The Burt Bacharach Discussion Forum

I understand what you are saying Rio. I think the high sales in the UK are mostly dependent on Ronan Keating. He has a huge fan base in the UK that goes back to his Boyzone days. It is good that Burt Bacharach's music is introduced to a wider audience. I don't think anyone will interpret many of Burt's and Hal David's songs like Dionne Warwick but classic composers will always have new artists interpreting their music. (Dionne Warwick has just brilliantly recorded an amazing selection of Sammy Cahn's songs. 'Only Trust Your Heart').

Thank you so much for your response, RKN.

Hope you'll stick around...

One thing for sure. I LOVE that CD. 'Little Red Book' perfect for Ronan and I think he is the first since Dionne to get remotely close to 'Walk On By' which is a major achievement and 'The Look of Love' since Dusty and despite reservations in the press,I think he is great on Arthur's Theme! But I love that song so much. Only my opinion but would love to hear yours.

Ihave been listening to this album again tonight .. it's such a refreshing take on all these fabulous Burt andHal songs

Hi all, long time no post! Hope everyone is well.

I just felt I had to throw my tuppence worth into the Ronan Keating posts. I was quite disheartened when I heard about this collaboration - to me, Ronan has always represented what is wrong with the British music industry - particularly manufactured singers and boy bands. When Louis Walsh first showcased Boyzone on the Late, Late Show, presenter Gay Byrne literally mocked them as all they could do at that point was dance around. Obviously years later (and after thousands of pounds worth of singing lessons) they became the boy band people recognise today. I have never thought Ronan had a voice to speak of and remember once cringeful evening watching him perform at a Frank Sinatra tribute concert in London in the late 90's, believe me, this was truly the worst vocal performace I had ever witnessed from a so-called professional!!

I've listened to the new album and yes, Something Big is ok, but I just dont think Ronan's voice lends itself to Burt's music. He does seem to be a nice guy overall and I don't mean to come across as being negative for the sake of it !Burt also recorded a couple of tracks with Will Young a good few years ago and I felt the same way about him, a terrible voice in my opinion - he even appeared with Burt on stage at a concert I attended in Liverpool, it spoilt it a little.

I understand why Burt works with 'artists' like this but it's a shame that more collaborations such as the one with Ron Isley aren't happening. I'm sure there must be a number of good artists who would love to work with him....I know I would!

Bonjour Andrew;

Long time no post from you.

I can respect your viewpoint! I too brought the CD with Ronan singing Burt's music. 'Something Big' and 'My Little Red Book' are my favorite. I would have loved to hear John Pagano do the above 2 songs! I told John on Facebook, he would have done these 2 songs justices in the style that would have the Burt Bacharach touch!!!

Not everyone can capture the true essence of Burt's music! Like you, I understand why Burt has younger people perform his songs.

Ron Isley capture what Burt was looking for on their CD!! Youtube really brings this point home when you watch Ron's performance!!!

P.S. Sending out you Burt package this week!

Take care mon ami.

Vincent