Rockstar (arr. Roger Emerson): 2-Part Choral Octavo

Energetic and empowering, with the kind of straightforward pop melody that sticks instantly. The arrangement opens up room for vocal personality without losing the song's driving, feel-good momentum.

Middle and high school choirs ready for contemporary material that connects with their own listening habits. The 2-part voicing works for treble choirs, mixed ensembles, or male choirs, making it flexible for various group configurations.

• Treat the groove as a rhythmic anchor rather than trying to swing it. Crisp articulation and consistent pulse matter more than interpretive freedom here.
• Balance the two parts carefully in unison sections so neither voice disappears. A slight emphasis on the top line during harmonized passages prevents muddiness.
• Lean into the song's attitude. This is aspirational, bold pop music, not a ballad. The dynamic arc should build steadily from beginning to end.
• If you're using a recorded accompaniment, let it drive the tempo and don't fight it. Your singers will lock in faster if they're responding to the groove rather than imposing their own.

Build a contemporary pop set around this track, pairing it with other current hits arranged for similar voicings. It works especially well as a concert closer or as part of a pop-focused pops concert that showcases your singers' connection to music they actually listen to.

• Maintaining rhythmic precision in groove-based music
• Blending two independent vocal lines
• Interpretation and attitude in pop contexts
• Quick learning of contemporary repertoire