In the realm of rock music, some songs transcend their original artists, taking on a life of their own through covers and reinterpretations. “Since You Been Gone” stands as a prime example, famously recorded by both Head East in 1978 and Rainbow in 1979. This raises a timeless question among music enthusiasts: which version reigns supreme? Let’s delve into the history, compare the sonic nuances, and explore why this song continues to captivate audiences decades later.
The Origin Story: Russ Ballard’s Composition
Before the band rivalries and radio airplay debates, “Since You Been Gone” was the brainchild of Russ Ballard, a prolific songwriter known for penning hits for various artists across genres. Ballard’s songwriting prowess is evident in the track’s strong melodic structure and emotionally resonant lyrics, which speak to the ache of absence and the lingering impact of a lost love. While many associate the song with either Head East or Rainbow, understanding its origin provides crucial context to appreciate its journey through rock history.
Head East’s Original Rendition: Midwest Rock Charm
Head East, a band hailing from the American Midwest, first introduced “Since You Been Gone” to the world in 1978. Their rendition, featuring the vocals of John Schlitt, carries a distinct heartland rock vibe. It’s characterized by a slightly rawer, less polished sound, embodying the band’s regional rock identity. Fans of Head East often champion their version for its authenticity and the earnest delivery of Schlitt’s vocals. For many, this is the definitive version, the one that first captured the song’s emotional core in a rock format.
Rainbow’s Polished Cover: A Global Rock Anthem
Just a year later, in 1979, Rainbow, led by guitar virtuoso Ritchie Blackmore and fronted by Graham Bonnet, unleashed their take on “Since You Been Gone.” Rainbow’s version is undeniably more polished and commercially oriented, aligning with Blackmore’s vision for a more mainstream sound for the band at the time. Bonnet’s powerful vocals, combined with Rainbow’s signature hard rock instrumentation, transformed the song into a global rock anthem. This version achieved significant chart success and broader radio play, introducing “Since You Been Gone” to a much larger audience worldwide.
Sonic Showdown: Head East vs. Rainbow
The debate over which version is superior often boils down to personal preference and sonic taste. Head East’s version is appreciated for its organic feel and midwestern rock authenticity. Some listeners might find the keyboard sound slightly dated, as mentioned in the original forum, but others see it as part of its unique charm. The focus is on the band’s raw energy and Schlitt’s vocal delivery which is seen by some as more emotionally direct.
Rainbow’s rendition, on the other hand, benefits from a more refined production and Bonnet’s powerful, soaring vocals. Blackmore’s guitar work adds a layer of virtuosity, and the overall sound is geared towards stadium rock anthems. While some purists might argue it strays from the original’s intent, its undeniable impact on a larger audience and its place in rock history cannot be ignored. The music video accompanying Rainbow’s release further amplified its popularity, a factor Head East’s version lacked.
Why the “Rip-Off” Accusation?
The original forum post raises a common question: was Rainbow’s version a “rip-off”? Legally and ethically, the answer is no. “Since You Been Gone” was written by Russ Ballard, and publishing rights allow for multiple artists to record and release their interpretations. Rainbow didn’t steal the song; they licensed and re-recorded it.
However, the sentiment behind the “rip-off” accusation stems from the perception that Rainbow, with their larger fanbase and resources, overshadowed Head East’s original work. For fans who discovered Head East’s version first, Rainbow’s success might have felt like an appropriation, especially given the timing of the releases. This highlights the complexities of cover songs and how different versions can be received by audiences with varying loyalties and musical preferences.
Beyond Head East and Rainbow: The Song’s Enduring Appeal
Ultimately, the story of “Since You Been Gone” is a testament to the power of a well-crafted song. Russ Ballard’s songwriting provided a foundation that allowed two distinct bands to create memorable, yet different, versions. Whether you lean towards the Midwest rock grit of Head East or the stadium-ready polish of Rainbow, the song’s core appeal remains undeniable. It’s a song about longing, loss, and the enduring echo of relationships past – themes that resonate across generations and musical styles.
Your Verdict? Head East or Rainbow?
The debate continues: which version of “Since You Been Gone” do you prefer? Is it the original charm of Head East or the anthemic power of Rainbow? Perhaps you appreciate both for their unique strengths. The beauty of music lies in its subjective nature, and in the case of “Since You Been Gone,” we are fortunate to have two compelling interpretations of a truly great song. Let the discussion continue – which version do you choose and why?
