Royals (arr. Deke Sharon): SSAA Choral Octavo

Deke Sharon's arrangement captures what made 'Royals' such a cultural moment: the vocal precision and rhythmic groove that define modern pop production, now realized entirely through choral voices. The economy of means required here (just two pages, no accompaniment) forces singers to lock into tight ensemble work while maintaining the song's cool, deliberate attitude. It's the kind of contemporary arrangement that reminds students why they're learning to read music.

Cool, controlled, and understated. The arrangement preserves the original's deadpan swagger and its commentary on materialism, wrapped in vocal textures that feel both intimate and polished. There's a satisfaction in nailing the tight rhythmic precision this piece demands.

High school and college a cappella groups seeking contemporary repertoire that feels current without requiring studio production wizardry. Any choir wanting to explore modern pop songwriting in a choral setting will find this both accessible and rewarding.

• Establish the pocket early in rehearsal by tapping the main beat while singing the rhythmic figures. This song lives in its restraint; rushing or lagging will destroy the effect.
• Balance the chant sections so they sit as a unified background layer rather than competing with lead lines. The arrangement thrives on clarity of texture.
• Work the dynamic arc across the full arrangement. 'Royals' builds tension through repetition and subtle intensification, not through volume alone.

Open a concert with this to signal that your choir engages with music from right now, not just the standard choral canon. It pairs well with other contemporary a cappella arrangements as part of a themed set, or stands alone as a statement piece that shows off ensemble precision.

• Vocal percussion and rhythmic precision in a cappella settings
• Balancing multiple rhythmic layers and chant-based textures
• Sustaining modern pop interpretations through choral voicing
• Ensemble blend and dynamic control without instrumental reinforcement