Introduction:
The Unexpected Twist: Perry Como’s “Killing Me Softly With Her Song”
Perry Como’s rendition of “Killing Me Softly With Her Song” might seem like an unusual fit. The song, known for its soulful and melancholic mood, contrasts with Como’s usual smooth and lighthearted style. However, this unexpected cover has its own interesting history.
The original “Killing Me Softly With Her Song” wasn’t written for a smoky jazz bar or a soulful ballad. It all started with a poem. In 1971, Lori Lieberman, a young poet, wrote a poem titled “Killing Me Softly I Heard Her Sing.” This poem captured the experience of being deeply moved by a friend’s performance.
Enter songwriters Norman Gimbel and Charles Fox. They saw the raw emotion in Lieberman’s poem and its potential for a song. However, they transformed the perspective. The original “I” became a bystander witnessing the effect of the song on another person. The iconic line “Strumming my pain with her fingers” was added, giving the song a more intimate feel.
The song was first brought to life by Roberta Flack in 1971. Her soulful delivery and stripped-down arrangement resonated with audiences, becoming a surprise hit. Flack’s version captured the vulnerability and yearning in the lyrics.
Then came Perry Como. In 1973, at the height of Flack’s success with the song, Como released his own cover. Como’s version was a complete contrast. His smooth vocals and lush orchestral arrangement transformed the song into a gentler, more romantic ballad.
Como’s cover was met with mixed reactions. Some fans appreciated the softer take, while others felt it strayed too far from the original’s emotional core. Regardless, Como’s version became a success in its own right, showcasing the song’s versatility and ability to be interpreted in different styles.
Today, both versions of “Killing Me Softly With Her Song” hold a place in music history. Flack’s soulful rendition remains a classic, while Como’s cover serves as a reminder of the song’s adaptability and ability to evoke different emotions through contrasting arrangements. So, when you hear Como’s soothing version, remember the poem’s origin and the soulful interpretation that came before it.