Monday, December 24, 2012

LAURA NYRO (and LABELLE) the bells

One thing about cover versions, being covered by a transcendentally great artist must be a real kick in the pants.

The Originals had (wait for it) the original of this song, and only about a year before Laura Nyro and the newly minted Labelle (Patti Labelle and the Bluebelles) included it on an album of covers.  The Originals' original version is pretty good; this version is, well, transcendent.

There are a few of Laura's songs, this one included, that make me just close my eyes, put my left hand on my chest, nod my head slowly in time, and cry a little.  She's the best.

Try their version of "Desiree" sometime, off the same album.  

And now in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame!  Laura anyway, it doesn't look like Patti and the girls have made it yet.  Luckily, the whole thing is such a sham that it's no reflection on those left out. 

Better late than never in Laura's case.  She makes the rest of them in there look good. 

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