Where does an artist go once they’ve reached the top of the mountain? While some just cling on to that cold rocky outcropping trying not to slip, others take a creative leap of faith down the other side and hook up with someone else to enjoy the ride.
I’ve long enjoyed the pure fun of hearing Julio Iglesias and Willie Nelson crooning to their exes (only half of whom live in Texas). Two artists with nothing to lose, willing to step out of their regular box and take a chance, enjoy, try something new.
So, in the spirit of fun and a bit of nostalgia, here’s my list of 10 great duets to brighten your day:
1: Perhaps Love: John Denver and Placido Domingo
Let’s put it this way – it’s pretty easy to tell which one is singing. How these two voices work so well together, I’ll never know, but it’s a beautiful song with beautiful lyrics.
2: Summer Nights: John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John
Who know Vinnie Barbarino could sing? Who knew Olivia could be considered sexy? But my kids love to sing this song as much as my wife and I do.
3: Because of You: Kelly Clarkson and Reba McEntire
OK, this match-up was a given from the moment Kelly announced her Reba infatuation on American Idol, but it’s a powerful piece between a country diva and a young pop chart topper.
4: Never Talk to Strangers: Tom Waites and Bette Middler
These two icons find each other in this evocative song.
TOM WAITS & BETTE MIDLER’s DUET “I NEVER TALK TO STRANGERS”
5: Ave Maria: Bobby McFerrin & Yo Yo Ma
Sublime mix of Bobby’s out-of-bounds vocal improv and Yo Yo’s classical cello. Another fun recording by this duo is Hush Little Baby.
6: When I Get Where I’m Going: Brad Paisley and Dolly Parton
Hot new guy Brad Paisley teamed up with perennial veteran Dolly for a number one hit.
7: Who Says You Can’t Go Home: Jon Bon Jovi and Jennifer Nettles
Country and hard rock stations alike weren’t sure what to do with this rockin’ country tune by the lead singers of Sugarland and Bon Jovi. So they just let us enjoy it, and the Habitat For Humanity feature in this video as a bonus.
8: I Don’t Know Much: Aaron Neville and Linda Rondstadt
I played this one on piano while my friends walked down the isle (and, at their request, Take Me Out to the Ballgame as their recessional).
9: Islands In The Stream: Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers
The only unlikely thing about this duo is the fact that they never were a couple – remember those Christmas specials they co-hosted?
10: To All the Girls I’ve Loved Before: Willie Nelson and Julio Iglesias
Fans of the immaculate Julio were aghast that he’d join up with Willie, and country fans were just as shocked in reverse. I love this video of them performing together – the visual contrast is just as vivid as their voices and styles. Presumably they were singing about different women.
Reviewing this list I see my narrow exposure to music – country, a bit of jazz and classical. Please do expand this list – share your surprise duets in the comments below. Or better yet, go grab someone and croon a tune or two.
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