Song by Song Guide to Wedding Bells in the Key of J, Part 4

(Over the next 12 days the blog will spotlight one song each day from Wedding Bells in the Key of J.)

Why did I include an arrangement of this song?

The Cure were one of my favorite bands growing up. They are known for their wild mood swings (that’s even the title of one of their albums). When Robert Smith (lead singer) is happy, he’s really happy. This song was apparently written in one of his happier moods, describing a blissful moment between a couple when they realize nothing but their feelings for each other.

How did I compose the arrangement?

My arrangement is based on Katie Melua’s cover from the Just Like Heaven soundtrack (2005). Her version slows it down and turns it acoustic without losing the feeling of the original. I tried to do the same and it seemed to fit the album just right.

Any interesting facts about the song?

This arrangement might not seem as recognizable until you’ve heard Katie Melua’s version.

Song by Song Guide to Wedding Bells in the Key of J, Part 3

(Over the next 12 days the blog will spotlight one song each day from Wedding Bells in the Key of J.)

Why did I include an arrangement of this song?

I don’t know if this will be considered a traditional wedding song years down the road, but the lyrics are so expressive that I had to include it. Plus, it’s another one of my recent favorites.

How did I compose the arrangement?

It was tough to capture Hayley Williams’ original melody, but I stayed as true as possible. Playing this one by ear required changing the rhythm ever so slightly.

Any interesting facts about the song?

The Only Exception wasn’t even on my original list of about 16-17 songs that I had when I first began putting the album together.

Song By Song Guide to Wedding Bells in the Key of J, Part 2

(Over the next 12 days the blog will spotlight one song each day from Wedding Bells in the Key of J.)

Why did I include an arrangement of this song?

You may be one of the millions who instantly recognize this song but don’t necessarily know the title or artist. Truly Madly Deeply came out in 1997 and was an instant hit, landing at #1 barely a monthly after its release. It remains a staple at weddings, gatherings and on radio for its elegant pronouncements of affection.

Also, a good friend of mine said this is the most romantic song ever, and I’d certainly agree that it belongs in the discussion.

How did I compose the arrangement?

This song was among the most difficult to fit within a piano arrangement because I had to fill in a lot of spots where the vocals and accompaniment don’t have anything going on. The chorus is probably the most recognizable part – “I want to stand with you on a mountain” – but I felt like I had to take the verses somewhere they don’t normally go. So there are a lot of hidden melody lines that take the song’s simple beat and spread it out.

Any interesting facts about the song?

This song took by far the longest to record. Just a guess, but it probably took upwards of 30 takes to get it right. Consequently, it was the last one to get on the album and I considered leaving it off so the project wouldn’t be delayed.

Song by Song Guide to Wedding Bells in the Key of J, Part 1

(Over the next 12 days the blog will spotlight one song each day from Wedding Bells in the Key of J.)

Why did I include an arrangement of this song?

"Marry Me" is one of the most romantic new songs I’ve heard in the last year by one of my favorite groups.

How did I compose the arrangement?

I based the arrangement on Train’s simple but memorable melody and guitar accompaniment. I tried to capture the emotion of the chorus without distracting from the rhythmic guitar line. I’m very pleased with how it turned out.

Any interesting facts about the song?

"Marry Me" was the very first song I recorded in my home studio.