by wayfarer (PM , CC ) on Tuesday January 22, 2008 @ 11:55 AM
wayfarer":
You are right. That is a seamless blending of two wonderful songs. So often "Over the Rainbow" is recorded with a female vocal backed by a full orchestra. The simplicity here of the accompaniment with a male vocal is refreshing.
In the film "Wizard of Oz", the song's plaintive melody and simple lyrics depict a preadolescent girl's desire to escape from the "hopeless jumble" of this world, from the sadness of raindrops to the bright new world "over the rainbow." It expresses the childlike faith that a door will magically be opened to a place where "troubles melt like lemon-drops". That description paints a picture of a beautiful world.
I first heard this version of the song used in the film "Meet Joe Black". I could never find the soundtrack and had no idea where to find the song. I am so happy I finally did.
It is amazing to me how the overall feeling of the song changes with something as seemingly simple as sparse orchestration.
by wayfarer (PM , CC ) on Tuesday January 22, 2008 @ 1:51 PM
Way, Believe it or not, the first time I heard a part of this recording was as soundtrack for a commercial here in NZ. I always was curious to learn who performed it and now I know. Thanks for that and thank you kindly for the addendum/referral.
(Wonder what it says about the effectiveness of some advertising that I can't for the life of me recall what product or service was advertised?)
The fellow's full name does not show up in the song title. It is Israel Kamakawiwo'ole. He died an early death, at the age of thirty seven from respiration problems brought on by weight problems. I had no idea who he was either until I stumbled across this on imeem.
According to Wikipedia, the song has been used in a number of comercials, movies and television shows. I remember it from the film "Meet Joe Black", and I also remember it being used in an episode of the comedy show "Scrubs". I know I have heard it in a couple of commercials, but, like you, I couldn't tell you what they were advertising.
Probably not a good idea to use such a great tune to advertise anything...it distracts from the product.
I was very glad to stumble upon your new blog this morning and had to alert any passers by...
by wayfarer (PM , CC ) on Tuesday January 22, 2008 @ 3:39 PM
Hi, Secret!
Thanks. I suppose you can see that my meanderings in the 'stream are sporadic at best of late. Sometimes I'm back, sometimes I'm not...
I am sorry you can't hear the song. If you ever get a chance, listen to Israel Kamakawiwo'ole performing "Somewhere Over The Rainbow/What A Wonderful World", I know you''l love it.
by Coloconnect (PM , CC ) on Tuesday January 22, 2008 @ 11:52 PM
Hasn't this also been used as background music for a commercial? I can't even remember the product they were advertising, just the song (which to me means the song is pretty darn great because it totally meant more than the commercial).
Yeh, I went and visited O last night. So glad to see him back as well. Have a great day, wayf!
by wayfarer (PM , CC ) on Thursday January 24, 2008 @ 1:38 AM
deeej,
Yes, it has been in a commercial (or maybe a couple), but, like you, I cannot remember for what. You're right, it speaks volumes for the song that the memory of the advertised product is overshadowed.
I saw you updated, and came in to say hello, it's nice to see you. Hope you are having a relaxing weekened. I love this rendition, too, and Neil Young, yeah!
Many Blogstream members are there
already! Quotes from members: "It's like blog lite!" -- "I like the instant
gratification!" -- "Stop spectating, get in the game!"
If you have not joined in, you are really missing out!
peace, wayf
You are right. That is a seamless blending of two wonderful songs. So often "Over the Rainbow" is recorded with a female vocal backed by a full orchestra. The simplicity here of the accompaniment with a male vocal is refreshing.
In the film "Wizard of Oz", the song's plaintive melody and simple lyrics depict a preadolescent girl's desire to escape from the "hopeless jumble" of this world, from the sadness of raindrops to the bright new world "over the rainbow." It expresses the childlike faith that a door will magically be opened to a place where "troubles melt like lemon-drops". That description paints a picture of a beautiful world.
Indeed.
I first heard this version of the song used in the film "Meet Joe Black". I could never find the soundtrack and had no idea where to find the song. I am so happy I finally did.
It is amazing to me how the overall feeling of the song changes with something as seemingly simple as sparse orchestration.
I am glad you enjoyed the song.
peace, wayf
Believe it or not, the first time I heard a part of this recording was as soundtrack for a commercial here in NZ. I always was curious to learn who performed it and now I know. Thanks for that and thank you kindly for the addendum/referral.
(Wonder what it says about the effectiveness of some advertising that I can't for the life of me recall what product or service was advertised?)
I can't see/hear it as my work 'puter settings won't allow me to...
The fellow's full name does not show up in the song title. It is Israel Kamakawiwo'ole. He died an early death, at the age of thirty seven from respiration problems brought on by weight problems. I had no idea who he was either until I stumbled across this on imeem.
According to Wikipedia, the song has been used in a number of comercials, movies and television shows. I remember it from the film "Meet Joe Black", and I also remember it being used in an episode of the comedy show "Scrubs". I know I have heard it in a couple of commercials, but, like you, I couldn't tell you what they were advertising.
Probably not a good idea to use such a great tune to advertise anything...it distracts from the product.
I was very glad to stumble upon your new blog this morning and had to alert any passers by...
peace, wayf
Thanks. I suppose you can see that my meanderings in the 'stream are sporadic at best of late. Sometimes I'm back, sometimes I'm not...
I am sorry you can't hear the song. If you ever get a chance, listen to Israel Kamakawiwo'ole performing "Somewhere Over The Rainbow/What A Wonderful World", I know you''l love it.
peace, wayf
Thanks wayf!
Glad O is back as well.
Glad to hear that Onery is back. I missed the old rascal.
Yeh, I went and visited O last night. So glad to see him back as well.
Have a great day, wayf!
I thought you'd like it.
peace, wayf
Isn't this song cool?
It is always good to stumble across old friends.
peace, wayf
Yes, it has been in a commercial (or maybe a couple), but, like you, I cannot remember for what. You're right, it speaks volumes for the song that the memory of the advertised product is overshadowed.
Thanks for stopping by!
peace, wayf
peace, wayf
ron
I saw you updated, and came in to say hello, it's nice to see you. Hope you are having a relaxing weekened. I love this rendition, too, and Neil Young, yeah!