Amy Winehouse undoubtedly had one of the most iconic voices in the music industry. Not only was her sound unique, but she was one of the few artists that arguably sounded better live than on a recorded track. Her incredible combination of soul and a jazzy/R&B hybrid was certainly one-of-a-kind and will continue to live on while she rests peacefully.
In honor of her birthday coming up on September 14, let us all pay tribute to her unbelievable talent and take a listen to eight of her best songs.
1. Love is a Losing Game
Iconic line: "Self professed, profound, 'til the chips were down. Know you're a gambling man, love is a losing hand."
Though there are many versions of this song, the original demo is probably the best one. The raw quality makes the sound so authentic that you can feel the heartbreak behind the lyrics with each passing second.
2. Back to Black
Iconic line: "He left no time to regret, kept his lips wet, with his same old safe bet."
Getting your heart broken by someone you loved and trusted is never an easy bout to face. I feel like we've all been there, and going back to black as Amy would say is all a part of the process.
3. Body and Soul (with Tony Bennett)
Iconic line: "My life a wreck you're making, you know I'm yours for the taking. I'd gladly surrender myself to you, body and soul."
Amy's versatile style can make any genre sound amazing. Who would've thought that this pair would complement each other so well?
4. Wake Up Alone
Iconic line: "That silent sense of comfort that everyone gets just disappears soon as the sun sets."
One of the more intricately written songs, "Wake Up Alone" is a hauntingly beautiful confession that she tried to face – loving someone that is physically next to you doesn't necessarily mean that that person is there for you emotionally. The physical presence of a lover can still mean waking up alone.
5. Valerie
Iconic line: "Won't you come on over? Stop making a fool out of me. Why don't you come on over, Valerie?"
Saving my personal favorite for last, the live acoustic version of "Valerie" is truly the perfect song to showcase Amy's indescribable talent. Not to mention, the desire to link up with old flames is a feeling I'm sure many can relate to.
I bet you got chills just listening to her voice. From her unforgettable beehive hairdo and her fleeky winged eyeliner, she is definitely a face we will not soon forget. Happy birthday, Amy, you beautiful songbird, and may you rest in the sweetest peace.
Shout-out to my friend, Aldwin, for being the biggest Amy Winehouse fan I know and for offering song suggestions. This one is for you, friend.
Disclaimer: I do not own the rights to any of these songs or clips. All rights reserved for their rightful owners.
