1175-1151 - Great Vocals
1175. GOIN’ OUT OF MY HEAD (1964)
Vocalist: Little Anthony (Jerome Gourdine) and the Imperials (Clarence Collins / Ernest Wright / Nate Rogers / Sammy Strain)
Writer/Composer: Teddy Randazzo / Bobbie Weinstein (1964)
This song takes us back to the days when Soul / R&B / Doo-Wap and Pop flourished and intermingled. This number became a Pop standard of the 1960’s, most certainly enhanced by Anthony’s amazing Soulful presentation. With their 2nd listed song, it has stood the test of time and is now considered an R&B classic. His high-pitched tenor, 3-octave voice with a flexible falsetto became his signature sound, second to none from the late 1950’s and into the 1970s, spawning many successful hits such as Tears on My Pillow and Hurt So Bad, extending a career well into the 2000s. His voice soars into the heavens when he hits that chorus, “Goin’ out of my head, over you / Out of my head, over you / Out of my head, day and night / Night and day, and night.”…You’ll Agree…Simply Stupendous!
Link #1 Original recording 1964. Link #2 Live performance about 1965.
1174. SUNRISE (2004)
Vocalist: Norah Jones
Writer/Composer: Norah Jones (2004)
Within Norah’s Jazz / Folk / Pop / Soul / Country influence, she demonstrates her talent here as an American singer / songwriter / pianist / musician with her 3rd song on our list. Since 2002 she has been a dominant force in music, especially Jazz compositions. This number from her 2nd album, Feels Like Home, leans more toward a Jazz / Folk fusion—winning a Grammy as best female Pop performance. Her 2nd album is not a flash in the pan—time has been good to her for most of the 21st Century, making her one of the most respected, important artists, as she draws on her musical peers like a magnet who wish to perform and collaborate with her, This time her vocals are “pure and placid.” not relying on falsetto or style. Listen carefully…Magically Whimsical and Captivating!
Link #1 Original recording and video 2004. Link #2 Live performance in Amsterdam 2007.
1173. FOREPLAY (Instrumental) / LONG TIME (1976)
Vocalist: Boston (lead vocals Brad Delp)
Writer/Composer: Tom Scholz (1969)
When this American 5-man Rock group arrived on the scene in 1976, they were widely accepted as Rock / Progressive Rock geniuses. Their polished and unique sound even enabled them to crash through the Pop market—their appeal allowed this song, their 2nd one listed, to be one of the most successful debut albums in history at over 30 million, 17 million in the U.S. alone. Brad Delp’s lead vocals became the stuff of legends, and the layering of his 3 to 5+ octave range became a jaw-dropping experience, not only to other musicians but to an astounded fan base. Their finished product, and without videos, became legendary as Tom Scholtz proved he could play any instrument, but it was Delp’s rich, flexible, powerful voice, one of Rock’s very best, that soared!…A Perfectly Cut Diamond!
Link #1 Original studio recording 1976. Link #2 Live performance at San Francisco Giants Stadium 1979.
1172. AMERICAN PIE (1971)
Vocalist: Don McLean & Chorus
Writer/Composer: Don McLean (1971)
This song was celebrated, debated, and truncated perhaps more than any song in U.S. history, but that didn’t stop it from becoming the biggest hit in 1971, loved by Pop / Folk Rock, even Country fans. For almost 50 years it was the longest song (8.5 minutes) to achieve that status, until Taylor Swift’s All To Well. Don’s career has endured over 50 years as an American singer, songwriter, guitarist, with numerous other hits such as Vincent, and Wonderful Baby. The song’s effect on pop culture is anthemic, and perfect for sing-a-longs. His smooth tenor, 2+octave voice is beloved, “So bye-bye Miss American Pie / Drove my Chevy to the levee, but the levee was dry / And them Good old boys were drinkin’ whiskey and rye / Singin’ “This’ll be the day that I die / This’ll be the day that I die.” …Captious but Legendary!
Link #1 Original recording and added video 1971. Link #2 Live performance, the BBC, 1972.
