This weeks Twisted MixTape theme is cover songs. I.Love.Covers. Just really enjoy hearing one artist interpret another. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't, but tonight... all winners.
The first song was written in 1969 by American musician Steve Young. I first heard it covered by Rita Coolidge in 1970, but the best cover I've heard is the one with the five-part harmony.
The Eagles "Seven Bridges Road"
The Everly Brothers have had their songs covered endless times. One of the most interesting is this.
Alison Krauss and Robert Plant "Gone, Gone, Gone"
I used this next song in one of my "Got It Covered" features, that sadly I haven't done in a while. My dear S-I-L the fab Ms. G turned me onto it, and without a doubt it's one of the best covers I've ever heard. Originally by Cheap Trick, it's hard to believe it's the same song.
The Holmes Brothers "I Want You To Want Me"
I cannot do this list without something from one of the greatest song interpreters, Joe Cocker. But which one to choose? "With A Little Help From My Friends," "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood," "Feelin' Alright," "Summer In The City," "Something," are all worthy choices. But I think I'll go with the girl who worked in fifteen clubs a day.
Joe Cocker "She Came In Through The Bathroom Window"
Now I just have to throw an old blues number in the mix, but which one. There are literally hundreds to choose from and I love them all. So, I think I'll pick a blues cover which helped me start to dig deeper into the genre. Originally by Big Mama Thornton, who does a great job herself, this is from Janis.
Janis Joplin "Ball And Chain"
My last selection is just incredible. Some of you may be aware of this video, it's gone viral. It's just two guys, on guitar and bass, sitting in a pizza joint singing one of the best covers. Check out the number of views. Top rock stars would die for those numbers. I actually had the pleasure of interviewing him, it will be posted over at Earth Hertz as soon as I get it finished. It's a great story even without the music. Anyway, this is just wonderful.
Mike Masse and Jeff Hall "Africa"
Covers... I got a million of 'em, but that's enough for tonight.
Great mix! I'd never had the pleasure of listening to any of these. Dig the cover of "I Want You to Want Me." I'd always loved the Save Ferris version, but this one is soooo different and lovely. The Africa cover is out of this world. Just love the simplicity of acoustic.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you enjoyed them. Sharing music, that's what it's all about.
DeleteI love both "Africa" and that amazing interpretation of "I Want You to Want Me." Wow.
ReplyDeleteThey really are something, aren't they. Thanks for stopping by cynk.
DeleteGot to pick Africa! Wonderful choices here.
ReplyDeleteSo first of all, my sister and I worked out two of the harmonies on Seven Bridges Road (the Eagles version) so we could sing it, I don't know... 20 years ago? crap that was a long time. But she was performing live then and it was so awesome.
ReplyDeleteAlso almost put Summertime by Janis in my list, but it didn't seem to go with the other songs, so glad you put her in.
And I love Joe Cocker covers! I Think It's Going to Rain Today is one of my favorites because it's so surprising and still timely.
I really loved The Holmes Brothers! Wow, not at all what I would expect but soooo amazing! Thank you!
I was also thinking about Summertime, and Bobby McGee too. But the blues edge decided it. I'll bet you and your sister did a great job. Thanks Jen
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