When Pete Ham and Tom Evans of Badfinger wrote the song “Without You” in 1970, they had no idea it would become a global hit. Despite their doubts about the song’s potential, it went on to achieve international success. Tragically, both men would pass away before witnessing this success. Ham died by suicide in 1975, just five years after the song’s release on Badfinger’s album No Dice, while Evans also died by suicide in 1983. Financial conflicts, stemming from their manager Stan Polley taking most of the band’s earnings, played a role in their untimely deaths.
In a heartbreaking note, Ham expressed his distrust for others and blamed Polley for his decision to take his own life. Evans, on the other hand, argued over royalties with his bandmate Joey Molland before tragically taking his own life. The band’s future seemed bleak after these losses.
Listen to Badfinger’s ‘Without You’
Despite Badfinger’s doubts, Harry Nilsson saw potential in “Without You” and released a cover of the song in 1971. Nilsson’s version faced challenges during production, with producer Richard Perry having to convince him to embrace certain elements of the song. The cover eventually became a huge success, earning Nilsson a Grammy for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance.
Nilsson’s version brought newfound recognition to Badfinger as songwriters, with Evans expressing his excitement over other artists recording their songs. The success of the cover breathed new life into the band’s work.
Listen to Harry Nilsson’s Cover of ‘Without You’
Years later, Mariah Carey would also find success with a cover of “Without You.” Despite her young age at the time, Carey’s diverse musical tastes led her to choose the song for her third album, Music Box. Her version, released in 1994, became a chart-topping hit in multiple countries.
Carey’s rendition of the song, which paid homage to Nilsson’s arrangement while showcasing her powerful vocals, solidified her status as a successful artist. The song’s enduring popularity further solidified its place in music history.
Watch Mariah Carey’s Music Video for ‘Without You’
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Gallery Credit: UCR Staff
FAQs
Q: Who originally wrote the song “Without You”?
A: “Without You” was originally written by Pete Ham and Tom Evans of the band Badfinger.
Q: Who released a successful cover of “Without You” in 1971?
A: Harry Nilsson released a cover of “Without You” in 1971, which went on to become a chart-topping hit.
Q: When did Mariah Carey release her cover of “Without You”?
A: Mariah Carey released her cover of “Without You” in 1994, achieving significant success with the song.
Credit: popcrush.com
