Come Go With Me: E-Z Play Today

This collection captures three versions of a song that genuinely belongs in every pianist's pop repertoire. The classic Dell-Vikings recording sits alongside interpretations that show how a strong melody adapts across different eras and styles, giving students a chance to hear how great songs endure.

Youthful, energetic, and warm. The harmonies recall street corner vocals and early rock and roll innocence, while the melodies stay effortlessly singable. There's joy in the simplicity here, paired with the satisfaction of nailing a groove that's been around for generations.

Students gaining confidence with pop standards and doo-wop idioms. This works equally well for recreational pianists exploring mid-century vocal music and ensemble musicians adding accessible repertoire to their toolkit.

• Anchor the left hand groove; the bass line drives these arrangements, so lock in your rhythmic pocket early in rehearsal rather than sight-reading straight through.
• Balance the melody against accompaniment texture. Many students default to playing the vocal line too loud. Test different dynamics to let the harmonic movement breathe.
• Lean into the swing feel on rhythmic figures. Even in simplified arrangements, that 1950s bounce matters for authenticity.

Schedule this during a unit exploring vocal influence on instrumental music. Students can compare how each artist shaped the same melody, or use it as a palate cleanser between classical works and contemporary pieces. It also pairs naturally with other doo-wop arrangements or 1950s pop standards.

• Swing rhythm interpretation in pop and doo-wop styles
• Vocal line accompaniment with independence between hands
• Listening for and recreating groove-based bass lines
• Comparing stylistic variations on a single melody