I love this post and agree wholeheartedly. Sometimes, songs escape into the wild, become their own things, whether to help others, or to say goodbye. I remember being confused by this when I too was discovering music; Melanie was a favourite of my parents, as was Joe Cocker, and it wasn't until later that I realised they did not write those songs. When I heard the originals, I remember having very similar thoughts to yours, wondering why such an important song in my life began its own life missing some part of its soul. I think music cannot be owned, per se, but these covers makes a very good case for music ably owning others.
I love this post and agree wholeheartedly. Sometimes, songs escape into the wild, become their own things, whether to help others, or to say goodbye. I remember being confused by this when I too was discovering music; Melanie was a favourite of my parents, as was Joe Cocker, and it wasn't until later that I realised they did not write those songs. When I heard the originals, I remember having very similar thoughts to yours, wondering why such an important song in my life began its own life missing some part of its soul. I think music cannot be owned, per se, but these covers makes a very good case for music ably owning others.
Thanks so much for this comment. I love the idea of songs owning (or possessing, perhaps) those who sing them.
Thanks for sharing such a great piece.
Possessing is an apt word. Songs are a powerful magic, after all.
After reading the first paragraph I was about to say “Such as With a Little Help……..”
Yes, it’s certainly a prime example.