How The Beautiful South Paid Tribute to Music History with Golddiggas, Headnodders and Pholk Songs
Golddiggas, Headnodders and Pholk Songs: The Beautiful South's Tribute to Music History
Hi there, music lover! Do you enjoy listening to different genres and styles of music? Do you appreciate artists who can put their own spin on classic songs? Do you like bands that have a sense of humor and a social conscience? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you might want to check out Golddiggas, Headnodders and Pholk Songs, an album by The Beautiful South.
Beautiful South Golddiggas Headnodders And Pholk Songs Full Album 12
Who are The Beautiful South, you ask? Well, they are a British pop band that was formed in 1988 by former members of The Housemartins, Paul Heaton and Dave Hemingway. They have been known for their witty, sarcastic and often controversial lyrics that tackle topics such as politics, religion, love and death. They have also been praised for their diverse musical influences, ranging from soul and country to rock and punk.
But what makes this album special is that it is almost entirely a covers album. Yes, you heard that right. The Beautiful South decided to pay tribute to some of their favorite songs and artists by making their own versions of them. And they did not shy away from making some bold and surprising choices. From disco to folk, from rock to soul, from comedy to tragedy, this album showcases The Beautiful South's versatility and creativity. It also reveals their unique perspective and interpretation of music history.
In this article, we will take a closer look at each track of the album and see how The Beautiful South transformed them into their own versions. We will also explore how the album was received by critics and fans, and how it influenced The Beautiful South's later work and reputation.
So sit back, relax and enjoy this musical journey with me!
Track by Track Analysis
You're the One That I Want (originally by John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John)
The album opens with a surprising twist on one of the most iconic songs from one of the most popular musicals of all time: Grease. You probably remember the original version as a catchy and upbeat duet between John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John as Danny and Sandy, two high school sweethearts who reunite after a summer romance.
But The Beautiful South's version is anything but cheerful. In fact, it is downright depressing. They slow down the tempo, strip down the instrumentation, lower the pitch and add some eerie sound effects. They also change some of the lyrics to make them more cynical and bitter. For example, instead of singing "You better shape up / 'Cause I need a man / And my heart is set on you", Alison Wheeler sings "You better shape up / 'Cause you need a man / And your heart is set on blue". And instead of singing "You're the one that I want / You are the one I want / Oo-oo-oo honey", Paul Heaton sings "You're not the one that I want / You are not what I want / Oo-oo-oo sorry".
The result is a dark and ironic commentary on how love can turn sour and how expectations can be shattered. It also sets the tone for the rest of the album, which is full of unexpected twists and turns.
Livin' Thing (originally by Electric Light Orchestra)
The second track is a cover of one of Electric Light Orchestra's most famous songs from their 1976 album A New World Record. Livin' Thing is a classic rock song with a catchy chorus, a soaring string section and a distinctive guitar riff.
The Beautiful South's version is faithful to the original in terms of melody and structure, but they add some subtle changes that make it more interesting. For example, they replace some of the electric guitars with acoustic guitars, they add some harmonica solos and they use a double bass instead of a bass guitar. They also change some of the lyrics to make them more humorous or sarcastic. For example, instead of singing "You took me oh oh oh higher than / Higher than I've ever been", Dave Hemingway sings "You took me oh oh oh higher than / Higher than I've ever been / But then again". And instead of singing "It's a livin' thing / It's a terrible thing to lose", Alison Wheeler sings "It's a livin' thing / It's an awful thing to choose".
The result is a lively and playful rendition that showcases The Beautiful South's musical skills and sense of humor.
This Will Be Our Year (originally by The Zombies)
```html Don't Fear the Reaper (originally by Blue Öyster Cult)
The sixth track is a cover of one of Blue Öyster Cult's most famous songs from their 1976 album Agents of Fortune. Don't Fear the Reaper is a hard rock song with a memorable guitar riff, a cowbell beat and a mysterious message.
