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Al Green — Take Me To The River
Album: Al Green Explores Your Mind
Avg rating:
7.9

Your rating:
Total ratings: 2734









Released: 1974
Length: 3:40
Plays (last 30 days): 3
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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
Comments (181)add comment
 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.

Posted 2 months ago by obispo    [ Reply ]
Bill should follow this up with the Talking Heads version.  That would be an incredible set.
Posted 2 months ago by timmus    [ Reply ]
 lily34 wrote:
love this, best version.

it needs a dancing meme. i can't find one. 



Here ya go!   
Posted 6 months ago by joejennings    [ Reply ]
Big Al!   GREAT TUNE!!  Thanx RP!   
Posted 6 months ago by joejennings    [ Reply ]
love this, best version.

it needs a dancing meme. i can't find one. 
Posted 8 months ago by lily34    [ Reply ]
 daaave wrote:

Not mellow.




Thank God!!   
Posted 1 year ago by joejennings    [ Reply ]
Not mellow.
Posted 1 year ago by daaave    [ Reply ]
 timmus wrote:
This is my favorite cover of that Talking Heads song.
 
I kid, I kid
 



LOL!!   Temptations also did a great cover!!
Posted 1 year ago by joejennings    [ Reply ]
The Reverend Al Green,  what a guy.
Posted 1 year ago by GingerandMe    [ Reply ]
This is my favorite cover of that Talking Heads song.
 
I kid, I kid
 
Posted 1 year ago by timmus    [ Reply ]
 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. 





Posted 1 year ago by eyke    [ Reply ]
 Typesbad wrote:

 
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. 
Posted 1 year ago by josolbklyn    [ Reply ]
So much better than hyper-overplayed TH effort.
Posted 1 year ago by GHoffmeyer    [ Reply ]
whoa....that bass is crazy, man.
Posted 1 year ago by idiot_wind    [ Reply ]
 ziakut wrote:

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.
Posted 1 year ago by fotd    [ Reply ]
 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




Posted 2 years ago by Pedro1874    [ Reply ]
 Hayabusa wrote:

The voice of an angle



Posted 2 years ago by Solanus    [ Reply ]
Drums/bass/percussion on this one are perfect.
Posted 2 years ago by jukes1    [ Reply ]
I love the way the very tightly played horns go from centre to split in both speakers-trumpet left,  sax right,  at the outro.
Posted 2 years ago by nomnol    [ Reply ]
 ubuntourist wrote:


I thought it was just right.


Neko would probably disagree.  She's picky about those angles.
Posted 2 years ago by flyboy    [ Reply ]
Desk dancing!!!  (Thankfully, I have a standing desk!) 
Posted 2 years ago by mjlucas    [ Reply ]
its that freakin organ (B3?)
Posted 3 years ago by idiot_wind    [ Reply ]
 WhiteWater wrote:

I love every track on Lennox' cover album Medusa.
 
Bryan Ferry also does a great low down version.
Posted 3 years ago by khardog145    [ Reply ]
2 words! ...killer! ...priceless!
Posted 4 years ago by eileenomurphy    [ Reply ]
 ubuntourist wrote:
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.  
Posted 4 years ago by SpencerAR    [ Reply ]
Godlike is an understatement. Can I give it an 11?
Posted 4 years ago by cely    [ Reply ]
Best version of this is by Billy the Bigmouth Bass hands down. :)
Posted 4 years ago by mrselfdestruct    [ Reply ]
I like it but I keep remembering "The Commitments" version which, sticks better in my head.
Posted 4 years ago by ubuntourist    [ Reply ]
 Typesbad wrote:
 
Wide or 45 degree? Or neither?
Definitely acute rather than obtuse.
 

I thought it was just right.
Posted 4 years ago by ubuntourist    [ Reply ]
Long Live   Radio Paradise
My rating is         9 
Posted 4 years ago by Tomasni    [ Reply ]
 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
 
I'm picking up what you're putting down....More Soul/R&B would be great!!  This one's a 9+.....Long Live RP!!
Posted 4 years ago by lizardking    [ Reply ]
James Brown's got nuthin on Al ; >

Best R n B Soul singer Ever for my money !

8 +++++ 

More Al Green, please R.P
Posted 5 years ago by surfrider4life    [ Reply ]
What about the most awesome cover by Eva Cassidy?
Posted 5 years ago by leetlericky    [ Reply ]
Absolutely wonderful!

Wish for more authentic 70s R&B and Soul music on RP
Posted 5 years ago by ExploitingChaos    [ Reply ]
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.
Posted 5 years ago by ziakut    [ Reply ]
 javelipix wrote:


 
The best Dylan cover ever ! Peter, Paul and Mary "Don't think twice" 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGpkS7LhKl8
Posted 5 years ago by French_Ferdinand    [ Reply ]
 fedtho wrote:
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 {#Daisy}, it rocks.
 
The original is perfect in a simple, high-class, elegant way that belongs to Mr. Green {#Cool}
 
I love every track on Lennox' cover album Medusa.
Posted 5 years ago by WhiteWater    [ Reply ]
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
Posted 5 years ago by miamizsun    [ Reply ]
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 {#Daisy}, it rocks.
 
The original is perfect in a simple, high-class, elegant way that belongs to Mr. Green {#Cool}
Posted 5 years ago by fedtho    [ Reply ]
"She took my money...my cigarettes..."  These women driving us haaaard {#Lol} {#Kiss} {#Yes}
Posted 6 years ago by afrixluvguy    [ Reply ]
 Hayabusa wrote:
The voice of an angle

  
Wide or 45 degree? Or neither?
Definitely acute rather than obtuse.
Posted 6 years ago by Typesbad    [ Reply ]
Would have stuck this next to that lovely acoustic "Naive Melody" played earlier.
Posted 6 years ago by Steely_D    [ Reply ]
SIMPLY PUT DOWN THE PEN STEP AWAY FROM THE KEYBOARD AND JUST SHAKE SHAKE SHAKE PEOPLE RIGHTEOUS BOOGIE TIME  : )
Posted 6 years ago by hayduke2    [ Reply ]
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).
Posted 6 years ago by joelbb    [ Reply ]
 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)
 


Posted 6 years ago by javelipix    [ Reply ]
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

{#Notworthy} {#Daisy} {#Bananajam}
Posted 6 years ago by GoodKarm    [ Reply ]
 Hayabusa wrote:
The voice of an angle

 
Wide or 45 degree? Or neither?
Posted 6 years ago by pinto    [ Reply ]
It's said that Al once remarked that he may cover a Talking Heads song.  I wonder if he ever did?
Posted 6 years ago by ScottN    [ Reply ]
Bless my soul, I love that man's voice.
 
Posted 6 years ago by zenhead    [ Reply ]
ahh - takes me to Memphis in the month of May.   Sweet.
Posted 7 years ago by bagadonutz    [ Reply ]
Bill's got the coffee percolating now
Posted 7 years ago by Skydog    [ Reply ]
I had no idea that the Talking Heads version was a cover. Incredible. And honestly, both versions were great!
Posted 7 years ago by Ahnyer_Keester    [ Reply ]
 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.

  
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 
Posted 7 years ago by lemmoth    [ Reply ]
 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.

 
along with all the other covers, i'll add my 2 cents

Jealous 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


Posted 7 years ago by Emwolb    [ Reply ]

Tony didn't understand that..

Aiheeseen liittyvä kuva


Posted 8 years ago by EastofSweden    [ Reply ]
A tight band, groovin rhythm section, horn section right on cue, Rev. Al bringing the vocals strong, classic song.

What could be better? 
Posted 8 years ago by LPCity    [ Reply ]
 Eternally cool.
Posted 8 years ago by Cueburned    [ Reply ]
 captainholiday wrote:
Just play the original this is terrible

 
this is the original
and the best version 
Posted 8 years ago by Skydog    [ Reply ]
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:
 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.

 


Posted 8 years ago by phlattop    [ Reply ]
Another timeless gem from Al; the man could do no wrong in the 70s.
Posted 8 years ago by On_The_Beach    [ Reply ]
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
Posted 8 years ago by Skydog    [ Reply ]
 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
Posted 8 years ago by jimtyrrell    [ Reply ]
Hilarious -  sad, but hilarious... 

 captainholiday wrote:
Just play the original this is terrible

 


Posted 8 years ago by rev_cletus    [ Reply ]
 captainholiday wrote:
Just play the original this is terrible
 
? ? ?
Posted 8 years ago by On_The_Beach    [ Reply ]
Just play the original this is terrible
Posted 8 years ago by captainholiday    [ Reply ]
 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.


Posted 9 years ago by sieversfam    [ Reply ]
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. 
Posted 9 years ago by sa1157    [ Reply ]
 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".

 


Posted 9 years ago by michaelc    [ Reply ]
it there anything in the Al Green collection that don't make you smile and wanna dance ? {#Bananasplit}
Posted 9 years ago by michaelc    [ Reply ]
 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) 
Posted 9 years ago by bwanab    [ Reply ]
 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".
Posted 9 years ago by Proclivities    [ Reply ]
 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.
Posted 9 years ago by ScottN    [ Reply ]
the many voices of al
Posted 9 years ago by KaraokeVox    [ Reply ]
Definition of music. So good. 
Posted 9 years ago by moocray    [ Reply ]
 Huey wrote:

yeah, made me laugh the first time I saw it..he he.

