Living in the U.S.A.: SSAB Choral Octavo

Deke Sharon's arrangement transforms a classic rock anthem into a vehicle for developing blend and intonation within a contemporary idiom. This version sits comfortably for SSA/SSAA voicings without sacrificing the infectious energy that makes the tune memorable, giving your singers something they actually want to sing.

The piece carries an upbeat, confident swagger that captures the swagger of the original recording while translating it to pure vocal lines. Sung a cappella, the arrangement highlights the rhythmic and harmonic sophistication underneath what sounds like a straightforward pop tune, creating a performance that feels both relaxed and musically satisfying.

This octavo works well for upper-level high school choirs and college ensembles seeking contemporary a cappella material with mainstream appeal. It's equally suited for community choruses and show choirs looking to expand beyond traditional repertoire into popular music arrangements that maintain musical substance.

• Establish the rhythmic pocket early in rehearsal. This piece thrives on a relaxed, slightly laid-back groove rather than metronomic precision, so drill the feel before polishing the details.
• Balance the melody line with supporting voices; the arrangement's effectiveness depends on clarity of the primary tune while keeping harmonic layers engaged and present.
• Explore dynamic contrast between verse and chorus sections. Restraint in the verses can make the chorus land with genuine impact.
• Attend to vowel consistency across the SSA or SSAA divisi. Matching tone color within each section strengthens overall cohesion.

Slot this into a program featuring American popular music or rock standards, where it can serve as a bridge between classical choral literature and contemporary styles. The accessibility and humor of the lyric also make it an engaging opener for a concert aimed at younger audiences or community listeners unfamiliar with traditional choral repertoire.

• Rhythmic independence within a groove-based harmonic context
• Blend and balance across SSA or SSAA voicing
• Stylistic interpretation of popular music in an a cappella setting
• Sustaining energy and ensemble cohesion without instrumental support