bass, making it a challenging but rewarding song for singers to tackle.
While not a simple melody, "End of the Road" features a catchy chorus and a memorable progression of chords that make it a truly satisfying song to harmonize. The song's emotional depth and the powerful delivery of its lyrics make it a popular choice for acapella groups and vocalists looking for a song to connect with their audience on a deeper level. The song's intricate harmonies, layered vocals, and emotionally charged lyrics make it a classic for a reason, and its enduring popularity makes it a perfect choice for any group looking to create a memorable musical experience.
10. Imagine (Imagine - 1970)
It's easy if you try ”
Song information
| ArtistJohn Lennon | Release1971 |
| Time03:54 | View309M+ |
| Likes 2M+ | SuitablePeace Activists |
| AlbumImagineListen on Spotify | |
- Utopian dream
- John Lennon
- Dreamy Ballad
- Peace anthem
- Utopian vision
Released in 1971, "Imagine" by John Lennon has become a timeless anthem for peace and unity. The song's simple yet powerful message, combined with its iconic melody and heartfelt lyrics, resonates deeply with listeners and has garnered numerous accolades, including a Grammy Hall of Fame Award and a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's '500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll'. "Imagine" is an excellent choice for harmonizing, with its straightforward chord progression and memorable melody making it easy to learn and perform.
"Imagine" is well-suited for both close and layered harmonies. The song's vocal range is moderate, making it accessible to singers of various abilities. The harmony parts, particularly the "ah ah ah" sections of the chorus, are easy to pick up and create a beautiful blend of voices. Its simplicity makes it a great starting point for beginners, while the iconic melody offers ample opportunity for experienced singers to explore more intricate vocal arrangements. The song's message of hope and peace adds a profound depth to any performance, making it a powerful and inspiring choice for those seeking to harmonize their voices and share their passion for music.
11. Hallelujah (Various Positions)
That David played and it pleased the Lord ”
Song information
| ArtistLeonard Cohen | Release1984 |
| Time07:20 | View249M+ |
| Likes 1M+ | SuitableChristian |
| AlbumVarious PositionsListen on Spotify | |
- emotional song
- Leonard Cohen
- Religious Song
- Jeff Buckley's version
"Hallelujah" by Leonard Cohen is a classic choice for harmonizing, offering a rich tapestry of vocal possibilities. While the song's melody is relatively simple, its emotional depth and lyrical complexity lend themselves to layered vocal arrangements, especially those with close harmonies. The song's range is generally moderate, suitable for a wide variety of vocal types, although the harmonies may require some careful blending of high tenors and low altos for a truly impactful sound.
The song's structure, with its repeating verses and powerful chorus, provides ample opportunity for vocalists to showcase their abilities. The simple chord progressions create a solid foundation for harmonies, making "Hallelujah" a great choice for both beginners and experienced singers seeking a song with a timeless appeal. Its universal themes of love, loss, and redemption resonate deeply with audiences, making this a powerful song for any group looking to create a moving and memorable musical experience.
12. I Will Wait - 1970
Like a stone ”
Listen online
Song information
| ArtistMumford , Sons | Release2012 |
| Time05:05 | View247M+ |
| Likes 928K+ | SuitableAcoustic lovers |
- Love song
- Acoustic
- Folk rock
- Breakup
- Patience
"I Will Wait" by Mumford & Sons, a track that reached the top 12 on the US Billboard Hot 100, is a powerful ballad that has resonated with listeners worldwide. This song, a standout from their critically acclaimed album "Babel," earned nominations for Best Rock Performance and Best Rock Song at the 2013 Grammy Awards, solidifying its position as a musical masterpiece. For those seeking a song with harmonies that are both beautiful and accessible, "I Will Wait" presents a compelling choice.
The song's arrangements lend themselves well to close harmonies, with a focus on layered vocal textures. The melody is straightforward, making it easy to follow along, while the chorus offers a powerful opportunity for vocalists to shine. While not overly challenging, the song does require a decent vocal range, as the harmonies span a comfortable distance. This makes "I Will Wait" an ideal song for groups of mixed abilities, allowing everyone to contribute and enjoy the process of harmonizing.
