Al Green — Take Me To The River
Album: Al Green Explores Your MindAvg rating:
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Total ratings: 2843
Length: 3:38
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''I'd like to dedicate this song to Little Junior Parker, a cousin of mine who's gone on but we'd like to kinda carry on in his name, by singing''
I don't know why I love like I do
After all the changes that you put me through
You stole my money and my cigarettes
And I haven't seen hide nor hair of you yet
I wanna know
Won't you tell me
Am I in love to stay, hey, hey
Take me to the river
Wash me down
Won't you cleanse my soul
Put my feet on the ground
I don't know why she treated me so bad
After all the things that we could have had
Love is a notion that I can't forget
My sweet sixteen I will never regret
I wanna know
Won't you tell me
Am I in love to stay, hey, hey
Hold me, love me, please me, tease me
'Til I can't, 'til I can't take anymore
Take me to the river
I don't know why I love you like I do
After all the things that you put me through
There's sixteen candles that burn on my wall
Turning me into the biggest fool of them all
I wanna know
Can't you tell me
Am I in love to stay, hey, hey
I wanna know
Take me to the river
I wanna know
Won't you dip me in the water
I wanna know
Won't you wash me in the water
Wash me in the water
Wash me in the water
Won't you wash me in the water
Feelin' good
I don't know why I love like I do
After all the changes that you put me through
You stole my money and my cigarettes
And I haven't seen hide nor hair of you yet
I wanna know
Won't you tell me
Am I in love to stay, hey, hey
Take me to the river
Wash me down
Won't you cleanse my soul
Put my feet on the ground
I don't know why she treated me so bad
After all the things that we could have had
Love is a notion that I can't forget
My sweet sixteen I will never regret
I wanna know
Won't you tell me
Am I in love to stay, hey, hey
Hold me, love me, please me, tease me
'Til I can't, 'til I can't take anymore
Take me to the river
I don't know why I love you like I do
After all the things that you put me through
There's sixteen candles that burn on my wall
Turning me into the biggest fool of them all
I wanna know
Can't you tell me
Am I in love to stay, hey, hey
I wanna know
Take me to the river
I wanna know
Won't you dip me in the water
I wanna know
Won't you wash me in the water
Wash me in the water
Wash me in the water
Won't you wash me in the water
Feelin' good
Comments (183)add comment
Yo!! 
timmus wrote:
This is my favorite cover of that Talking Heads song.
I kid, I kid
Nice!
Aside: Sadly, but wisely, you added the disclaimer. Too many humorless locals would have pounced.
Bill should follow this up with the Talking Heads version. That would be an incredible set.
lily34 wrote:
Here ya go!
love this, best version.
it needs a dancing meme. i can't find one.
it needs a dancing meme. i can't find one.
Here ya go!
Big Al! GREAT TUNE!! Thanx RP! 
love this, best version.
it needs a dancing meme. i can't find one.
it needs a dancing meme. i can't find one.
daaave wrote:
Thank God!!
Not mellow.
Thank God!!
Not mellow.
timmus wrote:
LOL!! Temptations also did a great cover!!
This is my favorite cover of that Talking Heads song.
I kid, I kid
LOL!! Temptations also did a great cover!!
The Reverend Al Green, what a guy.
This is my favorite cover of that Talking Heads song.
I kid, I kid
fotd wrote:
LOL 4/27/22 - this followed by Wild Wild Life - VERY nice.
Again 11/4/22
I'm going with the growl as the connection.
LOL 4/27/22 - this followed by Wild Wild Life - VERY nice.
Again 11/4/22
I'm going with the growl as the connection.
Typesbad wrote:
I don't know if "Hayabusa" is someone who grew up speaking a language besides English, but regardless maybe it's not the classiest thing to make fun of their spelling.
Wide or 45 degree? Or neither?
Definitely acute rather than obtuse.
I don't know if "Hayabusa" is someone who grew up speaking a language besides English, but regardless maybe it's not the classiest thing to make fun of their spelling.
So much better than hyper-overplayed TH effort.
whoa....that bass is crazy, man.
ziakut wrote:
LOL 4/27/22 - this followed by Wild Wild Life - VERY nice.
Refreshing to hear this recording, sparring me the tired Talking Heads version usually featured on RP. However, this is all too easy for David Byrne to creep up after this is over. Ugh...I've got a bad feeling about this.
LOL 4/27/22 - this followed by Wild Wild Life - VERY nice.
surfrider4life wrote:
James Brown's got nuthin on Al ; >
Best R n B Soul singer Ever for my money !
8 +++++
More Al Green, please R.P
Hayabusa wrote:
The voice of an angle
Drums/bass/percussion on this one are perfect.
I love the way the very tightly played horns go from centre to split in both speakers-trumpet left, sax right, at the outro.
ubuntourist wrote:
I thought it was just right.
Neko would probably disagree. She's picky about those angles.
I thought it was just right.
Neko would probably disagree. She's picky about those angles.
Desk dancing!!! (Thankfully, I have a standing desk!) its that freakin organ (B3?)
WhiteWater wrote:
I love every track on Lennox' cover album Medusa.
