It’s amazing when an individual comes along who sings a cover of a famous artist and does a spectacular job. While some people are good, a few are fantastic. Those are the videos we enjoy watching and love to share.
She’s an icon
Born Jamesetta Hawkins, Etta James was one of the best-known Soul, Blues, R&B, Jazz, Gospel, and Rock and Roll singers to come along in ages. She initially launched her career back in 1954. It didn’t take long for her to gain fame, especially for specific songs like The Wallflower, Tell Mama, and I’d Rather go Blind.
Etta James lives on through music
Sadly, she passed away in 2012. But her earthy voice is something that once you’ve heard it, you’ll never forget that magic she creates through music. While a lot of people have tried to capture the essence of her voice, few have succeeded. That is, until recently.
Maiya Sykes and Ben Folds
Although both of these people are talented artists in their own rights, no one would’ve have imagined what they accomplished when they performed at the Lauryn Hill mashup. You guessed it — they did one of Etta James’ cover songs — ”I’d Rather Go Blind.”
A gifted voice
From the very minute Maiya begins to sing, you can’t help but recognize that not only does she have a beautiful gift but also a voice that’s similar to that of Etta James. She has energy, which perfectly matches Ben Folds and the beat of the music.
Soulful and genuine
Some people who perform a cover of a famous artist don’t come anywhere near doing the song justice. But in this case, the soulful sound of Maiya’s voice makes it easy to tell that she’s feeling every word. She sings from her heart.
A successful career
Since Maiya is classically trained, you’d expect for her to do an amazing job but she goes beyond that. Along with studying with Nina Simone and singing as a back-up vocalist for The Black Eyed Peas, Michael Buble, Fantasia, Macy Gray, and others, she graduated from Yale University.
Something special
Even with such a small ensemble, she brings power to this Etta James song. It’s as though they share a unique bond although James is no longer with us. Even so, Maiya gives such an outstanding performance that you can’t help but to feel impressed.
The video went viral
As imagined, the video of Maiya doing this song quickly went viral. To date, it’s been viewed more than 1.7 million times. If Etta James were still alive, there’s no doubt she’d be proud and feel honored to have such an incredibly talented woman performing one of her songs.
It received a lot of praise
Once the video was uploaded online, people immediately began posting comments. One poster said, “Who else liked the video after the first couple of lyrics? This woman has got some amazing vocals!!!” Another individual commented, “My ears never felt this good. My soul is washed clean.”
Fantastic musical support
Of course, you have to give credit where credit is due. Ben Folds is a popular singer, songwriter, and pianist who tours regularly. He has somewhat of a funky style, which works perfectly with this Etta James’ song and Maiya’s voice.
This is something you don’t want to miss
As you know, the internet is flooded with artists performing every genre of music. But if you’re a diehard music fan, this is one video you don’t want to miss. After listening to it, you too will feel great. It has a lot of spunk that makes it uplifting.
We invite you to hear it for yourself by clicking on the video below. We’re confident you’ll love it right along with the millions of other people who’ve heard it.
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