1171. WHAT THE WORLD NEEDS NOW IS LOVE (1965)
Vocalist: Jackie de Shannon / featuring Cissy Houston and chorus
Writer/Composer: Burt Bacharach / Hal David (1965)
The special love song in the form of a prayer was a global hit for English singer / songwriter Jackie Deshannon, and with Dionne Warwick’s version a year later, it rose to #1 in some countries, appealing to Soul / R&B / Pop / Gospel and Folk fans in its universal message. Her plea for peace, unity and security when the world was heaed toward The Viet Nam War, was thought-provoking, sincere and enduring. That chorus lingers now, “What the worlds needs now is love, sweet love / It’s the only thing that there’s just too little of / What the world needs now is love, sweet love / No, not just for some, but for everyone.” The Bacharach / David duo wrote an anthemic song, sounding the alarm for truth and justice. Jackie sang it in with a R&B / Soul / Folk Rock / Dusty Springfield verve…Clearly Monumental!
Link #1 Original recording 1965. Link #2 Live performance, Bells Studio, London. England 1965.
1170. THE WAY YOU LOOK TO-NIGHT “Swing Time” (1936)
Vocalist: Fred Astaire
Writer/Composer: Jerome Kern / Dorothy Fields (1936)
This treasure from the American Songbook is pure romantic gold from the great era of Hollywood’s “Golden Age.” This Jazz / Swing / Pop piece endured partly because nearly everbody who could carry a tune recorded and performed it on radio and stage. Fred carries the tune with his smooth tenor vocals all over the dance floor with his beautiful partner, Ginger Rogers in his arms, in one of the most elegant, sublime dance sequences ever filmed. This warm romantic melody not only won the Oscar as Best Original Song but went to #1 on the charts. “Some day, when I’m awfully low / When the world is cold / I will feel a glow, just thinking of you / And the way you look tonight.” —At that moment, we’re captivated! Experience one of the most beautiful songs of the 20th Century…Exquisite and Endearing!
Link #1 Movie clip from Swing Time 1936. Link #2 Original recording 1936.
1169. TOTAL ECLIPSE OF THE HEART (1983)
Vocalist: Bonnie Tyler / feat. Rory Dodd & Chorus (Rick Derringer guitar / Roy Bittan piano)
Writer/Composer: Jim Steinman (1982)
In one of the most definitive songs of the 1980s, Welsh Rock / Pop singer / songwriter, Bonnie Tyler, gives new meaning to female Rock / Power Pop. She does it in spades with Jim Steinman’s complex song, intentionally intended for Meat Loaf, but composed for Bonnie’s husky, raspy, contralto, yet emotional performance. Sounding like a female Rod Stewart, she gives it her all, especially growling the lines in the chorus, “I don’t know what to do and I’m always in the dark / We’re living in a powder keg and giving off sparks / I really need you tonight,” and then turning on a dime, Rory Dodd joins in, “Turn around bright eyes.” Music history has been good this anthemic power love ballad, helping her extend her music career into the 2020s with over 20 albums in 45 years…Absolutely Distinctive, Spectacular!
Link #1 Original recording 1983. Link #2 Live performance 1983.
1168. THE COLOR OF ROSES (1997)
Vocalist: Beth Nielsen Chapman
Writer/Composer: Beth Nielsen Chapman / Matt Rollins (1997)
From her exceptional 3rd album, Sand and Water, comes her extraordinary piano intro (Matt Rollins) with a sweeping melody. Sometimes a melody surfaces and slowly soars, transcending the chaos in the musical landscape. She is an American singer / songwriter / pianist who has written numerous songs for other artists, and she possesses an innate ability to write poetic love ballads—Oh! But what a beautiful voice! Her career as a singer goes back to 1980 and she still singing well into the 2010s. Her 2.5 octave, alt-soprano voice embraces great emotional tenderness and an angelic sound that flows like warm honey, appealing to Pop / Folk / Country and Soul. She ends, “Only the ones who believe / Ever see what they dream / Ever dream, EVER DREAM what comes true.” Whew! Simply and Hauntingly Sublime!
Link #1 Original recording from album, Sand and Water 1997.
1167. LOVE IS A HURTING THING (1966)
Vocalist: Lou Rawls & Chorus
Writer/Composer: Ben Raleigh / Dave Linden (David J. Luff)
This R&B classic slowly seeped into the Soul / Pop / Blues / Gospel market, becoming one of his most successful treasured hits in the 1960s & 70s. There was no mistake when you heard a Lou Rawls tune in that era, his unique, recognizable baritone seemed to make the world stand still. Looking back, most music lovers would agree he has a rich, deep, yet smooth, velvety sound that was classy and hard to resist, never disappointing. He could turn his 4 octaves into intimate pleas for love and fulfillment, as he does here. “For every little kiss, there’s a little teardrop / For every single thrill, there’s another heartache / The road is rough / The going gets tough / Yes, love is a hurtin’ thing / Oh, love is a hurtin’ thing.” You really feel it on that last stanza, “OH!”…A Remarkably Romantic, Tender Recording!
Link #1 Original recording 1966. Link #2 Live performance The Ed Sullivan Show 1966.
1166. ROCKY MOUNTAIN HIGH (1972)
Vocalist: John Denver / (Dick Kniss base / Mike Taylor guitar - both backup vocals)
Writer/Composer: John Denver / Mike Taylor (1972)
One can’t help but feel the sense and sentiments in this song, with lyrics such as, “And the Colorado Rocky Mountain high / I’ve seen it raining fire in the sky / I know he’d be a poorer man / if he never saw an eagle fly / Rocky Mountain high.” This Folk / / Pop / Country masterpiece is one of Denver’s mainstay signatures, and it never seems to fade in its effect on culture and popularity. The song also makes a strong statement for preservation of the environment. His high, expressive, sincere tenor vocals are part of the U.S. musical landscape, and his 3rd entry on our list is considered a national treasure of the 1970s and 1980s. His high tenor was crystal clear with a purity of phrasing and full of passion. His vibrato was spot on, and his warm, friendly style was always soulful and sincere…Absolutely Superb!
Link #1 Original recording in 1972 Link #2 From the 1995 Wildlife Concert.
1165. YOU WERE ON MY MIND (1965)
Vocalist: We Five (lead Beverly Bevens)
Writer/Composer: Sylvia Fricker (Folk singers Ian & Sylvia) (1961)
1965 was a banner year for new acts in music, all kinds of music. We Five took this Folk Song, re-invented it, making it a Folk / Rock / Pop song, taking it to #3 on the charts right in the midst of the British Invasion. It became an instant success—the record went international! It was close to impossible to be driving your vehicle and not sing along with the radio with this catchy tune and simple lyrics. Bev Bevens was the lead, with a larger-than-life contralto voice, and their live performances sounded as good as their record. The bridge says it all, “Hey, I got a feelin’ / Down in my shoes / Said w-way down in my shoes / Hey, I got to ramble, whoa-oh / I got to move, whoa-oh / I got to walk away my blues.” They brought joy and positive vibes to the 1960s generation…Lofty and Stirring to the End!
Link - Original recording - Live 1965.
1164. LIZZIE AND THE RAINMAN (!975)
Vocalist: Tanya Tucker & Chorus
Writer/Composer: Kenny O’Dell / Larry Henley (1972)
She has one of the most distinctive voices among Country music’s singer / songwriters, and she takes it to the max in this story-song’s delivery. Perhaps this song should have been ranked higher. Adapted from the 1956 movie of the same name, the well written tune won accolades from critics and admiring fans, and many of her recordings became hits from age 13 onward—Delta Dawn. Her vocals were unmistakable, her more than 50-year career is loaded with hits, many appealing to Pop / Folk / Rock fans. Her unique alto vocals are deep, full of soul, with a gritty husky verve, possessing a rich, mature sound, present from her youth on. From the beginning, we’re captured, “He came riding in on a sunrise, on a hot west Texas day.” What a powerful, “deadly,” legendary vibrato—Absolutely One of a Kind!
Link #1 Original recording 1975. Link #2 Live performance (1975?)
