Ben by DrQuizzler

Here's "our" instrumental cover of "Ben", a song I've long admired from the early Michael Jackson catalog, but hadn't considered trying as an instrumental until I recently became aware of a beautiful rendition by classical violinist Andre Rieu performed as a touching tribute, during one of his television specials from Vienna, shortly after Michael's death, as he joined the rest of the world in mourning him. Michael's original recording of this song showed a part of his range where he could make a strong statement without a catchy beat, a big accompaniment, his amazing dance moves, or any of his trademark bluesy embellishments, singing mostly very straight and simply. The song itself is from a movie of the same name, about a lonely boy who befriends a rat and named him "Ben", despite adults around them opposing their friendship. I've often wondered if this song about loneliness, sadness, compassion and friendship, didn't give us a glimpse into Michael's actual world also. Either way, he did an incredible job singing this. I dedicate this performance to the man, and his outstanding contribution to the music industry and to our collective soundtrack. For this version, I used the Garritan virtual oboe, the Pianoteq 5 virtual Steinway D concert grand, Cubase, and the many virtual instruments of Halion.

Song

Ben

Performed by

DrQuizzler

Originally by

Michael Jackson

Video title

Ben - Jackson 5 / Michael Jackson (Instrumental Cover by DrQuizzler)

Views

2618

Likes

7