The Beautiful South's version is softer and slower than the original, but they keep the same melody and structure. They also keep the lyrics intact, which are about embracing death as a natural part of life and love. The vocals by Paul Heaton and Alison Wheeler are smooth and soothing, creating a contrast with the grim subject matter.
The result is a haunting and hypnotic cover that shows The Beautiful South's respect for the original song and its meaning.
This Old Skin (an original song by The Beautiful South)
The seventh track is the only original song on the album, written by Paul Heaton and Dave Rotheray. However, it was presented as a cover of a song by a fictional band called The Heppelbaums, supposedly from the 1970s. The band even created a fake website for The Heppelbaums, with clues to their real identity.
This Old Skin is a folk rock song with a melancholic melody, a harmonica solo and a nostalgic message. The lyrics are about growing old and looking back at one's life with regret and acceptance. The vocals by Paul Heaton and Alison Wheeler are emotional and expressive, conveying the sadness and wisdom of the song.
The result is a beautiful and poignant original that shows The Beautiful South's songwriting talent and creativity.
Don't Stop Moving (originally by S Club 7)
The eighth track is a cover of one of S Club 7's most successful songs from their 2001 album Sunshine. Don't Stop Moving is a dance pop song with a disco beat, a catchy chorus and an upbeat message.
The Beautiful South's version is more rock-oriented and less polished than the original, but they keep the same energy and groove. They also keep the lyrics intact, which are about having fun and living in the moment. The vocals by Paul Heaton, Dave Hemingway and Alison Wheeler are lively and enthusiastic, creating a contrast with their usual style.
The result is a fun and surprising cover that shows The Beautiful South's ability to adapt to different genres and moods.
Till I Can't Take It Anymore (originally by Ben E. King)
The ninth track is a cover of one of Ben E. King's most soulful songs from his 1968 album Seven Letters. Till I Can't Take It Anymore is a R&B ballad with a passionate melody, a string section and a dramatic message.
The Beautiful South's version is faithful to the original in terms of instrumentation and arrangement, but they add some vocal harmonies that make it more rich and warm. They also keep the lyrics intact, which are about enduring pain and suffering for the sake of love. The vocals by Paul Heaton and Alison Wheeler are powerful and sincere, conveying the emotion and intensity of the song.
The result is a moving and respectful tribute that shows The Beautiful South's admiration for Ben E. King and his music.
Rebel Prince (originally by Rufus Wainwright)
The tenth track is a cover of one of Rufus Wainwright's most whimsical songs from his 2001 album Poses. Rebel Prince is a pop song with a cabaret flair, a piano accompaniment and an ambiguous message.
```html Rebel Prince (originally by Rufus Wainwright)
The tenth track is a cover of one of Rufus Wainwright's most whimsical songs from his 2001 album Poses. Rebel Prince is a pop song with a cabaret flair, a piano accompaniment and an ambiguous message.
The Beautiful South's version is similar to the original in terms of melody and structure, but they add some drums, bass and horns to the mix. They also keep the lyrics intact, which are about a mysterious and charismatic figure who may or may not be the devil. The vocals by Paul Heaton and Alison Wheeler are theatrical and expressive, creating a contrast with their usual style.
The result is a quirky and intriguing cover that shows The Beautiful South's admiration for Rufus Wainwright and his music.
Blitzkrieg Bop (originally by The Ramones)
The eleventh track is a cover of one of The Ramones' most iconic songs from their 1976 debut album Ramones. Blitzkrieg Bop is a punk rock song with a simple guitar riff, a fast drum beat and a rebellious message.
The Beautiful South's version is more polished and less aggressive than the original, but they keep the same energy and attitude. They also keep the lyrics intact, which are about having fun and causing chaos. The vocals by Paul Heaton, Dave Hemingway and Alison Wheeler are loud and enthusiastic, creating a contrast with their usual style.
The result is a fun and surprising cover that shows The Beautiful South's ability to adapt to different genres and moods.
