About This Footage
In a dusty corner of vinyl archives, a rare gem has emerged, offering a glimpse into the obscure world of 1970s cover artists. "I Only Want To Be With You" is a cover of Dusty Springfield's hit song, performed by an artist named Barbara Brown, and it's a fascinating example of the often-overlooked genre of budget album covers.
At the time this footage was filmed, Barbara Brown was likely just another face in the crowd of session musicians and cover artists vying for attention in the music industry. Edward James "Bongo" Brown, her husband and percussionist, had already made a name for himself as part of The Funk Brothers, the legendary Detroit-based session musicians who laid down the backing tracks for most Motown recordings from 1959 to 1972. But Barbara Brown herself remains a mystery, with little information available about her background or career.
What makes this clip so rare and significant is its connection to the budget album phenomenon of the 1970s. These albums, often released on small labels, would feature cover versions of popular hits alongside original material from lesser-known artists. They were designed to appeal to fans of mainstream music who couldn't afford to buy the original recordings or wanted a cheap alternative. The cover art for Barbara Brown's album promises a collection of songs by Pet Clark, but in reality, only two tracks are hers – a bait-and-switch tactic that was all too common in this era.
Watching "I Only Want To Be With You" is like stumbling upon a forgotten relic from the past. The footage is grainy and low-quality, but it's clear that Barbara Brown brings her own unique interpretation to Dusty Springfield's classic song. Her voice is distinctive, with a hint of soul and a touch of sweetness. It's easy to imagine this performance being played on a small club stage or at a local record store, with a handful of enthusiasts gathered around to listen.
What's striking about Barbara Brown's cover is how it captures the essence of the original song while still managing to put its own stamp on it. The arrangement is simple, with just a piano and vocals, but it's enough to convey the emotional depth of the lyrics. It's a testament to the skill of session musicians like Barbara Brown, who could take a familiar melody and make it their own.
For fans of Motown and soul music, this clip is a must-watch. Not only does it offer a glimpse into the world of budget album covers, but it also highlights the talents of an often-overlooked artist. And for those interested in the history of cover songs, "I Only Want To Be With You" is a valuable addition to the canon. It's a reminder that even in the most obscure corners of vinyl archives, there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
As the needle drops on Barbara Brown's version of "I Only Want To Be With You", it's impossible not to wonder what might have been if she had received more recognition for her talents. Would she have gone on to become a household name? Or would she have remained a footnote in the history books? Whatever the answer, this rare clip is a testament to the enduring power of music to capture our hearts and imaginations.
Curated from public records and music databases.
