425-401-Great Vocals
425. MY CUP RUNNETH OVER “I Do; I Do!” (1967)
Vocalist: Ed Ames
Writer/Composer: Harvey Schmidt / Tom Jones (1966)
Blessed with a low, powerful, resonant, baritone voice and after parting from the successful Ames Brothers in the mid-1960s, he became one of America’s foremost male Pop vocalists from the 60s into the 70s. This song from the play is a great example of his masterful vocal control—notice how long he keeps the last note of each verse when he delivers his heartfelt word, “LOVE.” He’s really saying, “He has more than enough for his needs.” “Sometimes in the evening when you do not see / I study the small things you do constantly / I memorize moments that I’m fondest of / My cup runneth over with Looovve”…Purely Ecstatic!
Link # 1 Original recording in 1967. Link # 2 On the Ed Sullivan Show 1967.
424. REMINISCING (1978)
Vocalist: Little River Band (lead Glenn Shorrocks)
Writer/Composer: Graeham Goble
This sensational song by Australia’s Little River Band was a magnificent example of one of the finest songs ever written that paid homage to the great musicians and composers of the past. It’s surprisingly played in a Jazz motif, even though LRB was 6-piece Rock band, they excelled in Soft Rock / Pop / Jazz / and Blues in their repertoire. Most of their hits had Glenn’s superb vocals at lead, and with his strong, dynamic, controlled delivery, he was a included among the best voices in the 1970s and 80s. Known for stellar examples of superb harmony, however, here it’s about the production and the horns…Nostalgic and Elegant!
423. WATERS OF MARCH (1998)
Vocalist: Basia (Barbara Trzetrzelewska)
Writer/Composer: Antonio Carlos Jobim (1972)
Polish Jazz Fusion artist, Basia’s superb Jazz / Bossa Nova / Pop piece is without question, an utmost delight to our senses. Her 2nd entry on our list is a remarkable example of Jobim’s Samba piece, considered one of the foremost offerings from Brazil. In the form of a collage of everything experienced in life, or death, her delivery in part features extra tracts of harmony as the number progresses. Her voice makes us open our mouth in wonderment as she soars and to celestial heights with her beautiful multi-layered 3-octave voice. What a recording! With an outstanding support from amazing musicians, she astounds us with a…Sensational Performance!
Link # 1 Original recording from album, Clear Horizon - The Best of Basia.
422. AMII (1975)
Vocalist: Pure Prairie League (lead Craig Fuller)
Writer/Composer: Craig Fuller (1972)
This American4-piece group excelled in the 1970s / 80s with uplifting harmonies—their acoustic guitar and banjo skills were Excelsior! This Country / Pop / Rock song was recorded from the album Bustin’ Loose and didn’t take off as a single till 1975. What a single it was! Their crystal-clear harmony was some of the best of that era, and Craig Fuller’s lead was loved by music lovers everywhere—it was 2 songs in one. The second, “Fallin’ in and out of love with you / Fallin’ in and out of love with you / Don’t know what I’m gonna do / I’d keep Fallin’ in and out of you / with you.” is heavenly. one of the happiest sounds of the age…Simply Awesome!
Link # 1 Original recording in 1975. Link # 2 Live from Austin City Limits in 1978,
421. ALMOST PERSUADED (1966)
Vocalist: David Houston
Writer/Composer: Glenn Sutton / Billy Sherill (1966)
This Country classic may very be one the most honest songs about temptation and the Biblical description of “When I wish to do what is right, what is bad is present in me.” The well-written song deals with that inward struggle of sin, perhaps better than any. With lines like,“Then she came and sat down at my table / then she placed her soft hand in mine / I found myself wanting to kiss her / for temptation was flowing like wine.” This award-winning song featured the remarkable voice of David Houston and it even did well in the Pop category. His amazing voice was sincere, strong with a slight vibrato, and convincing…Earnest and Phenomenal!