Bryan Ferry also does a great low down version.
I love every track on Lennox' cover album Medusa.
Bryan Ferry also does a great low down version.
2 words! ...killer! ...priceless!
ubuntourist wrote:
Same. More gusto in the lead and backup vocals of that version. But I still wouldn't change the station if this were to (somehow) come on the radio.
I like it but I keep remembering "The Commitments" version which, sticks better in my head.
Same. More gusto in the lead and backup vocals of that version. But I still wouldn't change the station if this were to (somehow) come on the radio.
Godlike is an understatement. Can I give it an 11?
Best version of this is by Billy the Bigmouth Bass hands down. :)
I like it but I keep remembering "The Commitments" version which, sticks better in my head.
Typesbad wrote:
Wide or 45 degree? Or neither?
Definitely acute rather than obtuse.
I thought it was just right.
Wide or 45 degree? Or neither?
Definitely acute rather than obtuse.
I thought it was just right.
Long Live Radio Paradise
My rating is 9
My rating is 9
surfrider4life wrote:
I'm picking up what you're putting down....More Soul/R&B would be great!! This one's a 9+.....Long Live RP!!
James Brown's got nuthin on Al ; >
Best R n B Soul singer Ever for my money !
8 +++++
More Al Green, please R.P
Best R n B Soul singer Ever for my money !
8 +++++
More Al Green, please R.P
I'm picking up what you're putting down....More Soul/R&B would be great!! This one's a 9+.....Long Live RP!!
James Brown's got nuthin on Al ; >
Best R n B Soul singer Ever for my money !
8 +++++
More Al Green, please R.P
Best R n B Soul singer Ever for my money !
8 +++++
More Al Green, please R.P
What about the most awesome cover by Eva Cassidy?
Absolutely wonderful!
Wish for more authentic 70s R&B and Soul music on RP
Wish for more authentic 70s R&B and Soul music on RP
Refreshing to hear this recording, sparring me the tired Talking Heads version usually featured on RP. However, this is all too easy for David Byrne to creep up after this is over. Ugh...I've got a bad feeling about this.
javelipix wrote:
The best Dylan cover ever ! Peter, Paul and Mary "Don't think twice"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGpkS7LhKl8
The best Dylan cover ever ! Peter, Paul and Mary "Don't think twice"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGpkS7LhKl8
fedtho wrote:
I love every track on Lennox' cover album Medusa.
I'm sure I've missed it, MUST be there somewhere... but I haven't found one single mention of Annie Lennox' cover...!?
I do love it 
, it rocks.
, it rocks.The original is perfect in a simple, high-class, elegant way that belongs to Mr. Green 
I love every track on Lennox' cover album Medusa.
i would like to hear al slow this down a tad and feature his voice a little more
maybe be more passionate/soulful
turn up the blues/gospel effect?
just a thought
maybe be more passionate/soulful
turn up the blues/gospel effect?
just a thought
I'm sure I've missed it, MUST be there somewhere... but I haven't found one single mention of Annie Lennox' cover...!?
I do love it , it rocks.
, it rocks.The original is perfect in a simple, high-class, elegant way that belongs to Mr. Green
"She took my money...my cigarettes..." These women driving us haaaard 
Hayabusa wrote:
Wide or 45 degree? Or neither?
Definitely acute rather than obtuse.
The voice of an angle
Wide or 45 degree? Or neither?
Definitely acute rather than obtuse.
Would have stuck this next to that lovely acoustic "Naive Melody" played earlier.
SIMPLY PUT DOWN THE PEN STEP AWAY FROM THE KEYBOARD AND JUST SHAKE SHAKE SHAKE PEOPLE RIGHTEOUS BOOGIE TIME : )
Reading the lists below, I'm amazed to NOT see Elton John's "Lucy in the Sky" (Beatles) and Joe Cocker's "She Came in through the Bathroom Window" (ditto).
ScottN wrote:
drife wrote:
I consider the Talking Heads version one of the best cover songs ever recorded, and I love the original.
My 10 favorite covers are:
1. How Do You Mend a Broken Heart? - Al Green (original: The Bee Gees)
2. Respect - Aretha Franklin (original: Otis Redding)
3. Take Me to the River - Talking Heads (original: Al Green)
4. You're No Good - Linda Rhonstadt (original: Betty Everett)
5. Hound Dog - Elvis Presley (original: Big Mama Thornton)
6. China Girl - David Bowie (original: Iggy Pop, but co-written with Bowie)
7. Hurt - Johnny Cash (original: Nine Inch Nails)
8. People Get Ready - Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart (original: Curtis Mayfield)
9. Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley (original: Leonard Cohen)
10. My Favorite Things - John Coltrane (original: Mary Martin; most famously sung by Julie Andrews in Sound of Music)
All Along the Watchtower by Jimi belongs on this list, imo.
Agreed! Also Ring Them Bells - Sufjan Stevens (Bob Dylan) plus my fave cover "Atlantic City" by The Band (Springsteen)
I consider the Talking Heads version one of the best cover songs ever recorded, and I love the original.
