Top 10 Eva Cassidy Songs

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Our Top 10 Eva Cassidy Songs list takes a look at a talented singer and musician. She was known for singing jazz, folk and blues music. She had a powerful voice and knew how to interpret music. Eva Cassidy didn’t write many of her songs. She didn’t have faith in her writing skills so she recorded a lot cover songs. She is a true artist because she became more popular after her death than she was when she was alive. Eva Cassidy wasn’t too popular in the United States, but she was successful in different countries around the world. Her hit singles include “Over the Rainbow,” “Fields of Gold,” “Songbird,” “Time After Time,” “God Bless the Child,” “What a Wonderful World,” etc.

Eva Marie Cassidy was born on February 2, 1963 – November 2, 1996. She became interested in music at an early age. Her father taught her how to play the guitar. She worked with a lot of bands before she got a record deal. She eventually met a recording engineer and bassist named Chris Biondo. He helped her become a session singer. As a session singer, she worked with different artists. Chris Biondo played a demo of Eva Cassidy’s voice for Chuck Brown. He is a musician. They would go on to record a duet album together.

The Other Side was released in 1992. It was a duet album with Eva Cassidy and Chuck Brown. The album features the singles “Over the Rainbow,” “God Bless the Child,” “Dark End of the Street” and “Fever.” This album is the only one she recorded while she was alive. The rest of her albums were released posthumously. Eva by Heart was released in 1997. It features the singles “Wade in the Water,” “Songbird,” “Need Your Love So Bad” and “Blues in the Night.” The album went gold overseas. Time After Time came out in 2000. The album peaked at 161 on the Billboard 200 charts. It features the songs “Time After Time,” “Ain’t No Sunshine,” “Kathy’s Song” and “The Letter.” The album went gold.

Imagine was released in 2002. It peaked at number 32 on the Billboard 200 charts. “Imagine,” “You’ve Changed,” “Early Morning Rain” and “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore.” The album managed to go platinum. Somewhere came out in 2008. It peaked at number 136 on the Billboard 200 chart. It features the singles “Somewhere,” “Chain of Fools,” “Won’t Be Long” and “Early One Morning,” The album went gold. Simply Eva was released in 2011. It peaked at number 5 the Folk Album charts. The album features “True Colors,” “Who Knows Where the Time Goes,” “Autumn Leaves” and “I Love You By Heart.” There were other compilation albums that were released throughout the years.

Eva Cassidy left the world too soon. She had a brilliant way of retelling classic songs. She puts them in a new perspective. She was an underrated artist who deserved more success before she passed away. This Top 10 Eva Cassidy Songs list will feature her best songs.

# 10 – Wade in the Water

The first song on our Top 10 Eva Cassidy Songs list is “Wade in the Water” from the Eva By Heart album. The song has a jazz and folk sound. The spiritual song is about slaves. The song was supposed to give slaves something to look forward to and not to give up. The song was written to get slaves to look forward to good things coming their way. The track warns slaves to change where they were going and go in the water. It’s a warning to get away from the slave owners and their dogs.

This isn’t exactly a song we can relate to anymore because it was written during slavery times. This track gives listeners a look at what happened to the slaves during that time. We will never know the pain the slaves went through, but the song gives us some details about what they went through during that time.

Different people throughout the years have recorded the song. It’s different to hear Eva Cassidy recording the track. She isn’t African American so she wouldn’t be the first person you would think would record this track. The song could have been a disaster in the wrong hands. With that said, it’s good to hear her interpretation of the song. She didn’t try to butcher the track. She kept the somber and melancholy theme of the track.

She sings the song with a lot of soul. Even though slavery isn’t her experience, she makes you believe it. Her vocals are extraordinary on this song. She manages to make the song her own without changing the message behind the song. She sings the song with empathy and understanding.

