Neil Diamond- Cherry Cherry

This tune by Neil Diamond is quite popular, and is something you have probably heard before, but did you notice that it uses clarinet? As compared to our earlier examples, the clarinet is used quite extensively. Take a closer listen during to the verses that immediately follow chorus, looking past the catchy lyrics; you will notice that there is a prominent clarinet counter-melody. In this song, the clarinet is used to add an upbeat, bouncy feel to the music; more comparable to the way it is used in Jazz or Dixieland music. Dixieland music.

The Free Design- Michelle

Moving back in time, this post will focus on a song performed by 60’s-70’s baroque-pop group (also known as sunshine-pop) The Free Design. The song Michelle was originally performed by The Beatles a couple of years earlier, and is probably the version most are familiar with, but this rendition by The Free Design definitely deserves a listen. It features a distinct 17th century baroque sound, using characteristic harmonic progressions, fugal melodies, frequent trills, embellishments, and the harpsichord. But, more importantly, I would like to draw attention to the use of the clarinet. Like most of the other examples, the clarinet only enjoys a short, decorative solo in between verses, but it serves as an overall contributor to the sound and characteristics of the music.



Sources:

Free Design, The (n.d.). Discogs. Retrieved from http://www.discogs.com/artist/Free+Design%2C+The.

The Free Design (n.d.). LasFM. Retrieved from http://www.last.fm/music/The+Free+Design.