Michael Bublé - Sway

About "Sway" - Michael Bublé

"Sway" (originally "Quién Será" in Spanish) is a sultry Latin jazz standard that Michael Bublé brought back to mainstream popularity in the 2000s. The song was originally written in 1953 by Mexican composer Pablo Beltrán Ruiz, later given English lyrics by Norman Gimbel. Bublé's swinging big band version introduced this vintage gem to a new generation, showcasing his ability to make classic standards feel fresh and contemporary while honoring their timeless elegance.

Michael Bublé: Reviving the Great American Songbook

Michael Bublé is a Canadian singer who became an international superstar by reviving the classic pop standards of the 1940s-60s for 21st-century audiences. In an era dominated by hip-hop and electronic pop, Bublé proved there was still massive appetite for sophisticated swing, jazz, and big band music. His charm, vocal talent, and genuine love for the material made him the heir to legends like Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, bringing their repertoire to new generations without making it feel dated.

The Latin Jazz Standard

"Sway" exemplifies the Latin jazz standard style: infectious cha-cha-cha rhythm (one-two-cha-cha-cha), romantic, seductive lyrics and melody, sophisticated jazz harmonies beneath danceable rhythm, and production that balances elegance with sensuality. The song is designed to make you want to dance—specifically, to sway romantically with a partner. Bublé's version features lush big band orchestration that feels both vintage and timeless.

About This Medium Difficulty Arrangement

This intermediate sheet captures the song's Latin rhythm and sophisticated harmonies while remaining accessible to advancing pianists. Students learn Latin jazz piano style, syncopated rhythms essential to Latin music, and how to create swinging, danceable feels at the piano. The arrangement teaches both technical skills (rhythm, syncopation, jazz chords) and stylistic understanding (elegance, sophistication, romantic sensuality).

Swing It!

• Listen to Bublé's big band version for the swinging feel
• Feel the cha-cha-cha rhythm in your body—let it move you
• Play with sophistication and romantic charm
• Keep the rhythm steady and danceable throughout
• Use dynamics to create seductive, swaying quality
• Study Latin jazz rhythms to understand the style
• Imagine dancing in an elegant 1950s nightclub

Musical & Cultural Education

• Introduces Latin jazz and Great American Songbook traditions
• Teaches cha-cha-cha and Latin rhythm patterns
• Develops sophisticated jazz harmony understanding
• Explores vintage pop standards' enduring appeal
• Builds stylish, elegant playing technique
• Demonstrates cultural fusion: Mexican song, American jazz, Canadian singer

Perfect For

• Intermediate students interested in jazz and standards
• Fans of Michael Bublé and classic pop
• Learning Latin jazz rhythms and style
• Wedding receptions and sophisticated social events
• Students wanting elegant, romantic repertoire
• Exploring Great American Songbook heritage