# 9 – Imagine

The next song on our Top 10 Eva Cassidy Songs list is from the album of the same name. The song has a jazz sound. The idealistic song is about thinking about a better world. She sings about not relying on superficial things. She wants people to think about the world being one. She wants to end racism and poverty. She wants you to imagine what it would be like to live in a world that is peaceful and free. This song is relevant today because there are so many problems in the world. It would be wonderful to imagine a world that is peaceful and problem free. This is the perfect track to listen to when you are down about what’s going on in the world today.

Eva Cassidy took a huge risk recording one of John Lennon’s popular songs. Should she have taken the risk of recording this track since it’s so popular? Did she make the song her own? We believe she took a chance recording this track. It’s a very famous song and she took the chance of being compared to the legendary singer John Lennon. To answer the second question, she managed to interpret the song in a different way from John Lennon. The instrumentation is different from his version. John Lennon’s version is somber and meaningful. His version is soft rock and pop while Eva Cassidy’s version has a jazz and folk sound to it.

Her version is stripped like his version, but her version doesn’t have the piano. She utilizes the guitar in her song. Eva Cassidy does a fantastic job with the lyrics. She sings the song as if she wrote it. She has so much passion in her voice. You can tell she enjoyed recording the track. For some reason, this song was released after she passed away. This track should have been released before she died so she could get her flowers while she was still here. She might have become a bigger star if this track were released sooner.

# 8 – What a Wonderful World

The reflective song is from the Wonderful World album. The song has a jazz beat. The optimistic song is about the world being a beautiful place despite its problems. The song has a theme similar to “Imagine.” She is singing about the good things that happen in the world. We need a song like this one right now. The world was dealing with a lot when the song was recorded years ago, but nothing has changed. We need something positive to think about because of the terrible things going on in the world. If you need some reassurance, you should listen to this track. It will give you a sense of hope that things can be better. It will help you appreciate the things we take for granted.

This song is another track that has been covered by many artists. Louis Armstrong’s may arguably be the first one that comes to mind when you think of this track. Eva Cassidy had big shoes to fill when she covered this song. Louis Armstrong’s version was a big hit for the legendary hitmaker. Eva Cassidy recorded the song anyway. She showed she was up for the challenge by covering this hit song. She has excellent interpretation skills. She was able to dissect the track and make it something that she could pull off.

She uses vocal gymnastics while she sings the track. You should listen out for the way her voice reaches to heights unknown towards the end of the song. When you listen to the introduction of the song, you could forget which song it is. It doesn’t sound like Louis Armstrong’s version when it starts. Her version sounds like jazz music while his version sounds orchestral. There’s a little similarity in the melody, but the music is different. You might not recognize the song based on her version of the music. This isn’t a bad thing at all. She made this version of the song her own. You won’t forget the great Louis Armstrong’s version by any means. Eva Cassidy’s version is explosive as well and is worth checking out.

# 7 – God Bless the Child

The introspective song is from the album The Other Side. The track has an r&b, soul and jazz beat. The realistic song is about what happens when you have everything. Most of us know that when we have a lot to offer, people tend to come running. When we don’t have anything, you can fit a truck between you. Eva Cassidy sings about people who are there for you during the good times and disappear during the bad times. It’s hard to be family and friends with people who use you for what you can do for them. This type of thing happened when Billie Holiday recorded the song decades ago, and it hasn’t changed years later. Eva Cassidy is singing about the same problem. The lyrics will be meaningful if you deal with people who use you endlessly.

Eva Cassidy’s voice sounds angelic on this track. She has such a smooth voice. She uses vocal control because she holds notes without her voice cracking. She holds notes and goes right back to singing the rest of the song. She belts throughout the track. She will hold your interest until the song ends. She could bring tears to your eyes as you listen to her express herself in this song. If you weren’t a fan of Eva Cassidy before you heard this track, you will change your mind to become one. Most listeners are probably more familiar with Billie Holiday’s version of the song. Eva Cassidy sang the song in a surprisingly upbeat way. The lyrics sound bitter, but she sounds upbeat singing the song. Her voice will blow you away while she’s singing.

