As I sit here listening to Rumer‘s 70s-inspired new single, “P.F. Sloan,” I’m kicking myself for not covering her sooner here on Music Is My King Size Bed. A cover of a song written by Jimmy Webb, “P.F. Sloan” is named for the 60s American pop/rock singer/songwriter who, in addition to his own successful career, wrote various Top 20 hits for The Searchers, The Mamas & The Papas and several others. Due out May 21st (iTunes UK), “P.F. Sloan” serves as the first single off of Rumer‘s forthcoming sophomore album, Boys Don’t Cry, due May 28th on Atlantic Records. The album sees Rumer covering a selection of songs by artists/songwriters from the 70s including Todd Rungren, Terry Reid, Tim Hardin, Richie Havens, Leon Russell, Gilbert O’Sullivan and others. Who doesn’t love a good covers album, right?
With her highly anticipated new album on the horizon, 2012 is shaping up to be a fantastic year for the 32-year old British singer/songwriter. Most recently, Rumer had the extreme honor of being the only British artist invited to perform at the White House in front of the President, on a bill that included all-star greats like Stevie Wonder, Sheryl Crow, Diana Krall and actor Mike Myers. Rumer was also blessed to be able to perform in front of her idol, the legendary Burt Bacharach, with whom she famously sang in his Californian home just before being signed to Atlantic Records.
The concert was held in honor of Bacharach and Hal David this past week (May 9th), presenting them with the 2012 Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song. This landmark occasion marked the first time the prestigious Gershwin prize has been awarded to a songwriting team. Past honorees have included Sir Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder.
It’s not even out yet and “P.F. Sloan” is off to a brilliant start, having already been A-Listed on Radio 1! Definitely a good sign of things to come for this mega-talented artist, who’s critically acclaimed debut album, Seasons Of My Soul went double platinum back in 2010, as well as earning two BRIT Award nominations and a MOJO Award for ‘Breakthrough Act.’
Rumer‘s just announced an intimate headline date at St. James’ Church on May 24th, followed by a sure-to-be-stunning performance on May 28th at London’s Royal Albert Hall. Check out Rumer singing her new single live at the Rivoli Ballroom HERE, and listen to the album version BELOW.
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