13. Let It Be (The Beatles - 1970)
Song information
| ArtistThe Beatles | Release1970 |
| Time04:04 | View173M+ |
| Likes 1M+ | SuitableBeatles Fans |
| AlbumLet It Be (Remastered)Listen on Spotify | |
- Classic rock
- The Beatles
- Beatles Classic
- 60s Rock
- Peaceful Ballad
Have you ever listened to a melody where every note resonates with your heart? "Let It Be" by The Beatles is exactly that kind of song, and it's also a fantastic choice for harmonizing. The song's gentle, flowing melody and simple chord progressions lend themselves beautifully to both close harmonies and layered vocals, creating a rich and full sound.
While the song itself might be considered easy to sing, harmonizing "Let It Be" can be a bit more challenging. The harmony parts often require a wide vocal range, encompassing both high and low notes, especially for the choruses. If you're looking for a song that offers a satisfying challenge and a rewarding vocal experience, "Let It Be" is an excellent choice. Its timeless melody and profound message make it a song that transcends generations, and it's sure to resonate with anyone who loves to harmonize.
14. The Sound of Silence - 1970
I've come to talk with you again ”
Listen online
Song information
| ArtistSimon , Garfunkel | Release1964 |
| Time03:59 | View157M+ |
| Likes 939K+ | SuitableN/a |
"The Sound of Silence" by Simon & Garfunkel is a classic choice for harmonizing, particularly for those seeking a blend of gentle beauty and emotional depth. The song's harmony structure features a combination of close harmonies and layered vocals, often with a lead voice accompanied by a supporting harmony. The vocal range required for the harmony parts isn't overly challenging, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced singers.
The song's enduring popularity stems from its simple yet impactful melody and lyrics that resonate with listeners on a deeply personal level. The straightforward chord progressions and repeated phrases create a sense of familiarity and comfort, making it easy to follow and harmonize with. "The Sound of Silence" is a testament to the power of simplicity and the beauty of shared voices, making it a truly remarkable piece for harmony enthusiasts.
15. Lean on Me (Bill Withers)
And I'll be your friend ”
Song information
| ArtistBill Withers | Release1972 |
| Time04:18 | View70M+ |
| Likes 653K+ | SuitablePeople seeking comfort |
| AlbumStill BillListen on Spotify | |
- Emotional Ballad
- Classic soul
- Bill Withers
- Supportive Anthem
While many songs offer opportunities for harmonies, "Lean on Me" by Bill Withers stands out for its simplicity and emotional depth. It's a song that transcends musical genres, making it a perfect choice for both experienced and beginner vocalists.
"Lean on Me" is ideally suited for close harmonies, where the vocal parts intertwine closely, creating a rich, full sound. The song primarily uses two-part harmonies, which are easy to learn and execute. While the vocal range is manageable for most singers, the key change in the chorus adds a slight challenge, allowing for more expressive vocal work. The song's easy-to-follow melody and repetitive chord progression make it approachable for harmonizing, while the heartfelt lyrics provide a solid foundation for emotional delivery. The combination of its simple structure and emotional depth allows "Lean on Me" to be enjoyed by listeners of all ages and backgrounds, making it a timeless classic for a reason.
16. Yesterday (The Beatles)
Song information
| ArtistThe Beatles | Release1965 |
| Time02:06 | View58M+ |
| Likes 584K+ | SuitableBeatles Fans |
| AlbumHelp! (Remastered)Listen on Spotify | |
- Pop ballad
- British invasion
- Classic rock
- The Beatles
- Love Story
Released in 1965 as part of the Beatles' "Help!" album, "Yesterday" is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners across generations. This poignant ballad, featuring Paul McCartney's soulful vocals and a haunting string quartet accompaniment, has become a staple of musical history, earning numerous accolades including a Grammy Hall of Fame induction and a top spot in multiple "best song of all time" lists.
"Yesterday" is a fantastic choice for harmonizing, offering a blend of simplicity and emotional depth. The song lends itself to close harmonies, with its gentle melody providing a foundation for soaring vocals and a delicate interplay of vocal parts. While the harmony parts themselves are relatively easy to learn, the song requires a decent vocal range, as the melody spans a fair distance. Whether you're looking for a heartwarming rendition with friends or a captivating performance with a choir, "Yesterday" offers a timeless musical experience that's sure to leave a lasting impression.
