The piano has long been considered one of the most beautiful and versatile instruments, capable of producing a range of sounds from soft and melancholic to powerful and uplifting. Its versatility has made it a staple in all genres of music, from classical to rock, pop, and jazz. There have been countless songs written specifically for the piano, showcasing the instrument’s beauty and complexity. The top 25 songs about the best piano songs feature some of the most iconic and timeless pieces in music history, with artists ranging from Beethoven to Elton John and Billy Joel.
These songs showcase the piano’s power to evoke emotion and tell a story, with each note and chord carefully crafted to create a unique atmosphere. From the romantic melodies of “Claire de Lune” by Claude Debussy to the hauntingly beautiful “Chopsticks” by Euphemia Allen, each song on this list has cemented its place in music history as a true masterpiece of piano composition. Whether you’re a lifelong piano enthusiast or simply appreciate the beauty of music, these songs are sure to move and inspire you with their artistry and skill. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the top 25 songs about the best piano songs ever written.
1. Piano Man – Billy Joel
“Piano Man” is a classic and iconic song by American singer-songwriter Billy Joel. Released in 1973, the song tells the story of a piano player performing in a bar and interacting with the patrons, many of whom have their own struggles and stories. The piano melody is immediately recognizable, and the lyrics are full of vivid imagery and heartfelt emotion. The chorus encourages everyone to sing along and forget their troubles for a while. The song’s timeless appeal and popularity have made it a staple of Joel’s live performances and a favorite of piano bars everywhere.
2. All of Me – John Legend
“All of Me” is a romantic piano ballad that was released in 2013 by American singer-songwriter John Legend. It’s a heartfelt declaration of love to the singer’s wife, model Chrissy Teigen, and it showcases Legend’s soulful vocals over a simple yet emotive piano melody. The lyrics are sweet and tender, and express the depth of his love for his partner. The song’s bridge features a soaring piano solo that adds to the emotional intensity of the track. “All of Me” was a massive commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and becoming one of the best-selling songs of all time. It has since become a popular choice for weddings and romantic occasions.
3. A Thousand Miles – Vanessa Carlton
“A Thousand Miles” is a piano-driven pop song by American singer-songwriter Vanessa Carlton. The song’s opening piano riff is instantly recognizable and has become iconic in its own right. The lyrics express the longing and desire to be with someone despite the distance between them, and the powerful melody builds to a satisfying crescendo. Carlton’s emotive vocals bring the song to life, making it a classic of early 2000s pop music. “A Thousand Miles” has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, cementing its place in pop culture.
4. Nightswimming – R.E.M.
“Nightswimming” is a poignant piano ballad by the American rock band R.E.M. Released in 1993, the song tells a story about the nostalgia and melancholy that accompany the loss of innocence and the passage of time. The song features a delicate piano melody that captures the wistful mood of the lyrics, which speak of a group of friends who skinny-dipped in a pool at night as teenagers and how that memory still resonates with the narrator years later. Michael Stipe’s emotive vocals add an extra layer of depth to the already powerful lyrics, making “Nightswimming” a timeless classic that remains beloved by fans of R.E.M. and piano ballads alike.
5. Fallin’ – Alicia Keys
“Fallin'” is a soulful and emotional song performed by Alicia Keys that showcases her impressive piano skills and powerhouse vocals. The song’s melancholic melody, combined with the haunting lyrics, perfectly captures the pain and vulnerability of falling in love. Keys’ soulful voice perfectly complements the piano’s rhythmic and bluesy chords, creating a beautiful and timeless masterpiece. The song topped charts around the world and garnered numerous accolades, including three Grammy Awards, further cementing Keys’ status as a music icon. “Fallin'” remains a beloved classic and a testament to the power of beautiful piano ballads.
6. Sinnerman – Nina Simone
“Sinnerman” is a powerful and intense song by Nina Simone that showcases her exceptional talent on the piano and vocals. The song’s haunting melody and urgent rhythm gradually build up in intensity, creating an atmosphere of suspense and drama. Simone’s soulful voice adds a layer of raw emotion to the song, as she sings about the struggles of sin and redemption. The piano playing is also a standout feature of the song, with Simone’s deft fingers creating a complex and dynamic sound that perfectly complements the lyrics. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, but Simone’s version remains the most iconic and enduring.
