There have been thousands of cover versions of popular songs over the years. In some cases the cover is better, or more successful than the original and, in a few cases, the cover is a complete re-imagination of the song – making it almost ‘new’. That’s what I set out looking for – exciting remakes that created something bold, new and fascinating. Along the way, I also found some surprises; for example, a #1 charting song the artist was urged to re-write with new lyrics that only watered down his classic. Songs from the dawn of rock and roll that shaped its beginnings; songs that jumped into entirely new genres, and songs remade decades later to entertain new generations. They’re all part of an edition I call ‘Look What They’ve Done to my Song‘ – with thanks to Melanie Safka who, of course, wrote that song.
Perhaps I should’ve started with this important notice that ‘Vintage Favourites‘ will start at a new (old) time. Effective this Sunday – March 21st – we return to our original start-time of 2:00pm., going through to 4:30. The show will still begin with ‘This Week in Zoomer Music‘ highlighting the key events and personalities that made music news this week in past years. Listen for songs by Elvis, Dylan and Springsteen; and divas with birthdays – Diana, Mariah and Aretha. I’ll play a duet featuring the late great Aretha Franklin and Elton John – both born on March 25th. ‘This Week in Zoomer Music‘ will now run from 2-3pm., followed by the show’s main theme.