Paul Anka’s “Black Hole Sun”: An Unexpected Cover
ABOUT SONG
When one thinks of Black Hole Sun, the haunting vocals of Chris Cornell and the grunge sound of Soundgarden immediately come to mind. However, in a bold and unexpected move, the legendary crooner Paul Anka took on the challenge of covering this iconic rock anthem. Released in 2005 as part of his Rock Swings album, Anka’s version of Black Hole Sun offered a fresh and intriguing perspective on the original.
MEANING BEHIND
Anka’s version of Black Hole Sun is a far cry from the original’s dark and brooding atmosphere. The big band arrangement and smooth jazz influences give the song a completely different feel. Anka’s velvet vocals and the upbeat tempo transform the song into a sophisticated and stylish number.
While the core melody remains largely intact, Anka’s interpretation introduces several unexpected nuances. The saxophone solo adds a touch of jazz sophistication, while the string arrangements create a rich and lush soundscape. The lyrics, which are filled with dark imagery and existential dread in the original version, take on a more introspective tone in Anka’s rendition.
One of the most striking aspects of Anka’s cover is his ability to capture the emotional core of the song while presenting it in a completely new light. By stripping away the original’s heavy guitar riffs and distorted vocals, Anka exposes the underlying vulnerability of the lyrics.