7. Birdy – Skinny Love
“Skinny Love” is a hauntingly beautiful song that showcases Birdy’s powerful and emotive voice. Originally written by Bon Iver, Birdy’s cover of the song was released in 2011 and became an international hit. The delicate piano melody sets the mood for the song, with Birdy’s voice adding an element of vulnerability and raw emotion. The lyrics are poignant and full of longing, describing a relationship that has faded away and the heartache that comes with it. The chorus, with its soaring melody and passionate delivery, is particularly memorable and has become a favorite among fans of the song. Overall, “Skinny Love” is a powerful and moving piece of music that showcases Birdy’s incredible talent as a singer and musician.
8. Let It Be – The Beatles
“Let It Be” is a timeless classic by the Beatles that features a beautiful piano melody. The song was written and sung by Paul McCartney and is known for its uplifting and hopeful message. The piano in this song plays a significant role, setting the tone for the entire piece. The gentle and melodic piano notes blend perfectly with the rest of the instruments, creating a harmonious and soothing sound. McCartney’s vocals soar above the piano, conveying a message of acceptance, peace, and letting go. The song’s memorable chorus and uplifting lyrics have made it a beloved classic that has stood the test of time.
9. Wuthering Heights – Kate Bush
“Wuthering Heights” is a song by British singer-songwriter Kate Bush, released in 1978 as her debut single and the lead track of her debut album, “The Kick Inside.” The song, which is inspired by Emily Bronte’s novel of the same name, features Bush’s unique vocal range and the use of a piano riff to create a haunting and dramatic atmosphere. The song became an instant hit and reached number one in the UK charts, making Bush the first woman to achieve a UK number-one with a self-written song.
The lyrics of “Wuthering Heights” are a direct reference to the novel, with Bush taking on the persona of the character Catherine Earnshaw, who longs to be reunited with her lover Heathcliff after death. Bush’s ethereal vocals and the driving piano accompaniment give the song a sense of urgency and longing that perfectly captures the essence of the novel. “Wuthering Heights” is considered to be one of the greatest and most influential songs of all time, and its impact can still be heard in the music of contemporary artists today.
10. Marz – John Grant
“Marz” by John Grant is a hauntingly beautiful piano ballad that showcases his deep and powerful voice. The slow, melancholic melody of the piano is interspersed with sharp, staccato notes that punctuate Grant’s emotive lyrics about love and loss. The song builds slowly, with Grant’s voice growing in intensity as the piano reaches a crescendo. The lyrics are full of vivid imagery and metaphors that add to the emotional weight of the song. Despite its somber tone, there is a certain beauty and grace in the way that Grant weaves his words and music together. “Marz” is a testament to the power of the piano as an instrument for conveying raw, unfiltered emotions, and Grant’s performance is nothing short of mesmerizing.
11. Your Song – Elton John
“Your Song” is a timeless classic and one of Elton John’s most iconic pieces. Released in 1970, it’s a beautiful love ballad that captures the essence of pure, unadulterated love. The song opens with gentle piano chords, and Elton John’s warm, soulful voice enters, delivering the first verse with a tender vulnerability that immediately draws the listener in.
The lyrics describe a simple and unpretentious love, where the narrator tells his lover that he doesn’t have much to offer but promises to do everything he can to make them happy. The chorus is memorable, with the repetition of “how wonderful life is while you’re in the world” serving as a touching declaration of love.
Throughout the song, Elton John’s piano playing is exquisite, with each note ringing out with a clear, melodious tone. His voice, meanwhile, is emotive and heartfelt, conveying a depth of feeling that is both genuine and profound.
As the song progresses, the arrangement builds, with strings, guitar, and percussion adding depth and texture to the already stunning melody. The bridge is particularly moving, with Elton John’s voice rising to a crescendo before giving way to a soaring guitar solo.
Overall, “Your Song” is a masterpiece of songwriting and performance, with a timeless quality that has ensured its enduring popularity. It’s a song that speaks to the heart and soul, capturing the essence of love in all its simplicity and beauty.
