This week, I’ve had Natalie Cole and Whitney Houston’s version of “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” As some of you may have heard, Natalie Cole passed away on New Year’s Day, so I’ve been reminiscing and listening to her music for the past couple days.
I know that for many, names like Natalie Cole and Whitney Houston need no introduction, but this post is for those who are unaware of who these great performers are. Natalie Cole is a singer-songwriter, who is also the daughter of the famous crooner, Nat King Cole. Natalie recorded many of her father’s classic hits, including, “Unforgettable,” and also had some of her own well-known songs, like “This Will Be,” “Our Love,” and “Inseparable.” Whitney Houston is also a singer as well as an actress, model, and producer. I remember Whitney Houston from her role in the movie, The Bodyguard, and her single from the soundtrack, “I Will Always Love You.” However, she is also well-known for songs like “How Will I Know” “I Wanna Dance With Somebody,” “I’m Your Baby Tonight,” and “I Wanna Run to You.”
This version of the Simon & Garfunkel song was improvised; not planned. However, these two women make the performance seem rehearsed. This simplistic song has a gospel hymn vibe with lyrics that have a universal appeal. Cole and Houston’s vocal licks, their musical dynamics, and projection cause anyone who listens to feel inspired. Natalie Cole’s natural R&B style of singing brings a nice contrast to Whitney Houston’s “powerhouse singing” (wide range, dynamics, and almost melismatic singing), providing a unique blend for this classic song.
Listen below:
Is there a song, musician, or group that you can’t stop listening to? Leave a comment below!