Doobie Brothers | What a Fool Believes

Harmonically, this 1979 tune is such a feast that after several decades of casually listening to it, I never caught on that it actually modulates too. In fact, multiple times: on the way out of the pre-chorus and into the chorus (first heard at 1:17) and then back to the original key (first heard at 1:50), then a second time.

Co-written by Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins, the track hit #1 in the US — one of only a handful of non-disco releases to do so in the first half of 1979.

Vox One | Lullay, Thy Little Tiny Child (The Coventry Carol)

Weekend bonus: Massachusetts-based a capella quintet Vox One delivers a beautiful performance of “Lullay, Thy Little Tiny Child/The Coventry Carol” (2017). Moduation at approximately 1:40, but many other fleeting key-of-the-moment sections, as well as a reversion to the original key.

Barbra Streisand | Jingle Bells

Happy end of the week! Today we feature the incomparable Barbra Streisand singing “Jingle Bells” (1967). This gem is packed with modulations, both rhythmic and harmonic. It’s short so I won’t point out where they all are — you have to listen to the whole thing to get the full effect. Thanks to Bryan Wells for sending this in. Have a great weekend!