Wild Thoughts (feat. Rihanna & Bryson Tiller): Ukulele

This arrangement captures the relaxed groove and warm harmonic movement that made the original so radio-friendly, while staying true to the vocal melody that students will recognize instantly. The three-page format keeps it playable for intermediate ukulele students without oversimplifying the song's character. Rihanna's iconic vocal line translates beautifully to a melodic instrument, giving students something both familiar and genuinely satisfying to perform.

Breezy and uplifting, with the kind of effortless groove that makes you want to move. The arrangement has space in it, allowing the ukulele's natural brightness to shine without fighting for attention.

Intermediate ukulele students who want to work with contemporary songs they actually hear in the world. This piece works well for ensemble settings or as a solo performance piece that holds audience attention without requiring extensive technical display.

• Pay attention to the rhythmic pocket in the verses; the ukulele part relies on subtle syncopation rather than strumming constantly, so let the rests do the work
• The chorus sits higher on the neck than the verses, so practice the position shift smoothly to avoid losing time or tone
• Keep the tone warm and round during the softer passages; this song rewards restraint and control over volume

Slot this into a concert that celebrates contemporary pop and shows your students' musical versatility. It pairs naturally with other modern hits and gives performers a chance to connect with an audience through music they grew up with.

• Executing syncopated rhythmic figures in pop and hip-hop contexts
• Reading and performing melodic lines at varying registers on a single instrument
• Maintaining groove and pocket when the rhythmic accompaniment is sparse
• Transferring vocal melody to instrumental performance while preserving phrasing intent