420. CAN’T GET ENOUGH OF YOUR LOVE, BABE (1974)
Vocalist: Barry White
Writer/Composer: Barry White (1974)
A superstar singer / songwriter / producer of the 1970s, this artist was one of the founders of the enormously popular Love Unlimited Orchestra. He specialized in R&B / Soul / Funk / Disco music, with phenomenal influence. But it was his voice, a deep cavernous bass / baritone delivery that caught everyone’s attention. His velvety, rich, seductive performances became legendary, described as alluring, even sensual, and he could lay down harmony tracks of his own voice in the studio, and often did, as this song clearly demonstrates. He was one of the world’s best-selling singers of the 70s—his vocals were Intimate, Rhythmic and Stirring!
Link # 1 Original 1974 recording. Link # 2 Live 1974 performance with orchestra.
419. BRING ME TO LIFE (2003)
Vocalist: Evanescence (lead Amy Lee) / feat. Paul McCoy
Writer/Composer: Amy Lee / Ben Moody / David Hodge /
Whether it’s considered Alt Pop / Metal / Goth Rock or R&B, it’s Amy Lee’s astounding vocals that compel people to react by dropping their jaws in disbelief. As one of the most celebrated Rock bands of the new century, they could do no wrong from 2000 / 2010, selling out huge concerts, stadiums, and selling millions of records, winning an unflinching fan base. Amy’s ability to use her dynamic, ethereal, 3 to 4 octave, soprano voice was astounding—she could also play keyboards, change chords or octaves in a split second, and captivate audiences with her amazing, overwhelming charisma, and many now consider one of the unique, great voices of the 21st century…Absolutely Mesmerizing!
Link # 1 Official music video 2003. Link # 2 Live Performance.
418. YOU CALL IT MADNESS (But I Call It Love) (1931)
Vocalist: Russ Colombo
Writer/Composer: Russ Colombo / Con Conrad / Paul Gregory / Gladys du Bois (1931)
Of all the male Jazz / Pop vocalists of the 20th century, this crooner had one of the most mesmerizing, beautiful, and resonant voices, even giving contemporary Bing Crosby a run for his money. Tragically killed at 26 years by an accidental shooting, this American Pop baritone lost out on life while his music and acting career was barely getting started. He had just enough quiver and vibrato in his voice to appeal to even the most jaded romantic fan, and the ladies just swooned when his voice came on in the early days of radio. Listen closely, this selection was one of his best, and his voice stands out at Unique, Thrilling…Simply Euphoric!
417. SONNY BOY “The Jazz Singer” (1928)
Vocalist: Al Jolson
Writer/Composer: Ray Henderson / Buddy DeSylva / Lew Brown / Al Jolson (1928)
This was a landmark Jazz / Pop song selling over a million records, staying at number 1 for 12 straight weeks. His 3rd entry on our list pays a sentimental tribute to his 3-year-old son. It marked a defining moment in pop culture history because it was one of 6 songs recorded in 1927’s first sound movie, The Jazz Singer. There’s a moment in the film when Jolson says, “Wait a minute, wait a minute, you ain’t heard NOTHIN’ yet!” He proceeds to sing—and what singing it was! His self-promotion, in “blackface,” became the performance of his persona as the world’s greatest entertainer…Overly Emotional, yet Touching Performance!
Link # 1 Original recording 1928. Link # 2 From the 1st sound movie the Jazz Singer in 1929.
416. MY GUY (1964)
Vocalist: Mary Wells (with the Andantes)
Writer/Composer: Smokey Robinson (1964)
This song about loyalty to her boyfriend in spite of his ordinary looks, is a treasure. Starting with, “Nothing you could say / Can tear me away from my guy / Nothing you could do / “Cause i’m stuck like glue to my guy.” Written by Smokey Robinson, this Motown classic only grew in popularity through the years. Her voice is perfect for R&B / Soul and Pop, and she helped bring attention to the American black singer sound in the early 1960s / 1970s. Her voice has been described as earthy and alluring, but gentle, perfect for R&B songs. Her signature song with her soulful, distinctive sound shines through…Simply Superb! Link # 1 Original recording in 1964. Link # 2 LIve performance in 1964.
