The Bottom Line
"Rehab" by Amy Winehouse was already one of the world's most celebrated pop songs before her album Back to Black was ever released in the US. It has received numerous honors for good reason. "Rehab" is nearly as perfect as a pop recording can get. Personal drama is laid out in an instantly memorable song featuring Amy Winehouse's throaty vocals and an arrangement that brings back fond memories of pre-Beatles early 60's pop and r&b.
Watch the "Rehab" video
Pros
- Personal drama made catchy and fun
- Big, throaty vocals
- Retro early 60's pop sound
Cons
- No significant negatives here
Description
- Horn-drenched early 60's style pop arrangement
- Attitude-filled singing
- Words of independence
Guide Review - Amy Winehouse - Rehab
Alcohol has caused difficulties in the career of powerful singer Amy Winehouse, and this is where she lays out her story. According to the lyrics of "Rehab," the drinking was primarily fueled by remorse at the end of a relationship and since her dad said she was fine, rehab was not the right solution. The real-world inspiration for the song is the attempt by Winehouse's management team to get her to check in to alcohol rehabilitation. They were soon fired.
Beyond lyrical content, "Rehab" is absoutely infectious. Challenge yourself to not sing along with the "No, no, no" refrain. The early 60's style horn-fueled arrangement is instantly familiar to generations of pop music fans. "Rehab" is a slice of soulful pop to relish.
"Rehab" reached the UK top 10 in the fall of 2006 with the release of the album Back to Black. It has received loads of critical accolades including the prestigious Ivor Novello songwriting prize. In the US, the album was not released until March, 2007. Upon that release, "Rehab" was not chosen as the initial single, but a bravura performance of the song at MTV's Movie Awards along with rising radio airplay has helped drive the song toward the US pop top 10.
