Stand By Melanie Fiona

Recently a fly track from an arist by the name of Melanie Fiona swept my way and took me by surprise.  First of all, the track features a familiar intro.  Second of all, it features a phenomenal female vocalist strutting her stuff all over the tune.  Third, Busta Rhymes, Raekwon, and Talib Kweli all added verses on Remix versions.  You had me at hello.

The intro comes from "Stand By Me", an oft covered Ben E. King tune (check back this afternoon for some Ben King goodness).  It sets a smooth but unobtrusive beat that proves to be the perfect backdrop for Fiona's vocals, which are soulful and nimble.  Perhaps more importantly, it keeps some wide open space on the track that is a perfect canvas for some verses from rappers.  Fiona's version is great - and definitely stands well on its own - but it lacks a little bit of pizazz, gladly provided by hip hop extraordinaires.  

I can't decide which version I like more.  Talib's verses are great and I'm a little more partial to his stylings, but Raekwon and Busta kill it in a very laidback way.  And the original is smooth as butter.  I do love the way Melanie Fiona's voice stabs through on what becomes the chorus in the remixes, though.

Regardless, I'll definitely be keeping my eyes on Fiona in the future.  She's got some chops and she's gotten some deserved attention.  Now if you'll excuse me, I have to go listen to these three tracks all day.  Thanks.

Melanie Fiona - Give It To Me Right (YSI) (filesavr)

Melanie Fiona f. Talib Kweli - Give It To Me Right (Talib Kweli Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)

Melanie Fiona f. Busta Rhymes and Raekwon - Give It To Me Right (Busta Rhymes and Raekwon Remix) (YSI) (filesavr)