My 10 favorite covers are:
1. How Do You Mend a Broken Heart? - Al Green (original: The Bee Gees)
2. Respect - Aretha Franklin (original: Otis Redding)
3. Take Me to the River - Talking Heads (original: Al Green)
4. You're No Good - Linda Rhonstadt (original: Betty Everett)
5. Hound Dog - Elvis Presley (original: Big Mama Thornton)
6. China Girl - David Bowie (original: Iggy Pop, but co-written with Bowie)
7. Hurt - Johnny Cash (original: Nine Inch Nails)
8. People Get Ready - Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart (original: Curtis Mayfield)
9. Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley (original: Leonard Cohen)
10. My Favorite Things - John Coltrane (original: Mary Martin; most famously sung by Julie Andrews in Sound of Music)
All Along the Watchtower by Jimi belongs on this list, imo.
Agreed! Also Ring Them Bells - Sufjan Stevens (Bob Dylan) plus my fave cover "Atlantic City" by The Band (Springsteen)
I googled this exact song just the other day... honestly knowing I've heard it so many awesome good times... all by different people... and CHEERS! thank you for playing the real deal. Love what I learn every day listening to RP... xox. Love from this Canadian listener! 123K
Hayabusa wrote:
Wide or 45 degree? Or neither?
The voice of an angle
Wide or 45 degree? Or neither?
It's said that Al once remarked that he may cover a Talking Heads song. I wonder if he ever did?
Bless my soul, I love that man's voice.
ahh - takes me to Memphis in the month of May. Sweet.
Bill's got the coffee percolating now
I had no idea that the Talking Heads version was a cover. Incredible. And honestly, both versions were great!
ScottN wrote:
along with all the other covers, i'll add my 2 centsJealous Guy - Bryan Ferry (original J. Lennon)Mr Tambourine Man - The Byrds (original R. Zimmerman)So Sad - Mylon LeFevre and Alvin Lee (original G. Harrison)Ol' 55 - The Eagles (original T. Waits)Stand By Me - John Lennon (original B.E. King)We're Having a Party - SS&TAJ (S. Cooke)I Knew the Bride When She Used to Rock & Roll - Dave Edmunds (original N. Lowe)
These lists are outstanding
drife wrote:
I consider the Talking Heads version one of the best cover songs ever recorded, and I love the original.
My 10 favorite covers are:
1. How Do You Mend a Broken Heart? - Al Green (original: The Bee Gees)
2. Respect - Aretha Franklin (original: Otis Redding)
3. Take Me to the River - Talking Heads (original: Al Green)
4. You're No Good - Linda Rhonstadt (original: Betty Everett)
5. Hound Dog - Elvis Presley (original: Big Mama Thornton)
6. China Girl - David Bowie (original: Iggy Pop, but co-written with Bowie)
7. Hurt - Johnny Cash (original: Nine Inch Nails)
8. People Get Ready - Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart (original: Curtis Mayfield)
9. Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley (original: Leonard Cohen)
10. My Favorite Things - John Coltrane (original: Mary Martin; most famously sung by Julie Andrews in Sound of Music)
All Along the Watchtower by Jimi belongs on this list, imo.
I consider the Talking Heads version one of the best cover songs ever recorded, and I love the original.
My 10 favorite covers are:
1. How Do You Mend a Broken Heart? - Al Green (original: The Bee Gees)
2. Respect - Aretha Franklin (original: Otis Redding)
3. Take Me to the River - Talking Heads (original: Al Green)
4. You're No Good - Linda Rhonstadt (original: Betty Everett)
5. Hound Dog - Elvis Presley (original: Big Mama Thornton)
6. China Girl - David Bowie (original: Iggy Pop, but co-written with Bowie)
7. Hurt - Johnny Cash (original: Nine Inch Nails)
8. People Get Ready - Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart (original: Curtis Mayfield)
9. Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley (original: Leonard Cohen)
10. My Favorite Things - John Coltrane (original: Mary Martin; most famously sung by Julie Andrews in Sound of Music)
All Along the Watchtower by Jimi belongs on this list, imo.
Emwolb wrote:
along with all the other covers, i'll add my 2 centsJealous Guy - Bryan Ferry (original J. Lennon)Mr Tambourine Man - The Byrds (original R. Zimmerman)So Sad - Mylon LeFevre and Alvin Lee (original G. Harrison)Ol' 55 - The Eagles (original T. Waits)Stand By Me - John Lennon (original B.E. King)We're Having a Party - SS&TAJ (S. Cooke)I Knew the Bride When She Used to Rock & Roll - Dave Edmunds (original N. Lowe)
.......just to name a few
These lists are outstanding
ScottN wrote:
drife wrote:
I consider the Talking Heads version one of the best cover songs ever recorded, and I love the original.