17. Somebody to Love (Older)
I work till I ache my bones ”
Song information
| ArtistQueen, George Michael | Release1976 |
| Time04:58 | View46M+ |
| Likes 290K+ | SuitableRock Enthusiasts |
| AlbumOlderListen on Spotify | |
- Love Ballad
- Classic rock
- Queen
- Queen Anthem
- George Michael
'Somebody to Love', originally by Queen and famously covered by George Michael at the Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert, is a powerhouse of a song that begs to be harmonized. It features layered vocal arrangements, with rich harmonies that build upon a solid foundation. The song's range demands a wide vocal spread, incorporating high tenor and low alto parts, making it a challenging but rewarding choice for singers.
While certainly not an "easy" harmony, the memorable melody, catchy chorus, and simple chord progressions make it a great choice for experienced singers looking to showcase their skills. The song's emotional depth and the way it builds towards a powerful climax make it a captivating experience for both performers and listeners, making 'Somebody to Love' an ideal choice for those wanting to create a truly impactful and memorable performance.
18. Bridge Over Troubled Water (1970)
Sail on by ”
Listen online
Song information
| ArtistSimon , Garfunkel | Release1970 |
| Time04:54 | View37M+ |
| Likes 252K+ | SuitableN/a |
'Bridge Over Troubled Water' by Simon & Garfunkel is a timeless classic that's not only perfect for solo listening but also an exceptional choice for harmonizing. The song features a combination of close and layered harmonies, creating a rich and emotionally resonant soundscape. While the lead vocals are primarily in a comfortable mid-range, the harmony parts occasionally venture into higher ranges, making it suitable for vocalists with a moderate to wide range.
The song's simple chord progressions and memorable melody make it relatively easy to harmonize, even for beginners. The catchy chorus, with its repeated "Like a bridge over troubled water" refrain, provides a natural framework for harmonizing, while the verses offer opportunities for more intricate vocal arrangements. Whether you're looking to create a soaring and inspiring performance or simply enjoy the beauty of two voices blending together, 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' is a perfect choice for any harmony enthusiast.
19. I Get Around
Yeah, get around, round, round, I get around ”
Song information
| ArtistThe Beach Boys | Release1964 |
| Time02:09 | View27M+ |
| Likes 234K+ | SuitableSurfers |
- Classic rock
- The Beach Boys
- Surf Rock
- West Coast
"I Get Around" by The Beach Boys is a classic choice for anyone looking to harmonize with friends. The song features tight, layered vocals that create a beautiful, intricate soundscape. While it isn't the easiest song to tackle, the vocal range required is fairly standard, making it accessible to singers with a variety of abilities. The difficulty level falls somewhere between intermediate and challenging, with its complex harmonies and catchy melody demanding attention and practice.
What truly sets "I Get Around" apart as a harmonizing choice is its infectiously catchy chorus. The simple chord progressions and memorable melody provide a strong foundation for vocalists to build upon, making it easy to follow and learn. Its upbeat energy and timeless appeal make it a crowd-pleasing choice, sure to bring smiles and a feeling of nostalgia to those who enjoy the classic sounds of The Beach Boys.
20. Ain't No Mountain High Enough (United - 1970)
Ain't no valley low, ain't no river wide enough, baby ”
Song information
| ArtistMarvin Gaye, Tammi Terrell | Release1967 |
| Time02:44 | View27M+ |
| Likes 261K+ | SuitableParejas enamoradas |
| AlbumUnitedListen on Spotify | |
- Love
- Love Ballad
- R&B
- Soul
- Marvin Gaye
"Ain't No Mountain High Enough" by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell is a classic soul ballad that exudes a captivating blend of love, hope, and determination. With its gentle, uplifting melody and soulful harmonies, the song paints a vivid picture of two lovers overcoming any obstacle to be together.
This duet stands out as a prime choice for harmonizing, particularly for those seeking an intermediate level challenge. The vocal range required is moderate, allowing both singers to showcase their strengths, while the song's structure lends itself to beautiful close harmonies. The memorable melody and catchy chorus provide a solid framework for layering vocals, while the simple chord progressions allow for creative improvisation and embellishment.