# 6 – Ain’t No Sunshine

The heartbreaking song is from the Time After Time album. The track has a blues sound. The sentimental track is about the way she feels about the love she lost. She feels like there’s no sunshine now that he’s out of her life. She thinks about why he doesn’t love her the way she loves him. Eva Cassidy doesn’t believe her man will return to her. She thinks she’s lost him forever. The lyrics make you think it’s a love song, but it’s not. If you pay attention to the lyrics, you’ll realize the song isn’t a love song. Bill Withers wrote this masterpiece from a man’s point of view. Eva Cassidy sang the song from a woman’s perspective. The song is from a woman’s perspective, but men can also relate to the lyrics of the song.

“Ain’t No Sunshine” has been recorded by Bill Withers, Michael Jackson, Rockmelons (ft. Deni Hines), etc. Needless to say, Eva Cassidy had her work cut out for her. She managed to make the song her own. Her timing on this track was impeccable. She knew when to go up and down with the beat. She never lost a breath while she was singing the song. She makes you feel emotional while you listen to her version of the song. Her vocals are similar to Celine Dion and Bonnie Raitt. The music will hypnotize you. The musicians didn’t stray too far away from Bill Withers version of the track. T

hey still created a soulful and bluesy sound. There is a long musical pause after she finishes the bridge. The break takes you away from her strong vocals, but you get a chance to hear the musicians at work. The guitar and piano are the standout instruments in the song. Let’s get back to Eva Cassidy’s voice. We can’t express how impressed we were with her rendition of the song. She won’t make you forget about the other versions, but she will give you something to think about while you hear her version of it.

# 5 – True Colors

The next song on our Top 10 Eva Cassidy Songs list is “True Colors” from the Simply Eva album. The track has a pop, rock, soul and blues sound. The cathartic song is about not being afraid to be yourself. Even though things may be hard in life, you should be yourself. You shouldn’t change yourself to please others. This song has a beautiful message about not changing to please others. You should let your “true colors” show. If you are dealing with people who don’t appreciate who you really are, you should listen to this track. It will make you believe in yourself again. The lyrics will hit you differently if you are dealing with people who want to judge you. You want to show people who you really are because you want them to see your “true colors.”

Her voice is gorgeous. She shows exceptional vocal strength. Eva Cassidy isn’t afraid to be vulnerable on her tracks. She shows her vulnerability on this song. She breaks down her walls and allows the listeners to hear her vulnerable side. She sings a soul-stirring version of the track. She doesn’t stray too far from Cyndi Lauper’s version of the song. Eva Cassidy even sings the song with a little grit in her voice as she hits the bridge of the track. It was a nice touch because it gave the song some edge.

Eva Cassidy showed off her vocal range after the bridge. She soared for heights unknown while she hit the high notes in the song. She sounds so pretty while she belts in the song. The beautiful singer holds a high note at the end and stays in tune. Her voice could have cracked while she held the note, but she remains in tune. She made the song her own. Her version is just as good as Cyndi Lauper’s version of the song. Depending on your taste, you may like Eva Cassidy’s version better.

# 4 – Time After Time

The tender song is from the album of the same name. It has a folk and pop sound. The longing song is about a woman having sympathy for a love she lost. She doesn’t want to move on without him by her side. She wants him to know that he could come to her if he needs her. It’s a beautiful way to keep an ex-lover in your life. If you go through a break up, you might need to listen to this song. It will give you some insight on what you could do about your relationship. Do you want to keep the person in your life? Are you the type who would feel lost without your lover? This song will help you out. This is another remake of Cyndi Lauper’s song. Cyndi Lauper’s version of the song went to number one on the charts so you already know Eva Cassidy took a huge chance recording this song. Like the other songs on our list, she made the song her own.

Eva Cassidy connects with the song. She sings the song as if she’s going to through the story herself. You can feel the pain in her voice as she builds up the story throughout the song. She takes her time creating the scene to allow you to picture what she’s talking about. She takes you on a ride as she goes up and down with her vocals. Her voice will give you goosebumps. You may be blown away with the vocal tricks she uses throughout the song.