1163. YOUNG AND BEAUTIFUL “The Great Gatsby” (2013)
Vocalist: Lana Del Ray (Elizabeth Woolridge Grant)
Writer/Composer: Lana Del Ray / Nick Nowells (2013)
This music piece is a stunning showcase for Lana’s extraordinary unique vocal style and sound. In this Pop / Alt Pop offering she displays a 3+ octave vocal range that soars from a high falsetto and swans into a contralto voice that features agile, dark, dreamy tones, smokey, yet somber. Her music captures a melancholy future that is uncertain, yet romantic. She is being recognized as one of the most influential American singer / songwriters of the 21st Century. The song’s chorus, “Will you still love me when I’m no longer young and beautiful/ / Will you still love me when I got nothing but my aching soul? / I know you will, I know you will / I know you will / Will you still love me when I’m no longer beautiful” asks many unanswerable questions. How can those questions be so…Beautifully Haunting?!
Link #1 Original recording 2013. Link #2 Film clip, The Great Gatsby 2012.
1162. VEDI! LA FOURCHE NOTTURNE SPOGLIE (The Anvil Chorus) “La Trovatore” (1989)
Vocalist: Chorus & Orchestra - Royal Opera House (Covent Garden - Bernard Haitink cond.)
Writer/Composer: Giuseppi Verdi (1853)
Wow! Multitudes of great voices may have never sounded better, surprising or more powerful. This collection and selection is performed and delivered from the Metropolitan Opera, staying in synch during the entire performance! They are truly a wonder to behold! This popular Classical Opera piece has been heard countless times, in concerts, on recordings, in TV broadcasts, in film presentations, even in cartoons, and to this day, it remains one of the music world’s most recognizable selections. Having a lead in a Verdi Opera is absolutely thrilling, but in this case, the Chorus is made up of Gypsies, striking their anvils at dawn, and sharing their magnificent talents and vocals within this number, and they denote their camaraderie with pure joy…A Stunning Tour De Force!
Link - From the 1989 presentation, La Trovatore.
1161. WHILE HE STILL KNOWS WHO I AM (2012)
Vocalist: Kenny Chesney
Writer/Composer: Dave Berg / Tom Douglas / Georgia Middleman (2012)
A toughing verse in this heartbreaking song," I only knew him as my father / I’m gonna get to know the man / I’m going back to see him / While he still knows / Who I am.” It’s words like this that resonate with millions who unfortunately have parents diagnosed with dementia or Altheimer’s in their final years. Kenny even said in an interview, “This guy’s going back to reconnect with his father, but in a sense, he’s trying to reconnect with himself too.” American Country singer / songwriter / guitarist and his 2nd listed song reminds us how fragile life is. Kenny, one of the best entertainers in Country / Folk / Pop / Rock music, lends us his powerful baritone vocals that ooze with conviction, sincerity, and excitement, making him one of the most popular talents of the 21st Century…Straight from the Heart!
Link #1 Official music video 2012. Link #2 Original recording 2012.
1160. ALWAYS LOOK ON THE BRIGHT SIDE OF LIFE “As Good as It Gets” (1997)
Vocalist: Art Garfunkel / The Carlton Male Voice Choir
Writer/Composer: Eric Idle - The Life of Brian - (1979)
With a subdued, smooth, barely hearable audio, orchestral sounds slowly arise until Art’s vocals become more audible, and we slowly recognize the beautiful, ethereal, tenor voice that he possesses. This life-affirming song, performed originally by Eric Idle of Monty Python fame, was originally a controversial spoof on religion in 1979. Just as noteworthy as Garfunkel’s amazing soft touch in this number, are the beautifully blended voices of the accompanying Choir, helped along with studio production, resulting in a grand finale as they synchronize together. At the conclusion, “Always look on the bright side of life / Always look on the right side of life / Always look at the bright side of life / Always look at the right side of life,” followed by the joyful whistling melody between each verse…Just Heavenly!
Link - Played as the final credits roll, As Good As it Gets 1997.
1159. POOR WAND’RING ONE “The Pirates of Penzance” (1980)
Vocalist: Linda Ronstadt & Chorus
Writer/Composer: Arthur Sullivan / William S. Gilbert (1879)
Based on a comic Opera in 2 acts, this Classical libretto was embraced by critics and music fans alike when it opened in New York in 1879. But who again did the singing? Oh no! Is it really her again?—Linda Ronstadt! Yes indeed, she performed this Gilbert & Sullivan operetta, carving in stone, once and for all, that she was one of the most treasured and versatile vocalists of all time, appearing on our list for the 10th time, appealing to all genres. She played Mabel, attempting to win over the attentions of Frederic. She not only sings distinctly, but she also trills, running the scale of notes, astonishing even her most loyal fans. She showcases the wide range of her mezzo-soprano, 3-octave vocals, leaving us a landmark in compelling vocal agility…An Intriguing Virtuoso Performance!