My 10 favorite covers are:
1. How Do You Mend a Broken Heart? - Al Green (original: The Bee Gees)
2. Respect - Aretha Franklin (original: Otis Redding)
3. Take Me to the River - Talking Heads (original: Al Green)
4. You're No Good - Linda Rhonstadt (original: Betty Everett)
5. Hound Dog - Elvis Presley (original: Big Mama Thornton)
6. China Girl - David Bowie (original: Iggy Pop, but co-written with Bowie)
7. Hurt - Johnny Cash (original: Nine Inch Nails)
8. People Get Ready - Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart (original: Curtis Mayfield)
9. Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley (original: Leonard Cohen)
10. My Favorite Things - John Coltrane (original: Mary Martin; most famously sung by Julie Andrews in Sound of Music)
All Along the Watchtower by Jimi belongs on this list, imo.
I consider the Talking Heads version one of the best cover songs ever recorded, and I love the original.
My 10 favorite covers are:
1. How Do You Mend a Broken Heart? - Al Green (original: The Bee Gees)
2. Respect - Aretha Franklin (original: Otis Redding)
3. Take Me to the River - Talking Heads (original: Al Green)
4. You're No Good - Linda Rhonstadt (original: Betty Everett)
5. Hound Dog - Elvis Presley (original: Big Mama Thornton)
6. China Girl - David Bowie (original: Iggy Pop, but co-written with Bowie)
7. Hurt - Johnny Cash (original: Nine Inch Nails)
8. People Get Ready - Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart (original: Curtis Mayfield)
9. Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley (original: Leonard Cohen)
10. My Favorite Things - John Coltrane (original: Mary Martin; most famously sung by Julie Andrews in Sound of Music)
All Along the Watchtower by Jimi belongs on this list, imo.
along with all the other covers, i'll add my 2 cents
.......just to name a few
Tony didn't understand that..
A tight band, groovin rhythm section, horn section right on cue, Rev. Al bringing the vocals strong, classic song.
What could be better?
What could be better?
Eternally cool.
captainholiday wrote:
this is the original
and the best version
Just play the original this is terrible
this is the original
and the best version
One could probably come up with a top ten list of Dylan covers better than the original. He's just been covered by so many with Jimi's being the best.
I have to admit the Heads version of this was my introduction to the song. So that's the definitive one for me, as great as Al's is. The first song I heard of theirs on NY radio stations back in 1979 (I'm sure the college stations were ahead on this)
ScottN wrote:
I have to admit the Heads version of this was my introduction to the song. So that's the definitive one for me, as great as Al's is. The first song I heard of theirs on NY radio stations back in 1979 (I'm sure the college stations were ahead on this)
ScottN wrote:
drife wrote:
I consider the Talking Heads version one of the best cover songs ever recorded, and I love the original.
My 10 favorite covers are:
1. How Do You Mend a Broken Heart? - Al Green (original: The Bee Gees)
2. Respect - Aretha Franklin (original: Otis Redding)
3. Take Me to the River - Talking Heads (original: Al Green)
4. You're No Good - Linda Rhonstadt (original: Betty Everett)
5. Hound Dog - Elvis Presley (original: Big Mama Thornton)
6. China Girl - David Bowie (original: Iggy Pop, but co-written with Bowie)
7. Hurt - Johnny Cash (original: Nine Inch Nails)
8. People Get Ready - Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart (original: Curtis Mayfield)
9. Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley (original: Leonard Cohen)
10. My Favorite Things - John Coltrane (original: Mary Martin; most famously sung by Julie Andrews in Sound of Music)
All Along the Watchtower by Jimi belongs on this list, imo.
I consider the Talking Heads version one of the best cover songs ever recorded, and I love the original.
My 10 favorite covers are:
1. How Do You Mend a Broken Heart? - Al Green (original: The Bee Gees)
2. Respect - Aretha Franklin (original: Otis Redding)
3. Take Me to the River - Talking Heads (original: Al Green)
4. You're No Good - Linda Rhonstadt (original: Betty Everett)
5. Hound Dog - Elvis Presley (original: Big Mama Thornton)
6. China Girl - David Bowie (original: Iggy Pop, but co-written with Bowie)
7. Hurt - Johnny Cash (original: Nine Inch Nails)
8. People Get Ready - Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart (original: Curtis Mayfield)
9. Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley (original: Leonard Cohen)
10. My Favorite Things - John Coltrane (original: Mary Martin; most famously sung by Julie Andrews in Sound of Music)
All Along the Watchtower by Jimi belongs on this list, imo.
Another timeless gem from Al; the man could do no wrong in the 70s.
I do expect this entire album to be played now, I am into my 2nd cup of coffee and I feel like sliding and shaking this morning
bwanab wrote:
In addition to All Along the Watchtower that somebody else mentioned, I'd add
1. Blowin' in the Wind - Peter, Paul and Mary (original: Bob Dylan)
2. Compared To What - Les McCann & Eddie Harris (original: Roberta Flack, written by Gene McDaniels).
3. Twist and Shout - The Beatles (original: The Isley Brothers)
This is the best listener's comments I have ever read on RP...
Love your choices and sharing them with others. I agree with most of your choices and this song's cover by the T.. H..'s is probably close to my top cover with All Along the Watcht... by Hendrix as my no. 1
In addition to All Along the Watchtower that somebody else mentioned, I'd add
1. Blowin' in the Wind - Peter, Paul and Mary (original: Bob Dylan)
2. Compared To What - Les McCann & Eddie Harris (original: Roberta Flack, written by Gene McDaniels).
3. Twist and Shout - The Beatles (original: The Isley Brothers)
This is the best listener's comments I have ever read on RP...
