Pop Songs That Make a Key Change Count

A key change moves a song's tonal home. These pop records make that move do something you can hear: a declaration grows bolder, a chorus opens out or a temporary escape changes the meaning of the return. The notes identify the musical moment and suggest what to follow, without requiring you to read a score. Start with Man in the Mirror or I Want It That Way for an unmistakable lift. Please Please Please and Penny Lane take less predictable routes; You've Got a Friend shows how quietly a change can offer reassurance. A louder chorus alone does not qualify here. The choices refer to the original studio recordings unless the note specifies otherwise, since live performances and later versions can change the keys. Several songs contain adult relationship or sexual themes.