A big shout out, and thank you to our blog hosts:
We feature two different recordings of the same song. Listen to both, and then vote for the song version you like the best. Feel free to leave me a comment, along with your vote.
Our battles take place twice a month ~ on the 1st and 15th. The results come six days later ~ on the 7th and 21st. That's when I return, add all of the votes, including mine, and announce the winner. Feel free to return and see if your choice won!
If you would like to listen, and vote in other battles, please see the participant list in the right hand margin. If you would like to join this bi-monthly blog-event, visit the blog host, Stephen T. McCarthy. Leave him a message, and your blog address. We would love to have you participate.
# 1- Celine Dion ~ wiki note:
"Because You Loved Me" is a song recorded by Canadian singer Celine Dion for her fourth English-language studio album, Falling into You (1996). It was released on 20 February 1996, as the first single in North America, South America and Asia. It was released as the second single from the album in Australia, on 29 April 1996, and in May 1996 in Europe. "Because You Loved Me" was written by Diane Warren and produced by David Foster, and served as the theme song from the 1996 film Up Close & Personal, starring Robert Redford and Michelle Pfeiffer.
My note:
My Mom passed away about a year after this song came out. I decided it was the most descriptive instrument that fit our relationship perfectly. I felt that song on so many levels. And what a voice to perform it. Though I love to hear Celine sing, I dislike watching her perform. Who knows why? I'm sure many are familar with Celine's version. She is the original, but I believe Johnny might take some votes here. Have fun!
# 2 - Johnny Mathis ~ wiki note:
In 2004, Mathis did an album of Dianne Warren songs. This one was included.
My note:
This version didn't have what I term, 'the heat,' but I really liked it. Also I had changed ~ the grief I felt for my Mom had been reduced, and my sight was on higher ground. Suddenly, "I was everything I am because the Creator loved me..."
Most importantly, thank you to all, for the prayers, comments, phone calls, text messages, regarding my health. It's slow going but at least it's better daily (smile).
Most importantly, thank you to all, for the prayers, comments, phone calls, text messages, regarding my health. It's slow going but at least it's better daily (smile).
Celine is up first with the lyrics:
DIXIE "PIGTAIL" POLKA ~
ReplyDeleteI'm taking a chance, listening to this late at night, only because it's a song I didn't know, so I think it's unlikely this Mathis recording will keep me awake all night long.
Say, hey, welcome home, Dixie!
This is a nice song, and both recordings are good but, as I strongly suspected it would, my vote easily goes to JOHNNY MATHIS.
Celine Dion has a great voice and uses it like a true musical instrument, but she has a tendency to "over-sing" or "mess around too much bending notes with the vocal pyrotechnics". Others who loved to do that (to my distraction) were Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey. A little of those types of singers go a long way for me.
MATHIS has a "wonderful, wonderful" voice and really knows how to inject it with feeling without overdoing it by showing off too much.
Nice Battle, Dixie. I think this one will be pretty close. I'll predict a Mathis victory, but it should be neck-and-neck most of the way, I believe.
~ D-FensDogG
'Loyal American Underground'
~D-FensDogG-gone~it!
DeleteI didn't realize you would stay up so late. That 'Mathis' warning I sent you, was a yanking your chain, joke. (smile). I hope Johnny will take some votes - he's so laid back and smooth sounding. You're predicting his victory? I hope so. I'd be tickled pink. Thank you for listening and voting. I'm thinking anything Mathis, after 1980 is probably safe for you to hear - late night. Ha! Late night with Johnny.
Those note bending chicks get to me too. Leona Lewis is another one. I wish I had a dollar for every time I've heard "The Star Spangled Banner" murdered!!
Thanks for the 'welcome back'. BTW, did I get demoted recently? I thought my title included 'Princess'? I mean, 'Dixie Pigtail Polka' is okay but I thought I lost the pigtail claim, and kept the princess instead? Not to worry - this can be resolved peacefully - I'm sure.
~ Smile, dc
I vote for Johnny Mathis Dixie,
ReplyDeleteNice to see you back.
Yvonne.
Thanks, Yvonne! I'll put you down for Mathis. Are you interested in joining battle of the Bands?
Deletesmile
I'm not a fan of Dion, but her voice and style fit the song better. She gets my vote.
ReplyDeleteAnd good to hear from you, Dixie. We've missed you!
Thank you, Alex. It's nice to be missed. Hopefully I can get on with an update.I like this version from Celine - there are others from her. I'll log your vote.
DeleteAlthough I've loved Johnny Mathis for many years and never cared much for Celine Dion, I vote for Celine this time. So often she's overly dramatic, but not on this version. I like her lighter, lovely sound.
