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8 June 2025

Content Staff

Ebb Tide – The Righteous Brothers (1965)

Ebb Tide – The Righteous Brothers (1965)

Background “Ebb Tide,” famously performed by The Righteous Brothers and released in 1965, has a history that extends beyond their iconic rendition. The song was initially composed by Robert Maxwell, with lyrics added later by Carl Sigman, and it first gained prominence as an instrumental piece in the 1950s, notably through recordings by Frank Chacksfield and also by Lenny Dee. However, it was The Righteous Brothers’ powerful and dramatic vocal interpretation that transformed the song into a pop standard and a signature track for the duo. This wasn’t simply a cover; it was a complete reinvention, taking a primarily instrumental

8 June 2025

Content Staff

Since I Fell for You – Lenny Welch (1963)

Since I Fell for You – Lenny Welch (1963)

Background: “Since I Fell for You” is a timeless ballad with a rich history that predates Lenny Welch’s popular 1963 rendition. The song was originally written and composed by Buddy Johnson in 1947. Johnson, a highly influential jazz and blues pianist and bandleader, first recorded and released the song himself with his orchestra featuring his sister, Ella Johnson, on vocals. Buddy Johnson’s version showcased a sophisticated bluesy arrangement, typical of the big band era, with Ella’s soulful vocals conveying the yearning and vulnerability of the lyrics. This initial recording, while not as commercially successful as later versions, established the song’s

8 June 2025

Content Staff

Willie Nelson – Seven Spanish Angels

Willie Nelson – Seven Spanish Angels

“Seven Spanish Angels” is a memorable country song recorded by Willie Nelson and Ray Charles, released as a single in 1984. It is featured on Nelson’s album *City of New Orleans*, which highlights his versatility as an artist, blending traditional country with other genres and collaborating with musical legends from outside the country music world. The song, written by Eddie Setser and Troy Seals, stands out for its poignant storytelling and emotional depth. This collaboration was particularly notable, as it brought together two iconic musicians from different musical backgrounds—Willie Nelson, a pioneer of the outlaw country movement, and Ray Charles,

4 June 2025

Content Staff

I Say a Little Prayer – Dionne Warwick (1967)

I Say a Little Prayer – Dionne Warwick (1967)

“I Say a Little Prayer” holds a unique and cherished place in the history of popular music, particularly within the context of the late 1960s. Released in 1967, Dionne Warwick’s rendition of the song became an instant hit, solidifying her status as a major pop vocalist and establishing the song as a timeless classic. The song is a perfect example of the songwriting genius of Burt Bacharach (music) and Hal David (lyrics), combined with Warwick’s exceptional vocal talent and her ability to convey both vulnerability and strength in her performances. It’s not merely a catchy pop tune; it’s a sophisticated

4 June 2025

Content Staff

Theme from A Summer Place – Percy Faith (1960)

Background “Theme from A Summer Place” by Percy Faith and his Orchestra, released in 1960, originated not as a standalone song, but as the main musical theme for the 1959 film A Summer Place, a coming-of-age romantic drama. The original score was composed by Max Steiner and while effective within the film’s context, it was Faith who saw the potential of the relatively brief melodic theme as a standalone instrumental piece. Faith, an established bandleader, arranger and composer, was known for his sweeping orchestral arrangements, and he set about expanding on Steiner’s original idea, adding layers of instrumentation, and crafting

4 June 2025

Content Staff

How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You) – Marvin Gaye (1964)

How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You) – Marvin Gaye (1964)

Background “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You),” famously performed by Marvin Gaye and released in 1964, emerged from the prolific songwriting partnership of Holland-Dozier-Holland, the legendary Motown team responsible for crafting numerous hits during the label’s golden era. This wasn’t a song initially conceived for Gaye, but after being passed over by other artists, including The Four Tops, it was finally offered to him. He then transformed it into a signature track, showcasing his evolving vocal style and his ability to imbue a song with a blend of soulful sincerity and infectious energy. The song was written

4 June 2025

Content Staff

Ain’t No Mountain High Enough – Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell (1967)

Background “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” famously performed by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell and released in 1967, emerged from the songwriting powerhouse of Ashford & Simpson, who were at the forefront of Motown’s creative force during the late 1960s. It wasn’t initially crafted for Gaye and Terrell, but after its initial recording by The Valadiers went largely unnoticed, the song was re-imagined for the duo, transforming it into a signature hit and an enduring anthem of love and devotion. This wasn’t a simple re-recording; it was a reinterpretation, tailored to highlight the unique chemistry and vocal talents of Gaye

4 June 2025

Content Staff

My Guy – Mary Wells (1964)

My Guy – Mary Wells (1964)

Background “My Guy,” famously performed by Mary Wells and released in 1964, emerged from the Motown songwriting and production team of Smokey Robinson, who also crafted the song’s distinctive sound. It was a deliberate and targeted effort by Robinson to create a signature song for Wells, showcasing her unique vocal talents and projecting a confident and independent image, a departure from some of her earlier, more vulnerable portrayals. The song wasn’t just a commercially driven endeavor; it was a meticulously crafted showcase, designed to elevate Wells to the forefront of Motown’s female artists. This also marked a significant turning point

4 June 2025

Content Staff

What Becomes of the Brokenhearted – Jimmy Ruffin (1966)

What Becomes of the Brokenhearted – Jimmy Ruffin (1966)

Background “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted,” famously performed by Jimmy Ruffin and released in 1966, emerged from the songwriting talents of the Motown team of James Dean, Paul Riser and William Weatherspoon. This was not a song initially crafted for Ruffin, but after it had been turned down by other artists, it was offered to him, and he then transformed it into a signature track, showcasing his unique vocal style and his ability to convey profound vulnerability and emotional depth. The song is a carefully constructed piece of soul music, designed to elicit a strong emotional response in the listener.

4 June 2025

Content Staff

Hey There Lonely Girl – Eddie Holman (1969)

Hey There Lonely Girl – Eddie Holman (1969)

Background “Hey There Lonely Girl,” famously performed by Eddie Holman and released in 1969, has a somewhat complex and interesting history. The song was actually written by Earl Shuman and Leon Carr, and originally recorded in 1963 by Ruby and the Romantics under the title “Hey There Lonely Boy.” While the original version had some success, it was Holman’s rendition that transformed the song into a soul classic and a signature hit for him. This wasn’t a simple cover; it was a reinterpretation, infused with Holman’s unique vocal style and a more sophisticated arrangement, designed to showcase his incredible range