Duffy Brings Back 1960s Retro Feel to Music

Amber Rowe
Arts & Entertainment Editor

Courtesy of  dailymail.com

   When first hearing Duffy's "Mercy" from the Welsh singer's album, "Rockferry," you instantly think you hear Amy Winehouse. It seems as though the two U.K. singers want to bring back the sound of 1960s girl groups, some of the best music of all time. Duffy's music will take you back to a place in time where this style of music echoed throughout drive-ins, cruising down town provided a social outlet and Wolfman Jack reigned as king of radio.

   Duffy, whose original name is Aimee Anne Duffy, puts that soulful edge on each and every song. If you want to indulge in an evening of relaxation or cruising around town, "Rockferry" needs to be your album of choice. The album has sold over 3.3 million copies worldwide and it debuted at No. 1 on the U.K. charts. "Mercy," by far, ranks as her biggest hit.

   One part of the song goes: Now you think that I /will be something on the side /but you got to understand that I need a man who can take my hand /yes I do.

  Duffy's voice proves to be the complete opposite of her petite size. "Mercy" borrows some beats from Diana Ross and the Supremes, as well as Petula Clark.

    "Rockferry," the actual song, gives off a slow relaxing beat and really shows off Duffy's strong vocals. "Serious," grabs your attention because of it's catchy beat. The song begins with: I'm a trophy on your arm, you wear me like a charm, yes you do.

   In 2003,Duffy auditioned for "Wawffactor," a welsh alternative to "Pop Idol," where she was expected to win. She came second to winner Lisa Pedrig. The singer often gets compared to a modern day Dusty Springfield, but does not take kindly to the comparison.

"Distant Dreamer," my favorite song on the album, sheds a positive light on life. The song's lyrics send the message that no matter how tough life gets, there is always hope and reminds you to think about all the things you want to accomplish in life.

   The overall feel to the album gives a mellow/retro vibe. With some music on the radio being on the depressing side nowadays, "Rockferry," proves to be a breathe of fresh air.

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