Goosebumps, bliss and gratitude.
That is all I can (or want to) say regarding the instant classic performance of the recently-inducted Little Anthony (and his “new” Imperials) from last year’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 25th Anniversary concert. It’s recently been released on DVD, hence the (overdue!) appearance of clips on YouTube.
There are times when you just have to stand back, shut up and marvel at the superhuman gifts that have been bestowed on certain artists. Little Anthony was a musical freak of nature half a century ago, and his falsetto still rings almost unbelievably true. That he is still able to belt it out like this is a living antidote to aging, cynicism and despair. Think I’m going overboard? Listen to the dude hit those high notes, cool as a cornfield at dawn. This is musical expression as straight up celebration; if you aren’t feeling this, I regret to inform you that you are dead.
To set the scene, let’s have a listen to the original version, as well as a (remarkable) alternate version, and then get down with the “updated” rendition. I defy you to listen to it just once, and I challenge you to remain unmoved. If it gets stuck in your head, welcome to the club (and you’re welcome).
The original:
The alternate version:
The 2009 rendition (from the R&R HOF 25th Anniversary Concert):