Love your choices and sharing them with others. I agree with most of your choices and this song's cover by the T.. H..'s is probably close to my top cover with All Along the Watcht... by Hendrix as my no. 1
Hilarious - sad, but hilarious...
captainholiday wrote:
captainholiday wrote:
Just play the original this is terrible
captainholiday wrote:
? ? ?
Just play the original this is terrible
? ? ?
Just play the original this is terrible
sa1157 wrote:
Maybe it's because my first introduction to this song was a plastic singing fish, but I just can't take it seriously. Gives me the cringes.
Billy Bass! Takes me back to my Grandparent's house.
Maybe it's because my first introduction to this song was a plastic singing fish, but I just can't take it seriously. Gives me the cringes.
Proclivities wrote:
add the Remones California sun
Good list - I see you've thought about this; to me, the Betty Everett, Curtis Mayfield, and Iggy Pop originals are much better than the later versions - especially Betty Everett's tune. Listen to it again and its rawness, soul, and superiority over Linda's slick, Hollywood version should be obvious. Al Green also did a wonderful cover of "To Sir, With Love".
add the Remones California sun
Good list - I see you've thought about this; to me, the Betty Everett, Curtis Mayfield, and Iggy Pop originals are much better than the later versions - especially Betty Everett's tune. Listen to it again and its rawness, soul, and superiority over Linda's slick, Hollywood version should be obvious. Al Green also did a wonderful cover of "To Sir, With Love".
it there anything in the Al Green collection that don't make you smile and wanna dance ?
drife wrote:
I consider the Talking Heads version one of the best cover songs ever recorded, and I love the original.
My 10 favorite covers are:
1. How Do You Mend a Broken Heart? - Al Green (original: The Bee Gees)
2. Respect - Aretha Franklin (original: Otis Redding)
3. Take Me to the River - Talking Heads (original: Al Green)
4. You're No Good - Linda Rhonstadt (original: Betty Everett)
5. Hound Dog - Elvis Presley (original: Big Mama Thornton)
6. China Girl - David Bowie (original: Iggy Pop, but co-written with Bowie)
7. Hurt - Johnny Cash (original: Nine Inch Nails)
8. People Get Ready - Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart (original: Curtis Mayfield)
9. Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley (original: Leonard Cohen)
10. My Favorite Things - John Coltrane (original: Mary Martin; most famously sung by Julie Andrews in Sound of Music)
In addition to All Along the Watchtower that somebody else mentioned, I'd add
1. Blowin' in the Wind - Peter, Paul and Mary (original: Bob Dylan)
2. Compared To What - Les McCann & Eddie Harris (original: Roberta Flack, written by Gene McDaniels).
3. Twist and Shout - The Beatles (original: The Isley Brothers)
I consider the Talking Heads version one of the best cover songs ever recorded, and I love the original.
My 10 favorite covers are:
1. How Do You Mend a Broken Heart? - Al Green (original: The Bee Gees)
2. Respect - Aretha Franklin (original: Otis Redding)
3. Take Me to the River - Talking Heads (original: Al Green)
4. You're No Good - Linda Rhonstadt (original: Betty Everett)
5. Hound Dog - Elvis Presley (original: Big Mama Thornton)
6. China Girl - David Bowie (original: Iggy Pop, but co-written with Bowie)
7. Hurt - Johnny Cash (original: Nine Inch Nails)
8. People Get Ready - Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart (original: Curtis Mayfield)
9. Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley (original: Leonard Cohen)
10. My Favorite Things - John Coltrane (original: Mary Martin; most famously sung by Julie Andrews in Sound of Music)
In addition to All Along the Watchtower that somebody else mentioned, I'd add
1. Blowin' in the Wind - Peter, Paul and Mary (original: Bob Dylan)
2. Compared To What - Les McCann & Eddie Harris (original: Roberta Flack, written by Gene McDaniels).
3. Twist and Shout - The Beatles (original: The Isley Brothers)
drife wrote:
I consider the Talking Heads version one of the best cover songs ever recorded, and I love the original.
My 10 favorite covers are:
1. How Do You Mend a Broken Heart? - Al Green (original: The Bee Gees)
2. Respect - Aretha Franklin (original: Otis Redding)
3. Take Me to the River - Talking Heads (original: Al Green)
4. You're No Good - Linda Rhonstadt (original: Betty Everett)
5. Hound Dog - Elvis Presley (original: Big Mama Thornton)
6. China Girl - David Bowie (original: Iggy Pop, but co-written with Bowie)
7. Hurt - Johnny Cash (original: Nine Inch Nails)
8. People Get Ready - Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart (original: Curtis Mayfield)
9. Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley (original: Leonard Cohen)
10. My Favorite Things - John Coltrane (original: Mary Martin; most famously sung by Julie Andrews in Sound of Music)
Good list - I see you've thought about this; to me, the Betty Everett, Curtis Mayfield, and Iggy Pop originals are much better than the later versions - especially Betty Everett's tune. Listen to it again and its rawness, soul, and superiority over Linda's slick, Hollywood version should be obvious. Al Green also did a wonderful cover of "To Sir, With Love".
