About the song
Released on November 20, 1970, “Ruby Tuesday” by Melanie stands out as a notable cover version of the classic Rolling Stones song. Although originally written and performed by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, Melanie Safka’s interpretation of “Ruby Tuesday” offers a unique and captivating rendition that deserves its own recognition. Featured on her album “Candles in the Rain”, this track is a compelling example of Melanie’s ability to infuse her own style into well-known hits.
Melanie’s “Ruby Tuesday” differs significantly from the original version by The Rolling Stones, which was released in 1967. While the Stones’ version is characterized by its baroque pop instrumentation and orchestral arrangement, Melanie’s rendition is stripped down to a more folk-oriented sound, featuring acoustic guitar and a softer, introspective vocal delivery. Melanie’s interpretation brings a new layer of emotional depth to the song, emphasizing its lyrical themes of freedom and transient relationships.
The meaning of “Ruby Tuesday” in Melanie’s hands is both reflective and poignant. The song, originally about a free-spirited woman who cannot be tied down, takes on a more melancholic tone in Melanie’s version. Her vocal performance conveys a sense of wistful resignation, aligning with the reflective mood of her broader musical style. Melanie’s take on the song resonates with her audience through its stripped-back arrangement and heartfelt interpretation, offering a new perspective on a familiar classic.
The impact of Melanie’s cover is noteworthy. While not achieving the same level of commercial success as the original, her version of “Ruby Tuesday” was well-received by critics and fans alike. It reached number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100, reflecting her strong presence in the early 1970s music scene. Melanie’s rendition of the song is seen as a testament to her ability to reinterpret and personalize popular music, contributing to her reputation as a talented and versatile artist.
Socially, Melanie’s “Ruby Tuesday” reflects the era’s evolving musical landscape, where artists were increasingly exploring personal interpretations of existing hits. During the early 1970s, there was a growing trend of covering popular songs in different styles, and Melanie’s version is a prime example of this phenomenon. Her rendition captures the spirit of the time, showcasing how artists were reimagining and reinterpreting the musical canon to reflect their own artistic sensibilities.
In conclusion, Melanie’s “Ruby Tuesday”, released in 1970 on “Candles in the Rain”, is a notable and distinctive cover of the classic Rolling Stones hit. Through her unique folk-inspired arrangement and introspective vocal style, Melanie offers a fresh perspective on the song’s themes of freedom and transient relationships. The track’s impact on Melanie’s career and its reflection of the era’s musical trends underscore its significance in the broader context of popular music.
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Lyrics
She would never say where she came fromYesterday don’t matter ’cause it’s goneWhile the sun is brightOr in the darkest nightNo one knowsShe comes and then she goesGoodbye, Ruby TuesdayWho is gonna hang a name on youAnd when you change with every new dayStill I’m gonna miss youDon’t ask her why she leaves to be so freeShe’s gonna tell you it’s the only way to beShe just can’t be chainedTo a life where nothing’s gainedAnd nothing’s lostBut such a costGoodbye, Ruby TuesdayWho is gonna hang a name on youAnd when you change with every new dayStill I’m gonna miss youThere’s no time to lose I heard her sayYou gotta catch your dreams before they run awayDying all the timeLose your dreams and you might lose your mindIs life unkindGoodbye, Ruby TuesdayWho is gonna hang a name on youAnd when you change with every new dayStill I’m gonna miss youGoodbye, Ruby TuesdayWho is gonna hang a name on youAnd when you change with every new dayStill I’m gonna miss youGoodbye, Ruby TuesdayGoodbye, Ruby TuesdayGoodbye, Ruby TuesdayGoodbye, Ruby TuesdayGoodbye, Ruby TuesdayGoodbye, Ruby Tuesday