Nothing is so good it lasts eternally. I beg to differ - the lovely duet I Know Him So Well has endured for nigh on 30 years now since Elaine Paige and Barbara Dickson performed it so heartbreakingly well. It also helps that it was written by Benny & Bjorn (as well as Tim Rice) from Abba, two fellas who write heartbreak so exquisitely well. It's been covered several times over the years - and the newest version is for Melanie C's "Stages" album. Who better for her to duet with than Emma Bunton? Amidst the swirling orchestral backing (with some electric guitar added for a bit of edge), the duelling tonality of their voices allows for individual yet complementary takes on the heartbreak they talk of. Melanie C's powerhouse delivery gives the impression of a world weary woman who is used to these betrayals in life, while Emma's is a genuine contrast of a more innocent, wide eyed view on the situation. They weave together beautifully and I can't wait to hear the whole song. Below are some of my other fave versions of the tune that have popped up on pop albums over the past 30 years...
- John Barrowman & Daniel Boys: Ah yes, my favourite all time version of the song. It's not just because it gives the song a whole different perspective (although two male voices do), it's more that each word they sing is so heartfelt, so earnest, so vivid. They effortlessly bring the lyrics to life with devastating effect - when they sing together, each performance is so intricate, intimate & nuanced that it genuinely brings a spinetingling, stunning effect. Amazing piece of work. Plus, as I've said before, Daniel Boys looks mighty fine in a suit...:)
- Steps: Aw, remember when pop ruled the charts so ITV would regularly have shows like AbbaMania on tv? Steps (mainly the girls to be honest), did a fairly charming version of this. The dance remix is a right little belter...
- Whitney & Cissy Houston: A great mother-daughter duo version. Whitney of course gives a flawless r'n'b inspired version, but Cissy not only looks amazing - she also gives a gorgeous smoky, passionate performance. Just lovely...
- Idina Menzel & Kerry Ellis: two of my favourite stage performers join together for the Chess concert a few years back. Still a night that gives me goosebumps, and this performance allowed the girls to share their heavenly vocals with a huge live orchestra, yet never once be overpowered. Amazing.
Top 21 songs of the week:
21 ~ Kylie, Timebomb
20 ~ Pet Shop Boys, Winner
19 ~ Little Mix, Wings
18 ~ Delta Goodrem, Dancing With A Broken Heart
17 ~ Alanis Morrisette, Lens
16 ~ Chantal Claret, Honey Honey
15 ~ P!nk, Blow Me (One Last Kiss)
14 ~ Taylor Swift, We Are Never Getting Back Together (NE)
13 ~ Jason Mraz, Living In The Moment
12 ~ Christopher, Colours
11 ~ Marina & The Diamonds, How To Be A Heartbreaker
10 ~ Carly Rae Jepsen, Good Time
09 ~ fun, One Foot
08 ~ The Killers, Runaways
07 ~ No Doubt, Settle Down
06 ~ Stooshe, Black Heart
05 ~ Maroon 5, One More Night
04 ~ Alphabeat, Love Sea
03 ~ The Overtones, Loving The Sound
02 ~ Little Jackie, 21st Birthday Party
01 ~ Spice Girls, Spice Up Your Wannabe Life 2012 (2 weeks)
Barrowman and Boys FTW!
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