Bettye Swann :: Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye

BettyeSwann

Best known for the 1967 bubblegum soul hit, “Make Me Yours”, Bettye Swann was born one of a family of fourteen children in Shreveport, Louisiana. Her impassioned vocals (just ever so slightly off-kilter) bring to mind the kindred spirit of another somewhat overlooked trailblazer: Wendy Rene. A bold statement, perhaps, but dig this: Swann’s 1969 cover of The Casino’s barbershop ballad “Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye.”

A glorious paradigm of late 60s / early 70s country-soul, Swann’s rendition has a rooted authenticity with her vocals exuding a smoky naturalism  without sacrificing her key ingredient: pure pop sugar. The gospel-tinged essence of the backup singers, along with accompaniments of cascading piano and the soaring praise of a horn section, lend the tune its arresting triumphant spirit. The grand lyrical gestures drift off into a romantic dream waltz (“Tell me you love me / For a million, a million years), and in some great serendipity these wondrous elements band together for one of those profoundly sought after moments of rare soul purity.   words / c depasquale

Bettye Swann :: Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye

3 thoughts on “Bettye Swann :: Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye

  1. Beautiful version.. I’ve heard great versions of this but I think this is my favourite now. Thanks!

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