We have a collection of 4 arrangements for The Verve - Bittersweet Symphony
Why did The Verve lose royalties for their most famous song? Learn!
"Bittersweet Symphony" is a song by the English alternative rock band The Verve. Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Release Date: "Bittersweet Symphony" was released as a single on June 16, 1997. It was also included in The Verve's third studio album, "Urban Hymns," which was released in the same year.
Sample Controversy: The most famous aspect of the song is its use of a sample from an orchestral version of The Rolling Stones' song "The Last Time." The Verve secured permission to use a four-note sample from the recording, but it led to a major legal battle. Ultimately, the band had to give up most of the song's royalties to The Rolling Stones and the songwriting credits were changed to list Mick Jagger and Keith Richards as co-writers alongside The Verve's Richard Ashcroft.
Chart Success: Despite the legal issues, "Bittersweet Symphony" became one of The Verve's biggest hits and is often considered their signature song. It reached the top of the charts in multiple countries and received critical acclaim for its orchestral sound and melancholic lyrics.
Music Video: The music video for "Bittersweet Symphony" is also well-known. It features Richard Ashcroft walking down a crowded street in London while bumping into and shoving pedestrians. The video's continuous tracking shot and Ashcroft's iconic walk became iconic in itself.
Grammy Nomination: The song received a Grammy Award nomination for Best Rock Song in 1999, but it lost to Aerosmith's "Pink."
Cultural Impact: "Bittersweet Symphony" has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, solidifying its place in popular culture. It's often associated with moments of introspection and nostalgia.
Urban Hymns: The album "Urban Hymns," which includes "Bittersweet Symphony," is considered one of the defining albums of the Britpop era. It received critical acclaim and commercial success, earning a place in the annals of British rock history.
Live Performances: The Verve were known for their powerful live performances, and "Bittersweet Symphony" was a staple of their concerts. It was often extended with instrumental sections, creating an even more epic and emotional live experience.
Legacy: "Bittersweet Symphony" continues to be a beloved and enduring song. It's frequently covered and referenced in popular culture, and its impact on the music industry and fans alike remains significant.
Alternative Versions: The song has several alternative versions and remixes, including the orchestral arrangement, acoustic versions, and remixes by various artists and DJs. These variations have contributed to its enduring popularity in different musical contexts.
"Bittersweet Symphony" stands as a classic of 1990s alternative rock and a testament to The Verve's musical prowess, despite the legal disputes surrounding its creation.