ReplyDeleteLove,
Janie
Thanks, Janie, I agree. Her soundtrack version for the movie, "Up Close and Personal," was heavier sounding. Good catch! I'll log your vote for her.
DeleteSo good to see you back.
ReplyDeleteThis is a beautiful song that has meaning for me as well. My youngest daughter sang this so beautifully when she was in elementary school and she sang it a lot. When her school had a talent show she tried out by singing this song. I thought she did such a beautiful job, but other less qualified talent beat her out. I couldn't help but think that those who were making the selections were hearing this as a religious song and thought it wasn't appropriate for school. I can't say for sure, but that was my theory because my daughter sang it so well--hearing her brought tears to my eyes.
Both of these versions are beautiful. I'm going old school on this since I've liked Johnny Mathis for so long.
My vote is for Johnny Mathis.
Arlee Bird
Tossing It Out
Thank you, Lee, I'm fighting every day to return to a state of normal (physical) movement and coordination.
DeleteI have long attached this song's verses to thankfulness for role models. It is so thorough in it's analysis of what a person may feel towards another. It's a lyrical joy of appreciation. The music is easy-going and allows the words to flow effortlessly. (IMO)
I really hope you made a recording of your daughter singing this. What a joy that must have been! I too leave with tears; more so with the Mathis version - so many memories and I like the smoothness of his performance.
I will log your vote for Johnny Mathis. Thank you (smile)
This is one of those gorgeous songs that, through radio and media overplay, has lost me. A shame, really... The lyrics are beautiful. Plus, I seriously dislike Celine. So my vote goes to Johnny Mathis for this one. And welcome back! Hope you're feeling much, much better :)
ReplyDeleteGuilie @ Quiet Laughter
Hi Guilie!
DeleteI do remember the radio/media overplay. The movie commanded it, possibly? I began to think all of her songs had the same 'feel'. IMO, Mathis gave the song a break and actually brought it back a notch (or two) towards enjoyment for the sake of the song. His unique voice powers up the lyrics and music. No theatrics needed.
Thank you for your vote and concern for me. I'll log you for Johnny!
Dixie
Dixie, so good to see you back! Hope you're feeling stronger every day!
ReplyDeleteI love this song by Celine. Her voice is so powerful. I enjoyed Johnny Mathis' version but my vote goes to Celine.
So good to see you back!
Michele at Angels Bark
Thank you, Michele!
DeleteThings will be better as soon as I can start my electrical therapy. There's been a long process of elimination (tests) for diagnosis.
I'm glad you enjoyed Johnny's version, but happy you could still have feeling for Celine's. The original soundtrack appears even stronger than this version. I purposely avoided a live performance because I don't really like watching her. Don't ask - I have no idea why.
I'll log you for Celine. Thanks for voting. See you soon!
Dixie
I am glad you are feeling better and heading to healthy land. I had to go to youtube to hear the Mathis version and am not sure it is the same as what you had here but I listened and realized I am just not a Mathis fan. His voice does not appeal to me so I am going with Celine Dion. I think of this as a nice tribute to your mom and the love you had for each other
ReplyDeleteDear Birgit ~
DeleteI'm sorry my link wouldn't open for you. I'm not computer savvy, however there was only one version of Mathis' recording. Chances are good that you viewed the same one. That said, there are no penalties for not being a Mathis fan! (My admiration for Mathis began when I was nine years old. It seemed to be a world of male singers then.)
> > "...I think of this as a nice tribute to your mom and the love you had for each other."
Thank you for this very sweet comment, Birgit. also, thanks for stopping by and voting. I appreciate it. I'll log you for Celine.
Dixie
Hey Polka Dot;
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear you are recovering somewhat. Sending you love and hugs.
This is a beautiful song; and I agree it lends itself well to the connection with mothers. And definitely, mothers and daughters. Sorry for your loss. My great love affair has been with my own children. Four sons, one daughter; but sometimes I think watching her grow, learn, become a woman, wife, and mother, has been the greatest joy. We have always argued, battled for her way through childhood, and as a family woman - working wife and mother. Still, she amazes me, despite my bumbling.
And because I do feel such a powerful female connection to this song, I'm voting for Celine. Johnny does a good job of emoting how a man feels about a woman (yes, I know that is implied), but I always felt this song was more about mothers and daughters than how a man has "completed" a woman.
Too sudsy and weepy? See what this song does to me :)
Feel better Dixie. A hot toddy might help.
Hey Donna!
DeleteYou crack me up sometimes with your sense of humor and ability to tap into reality. (Really) I gladly accept your love and hugs!! BOTB - Best of the Best, right?!
Okay but IMHO, man does not 'complete' a woman. He was 'made first - she was made next... so who completed whom? Call me, we'll do cyber-lunch; I'll reveal more secrets. HA!
