Tracks Of My Tears: The Sequel

A little over nine years ago, I did this post about a classic song I love: Tracks Of My Tears by Smokey Robinson. It was part of a series I'd do occasionally where I'd post different takes on the same song by various artists (I also did it for another favorite, Stand By Me).

The reason for that original TOMT post was fairly straighforward: I couldn't think of anything to write about and it was easy to slap up some videos.

But today the subject is TOMT.

There are only a few songs that are genuinely timeless. Songs like Stand By Me. Yesterday. And Tracks Of My Tears. Generation after generation, they continue to strike a chord (sorry) with listeners, and stir their souls in unique ways. Those experiences are both heightened and personalized even more depending which version you're listening to and how it hits you in the moment.

But the one thing they all have in common is they hit you every time.

TOMT is one of the most covered songs in history, a testimony to its endurance, power and emotion. So with tonight's post, I'm happy to add even more versions for you to enjoy and compare.

If you don't recognize the name Paul Stanley, you probably know the rock group he cofounded—KISS. Knowing that, the last thing I expected was a version of TOMT as beautiful as it is true to the original. Also grateful he decided to ditch the makeup for this performance.

Speaking of true to the original, this version by Boyz ll Men is as satiny smooth as it gets, with choreography that pays homage to the original Smokey Robinson & The Miracles live performances.

Lara Kincanon is a singer I've never heard of, but she does a more intimate acoustic version. And I'm not saying she's staring into my soul when she sings it, but I'm also not saying she isn't.

I know what you're thinking: if only we could give this classic a little blue-eyed soul. Have a seat, and try this one by Daryl Hall and Eric Hutchinson (after a little chat, the song starts at the 1:20 mark).

Last but not least is the Chris Blue version he sang when he auditioned for The Voice. Besides being a sweet and soulful take, it also happens to be my wife's favorite version. And apparently it made Alicia Keyes pretty happy too. So this version gives me marriage points and great music. How many songs can you say that about?

Comedy tonight

I don't know about you, but with all that's going on in the world I could use a few laughs. So I decided to go find some. I have three two-man routines that usually bring a smile to my face and take me away from thinking about the nightmare in Washington D.C. for a few minutes.

The Peter Cook/Dudley Moore sketch from the Secret Policemen's Ball never ceases to amuse. Most people remember Dudley Moore from the movies Arthur and 10. But long before, him and Peter Cooke were part of a comedy revue called Beyond The Fringe. And in this reunion piece, it's clear they haven't skipped a beat.

Watching Abbott and Costello perform their classic Who's On First always leaves me in awe. Not just because of their flawless timing, but also the brilliant intricacy of the writing and total commitment to the performance.

Finally, the Smothers Brothers. They've always held a special place for me, even more so after I wound up years ago having breakfast with Tommy Smothers.

Anyway, if you're anything like me - and seriously, if you are you need to set your role model goals higher - these three sketches will bring a smile to your face as well.

Settle in, and enjoy.