Death is natural, even for superstars, and every year we lose top actors, writers, producers and musicians. This year has been no different and seen a few music icons take their final bows. We remember those we lost in a way that hopefully reminds us, just how great they were, with the five best songs by musicians who died in 2023 – up to September.
Sinead O’Connor (Dec. 8, 1966 – July 26, 2023)
Transport yourself back to 1990, a year that witnessed the emergence of a global sensation in the music world. Sinéad O’Connor, with her haunting rendition of “Nothing Compares 2 U,” left an indelible mark on the hearts of millions worldwide. This emotional ballad delves deep into themes of profound loss and heartbreak, resonating with listeners on a level that transcends words.
For Sinéad O’Connor, this powerful song became the pivotal moment that defined her career. It thrust her, somewhat reluctantly, into the mainstream spotlight, forever etching her name in the annals of music history.
Astrud Gilberto (March 29, 1940 – June 5, 2023)
The year was 1964, and the world was about to be serenaded by a musical phenomenon that transcended borders and captured hearts. This enchanting moment in music history was none other than a meticulously crafted collaboration featuring the legendary American saxophonist Stan Getz, the mastermind behind bossa nova, Jobim, the ethereal vocals of Astrud Gilberto, and the incomparable João Gilberto, a true bossa nova virtuoso.
The captivating journey begins with João Gilberto’s soulful rendition of Portuguese lyrics in the full version, setting the stage for what would become a global sensation. However, it’s the world-conquering single that swiftly transitions to the ethereal and breathy voice of Astrud Gilberto, now singing in English. The magic unfolds with Jobim’s piano, delicately delivering just a few perfect notes in response to Astrud’s vocals, creating an intoxicating melody that would forever enchant the world. This collaboration became an iconic moment in music history, etching its name into the hearts and minds of music lovers across the globe.
Tina Turner (Nov. 26, 1939 – May 24, 2023)
In the realm of cinematic history, the 1985 film “Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome” is often considered the weakest link in the original Mad Max trilogy. However, there is unanimous agreement that Tina Turner’s portrayal of the malevolent Aunt Entity was nothing short of brilliant. Even more remarkable was her contribution to the film’s soundtrack, specifically her powerful anthem, “We Don’t Need Another Hero (Thunderdome).”
This unforgettable anthem not only left an indelible mark on the film but also became a chart-topping hit in America, securing a place in the Top Five. Serving as the soundtrack’s powerful closing note, it showcased Tina Turner’s remarkable vocal prowess and lyrical depth. “We Don’t Need Another Hero (Thunderdome)” has become an enduring part of her musical legacy, resonating with audiences for decades.
It’s noteworthy that this iconic piece remained a fixture in Tina Turner’s live performances, captivating audiences with its timeless message and electrifying energy. Its impact endured, a testament to Tina Turner’s enduring influence in the world of music and entertainment. This continued to be the case until her final tour in 2009, solidifying the song’s status as a pivotal element in her remarkable career.
Gordon Lightfoot (Nov. 17, 1938 – May 1, 2023)
When Gordon Lightfoot introduced “Sundown” into his musical catalogue, he ushered in two significant changes that would leave an indelible mark on his sound. Firstly, he embraced electric instrumentation, infusing the track with a newfound energy and vitality. The addition of plucky, bluesy guitar licks injected a dynamic quality into the song, enhancing its overall appeal.
However, it was Lightfoot’s distinctive vocal performance that truly set “Sundown” apart. His voice, still bearing an air of stoicism, managed to seamlessly transition into a smouldering, sensuous display of sexuality. Through his lyrics, he skillfully delved into the complexities of troubled romance, with lines like, “Getting lost in loving is your first mistake,” evoking a sense of vulnerability and passion.
In this transformation, “Sundown” not only became a musical triumph for Gordon Lightfoot but also marked a pivotal moment in his artistic evolution, showcasing his ability to masterfully blend genres and emotions, leaving a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.