I'll log you for Celine Dion > remember Mathis version came later, hahaha. (smile).
"hot toddy"? Does it matter if his name is Charles? (hoo-wee)
I'm not a Celine Dion fan (by any stretch of the imagination), but this is one song of hers that I really like. The Johnny Mathis version was good, but Celine is really powerful in her version. In other words, I really believe it. It's like she's thinking of a specific someone and pouring her heart out to that person with gratitude. I FEEL IT.
ReplyDeleteSo, one for Celine Dion.
Hello Robin!
DeleteWelcome to the occasionally working blog! Celine definitely rules as a powerhouse of sound. I just wanted to step the song down and have something different come to light. Time will tell. Diane Warren songs have impact - this one - no exception.
Logging you for Celine Dion.
"I FEEL IT" SAYS IT ALL!!
Thank you, and I really enjoyed your own battle.
Dixie
You've put two people I love against each other, Dixie. I know that many people don't like Celine all that much but you can't deny her talent. What a set of pipes!
ReplyDeleteI love her song "Immortality", too, because the Bee Gees are doing it with her. What a wimp I am....
If the truth be told, I'm stalling...I don't want to let Johnny Mathis down. I know he'll be hurt - but I'm voting for Celine. She owns this one, big time. And don't forget about her poor hubby...yep, gotta give it to Celine.
Lady Cherdo - another comment that touches me! Thank you.
DeleteGreat talent hopefully inspires us all. I too, enjoyed "Immortality"... another powerful set of lyrics with a huge delivery.
I understand your sentiments, and will log you for Celine on this battle (smile).
Super battle with this song. My vote is with Johnny. They are both well done but his sounds more real so he gets my vote.
ReplyDeleteThanks Mike!
DeleteKeep it simple and real. Your comment is not wasted on me.
Got you for Johnny!
Dixie-Chickadee! I'm sorry for not visiting yesterday, but we had a wake to attend. An ex co-worker/friend of DH of 10 years died. This afternoon I have a doctor's appointment (nothing serious) and my time is feeling a bit crunched. Anyhoo, I remember Celine Dion's version very much so. Isn't it something how music helps to heal the heart? I'm glad that this song did it for you with the passing of your mother. I didn't know Johnny Mathis did this song. He does a fabulous job with it, too. To be honest I don't know which to pick. Hmmm, think, think, think, which do I choose? I think I'm going with Celine because it's her that I remember. Good battle, my friend. I'm glad you're feeling better. You're always in my thoughts and prayers.
ReplyDeleteCathy, please give regards from me to DH; sorry to hear about his friend. Life happens, dear. Maybe we'll catch up phone-wise before November's end.
DeleteI'm currently seeing two doctors... waiting for more tests. My birthday and Thanksgiving are in the same week. Just letting you know ~ i know busy!
Celine really swept me away when this song came out, but somewhere along the way I wanted it 'quiet'... a peaceful celebration. Johnny's was a long time coming but worth the wait.
Either way, I'm glad you enjoyed both versions (smile). Logging you for Celine. Later, Chickiepoo!
I'm with Stephen on this one. And so is my cohort. Singers like Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey - I know they have amazing voices. I know they do. And yet I can't stand listening to them, because they just have this way of oversinging and overselling it that makes it sound hokey. Not enjoyable. It's not about the song. It's just about their voices. We both vote for Johnny Mathis by a landslide.
ReplyDeleteOh, and we're both glad you're feeling better!
Hi guys! I've missed you both. I read your last post, slobbered over all of the cartoon drawings. Then I went to leave a comment and the electricity in my neighborhood went out. Boo-Hiss-Sneer!!! So I will catch up with you (smile).
DeleteMeanwhile, I love the fact that you've both chosen Johnny Mathis. Yep, those voice 'over-kills' mess with my head too.
Thanks, I do feel some better. I'll put you down two for Johnny!
Smile
Very familiar with the Celine version of this song. I've always loved it. The Mathis version is ok but it certainly doesn't move me as much as the Celine rendition does.
ReplyDeletePlease give my vote to Celine.
Jeffrey, I completely understand what you mean, " it certainly doesn't move me as much as the Celine rendition does."
DeleteThat's okay. It still qualifies as the version you like the best. (smile). Right?
Logging you for Celine.
I'm really not a Celine fan. Something about her voice I just don't like, but despite that.. I kind of feel like there was more emotion to her version which I suppose is really the point of songs, yeah? So, give her my reluctant vote.
ReplyDeleteMadilyn - I know what you mean - both artists perform with their unique voice, presenting this song as they individually interpreted it.
DeleteWe might have to climb into their heads to determine what influenced their interpretation. Sometimes that's possible through artists' interviews, etc.
