What’s the deal with the Lovin’ Spoonfuls’ “Did You Every Have to Make Up Your Mind”?
The male vocalist (Sebastian?) can barely be heard above the music, as though it was recorded in mono rather than in stereo.
Explanations?
I assume you are listening to this song over the radio, so the problem is actually particular to the specific station you are listening to. I don’t claim to understand the technical issues involved, but I have seen explanations that in some cases there is a problem with “phasing” on the station’s audio link, which causes one channel on some songs to sound very weak over the air. But the original recording is fine, and the same recording sounds fine on most stations.
“You Didn’t Have to Be So Nice” on the other hand is probably one of the worst mixed records ever released. At the beginning of the second verse, the level on Sebastian’s vocal drops and he’s overwhelmed by the background vocals. It happens on every vinyl, tape, CD and radio version I’ve ever heard.
Whoops! “You Didn’t Have to Be So Nice” IS the song I’m referring to, not the other one. The vocals are barely audible. I’m amazed that the studio was so sloppy and released it as is.