John Legend playing the piano. Photo: Instagram/@johnlegend
Ever wanted to be that guy at the party that can pull out the piano stool and nonchalantly dust off a few tunes? Well, it’s more within your reach than you might think. Try starting with these ten piano songs that sound complicated, and are impressive, but are super simple to learn. So if you are easing out of isolation and want to bag a new hobby, play on…
John Lennon – Imagine
This emotional classic is the ideal place to start when learning the keys. Perfect for a sing-a-long and certain to bag you some party trick points.
Difficulty level: 4/10
Satisfaction level: 10/10
Swan Lake Theme – Tchaikovsky
Tchaikovsky’s popular ballet has an easily recognizable melody, and this is the title theme and super simple to play. It sounds utterly beautiful.
Difficulty level: 3/10
Satisfaction level: 7/10
Let It Be – Beatles
Once you master the slightly tricker intro to this absolute classic Paul McCartney track you’ll be soaring.
Difficulty level: 4/10
Satisfaction level: 9/10
Lean On Me – Bill Withers
The late, great Bill Withers brought us too many classics. This is one of his crowd-pleasers that’s a cinch to master on the keys.
Difficulty level: 3/10
Satisfaction level: 8/10
Clocks – Coldplay
The top tip to nailing this Coldplay number is to begin by playing it slowly, then working up to a faster tempo. Since the melody is quite repetitive, you’ll be surprised how easy this one is to learn.
Difficulty level: 4/10
Satisfaction level: 10/10
What A Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong
Everyone needs a classic tearjerker in their locker and Armstrong’s What A Wonderful World has stood up for decades as an absolute classic anthem.
Difficulty level: 2/10
Satisfaction level: 7/10
Can’t Help Falling In Love – Elvis Presley
Get your chord progression on with this anthem from The King himself. All you have to do after that is work on the voice.
Difficulty level: 2/10
Satisfaction level: 8/10
All Of Me – John Legend
This modern love song was written for his wife by Legend and has become the romantic signature for many. Easy to learn and impressive to boot, it’s one to get on the list.
Difficulty level: 2/10
Satisfaction level: 7/10
Marry You – Bruno Mars
The simple, basic version of this fun pop song is incredibly easy to learn and you can up the ante by layering the complex tricks as you build your skill.
Difficulty level: 2/10
Satisfaction level: 8/10
Stitches – Shawn Mendez
This stripped-back pop hit is very satisfying to play and who knows, might inspire you to pen your own teenage angsty love letter.
Difficulty level: 3.5/10
Satisfaction level: 9/10