12. Tom Traubert’s Blues (Four Sheets to the Wind in Copenhagen) – Tom Waits
“Tom Traubert’s Blues” by Tom Waits is a hauntingly beautiful and melancholic ballad that tells the story of a man lost in his own despair. The song opens with the sound of a mournful accordion, setting the tone for the mournful lyrics that follow.
The lyrics paint a picture of a man who is alone, lost and drunk in the streets of Copenhagen. He reminisces about the people he has loved and lost, as well as the many mistakes he has made in his life. As he wanders the streets, he drinks and sings, hoping to find some solace in his pain.
Tom Waits’ gravelly voice is perfectly suited to the song’s somber tone, delivering the lyrics with a raw emotion that is both authentic and poignant. The accordion, combined with the piano and the guitar, creates a haunting melody that captures the sense of loss and longing at the heart of the song.
As the song progresses, it builds in intensity, with the instrumentation becoming more urgent and frenetic. The lyrics, too, become more desperate and anguished, as the protagonist’s pain reaches its peak.
Overall, “Tom Traubert’s Blues” is a deeply moving and powerful song that showcases Tom Waits’ skill as a songwriter and performer. It’s a song that speaks to the pain and loneliness that we all feel at times, and the haunting melody and lyrics will stay with the listener long after the song has ended.
13. The Fall – Rhye
“The Fall” by Rhye is a sensual and mesmerizing song that captivates the listener from the very first note. The song opens with a pulsing bassline and delicate piano chords, creating a lush and atmospheric backdrop for the haunting vocals that follow.
The lyrics describe a tumultuous relationship, with the singer torn between the passion and intensity of their love and the pain and heartache it causes. The chorus is particularly memorable, with the repeated refrain of “it’s just the fall that takes you now” serving as a poignant reminder of the transience of love and life.
Rhye’s vocals are smooth and silky, with a rich and velvety tone that conveys a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The instrumentation, too, is expertly crafted, with each layer building on the last to create a lush and immersive soundscape.
As the song progresses, it builds in intensity, with the bassline becoming more pronounced and the drums adding a driving rhythm to the mix. The bridge is particularly powerful, with Rhye’s voice soaring over the instrumentation to deliver a heartfelt plea for love and understanding.
Overall, “The Fall” is a beautiful and evocative song that showcases Rhye’s talent as a songwriter and performer. It’s a song that captures the complexities of love and relationships, and the haunting melody and lyrics will stay with the listener long after the song has ended.
14. One of These Things First – Nick Drake
“One of These Things First” is a hauntingly beautiful folk song by the English singer-songwriter Nick Drake. Released in 1971 on his album “Bryter Layter”, the track showcases Drake’s distinctive voice, gentle guitar playing, and introspective lyrics.
The song begins with a soft acoustic guitar riff, which sets the mood for the rest of the piece. Drake’s delicate voice then enters, singing about the uncertainty and indecision that he faces in his life. He reflects on the different paths that he could take, and wonders which one will lead him to happiness.
As the song progresses, Drake’s guitar playing becomes more complex, incorporating intricate fingerpicking patterns and melodic flourishes. This creates a sense of momentum and urgency, as if he is grappling with his inner demons and trying to find a way forward.
The chorus of “One of These Things First” is particularly poignant, with Drake singing the line “I could have been a sailor, could have been a cook” over and over. This repetition emphasizes the idea that he could have chosen any number of paths in life, but ultimately ended up where he is now.
Overall, “One of These Things First” is a powerful and introspective song that showcases Nick Drake’s remarkable talent as a songwriter and musician. Its haunting melodies and poignant lyrics have made it a beloved classic among fans of folk and acoustic music, and it continues to inspire new generations of listeners to this day.
15. Dinner At Eight – Rufus Wainwright
“Dinner at Eight” is a poignant ballad by the Canadian-American singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright. Released in 2003 on his album “Want One”, the song is a deeply personal reflection on Wainwright’s troubled relationship with his father, the folk musician Loudon Wainwright III.
The song opens with a delicate piano melody and Wainwright’s soulful voice, which sets the melancholic tone for the rest of the piece. The lyrics then delve into the strained relationship between Wainwright and his father, with references to their past conflicts and misunderstandings.
