Semisonic: "Closing Time"

Piano renditions of “Closing Time” by Semisonic transform the upbeat, radio-friendly anthem into a more introspective and nostalgic piece, emphasizing its underlying themes of change and new beginnings. With stripped-down chords and a slower tempo, the melody takes on a reflective tone, highlighting the song’s emotional depth beyond its familiar chorus.

This post is part five of the Mild & Mellow Sheet Music Series.

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About Semisonic:

Semisonic is an American rock band formed in Minneapolis in the mid-1990s, best known for their hit single “Closing Time.” The band consists of Dan Wilson (lead vocals and guitar), John Munson (bass), and Jacob Slichter (drums), all of whom had previously played together in the band Trip Shakespeare. Semisonic’s sound blends catchy melodies, thoughtful lyrics, and a polished alternative rock aesthetic that helped them stand out during the post-grunge era. Their breakout album, Feeling Strangely Fine (1998), brought critical and commercial success, driven by “Closing Time,” which became a staple of late-’90s radio and earned a Grammy nomination.

While Semisonic never replicated the massive success of “Closing Time,” they continued to release music that showcased their melodic craftsmanship and lyrical sensitivity. Dan Wilson, in particular, gained recognition beyond the band as a Grammy-winning songwriter, co-writing hits for artists like Adele and the Dixie Chicks. After an extended hiatus, Semisonic reunited in the 2010s and released new material, including the 2020 EP You’re Not Alone, proving their enduring chemistry and relevance. Their work is often praised for its emotional resonance, tight musicianship, and the blend of melancholy and hope that defines much of their best-known music.

About “Closing Time”:

“Closing Time” is Semisonic’s most well-known and enduring song, released in 1998 as the lead single from their album Feeling Strangely Fine. While it was initially embraced as a catchy anthem for the end of a night out, the song carries a deeper message about transitions and personal change. Lead singer Dan Wilson wrote it as a metaphor for the impending birth of his daughter, reflecting on the idea of leaving behind one phase of life to enter another. With its memorable piano riff, reflective lyrics, and singable chorus, “Closing Time” captured the bittersweet feeling of endings that also mark new beginnings.

The song became a major hit, topping the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart and earning a Grammy nomination, helping to propel Semisonic into mainstream success. Beyond its commercial achievements, “Closing Time” has maintained a lasting presence in pop culture, appearing in films, TV shows, and as a nostalgic marker of the late 1990s. Its emotional resonance and universal theme of change continue to connect with listeners decades later. For many, it’s more than just a closing-time anthem—it’s a reminder that every ending holds the promise of something new.

🎶 “Closing Time” Intermediate Piano: Lyrical Version

Key features of this version:

This arrangement is mellow in nature and includes a couple key changes (G-flat major to G major)
Suggested tempo is slightly slower to create a mellow mood
7 total pages
Includes full lyrics
Run time is approximately 5:00