Crushing on Tom Waits & Norah Jones: Music Ends The Year
Remedying what I was missing and links to music that catches my ear.
I’ve always found Tom Waits to be a good songwriter and interesting individual. But, in truth, rarely spent time listening to him. My shame is palpable and I humbly seek forgiveness.
Largely, I attributed Downtown Train to Rod Stewart (Tom Waits’ version | Rod Stewart’s version - both work). And that’s fine - Rod Stewart is amazing. Three Time Loser is a rocker and funny too. I’m pretty sure that my oldest brother, John, who introduced me to a LOT of music, introduced me to this song as well. I must have been 9 years old! Thanks John (RIP).
Enter Norah Jones
I consider her to have the sexiest voice of any artist. Even sexier than Ray LaMontagne and that’s saying a lot. Recently, I told Deb that if Norah Jones’ voice asked me to run away with it, she might find me gone. She didn’t like that but a few of my musician friends have told me my logic here is unassailable.
Take an honest listen and tell me I’m wrong!
Don’t Know Why caught me years ago and hasn’t let up.
In any case, I was listening to some music and came across Norah Jones performing Tom Waits’ song, Long Way Home. Again, to my shame, I hadn’t heard either version before.
One thing I LOVE about Tom Waits is, post his initial Jazz period, his songs are SO simple in structure and yet, SO effective. So I recorded a cover of Long Way Home and uploaded it to my YouTube channel. I’m embedding all three versions below.
Note: I cannot sing like Norah Jones. I wouldn’t want to sing like Tom Waits.
But, God! I wish I could sing like Tom Waits! (more whiskey and cigarettes please).
I’m currently working on learning a few other Tom Waits songs: Downtown Train, Hold On, and New Coat of Paint. Crushes will make you do that!
Admission: It is self-indulgent for me to put my version of this song in the same post/page as Mr. Waits and Ms. Jones. But, like the See’s Candy I bought and ate a couple days ago, sometimes indulgence is wonderfully decadent. Also, I like my version!
Tom Waits: Long Way Home
Norah Jones: Long Way Home
Me: Long Way Home
I’ll have something for y’all on the January first or second. Until then, hug a loved one, learn something interesting, and/or take a walk in the wilderness… or whatever floats your boat.
Happy New Year!
Sincerely,
Matthew Moran
December 29, 2022