415. SHE USED TO BE MINE “Waitress” (2015)
Vocalist: Sara Bareilles
Writer/Composer: Sara Bareilles (2015)
This American stage actress is also a great singer / songwriter, one of the best in the 2000 / 2010 era. She’s a mezzo soprano who has a “warm, full, feminine voice,” possessing a light falsetto, appealing to multitudes of listeners and fans. So much so, she remains one of the busiest of all Broadway actresses, playing almost non-stop in theater, showcasing her multi-talented abilities, writing music scores and songs. The song is superb, sung in the 2nd person, featuring the dealing of loss or changes unexpected in life. Her voice is wonderful, she seldom uses vocal gymnastics, gliding effortlessly through each of her 3 + octaves…Absolutely Superlative!
414. BABE (1979)
Vocalist: Styx (Dennis DeYoung)
Writer/Composer: Dennis DeYoung (1979)
This American Rock Band was known for having 2 amazing and talented lead singers—Dennis DeYoung takes the honors here. This Soft Rock / Progressive Pop song became an anthem for loneliness on the road, and written by DeYoung for his wife. The 1970s / 1980s were loaded with their hits—This one went #1 and it has been a romantic classic ever since, still resonating with audiences in this 21st century. His warm, passionate and powerful delivery is remarkable, resulting in millions of albums sold, and a whole catalogue of hit singles. He was among the amazing singer / songwriters / producers of the era…Sensational and Splendid!
413. SHE’S GOT YOU (1962)
Vocalist: Patsy Cline
Writer/Composer: Hank Cochran (1961)
What can we say about Patsy Cline’s voice? With her 3rd Entry on our list, we can only say she does it again with her rich, full contralto voice. Her tone has always come across as expressive and bold, whether she was “purring or growling” or changing octaves without effort. Songwriter Hank Cochran had a hard sell—he told her he had written her next number 1 song. She became the most influential female artist in Country music history, even crossing into Pop and Jazz. Who can forget the lines, “The only thing different / the only thing new / I’ve got these little things / She’s got you.” A great example of Heartfelt Delivery!
412. MORNING HAS BROKEN (1972)
Vocalist: Cat Stevens
Writer/Composer: Eleanor Farjeon / Cat Stevens (Rick Wakeman piano) (1971)
It seems the 1970s was awash with great singer / songwriters in almost every category. In this case, British Folk / Pop / Rock vocalist, Cat Steven (later known as Yusaf Islam), had a stretch in the early 70s as one of the premier Folk artists, with a whole string of hits. In this exceptional song, originally a Traditional Spiritual, the words were slightly altered to fit modern audiences. The great piano intro / interlude is Rick Wakeman’s, accompanying our singer’s distinctive, flowing, and quiet delivery. His vocal is a marvel, assuring us that all’s well, just by his persuasive presence. Listen closely…Purely Mesmerizing and Inspirational!
Link # 1 Original recording 1972. Link # 2 Live performance in 1972.
411. GAULTIER MALDE…CARO NOME “Rigoletto” (1960)
Vocalist: Joan Sutherland (with Royal Opera House Orch. / F. Molinaro cond.)
Writer/Composer: Giuseppi Verdi / Francesco Piave (1851)
Can a 3-act Opera based on Victor Hugo’s 1832 play Le roi s’amuse, which features a licentious Duke, a hunchbacked court jester (Rigoletto), and his vulnerable daughter (Gilda) be the standard by which all coloratura soprano voices be judged? YES! And what a standard it is! Australian Joan possessed a voice of more than 3 octaves and it’s known for the ease by which she can trill, sing in staccatos, and for its beautiful tonality. He career lasted over 40 years and she was beloved by Classical / Opera fans all over the world. She knocks it out of the park with this sterling performance of this challenging piece!…La Stupenda is Exquisite!
