Please CLICK the LINKS to hear the songs. Answer the questions fully! Answer each question in some depth and detail; when you state an opinion, back it up! If you like/don’t like something or agree/disagree with someone tell us why and give reasons. And answer questions in order given.
Songs 1: “Shake, Rattle, and Roll”: original version recorded by Big Joe Turner, 1954; cover version by Bill Haley and the Comets,
Songs 2: “Mystery Train”: original version written and recorded by Junior Parker, 1953; cover version by Elvis Presley, 1955
- What are the main similarities and differences between the original and cover versions of each of these songs?
- Compare and contrast the vocal performances of Big Joe Turner and Bill Haley, and Junior Parker and Elvis Presley in their versions of these songs.
- In each case, do you think that the cover version was a “rip-off” of the original, or that it was a new treatment of the original?
- In your opinion, which version has a better “feel”? Why?