This classic 1965 song was inspired by John Lennon's childhood. To get the harpsichord-like sound in the instrumental bridge, the piano solo was recorded at half-tempo and the tape speed was doubled. Out of all the Beatles songs written, this song and 'Eleanor Rigby' are the only two songs that Lennon and Paul McCartney disagree on what they each contributed.
Written by Diane Warren, the song was nominated for an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award, and four Grammy Awards - one of which Warren won for Best Song Written for a Motion Picture, Television or Other Visual Media for being featured in 'Up Close and Personal.'
King originally wrote the song for The Drifters, who passed on the opportunity to record it. The song was released as a single for two years before it was included on the album, 'Don't Play That Song!' The song was also featured in the film, 'Stand by Me.' Check out the 1986 music video which features Wil Wheaton and River Phoenix.
Written by the great songwriter Irving Gordon, the mother/son favorite has been covered by over 30 artists, Including Peggy Lee, Marvin Gaye and Aretha Franklin; the Nat King Cole version still proves to be the favorite. Originally recorded in 1951, the song was arranged by Nelson Riddle and in 2000 was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
This southern rock classic was written shortly after lead singer Ronnie Van Zant's grandmother and guitarist Gary Rossington's mother passed away, and speaks volumes about how these women gave them advice about life and growing up. This is one of the few songs the band recorded down a half-step (Eb down from E).
The song was originally intended as a remedy towards the racial and political disposition during the late sixties; but as we all know, serves more of an optimistic role on everyday life. In addition to being a mother/son wedding song staple, the song is also played frequently during Christmas season albeit the non-holiday references. In 1999, Armstrong's recording was inducted in the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999.