OneVoice - March 16, 2008
March 16th, 2008 | by Tom |Damn you, writers’ strike!
As a result of the lack of new programming during prime time these past few months, my wife Laurie and I started watching American Idol, something we have never watched in the past. And, like millions of others not just in the United States but around the globe, we have become more than just regular viewers, but also critics of the performances, dress, attitude and song choices of the contestants.
This past week, the 12 Idol-wannabees had the opportunity to choose from the Lennon-McCartney catalog for the first time in show history. I wondered briefly what songs they might choose, but didn’t dwell on it, wanting myself to be surprised and perhaps delighted by their choices. After last Tuesday’s night show, let’s just say there were fewer surprises and delights, and more choices that both shocked and sickened. If originality is a factor, then why rehash versions of songs already made popular by Earth, Wind and Fire or Stevie Wonder? A country version of Eight Days a Week - are you kidding? And, to be honest, has anyone ever covered Across the Universe and done it justice (I’m open to challenges)?
So, where this may be too late for the 11 remaining contestants to change their choices for round 2 of the Lennon-McCartney theme, here are some of the songs I think they should attempt:
Oh, Darling - just promise me that they won’t copy the lame Robin Gibb version from the Sgt. Pepper movie.
No Reply - a great stalker song that someone could really nail with a more sinister sound.
Fool on the Hill - a versatile song that is one of my favorites.
Long and Winding Road - Simon is bound to hate this, but I don’t care.
I’m Down - for the rockers on the show, this was a staple of Beatle concerts (before they stopped touring, of course).
Yer Blues - this is the big-risk, big-payoff song; if someone can carry this one off, they could go a long way.
Revolution - there are already two existing versions to choose from; maybe there’s another possible arrangement.
You’ve Got to Hide Your Love Away - a fun song, and one that can accommodate audience participation (if that’s allowed).
And Your Bird Can Sing - another one of my favorites that would also give the band a chance to replicate George’s brilliant guitar from the original.
Back in the USSR - another one for the rockers on the show.
You’re Gonna Lose that Girl - maybe start this one a cappella, and then bring the band in.
I’d also like to suggest a couple of songs they should not attempt:
A Day in the Life - I know Tom said he figured out a way to cut this down to two minutes, but that would be all-risk, no reward.
Strawberry Fields Forever - you don’t mess with perfection.
Maxwell’s Silver Hammer or Yellow Submarine - avoid the goofy songs.
Yesterday - I know they will be tempted, and thousands have done it before, many badly - please just say no.
Tags: American Idol, OneVoice
By gorky on Mar 17, 2008
“Paperback Writer” should be an easy one. Or - if you’re really adventurous - “You Know My Name (Look Up The Number)”. None of them can really sing anyway…
By terry on Mar 17, 2008
That’s a great list…but now that I think about it, I don’t want the AI kids trying those songs. It would just ruin them for me.
Are they really doing another week of Beatles? I must not be paying attention.
By Tom on Mar 17, 2008
They are indeed. one more week of Beatles. Now, the question is this, The keep saying ‘Lennon/McCartney’ song book, does that mean they cant sing a George or Ringo song?