Three Takes on The Big Boss Man

• Listen to this song on youtube: Erma’s Version, Shirley’s version, Jimmy Reed’s Version
• This song is available on Musical Episode #009: Singles Mixer v.3

Today’s post is a format I’ve grown fond of: multiple versions of the same song though not exactly in the “cover song” format.  On our musical episode today is a Luther Dixon and Al Smith composition (who also wrote “I Don’t Want To Cry” which was featured a few months back here on musical episode) “Big Boss Man.”  Written in 1960 it was originally performed and recorded by the great Jimmy Reed.  It was an R&B hit, charting at #13 and even cracked the top 100 of the pop charts. Reed’s version, as you can well hear, is done in a style typical of the time, not overly electric, a driving but not-too-rockin back beat and Reed’s distinct voice effortlessly conveying and carrying the tune.  This version here really makes an argument that “if it ain’t broke…” for all those who thought of giving Mr. Dixon and Smith’s work another go-round.

Lets be thankful that before his untimely passing Bert Bern in late 1967, head honcho at the Shout label, had the courage to give Erma Franklin (younger sister of Aretha) a chance to work this track over.  Compared to the 1960 version, the arrangements are harder hitting, funkier and give Erma and The Sweet Inspirations who are singing back up vocals tons of space to make this record shake the room.  I’m not sure if it’s intentional but I like to think the choice of the piano as the lead instrument instead of more popular horns or guitars is a nod to the blues origins of this great track.  I know I featured this record in a mix a few months back but for the sake of comparison and discussion I hope you’ll allow the redundancy.

The final version featured here is a bit of a curiosity.  I picked this record up while traveling in the low countries, I can’t remember exactly but think it was at a tiny tiny shop in Amsterdam.  This version is credited simply to Shirley and points out that the record was record in Holland (no idea where in the country…) and originally released on that bastion of american soul Relax…  Despite having all the hallmarks of a knock off not worth much time I actually quite like this version.  Released a year after Erma’s version and featuring a loud piano lead (though adding a chank-a-chank guitar and some german go-go sounding brass) sounds like Shirley had her radio tuned to Erma’s station.  Though lacking the vocal grit and power of Erma, Shirley treats the song with respect and handles the song with a bit of her own flair, holding high notes long and clean and generally occupying a different stratosphere than Erma to separate herself enough from the Pat Boones of the world.

Dixon and Smith’s composition was covered by MANY others, most famously a guy named Elvis Presley.  Add The Grateful Dead, Junior Reed, Tom Petty and a host of others and you get a small glimpse into why I love this music so much.  Records like this reached across oceans, jam bands and a million other weird worlds on the strength of the music.  That’s truly beautiful stuff and music to my ears!

I hope you enjoy today’s songs and are enjoying your winter!

-George / Snack Attack

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