Tom Kelly co-wrote "True Colors" with Billy Steinberg, crafting one of pop music's most emotionally direct anthems about self-acceptance. His songwriting career spans decades of radio hits and standards that have become part of the cultural vocabulary. Kelly's gift for melody and lyrical clarity makes this composition an ideal vehicle for choral arrangement.
Why we love this
Matthew Brown's arrangement captures the song's vulnerability without sentimentality, giving men's voices a vehicle that feels natural to sing rather than adapted. The piece works equally well as a concert closer or a heart-of-the-program moment, and the flexible voicing (TB/TTB/TBB/TTBB) means you can use it regardless of your ensemble's specific strengths.
What to expect
Sincere and unguarded, with a melody that sits comfortably in the voice and speaks directly to the listener. The harmonic support Brown provides frames the tune with warmth rather than orchestral complexity, making space for genuine expression.
Who it's for
Men's choirs at the intermediate level and above will find this accessible enough to learn quickly while offering real musical depth. It works for any ensemble seeking uplifting, meaningful repertoire that resonates with audiences because they already know and love the song.
How to get the most out of it
Shape the melody with genuine legit singing rather than overselling the emotion; let the lyrics do the heavy lifting
Balance the harmonic parts so inner voices support rather than compete with the top line
Take time to establish the text meanings in rehearsal so singers understand the song's message about authenticity, not just its surface melody
How to use it
Consider this for a spring concert celebrating resilience and community, or as a standalone moment of connection in a program heavy on more elaborate works. It also serves beautifully in educational settings where you want to build enthusiasm for choral singing through a contemporary song most singers already admire.
Skills your students will build
Singing with textual awareness and emotional authenticity
Balancing melody against harmonic parts in close voicings
Navigating flexible voicing options within a single piece
Sustaining legit vocal tone across a moderate range
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