I consider the Talking Heads version one of the best cover songs ever recorded, and I love the original.
My 10 favorite covers are:
1. How Do You Mend a Broken Heart? - Al Green (original: The Bee Gees)
2. Respect - Aretha Franklin (original: Otis Redding)
3. Take Me to the River - Talking Heads (original: Al Green)
4. You're No Good - Linda Rhonstadt (original: Betty Everett)
5. Hound Dog - Elvis Presley (original: Big Mama Thornton)
6. China Girl - David Bowie (original: Iggy Pop, but co-written with Bowie)
7. Hurt - Johnny Cash (original: Nine Inch Nails)
8. People Get Ready - Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart (original: Curtis Mayfield)
9. Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley (original: Leonard Cohen)
10. My Favorite Things - John Coltrane (original: Mary Martin; most famously sung by Julie Andrews in Sound of Music)
Good list - I see you've thought about this; to me, the Betty Everett, Curtis Mayfield, and Iggy Pop originals are much better than the later versions - especially Betty Everett's tune. Listen to it again and its rawness, soul, and superiority over Linda's slick, Hollywood version should be obvious. Al Green also did a wonderful cover of "To Sir, With Love".
drife wrote:
I consider the Talking Heads version one of the best cover songs ever recorded, and I love the original.
My 10 favorite covers are:
1. How Do You Mend a Broken Heart? - Al Green (original: The Bee Gees)
2. Respect - Aretha Franklin (original: Otis Redding)
3. Take Me to the River - Talking Heads (original: Al Green)
4. You're No Good - Linda Rhonstadt (original: Betty Everett)
5. Hound Dog - Elvis Presley (original: Big Mama Thornton)
6. China Girl - David Bowie (original: Iggy Pop, but co-written with Bowie)
7. Hurt - Johnny Cash (original: Nine Inch Nails)
8. People Get Ready - Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart (original: Curtis Mayfield)
9. Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley (original: Leonard Cohen)
10. My Favorite Things - John Coltrane (original: Mary Martin; most famously sung by Julie Andrews in Sound of Music)
All Along the Watchtower by Jimi belongs on this list, imo.
I consider the Talking Heads version one of the best cover songs ever recorded, and I love the original.
My 10 favorite covers are:
1. How Do You Mend a Broken Heart? - Al Green (original: The Bee Gees)
2. Respect - Aretha Franklin (original: Otis Redding)
3. Take Me to the River - Talking Heads (original: Al Green)
4. You're No Good - Linda Rhonstadt (original: Betty Everett)
5. Hound Dog - Elvis Presley (original: Big Mama Thornton)
6. China Girl - David Bowie (original: Iggy Pop, but co-written with Bowie)
7. Hurt - Johnny Cash (original: Nine Inch Nails)
8. People Get Ready - Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart (original: Curtis Mayfield)
9. Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley (original: Leonard Cohen)
10. My Favorite Things - John Coltrane (original: Mary Martin; most famously sung by Julie Andrews in Sound of Music)
All Along the Watchtower by Jimi belongs on this list, imo.
the many voices of al
Definition of music. So good.
Huey wrote:
yeah, made me laugh the first time I saw it..he he.
Don't give one to Tony Soprano.
yeah, made me laugh the first time I saw it..he he.
Don't give one to Tony Soprano.
oldfart48 wrote:
I hear you man.
to sad that religion got him instead of reality.
I hear you man.
drife wrote:
Totally agree with your #1 pick!
Absolutely amazing.
My 10 favorite covers are:
1. How Do You Mend a Broken Heart? - Al Green (original: The Bee Gees)
(see full list below)
1. How Do You Mend a Broken Heart? - Al Green (original: The Bee Gees)
(see full list below)
Totally agree with your #1 pick!
Absolutely amazing.
bluedot wrote:
This is the first time I've heard Rev. Al's version. It is much better than I thought it might be. The Talking Heads didn't really depart from it a whole bunch. I really like this!
I like the Talking Heads, but this original version is just better.
This is the first time I've heard Rev. Al's version. It is much better than I thought it might be. The Talking Heads didn't really depart from it a whole bunch. I really like this!
oldfart48 wrote:
Booo. Bad taste statement.
to sad that religion got him instead of reality.
Booo. Bad taste statement.
to sad that religion got him instead of reality.
bluedot wrote:
I don't like Talking Heads, but this original version is just better.
I like the Talking Heads, but this original version is just better.
I don't like Talking Heads, but this original version is just better.
Take me anywhere with a voice like that
fredriley wrote:
Also the voice of a fish. That is, in the short-lived fad of singing fish that you could put on the wall, which sung ironic songs such as this:
yeah, made me laugh the first time I saw it..he he.
Also the voice of a fish. That is, in the short-lived fad of singing fish that you could put on the wall, which sung ironic songs such as this:
yeah, made me laugh the first time I saw it..he he.
Ah, Rev. Green, you got the voice, the rhythm and the blues!
Palm Springs here - Al Green has always been GREAT!
