George Michael, The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face

Reading Time: 2 min read

In the 41^st edition of COVERS (2023), George Michael delivers a compelling rendition of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” famously recorded by Roberta Flack.

[otw_shortcode_dropcap label=”A” size=”large” border_color_class=”otw-no-border-color” shadow=”shadow” square=”square”]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 41^st edition of COVERS (2023), 🎙 George Michael delivers a compelling rendition of 🎵 “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face”, famous recorded by 🎙 Roberta Flack.[/otw_shortcode_dropcap]

“The first time ever I kissed your mouth / I felt the earth move in my hands…” Aww 🥰. 🎵 “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” appears as the fifth track from 💿 Songs From The Last Century, the 1999 covers album by the late, great, 🏆 Grammy-winning pop superstar, 🎙 George Michael. No doubt that “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” is a song from the last century, penned by British singer, songwriter, and playwright 🎼 ✍ Ewan MacColl in 1957 – 42 years before Michael recorded it! One of the most covered songs, with its most famous rendition by 🎙 Roberta Flack, Michael manages to deliver his marvelous interpretation.

Like many renditions of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” simplicity is the key. A poetic yet subtle song, it doesn’t require an ornate backdrop or gospel histrionics vocally. George Michael impresses with his beautiful tone and a poised, calm, cool, and collected performance. Simply put, George doesn’t need to do much more than sing naturally – no runs necessary! As far as the supporting backdrop, it begins initially with the standard rhythm section – piano, guitar, bass, and drums. Providing some additional color is orchestra, but it’s non troppo – maintaining restraint. An animated vocalist, hearing Michael pull back on 🎵 “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” is refreshing, letting the radiant lyrics, and his special instrument shine bright like a diamond 💎.