410. TAKE ON ME (1985)
Vocalist: A-ha! ( lead Morton Harket)
Writer/Composer: Magne Farukolmen / Morton Harket / Pal Waaktwaaar (1985)
Breaking into the 1980s, in the age of Synth Pop / Alt Pop / New Wave and Rock, this Norwegian Pop singer / songwriter brought this band to world notice with an amazing 3 + octave voice and a falsetto considered by many as stunning and uncanny. This catchy tune by the band went worldwide but they were less popular in the U.S. because of changes in musical trends. It is said in their 30 + year career, they sold over 100 million records. Harket’s delivery in this selection is a stunner—first reation to his soaring falsetto is disbelief, it’s not all studio, it’s really him! This performance in Pop is…Fantastic and Astounding!
Link # 1 Orignal official music video 1985. Link # 2 Live performance on MTV unplugged in late 1980s.
409. MUSTANG SALLY (1966)
Vocalist: Wilson Pickett / Sweet Inspirations (backup vocals)
Writer/Composer: Mack Rice (1965)
This signature song from American R&B / Soul singer/songwriter, Wilson Pickett, proved to be a testimony for R&B / Soul / Rock music in the 1960s. It became a classic, and his former Gospel roots gave him the background needed in forming a powerful, emotive, and gritty sound, and he took this song into the stratosphere! It caught on as a Rock and Soul classic staple through the years. His signature scream became legendary, and his “volcano of a voice” opened with these well known lyrics, “Mustang Sally, guess you better slow your Mustang down, Oh, what I said now.” His delivery never seems to go away…Power-packed Soul!
LINk # 1 Original recording in 1966; Link # 2 Live performance also in 1966.
408. CRY (1951)
Vocalist: Johnny Ray / with the Four Lads
Writer/Composer: Churchill Coleman (1951)
Of all the singing artists that hit the 1950s, one of the most enigmatic was Johnny Ray. In retrospect he became one of the most influential singers of Pop / Jazz / Blues / Rock and Soul. He was the first white artist to introduce “bending the notes,” a precursor to Rock & Roll and Blues. His heart-wrenching style was perfect for melancholy Blues songs, as he demonstrates here. He seemed to almost cry when he delivered theatrical sadness to his songs and was enormously popular in the early 1950s. The 4 Lads come in on the end of the song for emphasis, a style at the time. Any way you cut it, he was a sensation…Aching and Heartfelt!
Link # 1 Original recording in 1951. Link # 2 Live performance in1957.
407. YOU’LL NEVER WALK ALONE “Carousel” (1954)
Vocalist: Roy Hamilton
Writer/Composer: Richard Rodgers / Oscar Hammerstein II (1945)
American Pop / R&B / Soul / Blues legend, Roy Hamilton, certainly earns his 2nd offering on our list. This magnificent song from the Rodgers / Hammerstein music writing team was already an classic of the American Songbook, but he took it to celestial heights with his extraordinary vocal presentation and range. With his Gospel trained youth, his powerful, rich, soulful baritone, it’s no wonder so many singers wanted to be in his company. His time was the 1950s / 1960s, and he definitely made his mark on the American music landscape. This is a song for a trained voice, as it rises higher with each verse…He Soars!…Absolutely Inspiring!
406. SECOND HAND ROSE “Funny Girl” 1966)
Vocalist: Barbra Streisand
Writer/Composer: Grant Clark / James F. Hanley ((1921) - Originally a hit by Fanny Brice in 1922 from “Ziegfeld Follies of 1921.”
How can she sing in so many styles? How can this singer / actress / keep on deciding which numbers to select for her multitudes of albums? How can a voice be this good for over a half century? She does it again by taking this Fanny Brice tune and recording it for the movie. It’s an absolute gem, complete with a Jewish dialect, comical phrasing, sung with gusto, with a self-deprecating attitude. “Even Jake, the plumber, he’s the man I adore / He had the neuve to tell me he’s been married before.” Her versatile vocal control is an exercise in chutzpah with this complex melody, she delivers with her 5th selection on our list…Stupendous!