 
Don't give one to Tony Soprano.
Posted 9 years ago by LawDude    [ Reply ]
 oldfart48 wrote:

to sad that religion got him instead of reality.{#Drummer}{#Bananapiano}{#Dancingbanana}{#Music}{#Dance}



 
I hear you man.
Posted 9 years ago by Sloggydog    [ Reply ]
 drife wrote:
My 10 favorite covers are:

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.
Posted 9 years ago by On_The_Beach    [ Reply ]
 bluedot wrote:
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!
Posted 10 years ago by Ahnyer_Keester    [ Reply ]
 oldfart48 wrote:

to sad that religion got him instead of reality.{#Drummer}{#Bananapiano}{#Dancingbanana}{#Music}



 
Booo. Bad taste statement.
Posted 10 years ago by Ahnyer_Keester    [ Reply ]

to sad that religion got him instead of reality.{#Drummer}{#Bananapiano}{#Dancingbanana}{#Music}{#Dance}


Posted 10 years ago by oldfart48    [ Reply ]
 bluedot wrote:
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.
Posted 10 years ago by ziakut    [ Reply ]
Take me anywhere with a voice like that{#Dance}
Posted 11 years ago by paradisepig    [ Reply ]
 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:

Photo of singing fish on the wall 
 
yeah, made me laugh the first time I saw it..he he.
Posted 11 years ago by Huey    [ Reply ]
Ah, Rev. Green, you got the voice, the rhythm and the blues!
Posted 11 years ago by joelbb    [ Reply ]
Palm Springs here - Al Green has always been GREAT!
Posted 11 years ago by oshkoshbob    [ Reply ]
Hi RP'ers! Have a great day where ever you may be.
Al's kicking it, here. Classic. 
Posted 11 years ago by michaelgmitchell    [ Reply ]
I have this on a favorite CD for travelling. One of my favorites..
Posted 11 years ago by nancyt    [ Reply ]
10
Best, it's a beaut, timeless 
Posted 11 years ago by hayduke2    [ Reply ]
 Hayabusa wrote:
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:

Photo of singing fish on the wall 
Posted 11 years ago by fredriley    [ Reply ]
 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.
Posted 11 years ago by oldsaxon    [ Reply ]
Personally, I prefer the Talking Heads version.  Wouldn't mind hearing them back-to-back though (hint hint)
Posted 11 years ago by wlpendley    [ Reply ]
 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. 
Posted 12 years ago by kcar    [ Reply ]
oops! very quick....{#Silenced}
 
Posted 12 years ago by Hayabusa    [ Reply ]
 Hayabusa wrote:
The voice of an angle
 

A right angle?
Posted 12 years ago by TJS    [ Reply ]
The voice of an angle
Posted 12 years ago by Hayabusa    [ Reply ]
I like the Talking Heads, but this original version is just better.

Posted 12 years ago by bluedot    [ Reply ]
 cohifi wrote:
I don't get this {#Arrowd}
 
Other than spelling Linda's name wrong, it makes sense to me. Am I missing something more than usual?{#Stupid}
Posted 12 years ago by bokey    [ Reply ]
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. 
Posted 12 years ago by Hannio    [ Reply ]
I don't get this {#Arrowd}
Posted 12 years ago by cohifi    [ Reply ]
 daveshel4 wrote:
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....
 
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)


Posted 12 years ago by drife    [ Reply ]
I've got one of those talking mounted fish that sings this song almost as well. 
Posted 12 years ago by yodasan_magoo    [ Reply ]
 daveshel4 wrote:
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
syl


Posted 12 years ago by a_genuine_find    [ Reply ]
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....
Posted 12 years ago by daveshel4    [ Reply ]
Once again... the master of FUNK
Posted 12 years ago by lsfeder    [ Reply ]
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.  
Posted 12 years ago by kcar    [ Reply ]
 SinisterDexter wrote:
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. {#Wink}


Posted 12 years ago by Proclivities    [ Reply ]
Al.  My man.
Posted 12 years ago by drcrnp    [ Reply ]
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.

Posted 13 years ago by DD rabbi_phil    [ Reply ]
As much as I like Al and this song, I like the TH version more.
Posted 13 years ago by bachbeet    [ Reply ]
This is one of the very few songs where the original and the remake are very good.  That's a rare occurence.
Posted 13 years ago by SinisterDexter    [ Reply ]

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.

Copyright All rights reserved


Posted 13 years ago by calypsus_1    [ Reply ]
Bill's on fire!

ROCK ON REV!!! 
Posted 13 years ago by icemang    [ Reply ]
Thanks for playing Big Al!
Posted 13 years ago by bigcat    [ Reply ]
 kurtster wrote:
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.

Posted 13 years ago by Huey    [ Reply ]
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. 
Posted 13 years ago by nagsheadlocal    [ Reply ]
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."
Posted 13 years ago by KikaKitty    [ Reply ]
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)
Posted 13 years ago by bindi    [ Reply ]
Never noticed the dedication at the beginning, to the redundantly named Little Junior Parker.  Nice Al!
Posted 13 years ago by CamLwalk    [ Reply ]
Al Green's voice is such a beautiful instrument, beautifully played.
Posted 14 years ago by Businessgypsy    [ Reply ]
Wow! I had no idea he wrote the song (as I pull my head from out of the sand)!
Posted 14 years ago by JBRare    [ Reply ]