Wednesday, April 11, 2007

Why Can't We Live Together?










Timmy Thomas: Why Can't We Live Together


This song is proof that less is more. Recorded as a demo in 1972 Timmy Thomas' rather simple song became a surprisingly huge hit. Thomas accompanies himself on organ backed by a cheesy rhythm box. It's the title track on his LP from 1974.

Tinga Stewart: Why Can't We Live Together




Tinga Stewart's 1977 performance is riven with emotion and in many ways far more powerful than Thomas's original. In Stewart's capable hands, the lyrics become an accusation, a demand, and finally an affirmation that indeed "we can live better." A stunning cover that leaves the original in the dust. This track can be found on Blood & Fire's exceptional compilation from 2001 Darker Than Blue: Soul From Jamdown 1973-1977.

Steve Winwood: Why Can't We Live Together



Taken from Winwood's 2003 "comeback" album About Time this version has a considerably more Latin vibe featuring Winwood on a Hammond organ, drummer Walfredo Reyes Jr., and guitarist José Piresde Almeida Neto. Congas and timbales flesh out the rhythm.

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