Hi RP'ers! Have a great day where ever you may be.
Al's kicking it, here. Classic.
Al's kicking it, here. Classic.
I have this on a favorite CD for travelling. One of my favorites..
10
Best, it's a beaut, timeless
Best, it's a beaut, timeless
Hayabusa wrote:
Also the voice of a fish. That is, in the short-lived fad of singing fish that you could put on the wall, which sung ironic songs such as this:
The voice of an angle
Also the voice of a fish. That is, in the short-lived fad of singing fish that you could put on the wall, which sung ironic songs such as this:
drife wrote:
I consider the Talking Heads version one of the best cover songs ever recorded, and I love the original.
My 10 favorite covers are:
1. How Do You Mend a Broken Heart? - Al Green (original: The Bee Gees)
2. Respect - Aretha Franklin (original: Otis Redding)
3. Take Me to the River - Talking Heads (original: Al Green)
4. You're No Good - Linda Rhonstadt (original: Betty Everett)
5. Hound Dog - Elvis Presley (original: Big Mama Thornton)
6. China Girl - David Bowie (original: Iggy Pop, but co-written with Bowie)
7. Hurt - Johnny Cash (original: Nine Inch Nails)
8. People Get Ready - Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart (original: Curtis Mayfield)
9. Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley (original: Leonard Cohen)
10. My Favorite Things - John Coltrane (original: Mary Martin; most famously sung by Julie Andrews in Sound of Music)
Good list. Can't agree with Buckley, though...I hate that cover...hate it with a passion worthy of Stingray.
I consider the Talking Heads version one of the best cover songs ever recorded, and I love the original.
My 10 favorite covers are:
1. How Do You Mend a Broken Heart? - Al Green (original: The Bee Gees)
2. Respect - Aretha Franklin (original: Otis Redding)
3. Take Me to the River - Talking Heads (original: Al Green)
4. You're No Good - Linda Rhonstadt (original: Betty Everett)
5. Hound Dog - Elvis Presley (original: Big Mama Thornton)
6. China Girl - David Bowie (original: Iggy Pop, but co-written with Bowie)
7. Hurt - Johnny Cash (original: Nine Inch Nails)
8. People Get Ready - Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart (original: Curtis Mayfield)
9. Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley (original: Leonard Cohen)
10. My Favorite Things - John Coltrane (original: Mary Martin; most famously sung by Julie Andrews in Sound of Music)
Good list. Can't agree with Buckley, though...I hate that cover...hate it with a passion worthy of Stingray.
Personally, I prefer the Talking Heads version. Wouldn't mind hearing them back-to-back though (hint hint)
drife wrote:
I consider the Talking Heads version one of the best cover songs ever recorded, and I love the original.
My 10 favorite covers are:
1. How Do You Mend a Broken Heart? - Al Green (original: The Bee Gees)
2. Respect - Aretha Franklin (original: Otis Redding)
3. Take Me to the River - Talking Heads (original: Al Green)
4. You're No Good - Linda Rhonstadt (original: Betty Everett)
5. Hound Dog - Elvis Presley (original: Big Mama Thornton)
6. China Girl - David Bowie (original: Iggy Pop, but co-written with Bowie)
7. Hurt - Johnny Cash (original: Nine Inch Nails)
8. People Get Ready - Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart (original: Curtis Mayfield)
9. Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley (original: Leonard Cohen)
10. My Favorite Things - John Coltrane (original: Mary Martin; most famously sung by Julie Andrews in Sound of Music)
You might want to add Johnny Cash's cover of Nick Caves's song, "The Mercy Seat." Way better than the original although Nick deserves credit for the chilling story in the lyrics.
I consider the Talking Heads version one of the best cover songs ever recorded, and I love the original.
My 10 favorite covers are:
1. How Do You Mend a Broken Heart? - Al Green (original: The Bee Gees)
2. Respect - Aretha Franklin (original: Otis Redding)
3. Take Me to the River - Talking Heads (original: Al Green)
4. You're No Good - Linda Rhonstadt (original: Betty Everett)
5. Hound Dog - Elvis Presley (original: Big Mama Thornton)
6. China Girl - David Bowie (original: Iggy Pop, but co-written with Bowie)
7. Hurt - Johnny Cash (original: Nine Inch Nails)
8. People Get Ready - Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart (original: Curtis Mayfield)
9. Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley (original: Leonard Cohen)
10. My Favorite Things - John Coltrane (original: Mary Martin; most famously sung by Julie Andrews in Sound of Music)
You might want to add Johnny Cash's cover of Nick Caves's song, "The Mercy Seat." Way better than the original although Nick deserves credit for the chilling story in the lyrics.
oops! very quick....
Hayabusa wrote:
A right angle?
The voice of an angle
A right angle?
The voice of an angle
I like the Talking Heads, but this original version is just better.
cohifi wrote:
Other than spelling Linda's name wrong, it makes sense to me. Am I missing something more than usual?
I don't get this 
Other than spelling Linda's name wrong, it makes sense to me. Am I missing something more than usual?