Link # 1 Original recording for Funny Girl. Link # 2 A clip from Funny Girl in 1966.
405. SHE’S NOT THERE (1965)
Vocalist: The Zombies (Lead Colin Blunstone / Keyboards Rod Argent)
Writer/Composer: Rod Argent (1965)
This British 5-man Rock group was another group that made music history in the mid 60s—they were the first to bring Jazz / Rock on to the masses. Blunstone’s lead was wonderfully smooth and velvety, just what was needed for the new sound in romantic ballads. Argent’s nimble keyboard work was unlike anything heard in Rock / Pop performing, and the die was cast. Together they were one of the innovators of what would become Rock / Pop Fusion. Their influence in this new music form continued for years, even when they joined other bands. This is their first hit, and for a while they rivaled the Beatles…Simply Amazing!
Link # 1 Original recording in 1965. Link # 2 Live performance in 1065.
404. MICHAEL FROM MOUNTAINS (1967)
Vocalist: Judy Collins
Writer/Composer: Joni Mitchell (1967)
When we review her works, we recognize the cream always rises to the top. This selection was the cream from her 1967 album, Wildflowers—it was not even a hit. As her 3rd list entry, it remains among her hidden gems from that stellar album. “There’s oil in the puddles / in taffeta patterns that run down the drain / in colored arrangements that Michael will change / with a stick that he found.” Her soft, sweet, angelic delivery is a joy to behold, she grew in fame and popularity from the 1960s into the 2010s, over 60 years. She puts her poetry to music in this lovely, lilting offering that is both resplendent and transcendent…Absolutely sublime!
403. BEGIN THE BEGUINE - “Volver a Empaezar” (1981)
Vocalist: Julio Iglesias (Arranger Ramon Arcusa)
Writer/Composer: Cole Porter / Julio Iglesias - Spanish lyrics (1935)
This Pop / Jazz standard was one of the most recorded songs in the Big Band era, but Julio’s later version was a sensation when he was discovered by Hispanic audiences around the world. He sang and recorded in more languages than any other artist, sold hundreds of millions of records, was one of the most successful singer/songwriters in 20th century history, and became the most sought after voice in the Spanish speaking world. He endeared himself to his female fans by his laid-back style, his light, beautiful, champaign like voice, and his effortless quivering vibrato. It was career making, and he delivered…Dazzling and Intimate!
402. WITHOUT YOU (1971)
Vocalist: Nilsson (Harry)
Writer/Composer: Harry Nilsson (1971)
American singer / songwriter Harry Nilssen whose career took him from the 1960s through the 90s, was an absolute enigma. He never did live concerts, preferring recording experiments with voice-over layers. No matter, he managed to sing in such a style that each number sounded like a different artist. At the height of his popularity in the early 1970s, he was capable of stretching his voice through 3 to 4 octaves. This ballad from his outstanding album Nilsson Schmilsson, helps us to appreciate his rare gift. He wrote Pop / Rock / Blues, even Calypso Novelty. This song astonishes us as he hits high notes most singers only dream about…Riveting!
Link # 1 Original recording in 1971. Link # 2 Official music video in 1972.
401. GREATEST LOVE OF ALL (1986)
Vocalist: Whitney Houston
Writer/Composer: Michael Masser / Linda Creed (1977)
This touching self-anthem about the future of our children is both personal and in the musical sense, a grand slam. As her 3rd entry on our list, she delivers with such sincerity, honesty and conviction that even the strongest of cynics or critics, cannot deny—she is one of the most gifted Pop / Soul / R&B / Jazz vocalists of the 20th century. Who can forget the bridge, “I decided long ago / Never to walk in anyone’s shadows / If I fail, if I succeed / at least I’ll live as I believe / No matter what they take from me / They can’t take away my dignity.” She was already a legend—this song made the trophy case! No histrionics…Awesome, Inspiring!
