The Art of Clapping in Music: A Guide to Songs That Include Percussive Hand Claps
Clapping has been an integral part of live performances for centuries, but its inclusion in recorded music is a relatively recent phenomenon. Unlike traditional rhythmic patterns, hand claps add a unique and engaging element to songs, making them more interactive and memorable. In this article, we will explore some of the best songs that prominently feature actual clapping, including a detailed analysis of how these claps enhance the overall appeal of the tracks.
The Best Songs with Clapping in Them
Clapping can be a powerful device to create a rhythmic echo and emphasize the beat. Here are some of the most iconic songs that showcase the art of clapping in music:
“We Will Rock You” - Queen
“We Will Rock You” is a classic by the iconic rock band Queen, featuring a stomp-stomp-clap beat that makes it an anthem around the world. Clapping is central to its appeal, serving as a call-and-response mechanism that engages the audience and fosters a sense of unity.
“I Saw Her Standing There” - The Beatles
“I Saw Her Standing There” by The Beatles is the perfect example of a song that becomes even more engaging with the addition of clapping. The sing-along ending features audience clapping, enhancing the communal feel of the song and making it an unforgettable experience.
“I Want to Rock” - Aerosmith
“I Want to Rock” by Aerosmith offers a more upbeat approach to clapping. Encouraging listeners to clap along, this song is a fun choice for both kids and adults, making it a timeless favorite for people of all ages.
“Disco Inferno” - The Tramps
“Disco Inferno” by The Tramps is a disco classic that features rhythmic clapping that fits perfectly with its vibrant disco vibe. Clapping here serves to emphasize the rhythmic patterns and create a lively atmosphere.
“Rain a Rain (Groovy Gnome)” - Ansaldo the Groovy Gnomes
This playful song by Ansaldo the Groovy Gnomes revolves around clapping patterns and is a childhood favorite. Clapping is central to the fun and joyful nature of the song.
“Every Rose Has Its Thorn” - Cinderella
“Every Rose Has Its Thorn” by Cinderella is another track that features clapping in the background. This adds a percussive element to the song and enhances its emotional depth, making it a staple in many performances.
“Living on a Prayer” - Bon Jovi
Another iconic rock anthem, “Living on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi uses clapping to build excitement and encourage audience participation. Live versions of this song often include audience clapping, fostering a sense of unity and togetherness.
Rock and Pop Era Classics Featuring Hand Claps
More than 50 songs from the rock /pop era have the presence of hand clapping, no matter how brief at some point in the song. This says a lot about the enduring appeal of clapping as a musical element.
Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds: “The Weeping Song”
Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds' The Weeping Song stands out as a masterclass in the art of clapping in music. The song, from their 1990 LP The Good Son, is a theatrical dialogue between a father and a son, sung in the most poignant and artistic manner. The hand clapping in the song adds emphasis to the feeling and the emotion behind the lyrics.
The lyrics of the song are a performance in themselves, melodized poetry that can be interpreted in countless ways. The video, crafted with meticulous detail, seamlessly integrates imagery and symbolism to create an immersive experience. Watching Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds perform this song live, particularly in the Athens Rockwave Festival of 1998, was a transcendent experience that left a lasting impression on the audience.
Clapping in music is not merely an accompaniment; it is a means of engaging the listener, creating a shared experience, and adding depth and emotion to the music. It is a testament to the versatility and enduring appeal of clapping in music that so many iconic songs have featured this element, inviting audiences to participate and feel a part of the music.