Thursday, June 8, 2017

An overlooked cover tune XXX

In 1969, Blood, Sweat & Tears had a big hit with "You've Made Me So Very Happy."  David Clayton-Thomas emoted convincingly in a pop hit that still stands out on the radio.

Another version, however, also deserves its due.  Although you don't usually hear his rendition today, Lou Rawls covered the tune in 1970.  The keyboard and horn intros give the song an instant atmosphere of sophistication and coolness.  Rawls then enters the picture, singing with relative subtlety and customary confidence.  Rawls obviously knew he'd picked a winner, as "You've Made Me So Very Happy" was not only one of his singles but the title track of one of his albums.