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The story behind today's Great Song of 1983 is pretty unique.
Most music fans are probably aware that "You Can't Hurry Love" by Phil Collins is a remake of the classic Great Song of 1966 by The Supremes.
And according to Phil, "remake" was LITERALLY what he was going for--as opposed to an "interpretation."
In his words: "The idea of doing 'Can't Hurry Love' was to see if producer Hugh Padgham and I could duplicate that Sixties sound."
He went on to say that because recording technology had advanced so much in the ensuing years, it was difficult to achieve a true "retro" sound--especially on the drums.
But before I go any further, I want to mention that The Supremes' version of the song was sort of a remake itself!
The legendary Motown songwriting/producing team of Holland-Dozier-Hollard wrote "You Can't Hurry Love" based on a Soul Gospel song written and sung by Dorothy Love Coates, and backed by The Gospel Harmonettes in 1959.
Musically, it's quite a bit different, but the title and lyrics prove the point: "(You Can't Hurry God) You Just have to Wait."
Of course, The Supremes version (and Phil's, too) are not blatantly Gospel in tone or style...but the influence is definitely there.
In a rare chart event, all 3 of the major chart publications at the time: Billboard, Cashbox and Record World, listed The Supremes version at #1 at the same time!
And Phil's remake went to #1 in Canada and the UK, while doing extremely well in the US: #9 on Billboard's Adult Contemporary Chart and #10 on the Hot 100. In addition, it scored at Grammy nomination for "Best Short Form Video!
"You Can't Hurry Love:" a Great Gospel-turned-Motown-turned-faithful "Remake" from 1959, 1966, and 1983! (Check the links below!)
Phil Collins:
The Supremes:
Dorothy Love Coates:
Tomorrow: Tracey Ullman sings Kristy McColl, except for the part where Kristy sings...
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