About The Song
(Watch the video below)
"You Go to My Head" is a classic jazz standard that has transcended time and musical eras, and Rod Stewart's rendition of this romantic ballad is a testament to his ability to infuse new life into timeless classics. Originally composed by J. Fred Coots with lyrics by Haven Gillespie, the song was introduced in 1938 and has since been embraced by a myriad of artists, each bringing their unique interpretation to its haunting melody.
Rod Stewart, with his gravelly voice and distinctive style, included "You Go to My Head" in his 2005 album "Thanks for the Memory: The Great American Songbook Volume IV." This album is part of Stewart's exploration of the Great American Songbook, where he pays homage to the enduring classics that have shaped the landscape of American music.
Stewart's version of "You Go to My Head" is characterized by its emotive delivery and a musical arrangement that complements the song's romantic theme. The track begins with a subtle piano introduction, setting a reflective and intimate atmosphere. As Stewart's vocals join in, the depth and texture of his voice add a layer of emotion to the lyrics, conveying the intensity of the romantic sentiments expressed.
The lyrics of "You Go to My Head" are a poetic exploration of the overwhelming impact of love on the human psyche. Lines like "You go to my head and you linger like a haunting refrain" capture the intoxicating and all-encompassing nature of love. Stewart's interpretation adds a personal touch to these lyrics, making the listener feel the depth of emotion and vulnerability expressed in the song.
The musical arrangement in Stewart's rendition is carefully crafted to enhance the romantic ambiance of the song. Soft strings and a gentle piano melody create a lush backdrop that complements Stewart's vocals without overpowering them. The arrangement pays homage to the classic ballad style while incorporating Stewart's unique vocal nuances, resulting in a rendition that feels both nostalgic and contemporary.
Stewart's exploration of the Great American Songbook is not merely a cover project but a heartfelt tribute to the rich musical heritage of the United States. In choosing songs like "You Go to My Head," he showcases his versatility as an artist, seamlessly transitioning between genres while maintaining the authenticity of the original compositions.
In the context of "Thanks for the Memory: The Great American Songbook Volume IV," Stewart's rendition of "You Go to My Head" becomes a standout track, capturing the essence of the album's theme — a journey through the timeless classics that have left an indelible mark on the fabric of American music.
In conclusion, Rod Stewart's interpretation of "You Go to My Head" is a mesmerizing rendition that brings out the soulful and romantic nuances of the classic ballad. Through his emotive vocals and thoughtful musical arrangement, Stewart breathes new life into a song that has resonated through generations. The track becomes a moment of connection between the artist and the listener, a timeless exploration of the profound emotions that love can evoke. In the hands of Rod Stewart, "You Go to My Head" becomes more than a song; it becomes a heartfelt expression of the enduring power of classic music to evoke deep and resonant emotions.
Video
Lyrics
Let's sing along with the lyrics!
You go to my head and you linger like a haunting refrain
And I find you spinning 'round in my brain
Like the bubbles in a glass of champagne
You go to my head like a sip of sparkling Burgundy brew
And I find the very mention of you
Like the kicker in a julep or two
The thrill of the thought that you might give a thought to my plea
Cast a spell over me
Still I say to myself get a hold of yourself
Can't you see that it never can be
You go to my head with a smile that makes my temperature rise
Like a summer with a thousand Julys
You intoxicate my soul with your eyes
Though I'm certain that this heart of mine
Hasn't a ghost of a chance in this crazy romance
You go to my head
The thrill of the thought that you might give a thought to my plea
Cast a spell over me
Still I say to myself get a hold of yourself
Can't you see that it never can be
You go to my head with a smile that makes my temperature rise
Like a summer with a thousand Julys
You intoxicate my soul with your eyes
Though I'm certain that this heart of mine
Hasn't a ghost of a chance in this crazy romance
You go to my head
You go to my head
You go to my head