Whitney Houston’s “So Emotional” becomes reflective and @YearsandYears’ “Desire” full of intense longing, both in ballad form by @JonMclaughlin

JON MCLAUGHLIN, “So Emotional” and “Desire”

As readers of this blog are aware, I am not big on cover versions and they really have to impress me to write about them.  So when a singer/songwriter like Indiana’s Jon Mclaughlin decides to release a cover version – or two – then some undivided attention is a must. 

Jon boldly takes on Whitney Houston’s “So Emotional” (above) as a reflective ballad, and its transformation is a brilliant success.  It’s not sombre by any means, it has become a story about a past lover and the resulting feelings from that relationship.  Ballads can be sped up and dance songs can be slowed down, but it has to be done right.  And with his on point vocal and piano playing, “So Emotional” is given real credibility as a ballad. 

Also be sure to check out Jon’s cover of Years & Years’ “Desire” (below), which is the second part of this double-A sided single release.  I’m still a bit too attached to the original of four years ago but slowing down this particular dance song fleshes out the intense longing of the lyrics.