As the song progresses, the instrumentation builds in intensity, with layers of strings, percussion, and backing vocals adding to the emotional depth of the piece. Wainwright’s voice becomes more impassioned, as he sings about the pain and longing that he feels for a connection with his father.
The chorus of “Dinner at Eight” is particularly memorable, with Wainwright crooning the line “I’m sorry, dear, but the party’s over” with a sense of resignation and sadness. This refrain captures the essence of the song, which is a meditation on the difficulty of reconciling with a loved one who has hurt you deeply.
Overall, “Dinner at Eight” is a powerful and introspective song that showcases Rufus Wainwright’s remarkable talent as a songwriter and musician. Its heart-wrenching lyrics and lush instrumentation have made it a fan favorite, and it continues to resonate with listeners who have experienced similar struggles in their own relationships.
16. Children – Robert Miles
“Children” is an iconic trance anthem by the Italian DJ and producer Robert Miles. Released in 1995, the song is characterized by its hypnotic melody, driving beat, and uplifting atmosphere, which have made it a staple of dance floors around the world.
The song opens with a simple piano melody, which is gradually augmented by layers of synthesizers, percussion, and a powerful bassline. As the song progresses, the tempo increases, and the melody becomes more complex, building to a euphoric climax that is characterized by its soaring synthesizer lines and driving rhythm.
Despite its energetic sound, “Children” is also a deeply emotional and introspective song, with a sense of nostalgia and longing that is reflected in its melancholic chord progressions and haunting melody. The title of the song is a nod to the innocence and purity of childhood, and the sense of wonder and possibility that can sometimes be lost as we grow older.
Overall, “Children” is a timeless classic of electronic music, and a testament to Robert Miles’ talent as a composer and producer. Its infectious energy and emotional depth have made it a beloved favorite of DJs and music fans alike, and it continues to inspire new generations of dance music enthusiasts to this day.
17. Bohemian Rhapsody – Queen
“Bohemian Rhapsody” is a genre-defying masterpiece by the British rock band Queen. Released in 1975, the song is a six-minute epic that seamlessly blends elements of rock, opera, and balladry, to create a completely unique and unforgettable musical experience.
The song begins with a haunting piano introduction, which is soon joined by Freddie Mercury’s soaring vocals. As the song progresses, the instrumentation grows in complexity, with layers of guitar, bass, drums, and backing vocals creating a rich and dynamic soundscape.
One of the most striking features of “Bohemian Rhapsody” is its operatic middle section, which features a complex choral arrangement and a series of dueling guitar solos. This section builds to a climactic finale, with Mercury’s vocals reaching new heights of intensity and emotion.
The lyrics of “Bohemian Rhapsody” are enigmatic and surreal, with images of murder, betrayal, and cosmic forces all intertwined in a dreamlike narrative. Despite its seeming lack of coherence, the song is an expression of Mercury’s complex emotional state at the time, as he struggled with personal relationships and his own creative vision.
Overall, “Bohemian Rhapsody” is a tour de force of musical invention and artistic expression. Its iconic melodies, memorable lyrics, and unparalleled sense of drama have made it one of the most beloved and recognizable songs in the history of rock music, and a testament to Queen’s enduring legacy as one of the greatest bands of all time.
18. Clocks – Coldplay
“Clocks” is a popular alternative rock song by the British band Coldplay, released in 2002. The song is known for its distinctive piano riff and catchy melody, which have made it a hit with fans and critics alike.
The song opens with a repeating piano riff, which is soon joined by a propulsive drumbeat and pulsing bassline. As the song progresses, Chris Martin’s plaintive vocals enter the mix, delivering lyrics that evoke a sense of timelessness and longing.
One of the most memorable aspects of “Clocks” is its anthemic chorus, which features a soaring melody and a driving rhythm that builds to a triumphant climax. The song also includes a guitar solo that adds to its sense of energy and emotion.
Lyrically, “Clocks” is open to interpretation, with some listeners hearing themes of nostalgia, regret, and the passage of time. The song’s music video, which features Martin walking through a deserted cityscape, reinforces these themes with its sense of melancholy and yearning.
