thecurvature:

Eddie Kendricks - I Need You More Now Than Ever

Upon a secondary listen, Eddie’s version of this track also recorded by Paul Williams is far from terrible. I do turn my nose up at the wash of echo placed over Eddie’s vocal — it’s too much, and provides a distancing effect, which is antithetical to the intimate nature of the song.

As for Eddie’s performance itself, it’s certainly competent; I also definitely feel that he could do much better. Eddie was incredibly capable of delivering highly emotional performances, but he didn’t here. He strikes me as providing little to none of the desperation, longing, and vulnerability that the phrase “I need you more now than ever” requires in a delivery. His voice is lovely as always, but he sounds like he’s just going through the motions. Meanwhile, Paul Williams’ performance is restrained yet heartfelt — grateful, hopeful, and exposed all at once — creating a far more beautiful and memorable track.

How do others think the two versions compare?

2:19 pm  •  13 January 2012  •  13 notes