Songs to Request at a Piano Bar: A Guide to Making the Night Unforgettable
Planning a night out at a piano bar? The right song request can set the mood, get the crowd singing, and make your evening truly memorable. But with a vast musical landscape, choosing the perfect tune can feel overwhelming. This guide provides curated suggestions, categorized for different occasions and tastes, plus answers to frequently asked questions.
What are some popular piano bar songs?
Piano bars thrive on classics and crowd-pleasers. Think songs with strong melodies, singable lyrics, and a timeless quality. These often fall into several genres:
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Classic Rock Anthems: "Piano Man" (Billy Joel, obviously!), "Bohemian Rhapsody" (Queen - perhaps a shorter, piano-focused section), "Free Fallin'" (Tom Petty), "Brown Eyed Girl" (Van Morrison). These are known for their singalong choruses and powerful melodies that translate well to a piano arrangement.
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Soulful Ballads: "At Last" (Etta James), "Unchained Melody" (The Righteous Brothers), "Wonderful Tonight" (Eric Clapton), "River Deep, Mountain High" (Ike & Tina Turner). These offer a more intimate and romantic atmosphere.
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Pop Classics: "Sweet Caroline" (Neil Diamond), "Dancing Queen" (ABBA), "Don't Stop Believin'" (Journey), "I Will Survive" (Gloria Gaynor). These are guaranteed to get the whole bar singing and dancing.
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Showtunes: "New York, New York" (Frank Sinatra), "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" (Judy Garland), select songs from popular musicals like "Wicked" or "Hamilton" (keeping in mind the pianist's likely repertoire). These add a touch of theatrical flair.
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Jazz Standards: "Fly Me to the Moon," "Misty," "Autumn Leaves." These are ideal if you want a more sophisticated and laid-back atmosphere. Remember to specify if you want a specific version (e.g., Ella Fitzgerald's version of "Misty").
What kind of songs should I not request at a piano bar?
While the pianist is likely talented and versatile, some songs are less suitable for a piano bar setting:
- Extremely complex or obscure songs: Unless you know the pianist specializes in a particular niche, avoid highly technical pieces or songs few people will recognize.
- Songs requiring a full band: Piano bars usually feature a solo pianist or a small ensemble. Songs demanding heavy instrumentation will likely be simplified or impossible to perform.
- Songs with excessive instrumental solos: While instrumental breaks can be enjoyable, overly long or complex solos might disrupt the flow of the evening.
- Recently released pop songs: The pianist might not yet have learned them. Stick to well-known and established tunes.
What if I don't know many piano bar songs?
Don't worry! Most piano bars have songbooks or lists of popular requests available. You can also ask the pianist for suggestions. They'll be happy to guide you and ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience.
How do I politely request a song?
Simply approach the pianist during a break or between songs, politely request your song, and thank them for their time and talent. A small tip is also a nice gesture.
Can I request a specific artist's version of a song?
You certainly can! Specifying the artist you'd like (e.g., "Billie Holiday's version of 'Gloomy Sunday'") helps ensure the pianist understands your preference. However, be prepared for the possibility they may have their own interpretation.
By thoughtfully considering your choices and following these tips, you'll be well-equipped to make your piano bar experience truly special, with unforgettable music and atmosphere. Remember that part of the fun is interacting with the pianist and enjoying the unique ambiance of the venue.
