Top 100 Soul/R&B Songs
#59: Chaka Khan 'What Cha' Gonna Do For Me'
Perhaps the best thing about Chaka Khan's version of "What Cha' Gonna Do For Me" is the sass she brings to the track, an element sorely lacking in Average White Band's take. It's hard not to take her seriously during the chorus, as this is no run-of-the-mill, average, casual delivery. She brings it home because she probably means it.As noted earlier, Chaka is one of my favorite screamers. I say that in jest, but what Chaka is doing isn't just making noise, she's singing. Her vocal acrobatics have always been well-placed and warranted throughout her career, especially since most of her work falls under the umbrella of Jazz, where such things are germane.
Chaka Khan: "What Cha' Gonna Do For Me"
Tags: audio, average white band, chaka khan
Comments
Oh, how I loves my Chaka! She, more than any other vocalist, made us girls with big voices feel like there was a place for us in music alongside the chicks who thrive on the school-girl wispyness and acrobatics-for-hours. Words cannot express how much I have admired her over the years. Recent concerts have been less than stellar, unfortunately, so I'm glad to hear that others have seen and heard her in better form.
Stephanie Renee | June 1, 2008 8:51 AM | PermalinkI love Chaka. I just saw her on Memorial Day, along with Ledisi, The Whispers and Maze ft. Frankie Beverly. One of the best concerts I've ever attended. Chaka is losing weight too, looking good. Loved her performance. She didnt sing this song though..she didnt get to sing alot of her older songs since she was only up for an hour. But she did great and she brought Ledisi out to sing with her twice.
suga | May 28, 2008 3:40 PM | PermalinkLove this song! Great pick.
Sheree | May 28, 2008 7:30 AM | PermalinkGreat song. I agree, much as I love AWB, Chaka's version is simply brilliant. Looking forward to seeing Chaka live in London during July '08
Michael | May 28, 2008 5:58 AM | PermalinkI love Chaka, after reading this post I'm going to have to dig out some of her old CDs.
Brigitte | May 27, 2008 10:30 PM | PermalinkThis has got to be my all-time favorite Chaka Khan song EVER, just because of the way she handles the chorus. WOW. Good choice.
Revelator | May 27, 2008 5:40 PM | Permalink