Every one of our fans is an all star in our eyes, so consider this week’s video our tribute to you:) American Idol alum Vonzell Solomon makes her PMJ debut with this classic ska recasting of Smash Mouth ’s ubiquitous 1999 hit “All Star.” Check it out here:
Click here to download the song on iTunes.
All that glitters is gold, and that certainly applies to Vonzell Solomon, glowing like a shooting star in ruby sequins. Since wowing the judges all the way to becoming second runner-up on American Idol Season 4, Vonzell has kept incredibly busy: she’s toured with Broadway shows, done turns on The Tyra Banks Show and Regis and Kelly, launched her own record label and publishing company, and even become a spokesperson for the United States Postal Service! With this week’s special delivery, “Baby V” brings her powerhouse pipes into the world of PMJ for the first time, rocking “All Star” with a reggae beat.
Scott Bradlee’s arrangement harkens back to the vintage ska of ‘60s Jamaica and ‘70s U.K., borrowing from greats like Jimmy Cliff, The Skatalites, The English Beat and The Specials. It’s a perfect match for Smash Mouth ’s bouncy verses, which sound even catchier (if that’s possible), with Scott’s chugging organ and the PMJ horns. Vonzell’s vocal is infectiously joyous, then takes a dramatic turn halfway through as she really shows off her emotional and dynamic range, first accompanied by Scott alone on piano, then swelling to an explosive crescendo as the full band surges behind her. All right, rock star, get your game on – go play (the video)!
-Shaun