May 1st 2024.
When you think of the song Valerie, chances are you immediately think of the late Amy Winehouse. It's no surprise, as her powerful and soulful rendition of the song has become an iconic and timeless classic. However, what many people may not know is that Valerie was originally a hit for The Zutons, a Liverpool-based rock group formed in 2005. Consisting of Dave McCabe, Russell Pritchard, Sean Payne, and Abi Harding, the band saw early success with their first two albums, including Valerie, which landed them on the charts in the early 2000s.
But it wasn't until 2006, when Winehouse and producer Mark Ronson took the reins, that Valerie became the cultural phenomenon it is today. In an interview with The Agency, lead singer Dave expressed his feelings about the success of Winehouse's version, saying, "I think I'm okay with [her version being bigger]. To be honest, I think it's the best compliment." Winehouse's version of Valerie was released on the deluxe version of her final album, Back to Black, before her untimely death in 2011.
Dave also got emotional when remembering Winehouse, sharing that he had met her three times. The second time, he was quite drunk and doesn't remember much, but he does recall her telling him, "You know that's a good song." The famed Hawley Arms in Camden, London, was a popular spot for Winehouse, as well as other musicians like the Arctic Monkeys and Kate Moss. Dave fondly remembers passing by the pub and hearing Valerie, feeling a sense of pride and joy.
Valerie shot to number two on the UK charts and remained in the top 20 for 19 weeks, making it the ninth biggest-selling single of 2007. Dave describes Winehouse's version as the best compliment any singer could receive, especially from someone as talented as Winehouse. He also believes it's a gift from the universe and considers himself lucky to have gained such recognition.
However, Dave also acknowledges that Winehouse's tragic death at the young age of 27 added a different dimension to the success of Valerie, saying, "for all the wrong reasons." But he also believes that it's a way to remember the good in a bad situation. As a child, Dave never imagined that he would write a song that people's aunts would sing at karaoke.
The Zutons may have had their own success with Valerie, but it has become synonymous with Winehouse. Dave feels honored to have someone as talented as her sing his song. The band may have quietly disbanded in 2009, but they have reunited after 16 years for their fourth studio album, The Big Decider. The album quickly landed at number three on the charts, much to Dave's relief, joking that if it had flopped, it would have been a "Big Decider."
The band is also touring the UK this year, and Dave admits that he was nervous to perform while sober for the first time. But the reaction from fans has been overwhelmingly positive, and he is thankful for their support over the years. He also wants to thank anyone who has stuck by the band, saying, "it means everything to us." The Zutons are loving their reunion and are grateful for the opportunity to share their music with their fans once again. The Big Decider is out now, and tickets for their upcoming gigs can be found on their website. If you have a celebrity story, video, or pictures, don't hesitate to get in touch with The Agency entertainment team. They would love to hear from you.
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