Link - Live performance from the Broadway production 1980,
1158. ONLY DADDY THAT’LL WALK THE LINE (1968)
Vocalist: Waylon Jennings / (backing vocals Anita Carter & the Waylors)
Writer/Composer: Ivy Jimmy Bryant (1968)
Jennings unique Country style was so evident in his performance of this Country classic that it became a breakout hit when he first went solo. This was a primitive Country / Western song that slowly morphed into that early Outlaw Country sound. He was an American singer / songwriter with a distinctive, masculine, tough-as-nails, baritone voice with just enough growl to catch people off guard. His 4th entry listed, (including 2 duets with Willie,) was unmistakable, and he sang with a unique authority, “Cause ever since you were a little bitty scrawny girl / You said I was the only man in this whole world / You better do some thinkin’, then you’ll find / You got the only daddy that’ll walk the line.” This was backed up by two sensational harmonizing vocals…Wow!…Gets Better Every Time You Hear It!
Link #1 Original recording 1968. Link #2 Live performance on Johnny Cash Show about 1970.
1157. ADDIO DEL PASSATO “La Traviata” (1960)
Vocalist: Anna Moffo / Rome Orchestra (Fernando Prevital) cond.
Writer/Composer: Giuseppi Verdi (1853)
We now meet American Classical coloratura soprano, Anna Moffo. She was enormously popular from the late 1950s, into the early 1970s. She was a beautiful actress, a TV personality and a gifted vocalist with the New York Metropolitan Opera—and she always brought her voice? Oh! She was known for her warm, rich, velvety lower range, with a versatility and agility to sail effortlessly into those higher bel canto, higher ranges. Many in her era said, she sang them into the celestial heavens. She was subsequently as popular in Italy as she was in the U.S., and her pleasing personality magnetically attracted her legions of fans. This selection from Verdi’s La Traviata, was among her very best. Sing “La Bellissima, Sing!…Flamboyant and Fabulous!
Link - Original recording from Opera, La Traviata 1960.
1156. LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE BOY “Footloose” (1984)
Vocalist: Deniece Williams
Writer/Composer: Tom Snow / Dean Pitchford (1984)
What a great example of Dance-Pop with a remarkable vocal range and one of the happiest sounds to come out of the 1980s. Deniece knocks it out of the park here with a complete joy ride. A song about complete devotion to her boyfriend, and a production number gleefulness amd mirth written all over it. She captures the moment with a delightful, distinctive, energetic, soprano 4-octave vocal performance that won a Grammy, appealing to R&B / Pop / Dance / Gospel fans worldwide. Versatile, with great control and elegance, she could hit the high notes with remarkable sudden surprise. Her career in music spans over 5 decades, beginning in the 1960s with Lovelites, into the 2020s. “Let’s hear it for the boy / Let’s give the boy a hand.” never sounded better…Gratifyingly Euphoric!
Link #1 Official music video1984. Link #2 Movie clip from Footloose 1984.
1155. MY HAPPINESS (1959)
Vocalist: Connie Francis & Chorus
Writer/Composer: Borney Bergantine (1933) Betty Peterson Blasco (1948)
“Evening shadows make me blue,” as she opens up this tune in this stunning A Capella version, doing so in full harmony by layering her tracks in the studio. With this Pop song by American singer / actress Connie Francis, as her 4th song on our list, it stuck on the charts at #2, and only she, Brenda Lee and Patsy Cline were the constant hitmakers during the era when Rock music dominated the music charts by males. From 1957 through 1963, she was ubiquitous, releasing hit after hit. She appealed not only to teens but to adults as well, braking through barriers with her mezzo-soprano, 2.5 octave vocals, drawing fans in Pop / Easy Listening / Country / Rock and Blues, as well as foreign languages. Her voice was very versatile, agile, powerful, packed with emotion and believability…Dazzling and Endearing!
Link #1 Original recording 1958.