I'm Stone in Love with You (originally by The Stylistics)
The twelfth and final track is a cover of one of The Stylistics' most romantic songs from their 1972 album Round 2. I'm Stone in Love with You is a soul ballad with a smooth melody, a string section and a tender message.
The Beautiful South's version is faithful to the original in terms of instrumentation and arrangement, but they add some vocal harmonies that make it more rich and warm. They also keep the lyrics intact, which are about expressing one's love and devotion. The vocals by Paul Heaton and Alison Wheeler are sweet and sincere, conveying the emotion and sincerity of the song.
The result is a beautiful and poignant tribute that shows The Beautiful South's respect for The Stylistics and their music.
Reception and Legacy
Golddiggas, Headnodders and Pholk Songs was released in October 2004 by Sony Music Entertainment. It received mixed reviews from critics, who praised some of the covers but criticized others for being too faithful or too different from the originals. Some also questioned the choice of songs and the relevance of the album.
However, the album was well received by fans, who appreciated The Beautiful South's versatility and creativity. It reached number 11 on the UK Albums Chart and was certified gold by the British Phonographic Industry. It also spawned three singles: "Livin' Thing", "This Old Skin" and "This Will Be Our Year", which reached number 24, number 20 and number 23 on the UK Singles Chart respectively.
The album also influenced The Beautiful South's later work and reputation. It showed their ability to experiment with different genres and styles, as well as their respect for music history. It also revealed their sense of humor and irony, as well as their social conscience. It was one of their last albums before they disbanded in 2007, after 19 years of making music together.
Conclusion
Golddiggas, Headnodders and Pholk Songs is an album that showcases The Beautiful South's tribute to music history. It is a diverse and eclectic collection of songs that span different genres, eras and moods. It is also a reflection of The Beautiful South's personality and perspective.
In my opinion, this album is a gem that deserves more recognition and appreciation. It is not just a covers album, but an artistic statement that reveals The Beautiful South's musical skills and sense of humor. It is also a testament to their love for music and their fans.
If you are looking for an album that will surprise you, entertain you and move you, then I highly recommend Golddiggas, Headnodders and Pholk Songs by The Beautiful South. You will not regret it!
FAQs
Q: Who are The Beautiful South?
A: They are a British pop band that was formed in 1988 by former members of The Housemartins, Paul Heaton and Dave Hemingway. They have been known for their witty, sarcastic and often controversial lyrics that tackle topics such as politics, religion, love and death. They have also been praised for their diverse musical influences, ranging from soul and country to rock and punk.
Q: What is Golddiggas, Headnodders and Pholk Songs?
```html Rebel Prince (originally by Rufus Wainwright)
The tenth track is a cover of one of Rufus Wainwright's most whimsical songs from his 2001 album Poses. Rebel Prince is a pop song with a cabaret flair, a piano accompaniment and an ambiguous message.
The Beautiful South's version is similar to the original in terms of melody and structure, but they add some drums, bass and horns to the mix. They also keep the lyrics intact, which are about a mysterious and charismatic figure who may or may not be the devil. The vocals by Paul Heaton and Alison Wheeler are theatrical and expressive, creating a contrast with their usual style.
The result is a quirky and intriguing cover that shows The Beautiful South's admiration for Rufus Wainwright and his music.
Blitzkrieg Bop (originally by The Ramones)
The eleventh track is a cover of one of The Ramones' most iconic songs from their 1976 debut album Ramones. Blitzkrieg Bop is a punk rock song with a simple guitar riff, a fast drum beat and a rebellious message.
The Beautiful South's version is more polished and less aggressive than the original, but they keep the same energy and attitude. They also keep the lyrics intact, which are about having fun and causing chaos. The vocals by Paul Heaton, Dave Hemingway and Alison Wheeler are loud and enthusiastic, creating a contrast with their usual style.
The result is a fun and surprising cover that shows The Beautiful South's ability to adapt to different genres and moods.
