About David Cassidy, Camellia Hoare wrote:
David Cassidy was a brilliant vocalist who breathed fresh, energetic life into several classic covers. He is celebrated for his soaring pop vocals that brought unique emotional depth—and even won the praise of the original songwriters—to tracks by artists like Paul McCartney and The Young Rascals.David Cassidy's Most Beloved Covers"How Can I Be Sure" (originally by The Rascals)This is widely considered one of Cassidy's finest vocal performances.
While The Rascals' original was a soulful hit, Cassidy's 1972 rendition—featuring a delicate, conversational spoken-word breakdown—topped the UK Singles Chart at No. 1 and proved he was a formidable solo artist.
"Cherish" (originally by The Association)As the title track for his 1971 debut solo album, this cover highlighted his softer, romantic side. It was a massive success, cracking the top 10 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and peaking at No. 2 on the UK charts."
"Tomorrow" (originally by Paul McCartney and Wings)Included on his 1976 album Home Is Where the Heart Is, this is perhaps his most acclaimed deep-cut cover. Paul McCartney himself praised Cassidy's version, telling him it was "much better" than the original and successfully fulfilled the song's ultimate potential.
"Breaking Up Is Hard To Do" (originally by Neil Sedaka)Covered under his Partridge Family moniker, Cassidy turned this classic into an upbeat, breezy pop-rock anthem. Many fans and critics feel the Cassidy-led version easily stands shoulder-to-shoulder with (and sometimes preferred over) Neil Sedaka's original.
How Great They Are:
The Consensus David Cassidy covers are highly regarded because he never tried to simply mimic the original artists. Instead, he brought a bright, theatrical, and deeply earnest energy that resonated profoundly with audiences. His ability to hit vulnerable notes combined with upbeat, California-sunshine production gave these beloved classics an infectious new life.
David Cassidy's musical catalog is divided into two distinct, high-impact eras: his legendary recordings as the lead voice of The Partridge Family and his expansive solo career.
An organized roadmap outlines the definitive albums and compilations that shaped his musical legacy:
The Partridge Family Era (1970–1973)As the lead singer of the fictional TV band, Cassidy sang on all of the group's real-world studio albums.
They blended sharp bubblegum pop with professional, LA-studio instrumentation.
The Partridge Family Album (1970): The breakthrough debut featuring the massive, career-defining global smash hit "I Think I Love You".
Up To Date (1971): A chart-topping success that delivered foundational 70s pop radio staples like "Doesn't Somebody Want to Be Wanted".
The Partridge Family Sound Magazine (1971): Widely considered the group's most cohesive studio album, highlighted by the classic track "I Woke Up In Love This Morning".
Shopping Bag (1972): A creative evolution featuring the upbeat hit single "Am I losing You" and "It's One of Those Nights "
The Core Solo Years (1972–1976)At the height of "Cassidymania," David launched a solo career to explore more mature pop, adult contemporary, and soft rock textures.
Cherish (1972): His solo debut album that solidified him as a standalone superstar, propelled by the title track and the hit single "Could It Be Forever".
Rock Me Baby (1972): A soulful, pop-rock effort containing the groovy title track and his iconic cover of "How Can I Be Sure".
Dreams Are Nuthin' More Than Wishes (1973): A major international success that became a No. 1 album in the UK, spawning the hit "Daydreamer".
The Higher They Climb (1975): A highly autobiographical, concept-driven album released on RCA Records that reflected on the intense highs and lows of teen idol fame.
Home Is Where the Heart Is (1976): A critically respected soft-rock album featuring his acclaimed version of Paul McCartney's "Tomorrow."
Later Solo Era & Comebacks (1985–2000s)David Cassidy continued to evolve his sound over the decades, transitioning from synthesizer-driven 80s pop to polished, nostalgic adult contemporary.
Romance (1985): A sleek 1985 synth-pop album that scored him a massive European comeback single, "The Last Kiss", which featured backing vocals by pop icon George Michael.
David Cassidy (1990): A self-titled pop album produced by Phil Ramone, which earned him a Top 30 U.S. billboard hit with the catchy track "Lyin' To Myself".
Then and Now (2001): A compilation featuring freshly recorded, modern arrangements of his classic solo and Partridge Family hits.Essential CD Compilations for CollectorsIf you want to own his physical catalog, several essential collections compile his best work:David Cassidy -
The Bell Years 1972-1974: A comprehensive 4-CD clamshell box set from Rarewaves containing his first four solo albums (Cherish, Rock Me Baby, Dreams Are Nuthin' More Than Wishes, and Cassidy Live!) complete with original artwork sleeves.
David Cassidy & The Partridge Family - Could It Be Forever - The Greatest Hits: A budget-friendly, single-disc introductory compilation available from HMV Online that perfectly blends his solo hits with his television tracks.
The Partridge Family - Come on Get Happy: The Very Best Of: A definitive 2021 pop retrospective available via Tower Records that strictly focuses on the television band's ultimate, highest-charting
He deserves to be in the rock and roll hall of fame for his body of work. |
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J.W. wrote: