Bach-Inspired Pop and Rock Songs by the Beatles, Simon and Garfunkel and more!
Since we are going to conclude this month's community challenge focused around Bach's music, I would like to end this month of weekly discussions with a lighter topic: Pop and Rock Songs inspired by Bach!
Bach most certainly was one of the most influential composers of all time and will rightfully remain so, but of course besides the obvious evolution of harmony we directly inspired some beautiful modern pop songs, let me share them here:
Paul Simon: Bridge over troubled Water
"Bridge over Troubled Water" was composed by Paul Simon in early 1969; the song came to him very quickly, so much so that he asked himself: "Where did that come from? It doesn't seem like me." Simon named Johann Sebastian Bach's "O Sacred Head, Now Wounded" as inspiration for parts of the melody.
In this video you can find more examples, including Beatles' "Blackbird" taken from a guitar arrangement of Bach's Bourée (around 4:30).
What other Songs do you know that might be inspired by Bach?
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I have the impression it is where Paul Simon got inspiration for his "American tune"
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My favourite one is Whiter Shade of Pale by Procol Harum (air on a g string)
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I wanted to share this video I found, even though it is not directly connected to the topic of this thread. It's a BBC documentary on the life and music of J.S. Bach. It is long (1.5 hours) but well worth it. I found it to be not only educational, but also incredibly beautiful and inspirational. Watch if you are so inclined.
