“The Story Behind a Well-Known Song”
When The Zutons were invited to participate in the 25th anniversary festivities of BBC Radio 1’s Live Lounge, they knew exactly which artist they wanted to pay tribute to. Live sessions had long been a cherished part of the station’s programming, but it was Amy Winehouse’s rendition of the band’s song “Valerie” in 2007 that resonated the most with fans, earning it the title of the best performance ever.
For their own Live Lounge session at the close of 2024, The Zutons chose to cover Winehouse’s iconic track “Back To Black,” along with a live version of “Valerie.” Saxophonist Abi Harding, who took on vocal duties for the cover, admitted it was a nerve-wracking experience, but one she ultimately enjoyed. She emphasized the importance of not trying to imitate Winehouse, acknowledging her unique talent, and shared that they selected “Back To Black” because it suited the band’s style the best.
Reflecting on the experience, Harding expressed her nerves about being compared to Winehouse but was relieved to have done the song justice. She believed the emotional depth of the song resonated with listeners, drawing on universal experiences of heartbreak and struggles.
The positive reception to their cover led The Zutons to release it as a single in December, following in the footsteps of Winehouse’s success with “Valerie.” The backstory of how Winehouse came to cover the original version of “Valerie” by The Zutons added an extra layer of significance to the song for Harding, highlighting the cyclical nature of music influences and adaptations.
The Zutons’ return to the music scene coincided with their Live Lounge appearance, marking a career resurgence after a hiatus. Despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Harding found a silver lining in the pause, seeing it as an opportunity for reflection and growth.
Overall, the evolution of “Valerie” from its inception by The Zutons to Winehouse’s rendition and back to The Zutons’ cover showcases the interconnectedness and timelessness of music, transcending individual ownership to become a shared experience for all listeners.
Due to unforeseen circumstances, the anticipated release of their next album was temporarily stalled when the global lockdowns disrupted their creative process. Despite this setback, the band used the extra time to refine their songs, ensuring that each note was impeccably perfected before hitting the studio.
With the guidance of guitar virtuoso Nile Rodgers and Liverpool music icon Ian Broudie at the production helm, The Big Decider made its grand entrance onto the music scene in April, swiftly climbing its way to number seven on the UK charts. Lead singer Harding reflected on the album’s success, acknowledging the unexpected impact the lockdown had on their performance at Glastonbury.
Taking the stage at the revered festival’s Other Stage on its final day, Harding confessed to her bandmate Dave a pre-show apprehension about the turnout, cautioning him to expect a sparse audience. However, as the set unfolded, the field became a sea of eager fans, proving their loyal following and culminating in a heartwarming moment of gratitude from Harding to the early risers who made the Sunday morning show a memorable success.
Looking ahead, the band is currently immersed in crafting their fifth studio album, with a keen focus on their upcoming live shows. Festivals dotting their calendar have already been marked, with more invitations anticipated to trickle in throughout the year’s early months. The band’s April tour looms as the next major milestone, inviting fans to witness their evolution and musical prowess firsthand.
The Zutons have mapped out an extensive tour across the UK, spanning from March 27 to April 12, ensuring their melodies reach far and wide. For an auditory journey through the vibrant musical landscape of Merseyside, listeners are urged to tune in to the resonant tones of BBC Radio Merseyside on Sounds. In addition, a virtual rendezvous with the spirit of Liverpool awaits on the digital platforms of BBC Merseyside, including Facebook, X, and Instagram. For a visual feast capturing the essence of the Northwest, viewers are encouraged to catch the latest happenings on BBC North West Tonight, available for streaming on BBC iPlayer.
In the ever-evolving realm of music, The Zutons stand as a testament to resilience and unwavering passion, weathering the storm of uncertainty with grace and fortitude. Stay tuned for their melodic journey as they navigate the music scene, leaving an indelible mark on audiences far and wide.
