Who sang “First Cut Is the Deepest”? This timeless question echoes through the hearts of music enthusiasts worldwide. The song, with its soul-stirring lyrics and unforgettable melody, has been covered by numerous artists, each bringing their unique touch to this classic tune. But who truly captured the essence of this poignant ballad in its original form? Let’s delve into the history of “First Cut Is the Deepest” to uncover the answer.
The song “First Cut Is the Deepest” was originally written by Rod McKuen, a renowned American songwriter and poet. McKuen composed the song in the early 1960s, and it was first recorded by P.P. Arnold, an English singer and actress, in 1966. The original version, titled “The First Cut Is the Deepest,” was released as a single and quickly gained popularity, peaking at number 3 on the UK Singles Chart.
P.P. Arnold’s rendition of the song was a poignant and emotive take on the track, with her powerful voice conveying the heartache and pain of the lyrics. However, it was another artist who would later bring “First Cut Is the Deepest” to new heights of fame.
In 1979, the song was covered by Roberta Flack, an American singer and pianist who had already achieved significant success with her hits like “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face.” Flack’s cover of “First Cut Is the Deepest” was included on her album “Roberta Flack & Donny Hathaway,” which was a collaboration with the late soul singer Donny Hathaway. Her rendition of the song became an instant classic, earning her a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 1980.
Flack’s cover of “First Cut Is the Deepest” was a masterpiece, blending her smooth, soulful voice with the raw emotion of the lyrics. Her version became the most famous and widely recognized rendition of the song, overshadowing P.P. Arnold’s original version. Over the years, many other artists have covered the song, including Boy George, Dusty Springfield, and Rod McKuen himself, but none have captured the public’s imagination quite like Flack’s version.
In conclusion, while P.P. Arnold was the first to sing “First Cut Is the Deepest,” it was Roberta Flack’s powerful and emotional cover that solidified the song’s place in music history. The song’s timeless appeal continues to resonate with listeners today, making it one of the most enduring and beloved ballads of all time.