Her tone is amazing and she proved she could sing the alphabet and it would sound good. Cyndi Lauper’s version of the song is timeless, but we can’t fall asleep on Eva Cassidy’s version. She was definitely the right person to cover one of the legendary singer’s tracks. There aren’t too many artists who could sing the song just as well as the original singer did. Eva Cassidy keeps her vocals simple and pure. She sounds angelic.

# 3 – Fields Of Gold

The somber song is from the Live at the Blues Alley and Songbird albums. It has a blues beat. The bittersweet song is about going down memory lane to think about a relationship. The lyrics explain all of the phases of a relationship. First, she explains what it’s like at the beginning of a relationship. She talks about the dating phase of their relationship. She also talks about what happens when they get to know each other better. This is called the marriage phase. She is ready to commit to her lover. She also explains what happens when death takes one of them away. Eva Cassidy goes into detail about what happens when one half of a loving couple ends up dying. You may find yourself crying at this point of the song. This song may bring back memories for you as you think about your relationship.

The music is a perfect fit for this track. It has a sad beat which is a perfect accompaniment with the subject. This is the type of music that will make you think. The track is stripped down so you can focus on her voice. The musicians give her the room to shine. They play the music softly so she doesn’t have to shout in order to be heard. You can become one with Eva Cassidy while she’s pouring her heart out with the lyrics.

She arguably did Sting justice with this track. She made the song her own without making you forget Sting’s version of it. This may be a hard track to hear since Eva Cassidy passed away. Hearing her talk about dying knowing that she’s no longer here, might be hard for her fans. This track will make you wish she could have recorded more music during her lifetime. You will definitely want to have this song on repeat because it’s a pretty song.

# 2 – Songbird

The poignant song is from the album of the same name. The track has a folk sound. The selfless song is about a couple who decide to break up and go their separate ways. They realize they are better off apart. The past has told them it’s time to let go. They would rather think of the other person’s happiness than to selfishly stay together. The song is an anthem for couples. Have you got to the point in your relationship where it just doesn’t work anymore? If so, you understand what she’s singing about in the song. It’s better to be apart and happy than together and miserable. This is a different type of song about relationships. Songwriters usually tackle falling in love or falling out of love. They don’t usually talk about being happier apart while still being in love with their partner. It keeps the song from being a cheesy love song.

Eva Cassidy’s vocals are so breathtaking that it’s impossible to hear her without crying. Her voice is that good that she will bring tears to your eyes. Her soprano vocals are just what the song needs to make you reflect on your relationship. She owns the song. She stacks her voice in the chorus and that was a great choice to make. She sounds like she’s singing with someone else. She didn’t do a Karaoke version of Fleetwood Mac’s song. She kept little elements the same while maintaining her creativity on the song. Her interpretation of the song is outstanding. Fleetwood Mac’s version of the song is touching as well. Their version will make you cry too. You will be at a crossroads trying to decide which version of this gem to hear.

# 1 – Over the Rainbow

The number one song on our Top 10 Eva Cassidy Songs list is “Over the Rainbow” from the Simply Eva album. The song has a jazz sound. The powerful song is about a girl who wants to get somewhere in life. She’s in trouble and wants to get “over the rainbow.” This song is from the movie The Wizard of Oz. The late and great Judy Garland famously recorded it. Most music fans have heard Judy Garland’s version of the song at some point in their lives. Eva Cassidy threw her hat in the ring to record the song too. She took a big chance recording a song so connected to the movie and the actress. The talented singer was able to do it. She took a chance and it paid off for her. The song rose on the UK charts when it was released.

Eva Cassidy’s version is spectacular. She did a stripped down version of the song. It was different because most of us are used to Judy Garland’s version. It turned out to be a good idea because it kept her version from being a copy of Judy Garland’s version. Her vocals are as smooth as silk. She recorded a subdued version of the song. She shows more vulnerability when she sings softly. She performs runs in the song that are pretty good. She changes the flow of some of the lyrics, but it doesn’t hurt the song at all. It made it easier to make the song her own. She holds a couple of notes after the bridge that will make your jaw drop. This wonderful song deserved the top spot on our list.