One Song – Three Versions – Valerie

Wikipedia: “The Zutons are an English indie rock band, formed in 2001 in Liverpool. The band is currently composed of singer, songwriter, and guitarist Dave McCabe, drummer Sean Payne and saxophonist Abi Harding.

They released their debut album, Who Killed…… The Zutons?, in May 2004 and achieved UK chart success with “Why Won’t You Give Me Your Love?” and “Valerie,” both taken from their second studio album, Tired of Hanging Around, in 2006. Both singles reached number 9 in the UK Singles Chart.”

“Valerie” is a particularly tasty rock concoction that you may well know from Amy Winehouse’s (coming up) more soulful version. I’ve been kicking around with some classic rock/R&B bands and they all seem to cover it.

In an interview, McCabe said, “I could tell you I was inspired by gazing out across the Mersey or walking past Macca’s old house, but the truth is I got the idea in a cab on the way to my mum’s. The whole song was written before I got there, so 20 minutes, max.” The song is about an American friend who got busted for driving under the influence. Check the story out here. 

I don’t think I’ve ever posted anything about Bruno Mars but well, oversight on my part. He’s a kick-ass performer with a definitie James Brown/Michael Jacson vibe. And check out that old school horeography and those harmonies. That’s shat I’m talkin’ about:

Last but certainly not least, the woman who completely took the song away from the Zutons, Amy Winehouse. Amy is credied with paving the way for a new generation of smoky British soul artists like Adele and Lady Gaga. She had a deep soulful voice. And sadly, she’s another member of the 27 club. She originally did this with Mark Ronson but I like this live one: