2016, the year for reinvention of past hits.
A few weeks ago it was a new and very different version of Simon & Garfunkel’s “Sound Of Silence” performed by metal band Disturbed. https://boomermusicupdate.com/alternative/sound-silence-sung-heavy-metal-style/
Now along comes Chris Cornell (most famous because he’s the founder and lead singer for the Seattle band Soundgarden) going acoustic with his version of “Nothing Compares 2 You,” written by Prince in 1985, and made famous by Sinead O’Conner in 1990.
Both renditions are haunting and highlight the powerful lyrical content of a song that continues to stand the test of time.
Cornell told Rolling Stone “I performed his song “Nothing Compares 2 U” for the first time a couple months ago. It has timeless relevance for me and practically everyone I know.”
“Nothing Compares to You” is so strongly associated with a woman, is it different when a man sings it? Just a little. The woman’s version is bleak and sad and forlorn, and the man’s is less bleak and sad and forlorn and a tad more angry and defiant. But, bottom-line, the sound of a breaking heart knows no gender.
Cornell’s roots are in the alternative radio format, but adult and pop outlets are also embracing this touching production.