As someone who likes to make music every so often, I can attest to the fun and challenge of doing a cover song. However, there are some songs that are so iconic, so identified with a particular artist, that it seems wise and prudent to just back away slowly and not even make an attempt, for you shall likely mangle it, causing everyone to throw pineapples and old truck tires at you. One of these songs that I feel should be retired from further performance is the beautiful "Somewhere Over The Rainbow," first performed by a young Judy Garland in the 1939 classic film, "The Wizard Of Oz." I will make one allowance here and one only: Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's '90s Hawaiian update, which is terribly sweet (if now very over-exposed in commercials and films). But that's it. No more. Nope.
But no one listens to me. Not only do people attempt this giant of a song, which takes incredible vocal skill and grace to pull off, they just ride it on a torpedo to HELL. Like this woman who cannot be bothered to tune her guitar nor even learn chords. STOP IT, YOU.
Sir. No. Please. No.
I don't care if you're a little kid dressed in a Dorothy costume blankly staring into a webcam. You are creeping me out totally. Go out and play, you nut.
HA! At LAST! Someone who agrees with me! Even though that someone is a dog. HOPE!
© Copyright 2008- Marianne Spellman