Rhythm Is Gonna Get You: Choral SoundPax

This arrangement captures everything that made the original a crossover phenomenon: propulsive clave rhythms, a hook that lodges instantly in memory, and an irresistible forward momentum. Eric VanCleave's adaptation preserves the song's essential energy while giving show choirs a framework to showcase vocal blend, rhythmic precision, and genuine fun in performance.

Immediate, propulsive, and joyful. The arrangement radiates the warmth and excitement of the Miami Sound Machine's original, with layered percussion textures and a melody that feels both celebratory and intricate. It's the sound of a band that knows exactly how to make people move.

Show choirs and competitive pop ensembles seeking a contemporary, radio-friendly piece with serious rhythmic and harmonic sophistication. This works for programs that want to feature students' ability to nail tight rhythms and energetic performance style without sacrificing musicality.

• Lock the rhythm section into the clave pattern from the start. The percussion parts and bass line drive this entire arrangement; once they're locked, the vocal lines sit naturally on top.
• Shape the melody with dynamic contrast. The verses simmer underneath the percussion texture, then the chorus explodes. Resist the urge to belt throughout; let the arrangement's dynamic architecture create the lift.
• Commit to the Latin feel in your vowel shaping and articulation. Crisp consonants and slightly forward vowels honor the song's Cuban roots and maintain the percussive energy.
• Balance the solo moments carefully. This arrangement likely features soloists; make sure they're audible against the rhythm section without requiring a dramatic volume shift from the choir.

Build your second act around this piece. Its high energy makes it ideal as a centerpiece or closer, and its infectious groove creates natural momentum into the next selection. It also works beautifully as a palate cleanser between ballads or heavier contemporary pieces, giving your audience and ensemble a chance to breathe and celebrate.

• Reading and executing clave-based rhythmic patterns
• Layering vocal lines over active percussion textures
• Authentic Latin pop phrasing and articulation
• Balancing ensemble cohesion with individual solo presence
• Maintaining groove and forward momentum across dynamic contrasts