I'm Stone in Love with You (originally by The Stylistics)
The twelfth and final track is a cover of one of The Stylistics' most romantic songs from their 1972 album Round 2. I'm Stone in Love with You is a soul ballad with a smooth melody, a string section and a tender message.
The Beautiful South's version is faithful to the original in terms of instrumentation and arrangement, but they add some vocal harmonies that make it more rich and warm. They also keep the lyrics intact, which are about expressing one's love and devotion. The vocals by Paul Heaton and Alison Wheeler are sweet and sincere, conveying the emotion and sincerity of the song.
The result is a beautiful and poignant tribute that shows The Beautiful South's respect for The Stylistics and their music.
Reception and Legacy
Golddiggas, Headnodders and Pholk Songs was released in October 2004 by Sony Music Entertainment. It received mixed reviews from critics, who praised some of the covers but criticized others for being too faithful or too different from the originals. Some also questioned the choice of songs and the relevance of the album.
However, the album was well received by fans, who appreciated The Beautiful South's versatility and creativity. It reached number 11 on the UK Albums Chart and was certified gold by the British Phonographic Industry. It also spawned three singles: "Livin' Thing", "This Old Skin" and "This Will Be Our Year", which reached number 24, number 20 and number 23 on the UK Singles Chart respectively.
The album also influenced The Beautiful South's later work and reputation. It showed their ability to experiment with different genres and styles, as well as their respect for music history. It also revealed their sense of humor and irony, as well as their social conscience. It was one of their last albums before they disbanded in 2007, after 19 years of making music together.
Conclusion
Golddiggas, Headnodders and Pholk Songs is an album that showcases The Beautiful South's tribute to music history. It is a diverse and eclectic collection of songs that span different genres, eras and moods. It is also a reflection of The Beautiful South's personality and perspective.
```html Conclusion
Golddiggas, Headnodders and Pholk Songs is an album that showcases The Beautiful South's tribute to music history. It is a diverse and eclectic collection of songs that span different genres, eras and moods. It is also a reflection of The Beautiful South's personality and perspective.
In my opinion, this album is a gem that deserves more recognition and appreciation. It is not just a covers album, but an artistic statement that reveals The Beautiful South's musical skills and sense of humor. It is also a testament to their love for music and their fans.
If you are looking for an album that will surprise you, entertain you and move you, then I highly recommend Golddiggas, Headnodders and Pholk Songs by The Beautiful South. You will not regret it!
FAQs
Q: Who are The Beautiful South?
A: They are a British pop band that was formed in 1988 by former members of The Housemartins, Paul Heaton and Dave Hemingway. They have been known for their witty, sarcastic and often controversial lyrics that tackle topics such as politics, religion, love and death. They have also been praised for their diverse musical influences, ranging from soul and country to rock and punk.
Q: What is Golddiggas, Headnodders and Pholk Songs?
A: It is the ninth and penultimate album by The Beautiful South, released in 2004. It is almost entirely a covers album, with one notable exception. The track "This Old Skin" was originally claimed to have been written by Bobby Christiansand/Barry Klein, and to have been originally performed by an obscure band called "The Heppelbaums" in the 1970s, but it was later revealed to have been an original composition by Paul Heaton and Dave Rotheray.
Q: Why did they choose to make a covers album?
A: According to Paul Heaton, they wanted to pay tribute to some of their favorite songs and artists, as well as to challenge themselves and their fans with some unexpected choices. They also wanted to have some fun and experiment with different genres and styles.
Q: Which cover is the most faithful to the original?
A: Probably "I'm Stone in Love with You" by The Stylistics, which has the same instrumentation and arrangement as the original. The vocals are also very similar in tone and delivery.
Q: Which cover is the most different from the original?
A: Probably "You're the One That I Want" by John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John, which has a completely different mood and meaning than the original. The tempo is slowed down, the pitch is lowered, the instrumentation is stripped down and the lyrics are changed to make them more cynical and bitter.