Overall, “Clocks” is a quintessential Coldplay song, with its soaring melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and driving rhythms capturing the essence of the band’s signature sound. It remains one of their most popular and enduring hits, and a testament to their enduring popularity and influence in the world of alternative rock.
19. Mad World – Gary Jules
“Mad World” is a haunting and introspective song originally written by the British band Tears for Fears in 1982, but it was Gary Jules’ cover of the song that gained significant attention when it was featured in the soundtrack for the film “Donnie Darko” in 2001. Jules’ stripped-down, acoustic version of the song became a global hit, thanks to its raw emotion, introspective lyrics, and melancholic melody.
The song opens with a sparse piano melody and Jules’ fragile vocals, which are soon joined by subtle string arrangements and minimalist percussion. The song’s simplicity and understated instrumentation only serve to amplify the emotional impact of Jules’ performance, which conveys a deep sense of alienation and despair.
Lyrically, “Mad World” is a reflection on the inherent cruelty and madness of the world, and the feelings of isolation and disillusionment that can arise in the face of these harsh realities. The song’s melancholic tone and introspective lyrics have made it an enduring favorite with fans of alternative music, and a reminder of the power of music to express our deepest emotions.
Overall, “Mad World” is a timeless classic, a powerful and deeply affecting song that continues to resonate with listeners around the world. Its haunting melody, evocative lyrics, and raw emotional power make it a standout in the annals of popular music.
20. Imagine – John Lennon
“Imagine” is a timeless classic and a powerful anthem of hope and peace, written and performed by John Lennon. Released in 1971, the song’s simple yet evocative melody and lyrics have made it an enduring favorite with audiences around the world.
The song opens with a delicate piano melody and Lennon’s tender vocals, which are soon joined by subtle harmonies and instrumentation. The song’s understated arrangement and production serve to highlight the power of Lennon’s message, which advocates for a world without borders, religions, or other divisive elements.
Lyrically, “Imagine” is a call for unity and a vision of a more compassionate and equitable world, where all people are treated with dignity and respect. The song’s message of peace and love has resonated with generations of listeners, and it remains one of the most iconic and beloved songs of the 20th century.
Overall, “Imagine” is a testament to the power of music to inspire and uplift, and a reminder of the enduring legacy of John Lennon as an artist and activist. Its timeless message and universal appeal make it a true classic, and a song that will continue to resonate with audiences for generations to come.
21. Moonlight Sonata – Ludwig van Beethoven
“Moonlight Sonata” is a renowned and beloved piece of classical music written by the legendary German composer Ludwig van Beethoven in 1801. The composition, which is also known as “Piano Sonata No. 14,” features a distinctive and melancholic melody that has become one of the most recognizable in the classical canon.
The piece opens with a somber and contemplative melody that is accompanied by delicate piano arpeggios. As the music progresses, the piece becomes more complex, with Beethoven introducing a range of new themes and motifs that add to its emotional depth and complexity.
Despite its technical complexity and compositional innovation, “Moonlight Sonata” remains accessible to listeners of all backgrounds and musical tastes. Its melancholic and introspective tone has made it a favorite with audiences seeking a more reflective and contemplative musical experience, while its beauty and emotional power continue to inspire and move listeners around the world.
Overall, “Moonlight Sonata” is a testament to Beethoven’s genius as a composer and his ability to create music that transcends time and place. It remains one of the most enduring and beloved pieces of classical music ever written, and a testament to the timeless power of music to inspire, uplift, and move us.
22. Pyramid Song – Radiohead
“Pyramid Song” is a haunting and ethereal track from Radiohead’s 2001 album “Amnesiac”. The song is characterized by a complex time signature and a unique arrangement that blends elements of jazz, electronica, and experimental rock to create a haunting and otherworldly atmosphere.
The song opens with a sparse and mesmerizing piano melody that is soon joined by Thom Yorke’s haunting vocals, which explore themes of death, reincarnation, and the transience of life. As the song progresses, it builds to a powerful crescendo, with the addition of a range of instrumentation and intricate percussion.
