“Put a Spell on You” is a popular song that has been covered by various artists over the years. The original version of the song was written and performed by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins, an American singer, songwriter, and musician. Hawkins is known for his unique and eccentric style, often incorporating elements of rock and roll, blues, and rhythm and blues into his music.
The song was first released in 1956 and quickly gained attention for its haunting and intense vocals. Hawkins’ deep and powerful voice, coupled with his theatrical stage presence, made the song a standout in the music scene at the time. The lyrics of “Put a Spell on You” spoke of love and obsession, with Hawkins expressing his desire to have complete control over his lover.
Interestingly, the song was initially intended to be a ballad, but during the recording session, Hawkins and his band became intoxicated, resulting in a more raucous and energetic performance. The resulting version of the song, with its raw and passionate delivery, became a hit and solidified Hawkins’ reputation as a captivating performer.
Despite its initial success, “Put a Spell on You” faced some challenges in terms of its commercial viability. The song’s explicit and provocative nature led to it being banned by several radio stations, limiting its mainstream exposure. However, it continued to gain popularity through live performances and word of mouth.
Over the years, “Put a Spell on You” has been covered by numerous artists, further cementing its status as a classic. One notable cover is by Nina Simone, who released her rendition in 1965. Simone’s version brought a soulful and jazzy interpretation to the song, showcasing her powerful and emotive vocals.
Another well-known cover of “Put a Spell on You” is by the British rock band, Creedence Clearwater Revival. They released their version in 1968, infusing it with their signature swamp rock sound. This cover helped introduce the song to a wider audience and remains a fan favorite to this day.
“Put a Spell on You” was written and originally performed by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins. His captivating and intense rendition of the song, coupled with its provocative lyrics, made it a standout in the music scene. The song has since been covered by various artists, further solidifying its status as a classic.