Otis Redding (Dec. 17, 1963 – April 18, 2023)
“Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay” emerged from a simple yet profound source of inspiration. Otis Redding’s initial musings and lyrical fragments took shape during moments of contemplation while gazing at the California coastline. These thoughts, born by the ocean, would ultimately find their way back to Memphis, where Redding joined forces with his collaborator and producer, Steve Cropper, to craft what would become one of the most iconic soul records in history.
Interestingly, this soulful masterpiece was not originally conceived as a protest song. However, the evocative lyrics and melancholic melody carry an unmistakable resonance with the turbulent civil rights era of the 1960s. In many ways, it felt like a song that could have been a poignant anthem for those seeking justice and equality during that period.
Remarkably, “Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay” transcended its origins and became a universal anthem. Its message resonated with people of all races and backgrounds worldwide, offering solace and connection to both those facing genuine hardship and those who simply grappled with the ups and downs of life. This soulful ballad remains a timeless testament to the power of music to unite and console, its legacy enduring across generations.
Burt Bacharach (May 12, 1928 – Feb. 9, 2023)
Undoubtedly one of Aretha Franklin’s most renowned songs, “I Say a Little Prayer” holds a fascinating history. Surprisingly, it wasn’t originally Aretha who first recorded it, but the legendary Dionne Warwick, a year before Aretha’s rendition.
The song’s creation is credited to the brilliant collaboration between Burt Bacharach and Hal David. Their lyrical and melodic prowess came together to tell the poignant story of a woman’s anxieties for her lover, who was serving in the midst of the Vietnam War. However, Aretha’s connection with the song took an unexpected turn.
Aretha Franklin’s iconic version of “I Say a Little Prayer” came into existence almost serendipitously. It all began when she playfully sang the tune one day in the studio, accompanied by the backing singers known as The Sweet Inspirations. This impromptu moment of musical magic led to the recording that would ultimately etch her name into the annals of music history.
The song’s journey from Dionne Warwick to Aretha Franklin exemplifies the unpredictability of the creative process, where chance encounters and spontaneous moments often produce the most enduring masterpieces. “I Say a Little Prayer” stands as a testament to the transformative power of music and the ability of legendary artists like Aretha Franklin to make a song truly their own.
Sixto Rodriguez (July 10, 1942 – August 8, 2023)
Sixto Rodriguez embarked on a music career in 1967, but his songs — which chronicled the plight of the working class in an era of social unrest — did not attract much of an audience in the United States, and Rodriguez quit music to focus on other kinds of work in Detroit.
Unbeknownst to him, his music did find an eager audience, just not in his home country. The album was an underground hit in South Africa, and when the trippy, pro-drug lyrics of Sugarman eventually saw the album banned in that country, it only gave it more of a subversive attractiveness to young South Africans disenchanted with the oppressive life under apartheid. Cold Fact was copied from bootleg tape to bootleg tape and handed out among friendship groups until it became a well-established classic.
As recounted in the hit documentary Searching for Sugarman, Rodriguez and his audience on the other side of the world did eventually meet, giving Sixto a taste of the rockstar life he had never previously known. Now, after his death, it’s probably this track that defines his legacy in the minds of most.
Ryuichi Sakamoto (1952 – March 28, 2023)
In the realm of film and music, few pieces are as captivating and evocative as “Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence.” This haunting composition, enriched by Ryuichi Sakamoto’s iconic piano artistry, not only served as the main theme for the 1983 film bearing the same name but also showcased his talents as an actor in the same production.
The spellbinding melody of “Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence” has transcended its cinematic origins, establishing itself as a cornerstone of modern film scoring. Sakamoto’s ability to intertwine his musical and dramatic talents in the creation of this piece has left an enduring mark on both the world of cinema and music. It’s a testament to his artistic genius and the profound impact that one piece of art can have across multiple creative domains.
