Yes, Talking Heads did cover songs during their influential career, most notably with their interpretation of a classic soul track.
Talking Heads' Notable Cover: "Take Me to the River"
One of the most prominent examples of Talking Heads covering a song is their rendition of Al Green's "Take Me to the River." This cover was featured on their second studio album, More Songs About Buildings and Food, released in 1978. Their version brought a distinctive new wave and art-rock sensibility to the soulful original, making it a staple of their live performances and a significant hit for the band.
Talking Heads' reinterpretation of "Take Me to the River" showcased their unique approach to music, blending their minimalist, intellectual style with the song's gospel-infused R&B roots. This cover is often cited for several reasons:
- It demonstrated the band's versatility and willingness to experiment beyond their original compositions.
- Their version introduced the song to a new generation of listeners and helped to expand Talking Heads' mainstream appeal.
- It became one of their signature songs, sometimes even more widely recognized as a Talking Heads track than an Al Green original by some audiences.
Here's a quick overview of this notable cover:
| Song Title | Original Artist | Album Covered On | Release Year (Cover) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Take Me to the River | Al Green | More Songs About Buildings and Food | 1978 |
The Original Track's Legacy
"Take Me to the River" was originally written by Al Green and Mabon "Teenie" Hodges and first released by Green in 1972 on his album Still in Love with You. It is celebrated as a classic of the soul and R&B genre, known for its evocative lyrics and smooth, heartfelt delivery. Talking Heads' decision to cover such a revered song underscored their musical eclecticism and their ability to transform existing material into something distinctly their own.
