Word hit today that Amy Winehouse passed away at the age of 27. It should come as a shock when someone this young and talented passes away, but with a young woman as troubled and self-destructive as Winehouse, it seems like we’ve been waiting for this news for several years. Even with the self-parody she had become post “Rehab,” it’s very hard to deny that on her two proper LPs Winehouse had considerable talent, as a singer and even more so as a songwriter. It is a shame that such talent has gone to waste, but we do still have her music. Here are five of my faves…may you finally find some peace Amy Winehouse.
Amy Winehouse – Valerie
In truth I still prefer the Zutons original version, but like many great singers, Amy took this one over brought out new elements and made it all her own.
Amy Winehouse – You Know I’m No Good
“Rehab” was the hit, but this was the one that sealed the deal for me, a tale of a bad girl gone badder, pitch perfect phrasing and out of sight writing. She told us she was trouble, we should have known from the start how this whole affair would end…
Amy Winehouse – Me and Mr. Jones
Along with “Fuck Me Pumps” I think this is one of my favorite “raw” Amy songs, pure brilliance on the “What kind of fuckery is this,” line, just pure brilliance.
Amy Winehouse – Stronger Than Me
Right now at her passing, I wish that someone close to her could have been stronger for her…such a shame. We only had a hint of the talent when her debut Frank was released, now we’ll never know what should could have achieved.
Amy Winehouse – Love Is A Losing Game
When my wife told me the news, this was the first song that came into my mind. More than any other it seems to fit both the reality and the myth of Amy Winehouse. It’s also one of her best vocal performances and the song that will remain most in my mind when I think of Amy Winehouse.