1154. LET IT BE (1970)
Vocalist: The Beatles (Lead P. McCartney / Billy Preston organ (Paul McCartney / John Lennon / George Harrison / Ringo Starr)
Writer/Composer: Paul McCartney / John Lennon (1969) George Martin / Phil Spector producers
Really composed by Paul as a swansong for the breakup of the Beatles, this enduring Rock / Soft Rock / Pop classic has etched its way into the consciousness of Rock and Pop audiences the world over, becoming a standard in the musical landscape for the last half of the 20th Century. It has solidified itself onto the Mt. Rushmore of music enthusiasts everywhere with an intro piano riff that takes on the spiritual Gospel sound of Simon and Garfunkel’s Bridge Over Troubled Water. Everything came together on this stunning recording, Paul’s stunning tenor vocals with a beautiful falsetto, George’s electrifying guitar work, John’s farewell bass, and Ringo’s ascending percussion. Their 10th listed song keeps gaining momentum as the 21st Century rolls on. One of their greatest songs…Epic and Legendary!
Link - The Live studio recording from their final album, Let It Be! - 1970.
1153. MAKE THEM HEAR YOU “Ragtime” (1998)
Vocalist: Brian Stokes Mitchell
Writer/Composer: Stephen Flaherty / Lynn Aherns (1996)
In this 21st Century, when it comes to determining who is a standout male vocalist in the American Musical Theater, there’s always a short list of the greatest of performers. On that list would have to be Brian Stokes Mitchell, a rock star of the musical theater, possessing a grand, powerful baritone delivery that produces double takes during live performances. This anthemic piece from the Musical Ragtime is surely one of his greatest numbers, placing him front and center as one of America’s busiest vocalists, with credits too numerous to mention. His vocal prowess is descibed as heroic, dynamic and breathtaking. This, his 2nd song listed, is among his best as he sings and acts as Coalhouse Walker, calling for action, education and justice in early 20th Century America…A Knockout Tour-de-Force!
Link #1 From the soundtrack of musical Ragtime 1998. Link #2 Live performance from the Kennedy Center tribute.
1152. JUST WALKING IN THE RAIN (1956)
Vocalist: Johnny Ray & Ray Coniff Singers (and whistler)
Writer/Composer: Johnny Bragg / Robert S. Riley (1952)
With his 2nd song on our list, Johnny Ray proved he was among the influential early pioneers, whether intentional or not, of what would soon become Rock n’ Roll. Appealing to Blues / Jazz and Pop fans of the early 1950s, it became his greatest decade as a Pop singer. His megahit, Cry, was a stunning example of his new way of singing, almost crying, bending the notes as much as any Gospel singer. “Just walking in the rain / Getting soak and wet / Torturing my heart / By trying to forget.” Many who lived in that era thought it irresponsible to sing in his style, but great changes were about to take place in music. His baritone voice carried 3 octaves and he had a wide range, in fact he didn’t even like this recording, but it became one of his biggest hits, staying popular for a half year…Splendid and Stirring!
Link #1 Original recording 1956. Link #2 Live performance The Shower of Stars 1957.
https://youtu.be/8uCsvWgmjwg?si=rga3vxxF5FGxcj-5
https://youtu.be/nvJDIb2xPwk?si=YXjWxCDLUR2PTISN
———————————————————
1151. I KNOW A PLACE (1964)
Vocalist: Petula Clark & Chorus
Writer/Composer: Tony Hatch (1964)
The so-called “British Invasion” of American music began in 1964 when the Beatles broke through the American dominance of worldwide record sales. It opened the floodgates even for other vocalists including this one, as she became the biggest selling female hitmaker in Soft Rock / Pop, crossing into Film Music and even starring in movies. Petula reigned as queen of the airwaves for the rest of the 1960s. Her 2nd song on our list features her distinctive vocals, evidenced by her precise phrasing, versatility, and powerful, agile control. Everyone knew the chorus, “I know a place / Where the music is fine, and the lights are always low / I know a Place / Where we can go.” With hits such as The Sign of the Times, and This is my Song, her career included close to 100 million in record sales…Sparkling and Sensational!
Link #1 Original recording 1964. Link #2 On Ed Sullivan Show 1965.
