Whether it's the quintessential sound of the "sad violin" ubiquitous in TV and film, or the rustic and vintage tones of folk, violin finds its home across a broad spectrum of popular music. But what are the best pairings of pop music and violin? Today, we’re looking at our pop violin favorites, from the classics to the top artists of the moment. Drawing inspiration from a variety of sources, here are nine of the most celebrated pop songs with violin.

The greatest hits

Songs featuring violin have captivated audiences worldwide. The following tracks not only highlight the violin's versatility but also its ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level, proving that the fusion of classical and pop elements can result in truly groundbreaking music.

We found 11 violin songs that showcase the instrument’s emotional depth and versatility.

  1. “Look At Me Now” by Electric Light Orchestra: This track is a testament to the versatility of the violin in pop music, blending rock and classical elements to create a unique sound.
  2. “Eleanor Rigby” by The Beatles: The Beatles famously incorporated string quartet arrangements into this song, making it one of the earliest examples of violin in pop music, transforming the landscape forever.
  3. “Ants Marching” by Dave Matthews Band: Featuring an energetic and intricate violin melody by Boyd Tinsley, this track showcases the instrument’s ability to drive the rhythm and add layers of texture to a rock sound, making it a standout example of violin in pop and rock music.
  4. "Ocean Avenue" by Yellowcard: On the louder end of the spectrum, the platinum-selling pop-punk band Yellowcard is well known for combining violin with distorted guitars to achieve a dramatic, emotional sound.
  5. “Dust in the Wind” by Kansas: This song is renowned for its haunting violin solo, emphasizing the fleeting nature of life through its melancholic melody.
  6. “Rather Be” by Clean Bandit: Featuring a vibrant violin riff which creates an infectious and upbeat sound, this track exemplifies how classical instruments can thrive in contemporary pop music.
  7. “I See Fire” by Ed Sheeran: The violin in this song adds a layer of intensity and depth, perfectly complementing Ed Sheeran's emotive vocals and acoustic guitar.
  8. “To Love You More” by Celine Dion: Celine Dion's powerful vocals paired with the passionate violin accompaniment create a dramatic and moving ballad that has resonated with audiences worldwide.
  9. “Only When I Sleep” by The Corrs: This track showcases the band's signature blend of pop and traditional Celtic music, with the violin playing a central role in its captivating sound.
  10. “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri: The violin beautifully underscores the song's theme of eternal love, adding a timeless quality to this modern classic.
  11. “Fly Robin Fly” by Silver Convention: This disco hit features an iconic violin part that drives the song's rhythm, demonstrating the instrument's adaptability to different music genres.
  12. "Our Song" by Taylor Swift: showcases how violin music enhances storytelling in pop. Many of Swift’s most beloved songs incorporate violin melodies, adding a rich, emotive layer to her compositions.

What's hot now?

For musicians looking to explore violin in pop music, Taylor Swift Violin Sheet Music provides a perfect entry point. Whether learning iconic Swift songs or experimenting with their own arrangements, violinists can discover how seamlessly the instrument fits into contemporary pop. From viral violin covers to pop chart hits, violin music remains an integral part of the genre’s evolution.