Bring Me The Horizon's Cover of Oasis’ "Wonderwall": A Fresh Take on a Classic and What It Means for Singers
Oasis' "Wonderwall" has long been a staple of British rock music, beloved by fans and frequently covered by artists across genres. It’s a song that’s ingrained in the cultural fabric, often evoking nostalgia and a sense of collective memory. However, when Bring Me The Horizon, a band known for their heavy metal and post-hardcore sound, put their own twist on "Wonderwall," they brought a fresh, unique perspective to the song. Their cover of Oasis' iconic hit gave it a darker, more intense feel, and it’s a perfect example of how an artist can breathe new life into a classic.
For singers, studying covers like Bring Me The Horizon's version of "Wonderwall" can offer valuable lessons in vocal technique, emotional expression, and genre adaptability. Whether you're looking to interpret a well-known song or develop your own voice, learning how to put your personal stamp on a track is a key skill. In this blog, we’ll explore Bring Me The Horizon’s cover of "Wonderwall," what makes it stand out, and how you can apply these lessons to your own singing.
Why "Wonderwall" Has Endured Over Time
Originally released in 1995 as part of Oasis' second album (What's the Story) Morning Glory?, "Wonderwall" became an instant hit. Its memorable acoustic guitar riff and poignant lyrics made it a quintessential anthem of the 90s, and its simple yet powerful melody has ensured its longevity. The song has been covered countless times, from acoustic renditions to full band performances, and its enduring popularity proves its place in the modern musical canon.
For singers, “Wonderwall” offers an accessible melody with emotional depth that allows room for individual interpretation. Its repetitive chord structure and familiar lyrics make it easy to learn, but it’s also a song that begs for personal expression. That’s where Bring Me The Horizon’s cover becomes interesting—this is a song that has been interpreted through a completely different musical lens.
Bring Me The Horizon's "Wonderwall": A New Interpretation
When Bring Me The Horizon covered "Wonderwall," they didn’t simply replicate the original— they transformed it. Known for their heavier, more aggressive sound, the band brought a darker, more atmospheric tone to the track. What made this version stand out was the contrast between the raw emotion of the original and the intensity of Bring Me The Horizon’s arrangement. They added an industrial, electronic layer, combined with their signature guitar riffs and powerful vocals, creating a version of "Wonderwall" that is both haunting and energizing.
One of the key aspects of this cover is how the band’s vocalist, Oli Sykes, delivers the song. His vocal style, which typically spans from clean melodic singing to intense screaming, brings a unique edge to the lyrics. In the original version, Liam Gallagher’s vocals have a rawness to them, but they’re relatively restrained. Bring Me The Horizon took that emotional intensity and amplified it, giving the song a more urgent and visceral feel.
For singers, this cover is a lesson in vocal versatility and expression. Oli Sykes takes the original song and adds his personal touch by experimenting with dynamics, tone, and vocal range. He uses moments of quiet vulnerability, which then build to explosive power. This is something all singers can learn from—how to balance delicate, soft moments with bold, powerful ones, and how to adapt your voice to the emotional nuances of a song.
The Importance of Vocal Dynamics and Expression
One of the key lessons that singers can take away from Bring Me The Horizon’s version of "Wonderwall" is the power of vocal dynamics. In this cover, Oli Sykes plays with the intensity of his voice, varying between softer, almost whisper-like moments and intense, soaring vocal lines. This contrast is a great example of how dynamics can change the emotional impact of a song. The quieter moments draw the listener in, while the louder moments provide a cathartic release.
Vocal dynamics are essential for any singer, as they allow you to express different emotions and tell a story through your performance. Whether you’re singing a ballad or an upbeat anthem, controlling your dynamics—when to hold back and when to let go—can make your performance much more powerful. In Bring Me The Horizon’s "Wonderwall," this technique is evident in how they make the familiar song feel fresh and exciting.
Applying These Lessons to Your Own Singing
For singers, experimenting with your voice is key to growth. Learning how to incorporate dynamics, tone, and emotional depth into your performances will not only improve your technique but also help you stand out as an artist. Whether you’re performing a cover or an original song, being able to adapt your vocal style to different genres or moods is essential.
Bring Me The Horizon’s interpretation of "Wonderwall" demonstrates that it’s not just about hitting the right notes—it’s about conveying the right emotions. Singing isn’t just about technical proficiency; it’s about making a connection with your audience. You can use your vocal power to engage and evoke strong emotions in others.
If you're looking to take your vocal performance to the next level, Southside Performance Studio offers individual singing classes designed to help you refine your technique and develop your expressive range. Our expert instructors will guide you through exercises that focus on vocal dynamics, breath control, and emotional expression. Whether you're learning a cover or working on your own material, our lessons will help you unlock the full potential of your voice.
Why Choose Southside Performance Studio for Your Singing Lessons?
At Southside Performance Studio in Glasgow, we offer personalized, one-on-one singing lessons to help you reach your full potential. Here’s why our lessons can help you improve your vocal performance:
Personalized Coaching: We tailor each lesson to your specific voice and goals. Whether you’re looking to improve your vocal range, work on breath control, or experiment with different vocal styles, our instructors will provide you with a customized approach to singing.
Vocal Techniques: We help you develop essential vocal techniques, including proper breath support, vocal warm-ups, and how to control your tone. These skills will not only improve your singing but also ensure your voice stays healthy.
Expressive Singing: We emphasize emotional expression in singing. Whether you’re performing a cover or an original piece, being able to connect with your audience through your voice is essential. Our instructors will teach you how to convey emotions and engage listeners through your performance.
Flexible Scheduling: We understand that life can get busy, so we offer flexible scheduling options for your singing lessons. This ensures you can continue developing your voice at your own pace, without compromising your other commitments.
Book Your Singing Lessons Today
If you’re inspired by Bring Me The Horizon’s cover of "Wonderwall" and want to learn how to incorporate dynamics, vocal power, and emotional expression into your singing, then it’s time to take the next step in your vocal journey. Southside Performance Studio offers individualized lessons to help you refine your voice, develop new techniques, and express yourself more fully through song.
Conclusion
Bring Me The Horizon’s cover of "Wonderwall" is a perfect example of how an artist can take a familiar song and put their own unique stamp on it. Through dynamic vocals, emotional depth, and a fresh arrangement, they have transformed the iconic song into something new and exciting. For singers, this is a lesson in vocal expression, dynamics, and interpretation.
At Southside Performance Studio, we help singers of all levels develop these skills through personalized lessons. Whether you’re interested in covering popular songs or working on your own material, we can help you enhance your vocal technique and make your performances more engaging and powerful.