A Change Is Gonna Come
The Peoria Pundit, always looking beyond the headlines for the real story dug out an embarrassing revelation from Journal Star columnist Pam Adams. She invoked the name of Otis Redding in reference to the 60’s civil rights anthem “A Change Is Gonna Come.” Sam Cooke wrote and recorded it in 1965, and it is his recording that is generally cited when referring to this song. Otis Redding, who covered several of Sam’s songs, released his own version of it on the classic 1966 album Otis Blue. Ok, it’s really not that big of a deal, but considering race relations is about all Pam Adams ever writes about, you think she’d know this.
…which begs the musical question, whose version is better?
Sam Cooke wrote a great song and sings it in his trademark velvety smooth voice with some nice orchestration behind him, but Otis Redding pours his heart and soul into the song, as he always does, with the Stax recording company house band accompanying him- Booker T & the MG’s along with the horns of the Bar-Kays. They’re certainly both great performances, but I’d rather listen to Otis Redding sing it anyday.
But wait, you say, how can I favor Otis Redding’s version when he didn’t even write it? Well, Elvis and Sinatra didn’t write their own songs either…
August 30th, 2007 at 5:53 pm
Oh, wow, I’ve listened to them both and that is one tough call!! I think I slightly prefer Sam Cookes I think. But I LOVE Otis Reading. I’d have to call this a draw!!
August 30th, 2007 at 6:12 pm
[...] PeoriaIllinoisan correctly pointed out that Redding did release a cover of Cooke’s hit. So, my criticism of [...]
August 30th, 2007 at 10:59 pm
Well, Sam Cooke is a much slicker and professional, but I guess I’m biased as I’ve always loved Otis Redding, his passion and his rough around the edges sound.
September 1st, 2007 at 10:47 am
I like both. Two different takes on a great song. Thanks for posting.
September 1st, 2007 at 3:34 pm
After listening to both versions, it’s a toss up for me. BTW, Sam Cooke died December 11, 1964. So “A Change Is Gonna Come” was released posthumously.
November 2nd, 2007 at 2:45 pm
Hands down Sam Cooke tore that song up. I love it.