My cover of Just the Two of Us (by Bill Withers, album Winelight, 1981). I was immediately happy with Sue’s choice for the Singeo Fortnight Song Challenge, this song has a special kind of calm, soulful confidence that really invited me to explore phrasing and feeling. (more…)
My cover of Brown Brown Eyed Girl, the timeless classic by Van Morrison (1967). Beneath its sunny groove and instantly recognizable melody lies a gentle sense of nostalgia – memories of youth, freedom, and moments that linger long after they’ve passed. Van Morrison later described the recording session as fast and spontaneous, almost like a demo that unexpectedly became a hit. (more…)
My cover of Blue Christmas. The song was written in 1948 by Billy Hayes and Jay W. Johnson. Andy Williams recorded the song for his album Merry Christmas, which was released in 1965. His version became part of the standard American Christmas album canon and helped keep the song widely known beyond its earlier recordings. (more…)
My cover of Christmas Was a Friend of Mine by Fay Lovsky (1981, from the album Confetti, released by Idiot Records). Richard challenged us to sing any Christmas song.
Lovsky is a Dutch singer-songwriter, a musical storyteller who brings together pop, experimentation, and melancholy in distinctive songs.
(more…)
My cover of Forever Young by Bob Dylan (1974, album Planet Waves).
Dylan wrote the song in the 1970s, reportedly as a blessing for his children. The song feels like a simple wish, almost like a prayer: that you may remain honest, brave, curious, and true to yourself. “Forever young” does not mean staying young in a literal sense, but staying open – not becoming hardened or cynical, no matter how the world changes.
I’m using the version by Audra Mae – it was the theme song of the fantastic series Sons of Anarchy. Hans did the producing and the visuals. It was my choice for the WSC. (more…)
My cover of Danny’s Song (Kenny Loggins, 1971 from the album Sitting in) is a warm, heartfelt tribute to love, family, and the quiet joys that make life meaningful. Written for his brother Danny after the birth of his first child, the song celebrates the idea that true happiness isn’t found in wealth or perfection, but in companionship and hope for the future. With its gentle melody and earnest lyrics, it has become a timeless ode to simple, enduring love. Joe asked us to sing a song from any singer with Ken in the name. I’ve chosen this one for the good memories. (more…)