LESSON PLAN: 4 Chord Do-wop Songs
Objective
Students will be able to recognize and play songs that use a standard chord progression popularized in the 1950’s and still in use today.
Resources
Chords or lyrics from any of the following songs: “We Are Young” by FUN, “Baby” by Justin Bieber, “Girl on Fire” by Alicia Keys, “D’yer Mak’er” by Led Zeppelin, “Crocodile Rock” by Elton John, “Stand By Me” by Ben E. King, “Octopus’s Garden” by The Beatles, “Duke of Earl” by Gene Chandler, “Earth Angel” by The Penguins, etc. More songs using this classic chord progression can be found in our online songbook by clicking on “Chord Progression” and looking for songs with “Ice Cream Changes” in the chord progression box.
Procedures
- Make sure students can play the following chords:
- Beginning students may want to use the easy versions of these chords:
- For (in the style of) “We Are Young” by FUN or “Baby” by Justin Bieber play each chord for 2 measures before changing to the next chord (Figure A). This will be easiest as it gives you plenty of time to get ready for the next chord.
- For (in the style of) “Girl on Fire” or “Octopus’s Garden” the chords change every measure (Figure B).
- A lot of songs from the Do-Wop era (the 1950’s) play these chords with 6 beats per measure to give that classic feel to the groove, like in the style of “Earth Angel” by The Penguins (Figure C).
National Core Arts Standards (Music)
Anchor Standard 4: Select, analyze, and interpret artistic work for presentation. Example: General Music MU:Pr4.2.3 a. Demonstrate understanding of the structure in music selected for performance. Anchor Standard 6: Convey meaning through the presentation of artistic work.Example: Harmonizing Instruments MU:Pr6.1.H.IIa (HS Accomplished) Perform with expression and technical accuracy, in individual and small group performances, a varied repertoire of music that includes melodies, repertoire pieces, improvisations, and chordal accompaniments in a variety of styles, demonstrating sensitivity to the audience and an understanding of the context (social, cultural, and historical). Common Core Correlation: CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.SL.2 Integrate and evaluate information presented in diverse media and formats, including visually, quantitatively, and orally.