I had this rated at 8, but this morning I'm getting goosebumps listening to those sublime horns in the background, so the criterion for at least a 9 has been met.
I don't get this 
daveshel4 wrote:
I consider the Talking Heads version one of the best cover songs ever recorded, and I love the original.
My 10 favorite covers are:
1. How Do You Mend a Broken Heart? - Al Green (original: The Bee Gees)
2. Respect - Aretha Franklin (original: Otis Redding)
3. Take Me to the River - Talking Heads (original: Al Green)
4. You're No Good - Linda Rhonstadt (original: Betty Everett)
5. Hound Dog - Elvis Presley (original: Big Mama Thornton)
6. China Girl - David Bowie (original: Iggy Pop, but co-written with Bowie)
7. Hurt - Johnny Cash (original: Nine Inch Nails)
8. People Get Ready - Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart (original: Curtis Mayfield)
9. Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley (original: Leonard Cohen)
10. My Favorite Things - John Coltrane (original: Mary Martin; most famously sung by Julie Andrews in Sound of Music)
I know I'll get flamed for this, but I knew the Talking Heads version before I ever knew this one.
OK, bring on the Talking Heads/David Byrne - haters....
OK, bring on the Talking Heads/David Byrne - haters....
I consider the Talking Heads version one of the best cover songs ever recorded, and I love the original.
My 10 favorite covers are:
1. How Do You Mend a Broken Heart? - Al Green (original: The Bee Gees)
2. Respect - Aretha Franklin (original: Otis Redding)
3. Take Me to the River - Talking Heads (original: Al Green)
4. You're No Good - Linda Rhonstadt (original: Betty Everett)
5. Hound Dog - Elvis Presley (original: Big Mama Thornton)
6. China Girl - David Bowie (original: Iggy Pop, but co-written with Bowie)
7. Hurt - Johnny Cash (original: Nine Inch Nails)
8. People Get Ready - Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart (original: Curtis Mayfield)
9. Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley (original: Leonard Cohen)
10. My Favorite Things - John Coltrane (original: Mary Martin; most famously sung by Julie Andrews in Sound of Music)
I've got one of those talking mounted fish that sings this song almost as well.
daveshel4 wrote:
ditto ... as well as this gem from Syl Johnson, whom I had the pleasure to see perform at Solid Sound this year.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJRkn6AjTx8
I know I'll get flamed for this, but I knew the Talking Heads version before I ever knew this one.
ditto ... as well as this gem from Syl Johnson, whom I had the pleasure to see perform at Solid Sound this year.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJRkn6AjTx8
I know I'll get flamed for this, but I knew the Talking Heads version before I ever knew this one.
OK, bring on the Talking Heads/David Byrne - haters....
OK, bring on the Talking Heads/David Byrne - haters....
Once again... the master of FUNK
Love Al—such an amazing voice for so long. It may be unfair to compare the two, but this song is miles better than the one that RP played just prior—"River is Waiting" by John Fogerty.
SinisterDexter wrote:
I don't find that to be so rare. Many great songs have lent themselves to numerous enjoyable interpretations. There are, of course, some which have not (and shall not be named). Unfortunately, the bad ones are often easier to remember.
This is one of the very few songs where the original and the remake are very good. That's a rare occurence.
I don't find that to be so rare. Many great songs have lent themselves to numerous enjoyable interpretations. There are, of course, some which have not (and shall not be named). Unfortunately, the bad ones are often easier to remember.
Al. My man.
Blasphemy (I know) but my favorite is Foghats version.( Even like Dave Masons version of All Along the Watchtower best too). All apologies. For what it's worth Levon Helms version of this is one you should play, Bill.
As much as I like Al and this song, I like the TH version more.
This is one of the very few songs where the original and the remake are very good. That's a rare occurence.
Soul: Sinead O'Connor & Al Green & BP Fallon, The Grammys, LA Feb 22nd 1989 by bp fallon
https://www.flickr.com/photos/bpfallon/
Photographer unknown.
All rights reservedBill's on fire!
ROCK ON REV!!!
ROCK ON REV!!!
Thanks for playing Big Al!
kurtster wrote:
I'm with you on this..still an 8 though.
I do like this, the original, but I have to agree with the few that I like the Heads version so much more. They did to it what Hendrix did to All Along the Watchtower.
I'm with you on this..still an 8 though.
I've actually heard the Rev Al Green preach - Mt Zion AME Church, Durham NC.
And, yes, the rev went nuts, the choir went nuts, and the congregation as well. Even a cracker like me could feel the spirit.
And, yes, the rev went nuts, the choir went nuts, and the congregation as well. Even a cracker like me could feel the spirit.
Al Green he always gives it his all. See why Rolling Stone rated this one of the top 500 songs of all time. " Love is a notion I can't forget."
I notice that on RP that when a kind of unknown song becomes popular by another artist/band that: people (who comment) who liked the remake find out, they tend to attack the original; and those that dug the original, wage war against those that like the remake.
(I didn't care for either of them)
(I didn't care for either of them)
Never noticed the dedication at the beginning, to the redundantly named Little Junior Parker. Nice Al!
whoa....that bass is crazy, man.
Upright, not uptight.