Colm R. McGuinness, Hellfire | COVERS

In the 28^th edition of COVERS (2023), Colm R. McGuinness delivers a compelling rendition of “Hellfire” from Disney’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame.   

Ah, it’s time to get cozy and totally cover up! In COVERS, we highlight a musician or band covering songs by another musician (likely a popular musician). COVERS focuses solely on the musician who covers, as opposed to the original/most famous performer.  It is open to both established musicians and musicians who may not be as well-known. In the 28^th edition of COVERS (2023), 🎙 Colm R. McGuinness delivers a compelling rendition of 🎵 “Hellfire (The Hunchback of Notre Dame)” from Disney’s 🎦 The Hunchback of Notre Dame.

Ah! It is always exciting to hear various musicians cover some of the greatest songs from Disney animated films.  The song from 🎦  The Hunchback of Notre Dame that draws the most attention is the dark, hellish, 🎵 “Hellfire”, which in the 1996 animated film, is paired with “Heaven’s Light.” While the “Heaven’s Light” finds Quasimodo bringing optimism, it’s Judge Claude Frollo’s lustful “Hellfire” that makes us question how The Hunchback of Notre Dame ended up being a G-rated children’s movie.  Anyways, talented Irish singer/composer 🎙 Colm McGuinness (COLM is pronounced COLUMN) delivers an alluring take on one of Disney’s darkest music classics.

McGuinness’ 🎵 “Hellfire” fittingly begins with the haunting Latin text featured in the original. It retains the theatrical flair, but also has a hint of the spirit of rock 🤘.  Colm’s tone is otherworldly – quite distinct.  He truly catches the ear early on, channeling his best Judge Claude Frollo with his deep, passionate, and robust instrument. Colm sings with incredible expression, grit, and power 💪. This is one instance where masculinity, via his sound, is #WINNING.  Watching the music video of the cover, you can’t take your eyes off of Colm, who puts his all into these damning lyrics – he truly sells it like champ. The dramatic instrumental only fuels the fire, making us Disney kids reminisce back in fondness to one of the best villainous songs of all time.

🎙 Colm R. McGuinness • 🎵 “Hellfire” • 🏷 Colm R. McGuinness • 🗓 2023

Colm R. McGuinness, Hellfire: Covers No. 28 (2023) [📷: Brent Faulkner /The Musical Hype; Colm R. McGuinness; cottonbro studio, MART PRODUCTION, Ron Lach from Pexels; Paul Brennan from Pixabay]