Originally Posted by
RanRan79
Since it's said to be the first song the group recorded at Motown, I wonder if it was always intended to be unreleased and was instead recorded to give Berry and the others a feel for each girl's lead singing abilities and how they come across on record. Had I been involved in early Motown and this song was presented to me for my thoughts:
Flo sounds like a naturally good singer, probably comes across as the most gifted [[if you think of voices in that way), yet doesn't really excite or jump out at the listener in this kind of song. Definitely can hear the gospel and blues influence, and when it comes to slower songs such as "After All", Flo would be a perfect fit for the ones with a gospel/blues spirit.
Mary is clearly at home with this kind of song. She plays the part well of a girl with boy problems. A good singer, she may have come across as having a niche, as opposed to being able to tackle various types of songs. Might've been my choice for lead if I wanted to rival the current girl groups at that time, like the Shirelles.
Barbara isn't a bad singer, but she is not the lead singer the other girls are. She could probably do all the lead of a song like "After All", but would probably struggle with anything remotely more complicated. I would also take note of how strong the background harmonies become when Barbara is doing the lead. Flo, Diana and Mary together sound great. Barbara does have a Carla Thomas vibe to her vocals.
Diana definitely has a voice that either some will love or some will be annoyed by, largely owing to the nasalness of her voice. But her voice is so different from the others in the group [[and probably on the radio) that it immediately captures attention. It also cuts through the song in a way I personally think is appealing. I could hear her voice being at home in a song like this or in something very different.
I would also consider that my feelings might would change on each girl's voice if they switched verses. Would I feel the same about Diana if she started the song off? Would Flo sound more at home if she closed the song and was able to ad lib her way out? Something to consider.
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