For me, during the battles, it depends on what I bring with me to listen. Am I in emotional pain that day? I might skip a seemingly sad song battle. There are no parameters of a strict individual interpretation. All we ask is: "which version do you like best?"
I'll log you for Celine. Thank you. Smile.
I'm not much of a Celine Dion fan, either, but I liked the way she did this song better than Johnny Mathis. I'm giving her my vote here.
ReplyDeleteThanks, John. You've captured the essence of the battle!
DeleteAnother vote for Celine Dion.
"Chances are good that you viewed the same one.
ReplyDelete"CHANCES ARE"
Hey, stop ripping me off, DIXIE!
That's MY gig!
~ D-FensDogG
Say what?! Your chances of getting ripped of by me are slim and next to none. Of course, there's always the thought that you're "TOO YOUNG" to recognize my assistance to your comedic bone.
DeleteHa!
My vote may be Too Much, Too Little, Too Late, but I'll vote for Mathis. Its beginning to look a lot like... he'll lose. Even though I am not much of a fan, the thought of his losing makes me misty. Oh, well! It's not for me to say!
ReplyDelete>>... "the thought of his losing makes me misty."
DeleteDon't get blue, Sonny! And never say (the twelfth of) NEVER! It's the most wonderful time of the year, and do you hear what I hear? It's a Johnny Mathis comeback!
~ D-FensDogG
POSTSCRIPT:
DeleteI love you, Sheboyganboy Six!
("John Wayne! John Wayne!")
~ D-FensDogG
Hi Sheboyganboy Six!
DeleteRight now I'm simply hoping this is a real vote from you. I certainly appreciate it... and if you're only doing it for ~D-FensDogG... that's okay too. After-all, it's his GIG!
I'll log you for Johnny Mathis (smile).
Yes, it is a real vote. I almost never have time to visit the other blogs in the BOTB, and I have set a limit for myself of the first three participants (FAE, StMcC, and Lee). But I could not resist jumping on the pun bandwagon here today! Thanks for the nice battle!
DeleteSBB6 ~
DeleteOkay, I'll harbor no future expectations then. I'm glad you were willing to add to Johnny's votes. I enjoyed your puns too. Take care.
This is a very beautiful song that has a very special meaning to me. At a time when something very bad happened to me, someone loved me through it and showed me that I did have worth, no matter that I did not feel so. Now at that time the version that I knew was by Celine, so she gets my vote, as it is the one that plays in my head when I need to be scraped off the wall.
ReplyDeleteSorry Johnny, you did a wonderful job, but that memory is just to vivid.
>>... "Sorry Johnny, you did a wonderful job, but that memory is just to vivid."
DeleteNo, he didn't!
He did a "Wonderful! Wonderful!" job.
~ D-FensDogG
Fae,
DeleteI'm glad you could vote in my battle. This is tough for me... both versions have pieces of my heart invested. I hope you're taking care of you.
Got you down for Celine Dion. Thank you.
Stephen ~ Maybe Johnny Mathis figures in the "Soundtrack of your Life."
DeleteThanks for jazzing up my battle (smile).
Hmmm... Maybe. I'll have to think that over. If so, it would be the song 'O HOLY NIGHT'. His version of that is simply incredible!
Delete~ D-FensDogG
Now I'll have to hear Johnny's version of "O Holy Night." That would have been battle for December.
DeleteSee you later.
Hi Dixie,
ReplyDeleteSorry for absence. So here I go at four in the morning :)
I vote for Johnny Mathis. And even though Celine Dion is Canadian, I wish she'd been on the Titanic.
Hope you are feeling better. Goodnight and good morning from England.
Gary
Hi Gary - thanks for listening and voting. Does this mean you're writing again or is Penny still on it!??
Delete> >..."I wish she'd been on the Titanic." That's funny!!
I'll log you for Johnny Mathis (smile).
We're still running test at the doctor's. Blood every week so far. Time will tell. Thanks, Dixie
Hey Dixie,
DeleteI'm writing very little these days due to my own ongoing blood tests to see if my blood is that of a human :) Seriously, I'm too unwell to write much but Penny does do the occasional pawst, um post. I do hope you are going to be better real soon, Dixie.
A happy early birthday wish to you, my kind friend and thanks.
Gary :)
Thanks for the early birthday wish!
DeletePenny does a great job - you worry too much. (smile).
Johnny is always good, but this is Celine's song. I'm sorry you lost your mom, Dixie. It sounds like you're on the road to recovery, and I hope you feel completely better soon. Take good care of yourself, Dixie.
ReplyDeleteJulie
Hi Julie.
DeleteI'm glad you could come by, listen and vote. I've been really out of it for a couple of months. They're still drawing blood, running tests. I am so ready to feel better.
Celine for you (smile)..