Okay, this is the biggest post I’ve EVER made, and it’s worth every note
The song “I Won’t Complain” has been recorded and covered so many times; it is just one of those old songs that, with the right singer(s), NEEDS to be sung.
- I Won't Complain Ricky Smiley 1:47
- I Won't Complain Rev. Paul Jones 11:35
- I Won't Complain Tammy Caesar 6:08
- I Won't Complain Rance Allen, Rev. Bennie Oliphant and Elder Marvin Miller 6:29
Yesterday James Early posted a link to three singers (Rance Allen, Bennie Oliphant and Marvin Miller) in a radio studio singing this song that was, beyond any doubt in my mind, the best version ever of this song. Last night I listened to 15+ versions on YouTube and ITunes, any only a few stood out. So, today, here is more than you might ever want to know about the song.
The first cut gives a little background to the song…a good place to start.
The seminal version was recorded by Rev. Paul Jones who died at the young age of 30 in 1990. You should listen to this first.
The next version worth commenting on is by Tammy Caesar, gospel legend Shirley Caesar’s niece. The song features only a great Hammond B3 and Tammy…that’s all it needs.
The last cut is the one James posted, which MUST NOT BE MISSED. And if you want to watch the video, click here.
You know- I have this bookmarked in my phone and have to watch it at least once a month!
This is soooooo my kind of song. I’m going to be singing this a lot around the house. All versions you posted are amazing! Can we do this next year????
Well, it’s really just one big solo…are YOU offering to perform it Dana????
That was AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
If you do nothing else all day, you must watch the video. If you have any aspirations of being a singer, you will be spellbound.
Thank you RL and James