[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-jgptB03xWo]
I've posted two versions of this song, and while the Dean Martin version was the more successful in its chart position, I feel like Campbell's is the true version of the song. He released the song, written by John Hartford, in 1967, the title track from the album. The song was re-released in 1968 and won two Grammy Awards that year.
Upon hearing Hartford's recording on the radio, Campbell knew instantly that he wanted to record the song. He gathered together a group of session players and friends to cut a demo, where in between phrases he shouted instructions to the musicians. He left the rough cut for his producer to hear. Upon hearing the cut and without contacting Campbell, the producer cut out the instructions on the recording and released the song.
As big of a fan of Martin as I am, I can't help but feel like Campbell's version has a much more mellow flow to it. That's a big statement to in comparison to Dean, who was one of the kings of cool. Martin does a great vocal performance as always, but the music just seems a little rushed. This song should have a, no pun intended, gentle smooth flow about it.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mq9iPte8UOY]
No comments:
Post a Comment