One song per post, please. Bonus points for discussion and/or link.
Mine is Joni Mitchell’s 2000 remake of “Both Sides Now”. Nothing against her early version (or Judy Collins’ take), but this arrangement and, especially, Joni’s mature voice give it color and depth. The early version, released when Mitchell was 26 (and written when she was just 23), is bright and airy. The remake was recorded when she was 57. The wisdom of her years resonates in her vocals.
But now old friends are acting strange They shake their heads, they say I’ve changed Well something’s lost, but something’s gained In living every day
I Saved the World Today by the Eurythmics is a somewhat forgotten song by them that is just beautiful. I’ve played it for many people and they more than often ask who is that?
I can’t provide a link, but on youtube is an acapella version of ‘Oh Shenandoah’ by Randy Granger that is so poignant, so plalngent, so beautiful, it brings tears to my eyes.
“Morning has Broken” by Cat Stevens. It’s a song celebrating nature and new beginnings:
I was once in an extended litigation that went on for years. After a very successful hearing at the end, I sent a link to fellow counsel on the same side; one who had been on the file from the beginning said it summed up his sense of relief perfectly.
Paul Stookey’s “The Wedding Song (There is Love)” written for Peter Yarrow’s wedding. Yarrow and Stookey, with Mary Travers, were members of Peter, Paul, and Mary.
I Think It’s Going To Rain Today - Randy Newman. Nina Simone’s take is also amazing, but I think if I have to pick one I gravitate towards Newman’s original (at least today).
