Saturday, March 28, 2009

Covering: I Heard it Through the Grapevine

Written by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong in 1966, this Motown gem is among one of the most beloved (and most covered) songs in the past half century. Interestingly, Marvin Gaye's version (the one we probably know best) is itself a cover--Smokey Robinson's Miracles did it first. Since then, though, it's been performed by scores of other acts, including Gladys Knight and the Pips. Here's a few more people that tried their hand:

First off, here's Sarah Bettens (formerly lead of K's Choice, now a rockin' solo artist) with her rendition:
You have to get through a slightly hoky Gaye clip (and an editorial comment from an audience member) before the music starts, but her smooth, rich voice does the song justice.

Next, the Doug Anthony All-Stars, on the Australian show Big Gig:

No, I don't know what's up with the jackets, but don't these young gentleman just ooze enthusiasm and charisma?

Finally, Britain's very own train wreck, Amy Winehouse:

Entertainment Weekly's latest issue ran a pic of Ms. Winehouse leaving court for those pesky assault charges (she smacked a fan), and the soon-to-be-divorced gal looked clean, healthy and happy. I'm hopeful that she gets her shiitake together and makes more music than headlines from now on.

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