Number 14

DES'REE - KISSING YOU

(Weeks, Atack)

(1997)

(Aus. #17)

This beautiful, haunting song was the main crutch of Baz Lurhman's 'Romeo and Juliet'. The melodic piano and sweeping strings highlight pure emotion in music and Des'ree's longing, wanting vocals gave the song it's raw, striking edge. The pain and suffering she is going through missing her loved one is distinctly evidents throughout the song. Despite limited chart success (mainly in Australia) the song remains a fan favourite and immediately recognisable to anyone who has seen the film. So strong is the song that Beyonce went against the conditions of copyright, which allowed her to cover the song without recording a video or changing the name, in order to let the world hear her interpretation. Whilst Beyonce did a fine job, Des'ree's version has remained the most enduring.