Aretha Franklin Let It Be/ Don't Play That Song (Atlantic, AK 3851, 1970)
Aretha's version was actually released before the Beatles one (in January 1970) but as great as Aretha is, her version is inevitably eclipsed by the fabs.
On paper she should do the business right? Her gospel voice perfectly which suits the content, her fantastic vocal style, Tom Dowd, Arif Mardin and Jerry Wexler are all on board.
The fabs on the other hand were in comparative disarray. The 1969 Get Back sessions are of legend: Macca telling George what to play, Yoko on board, George Martin not, John distracted, Ringo bored shitless.
And yet, and yet - on the album version in particular, The Beatles kick ass!!
Hidden gem: Aretha performs with the Dixie Flyers for the B side. For me it's the better side with a sympathetic backing, some nice gospel piano and Aretha in fine voice. It's a good song and a lovely B side.
Music is the wine that fills the cup of silence - ROBERT FRIPP. Information is not knowledge; knowledge is not wisdom; wisdom is not truth; truth is not beauty; beauty is not love; love is not music; MUSIC IS THE BEST - FRANK ZAPPA. I think we're a little happier when we have a little music in our lives - STEVE JOBS. Music in the soul can be heard by the universe - LAO TZU. Rock and Roll is fire, man. FIRE. - DAVID BRIGGS. Music grips you, gets into your soul - GEORGE MARTIN
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