Cannonball with Wesley Morris Where Have All the Covers Gone?
Nov 13, 2025
Cécile McLorin-Salvant, a Grammy-nominated jazz singer known for her innovative song interpretations, joins Wesley for a lively discussion on cover songs. They dive into what defines a great cover and how artists like Beyoncé reinterpret classics. Cécile shares her process for selecting songs, revealing her unique take on Wuthering Heights. They also explore the cultural significance of covers today and reflect on transformative mashups like Aretha Franklin's. The conversation blends humor with deep insights, making it a must-listen for music lovers.
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Covers Are A Cultural Loss
- Wesley Morris argues that pop-music covers have largely vanished and calls this a cultural loss.
- He curated an 11-song favorites list to illustrate covers' emotional and historical importance.
Cover Vs. Standard Distinction
- Cécile McLorin Salvant resists calling herself a "cover artist" because she sees many songs as standards or repertoire.
- She distinguishes between chart-based covers and jazz standards passed through musical communities.
Interpolation Is Conversation
- Morris and Salvant note interpolation blends old songs with new elements rather than strict covering.
- Beyonce's reinterpretations function as conversations with originals, altering lyric or context while keeping core melody.
