"IF YOU ASKED ME TO"

Recorded by Patti Labelle in 1989 ------> YouTube

Covered by Celine Dion in 1992... in a higher key ------> YouTube

Even though Celine's version was a far bigger hit I feel that Patti's is superior. I prefer the production, backing vocals and of course Patti's restrained (for her) performance. I love how extra Patti is live but ADORE her more straight ahead recorded vocals (this song, the "I'm In Love Again" album - "If Only You Knew", "Love, Need and Want You") too. I feel like Patti is more elegant that Celine during the verses and her version builds nicely to the superior climax ("I'll give you my HEART").

SoulConservator said:

Even though Celine's version was a far bigger hit I feel that Patti's is superior. I prefer the production, backing vocals and of course Patti's restrained (for her) performance. I love how extra Patti is live but ADORE her more straight ahead recorded vocals (this song, the "I'm In Love Again" album - "If Only You Knew", "Love, Need and Want You") too. I feel like Patti is more elegant that Celine during the verses and her version builds nicely to the superior climax ("I'll give you my HEART").

Even though Celine is Canada's QUAIN of Mics, I agree with your assessment. I way preferred Patti's this morning.

"Patti, PATTI!!!"- Alexander O'Neal "Fake
(1986)

Patti was very bitter for awhile when Celine's cover exploded all over the charts. It wasn't Celine's fault MCA decided not to promote Patti's version outside of black radio. I like Patti's version more but she just didn't have the support from her label at that time.