Back in Time Cover Image

Back in Time: Choral Octavo SoundTrax CD

$29.99 USD
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Back in Time Cover Image

Back in Time: Choral Octavo SoundTrax CD

Words and music by Johnny Colla, Chris Hayes, Sean Hopper, and Huey Lewis / arr. Alan Billingsley

Item: 00-50308

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Description
Great Scott! Back to the Future is back---and this time on Broadway! Take your audience on a two-minute ride to 1985 with this high-energy rock song by Huey Lewis and the News. Bring some lightning to the stage with the optional horns-and-rhythm SoundPax, or the electrifying SoundTrax accompaniment.

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Additional Details
Series: Alfred Pop Choral Series
Publisher: Alfred Music
UPC: 038081574783
SKU: 00-50308

More about this title

About the Composer: Johnny Colla

Johnny Colla is a multi-instrumentalist and composer best known as the saxophonist and primary songwriter for Huey Lewis and the News. His work with the band throughout the 1980s and beyond established him as a skilled craftsman of hook-driven pop-rock that balances infectious melodies with tight ensemble playing. Colla's songwriting has appeared in film soundtracks and continues to be performed by choirs and bands seeking energetic, contemporary material.

As a composer for choral settings, Colla's arrangements and original compositions bring the same accessibility and drive that made Huey Lewis and the News successful with general audiences. His music translates well to educational and performance contexts where rock and pop styles need strong melodic foundation and rhythmic clarity.

Why we love this

This arrangement captures the infectious energy of a beloved 1980s radio staple while remaining vocally accessible and dramatically satisfying. The optional SoundPax instrumentation gives you flexibility to match your ensemble's strengths, whether you're adding punch with horns and rhythm or relying on the full recorded accompaniment. Programming a high-octane pop number this recognizable builds audience connection instantly.

What to expect

Pure 1980s energy wrapped in a fast-paced, radio-friendly arrangement. The high-octane rock groove propels the piece forward with bright humor and infectious hooks that audiences recognize instantly. Performing this feels like plugging into a live band experience rather than a traditional choral number.

Who it's for

Choirs seeking contemporary pop repertoire with strong audience recognition and immediate appeal. This works equally well for high school show choirs, competitive choral ensembles, and community or church choirs building a concert program with contemporary material.

How to get the most out of it

  • Anchor the rhythm section (or lock in with the accompaniment) from the first rehearsal. This song's momentum depends on unwavering pulse, especially in the verses.
  • Balance clarity of the pop melody against ensemble blend. The lead line needs to sit forward, but not isolated from the supporting voices.
  • Lean into the rock attitude without oversinging. This material thrives on confident, conversational delivery rather than operatic weight.
  • If using the optional horns-and-rhythm SoundPax, give those players time to coordinate with the vocal ensemble in separate sectionals before full group rehearsals.

How to use it

Program this as a set-opener or a crowd-lifting moment in the middle of your concert when you need to shift energy and reconnect with your audience's sense of fun. It pairs well alongside other contemporary pop or movie-themed choral selections, or use it as a palate cleanser between classical and art song repertoire. The two-minute duration makes it perfect for full concert or competition setlists.

Skills your students will build

  • Rhythmic independence in rock and pop idioms
  • Singing with forward vocal placement and energetic diction
  • Blending pop melody with supporting harmonic layers
  • Responding to recorded accompaniment cues and tempo
  • Coordinating with optional instrumental ensemble parts

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