Justin Vernon threw viewers a curveball on Fallon last month by performing a cover of “I Can’t Make You Love Me.” The Bonnie Raitt cover (originally written by Mike Reid and Allen Shamblin) does not appear on the geographically inspired album of the year contender Bon Iver, Bon Iver, but is the b-side to its lush first single “Calgary” and bonus track on iTunes pre-orders. Like on Late Night, Vernon’s stripped studio take on the AC classic pairs the singer with a pianist playing the accompaniment Bruce Hornsby made famous. The ending incorporates the chorus of Raitt’s earlier hit “Nick Of Time.” Take a listen:
And download Bon Iver’s 10 Best Cover Songs here.
The original:
Bon Iver, Bon Iver is out Tuesday via Jagjaguwar. Bundles including vinyl, t-shirt, and poster are available at scdistribution.com/boniver.
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I applaud Justin for the attempt; they’re great choices for covers…but this doesn’t come close to Raitt’s “I Can’t Make You Love Me.” No version ever will, I suppose.
The live cover on Jimmy Fallon is better in my opinion.
I like this version a lot more than the one performed on Fallon. The direction is much stronger, and he’s not trying to fill shoes that’re too large for him by invoking the spirit of Hathaway. I even prefer this version to the Raitt original. The whole affair just feels darker and more desperate. Beautiful stuff, can’t wait to hear the new record.
great track! probably the best song on bon iver’s new album…
check out this talented musician, he has a great voice and does a good cover of skinny love: http://www.myspace.com/jfrancisgreen
have a listen :)