Listen to Cynthia Erivo’s emotional rendition of a classic ’80s rock ballad for John Candy
Cynthia Erivo, known for her powerful vocal abilities, has evoked deep emotions with her cover of an ’80s rock ballad for the documentary “John Candy: I Like Me.” Erivo, a three-time Oscar nominee, lent her voice to a heartfelt rendition of “Everytime You Go Away,” originally written by Daryl Hall and famously performed by Paul Young. This exclusive sneak peek of the track, requested by the documentary’s producer and fellow Canadian, Ryan Reynolds, showcases Erivo’s raw talent at its best.
In the documentary directed by Colin Hanks, the song is artfully interwoven with poignant moments. Through Erivo’s captivating vocals, layered harmonies inspired by a choir, and accompanied by an orchestra, the audience gets a glimpse into the emotional world of John Candy’s loved ones. As Candy’s children, Jennifer and Christopher, along with close friends like Catherine O’Hara and Dan Aykroyd, reminisce about the beloved actor’s sudden passing in 1994, the song serves as a poignant backdrop to their heartfelt recollections. Clips from Candy’s emotional funeral, where O’Hara delivered a moving eulogy, further underscore the profound impact of his loss.
When Reynolds first proposed the idea of using this song, he envisioned a gospel choir performance. However, a casual conversation with Erivo sparked a creative connection that led to a magical collaboration. Erivo, impressed by the song choice, promptly recorded a voice memo for Reynolds, previewing a portion of the chorus. The authenticity and emotion in her voice struck a chord with Reynolds, prompting immediate action to create a bespoke cover for the documentary.
Working alongside producer and musician Will Wells, Erivo poured her heart into reimagining this ’80s classic. Her previous collaboration with Wells on the Oscar-nominated song “Stand Up” from the film “Harriet” attests to their musical synergy. In the voice memo, Erivo expresses her love for the song, dubbing it one of her favorites and demonstrating her personal connection to the material.
Ultimately, the collaboration between Erivo and Reynolds resulted in a rendition that captures the essence of John Candy’s spirit. The finished track seamlessly blends joy, loss, and enduring kindness, mirroring Candy’s multifaceted personality. Reynolds, deeply moved by Erivo’s performance, describes the song as his favorite, acknowledging its haunting beauty and profound impact on him. The timeless quality of Erivo’s interpretation encapsulates the essence of the documentary and resonates with audiences on a profound level.
As “John Candy: I Like Me” prepares for its release on Prime Video, this powerful cover by Cynthia Erivo promises to be a standout moment in the film, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.