The Zutons - Valerie Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who originally wrote and performed the song 'Valerie'?

   'Valerie' was originally written and performed by the English indie rock band The Zutons. It was released as part of their second studio album, 'Tired of Hanging Around,' in 2006.

2. What inspired Dave McCabe to write 'Valerie'?

   Dave McCabe, lead singer of The Zutons, wrote 'Valerie' about an American friend who got into trouble for driving under the influence. He mentioned that he came up with the idea while in a cab on his way to visit his mother.

3. How did Mark Ronson and Amy Winehouse come to cover 'Valerie'?

   Mark Ronson and Amy Winehouse covered 'Valerie' for Ronson's second studio album, 'Version.' After working together on Winehouse's 'Back to Black,' Ronson asked her to contribute to his project. Despite initial uncertainty about how it would fit, they recorded it and it became a hit.

4. What chart success did The Zutons’ version of 'Valerie' achieve?

   'Valerie' by The Zutons peaked at number nine on the UK Singles Chart in 2006 and gained significant attention after being featured during the 2006 FIFA World Cup coverage by ITV.

5. Did Amy Winehouse record different versions of 'Valerie'?

   Yes, Amy Winehouse recorded a jazzier, acoustic version for Radio 1's Live Lounge in addition to the more well-known version she did with Mark Ronson. Both versions were successful, with the Ronson collaboration peaking at number two on the UK Singles Chart.

6. 'Was Valerie Star really the inspiration behind the song?'

   'Yes, according to an interview with Vice magazine in June 2019, celebrity makeup artist Valerie Star confirmed she was the inspiration behind Dave McCabe's lyrics after getting arrested for driving on a suspended license.'