Despite its experimental structure and unconventional arrangement, “Pyramid Song” has become a fan favorite and a critical darling, thanks to its emotive and introspective lyrics, innovative production, and evocative atmosphere. The song’s haunting and otherworldly quality has made it a standout in Radiohead’s extensive catalogue and a testament to the band’s ability to push the boundaries of what is possible in popular music.
Overall, “Pyramid Song” is a true masterpiece, a haunting and unforgettable track that continues to inspire and move listeners around the world. Its unique structure, emotive lyrics, and innovative production make it a standout in the pantheon of modern rock music, and a testament to the enduring power of Radiohead as one of the most influential and innovative bands of our time.
23. Uncertain Smile – The The
“Uncertain Smile” is a seminal track by British band The The, released in 1983 on their album “Soul Mining”. The song features a distinctive and driving piano melody, accompanied by a tight and propulsive rhythm section and frontman Matt Johnson’s distinctive and emotive vocals.
The song’s lyrics explore themes of uncertainty and anxiety, with Johnson singing of feeling lost and unsure of his place in the world. Despite its melancholic themes, the song has a sense of hope and defiance, with Johnson proclaiming his determination to keep moving forward and finding his way.
Musically, “Uncertain Smile” is characterized by its dynamic and intricate arrangement, with a range of instrumentation and sonic textures that build to a powerful and cathartic climax. The song’s memorable piano riff has become one of the most recognizable in the band’s catalogue, and a favorite with fans of the band’s distinctive brand of intelligent and emotive rock music.
Overall, “Uncertain Smile” is a testament to The The’s unique and innovative approach to rock music, with its combination of memorable melodies, powerful lyrics, and tight and dynamic musicianship. The song remains a standout in the band’s extensive catalogue and a favorite with fans of alternative rock music around the world.
24. I’m Waiting for the Man – Velvet Underground
“I’m Waiting for the Man” is a classic track by American rock band The Velvet Underground, released in 1967 on their iconic debut album “The Velvet Underground & Nico”. The song is characterized by its driving and insistent rhythm, propelled by the pounding drums and pulsating bass of the band’s rhythm section.
Lyrically, the song tells the story of a drug addict waiting to buy drugs from his dealer, with frontman Lou Reed’s lyrics painting a vivid and unflinching picture of the gritty underworld of 1960s New York City. Despite its bleak subject matter, the song has a sense of urgency and energy, with Reed’s distinctive and emotive vocals delivering the song’s powerful and unforgettable chorus.
Musically, “I’m Waiting for the Man” is a standout in The Velvet Underground’s extensive catalogue, with its dynamic and propulsive rhythm section and memorable guitar riff making it a favorite with fans of alternative rock and punk music around the world. The song’s gritty and unvarnished depiction of the darker side of city life has made it a classic of the genre, and a testament to The Velvet Underground’s enduring influence on modern rock music.
Overall, “I’m Waiting for the Man” is a timeless classic, a visceral and unforgettable track that captures the essence of the urban counterculture of the 1960s and the spirit of rebellion and innovation that defined The Velvet Underground’s iconic sound.
25. After the Gold Rush – Neil Young
“After the Gold Rush” is a beautiful and haunting song by Canadian singer-songwriter Neil Young, released in 1970 on the album of the same name. The song features a delicate and ethereal melody, with Young’s emotive vocals accompanied by a sparse and haunting arrangement that includes piano, guitar, and subtle string and horn arrangements.
Lyrically, “After the Gold Rush” is a dreamlike and enigmatic exploration of themes of loss, nostalgia, and environmental apocalypse. The song’s cryptic and poetic lyrics have been interpreted in a variety of ways, with some listeners hearing echoes of the countercultural movements of the 1960s, while others have found a more personal and introspective message in the song’s evocative imagery.
Musically, “After the Gold Rush” is a masterpiece of understated and emotive songwriting, with its haunting melody and evocative lyrics combining to create a powerful and unforgettable listening experience. The song has become a beloved classic of Young’s extensive catalogue, and a favorite with fans of folk and rock music around the world.
Overall, “After the Gold Rush” is a testament to Neil Young’s unique and visionary approach to songwriting, with its haunting melody, emotive lyrics, and subtle yet powerful arrangement making it a timeless classic of modern music.
Erica Henderson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
