Background Information
Black Horse and the Cherry Tree is a song by Scottish singer-songwriter and guitarist KT Tunstall, released as the first single from the debut album “Eye to the Telescope” (2004). The song was written while Tunstall attended an artist residence at the CalArts Institute in Valencia, California, in summer 2003. It was released as a single in the United Kingdom on 15 February 2004 and peaked at number 20 on the UK Singles Chart. It later peaked at number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the US. The song was also used in the American TV series “Grey’s Anatomy” and received a Grammy Award nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 2006.
Details of the Song
The song is an acoustic blues song with elements of rock, folk and country music. The song is composed in the key of E minor and is set in common time with a steady tempo of 92 beats per minute. The song follows the chord progression of E−B/D♯−A2−C♯m−F♯m for the verses and B−E−F♯m−A2−B−E for the chorus. The lyrics describe a conversation between the singer and a mysterious figure, possibly Death, who offers the singer a release from a relationship in which she no longer wishes to stay.
Reception
The song was well received by critics. Rolling Stone magazine praised the song for its “evocative imagery and processed synths” and called it “nu-folk that manages to stay both original and accessible”. AllMusic called the song “a memorable and distinctive blues-tinged rocker” and praised the way it “uses its production touches to enhance rather than overshadow the song’s craftsmanship”. Sputnikmusic described the song as a “hearty folk-rock number” and praised the “lush and earthy production”.
Media Popularity
The song was very successful in the media. It was featured in the television series “Grey’s Anatomy” and the video game “Guitar Hero: On Tour”. The song was also included in the compilation album “Now That’s What I Call Music! 17”, which charted at number one in the UK Albums Chart. In addition, the song was featured in television commercials for American Eagle Outfitters and McDonald’s.
Influence and Impact
The song laid the foundation for KT Tunstall’s subsequent success. The song won her an Ivor Novello Award for Best Contemporary Song in 2005 and a Grammy Award nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 2006. It also helped propel Tunstall’s debut album “Eye to the Telescope” to the top 10 of the British albums chart, and made her a household name in the UK and US.
Musical Style and Influences
The song is a blend of genres, combining blues, rock, folk and country elements. The song is driven by vocals and guitar, but is also augmented by subtle electronic production. Tunstall has cited Joni Mitchell and Rickie Lee Jones as influences on the song, and has stated that she was also inspired by Indian music as she was residing in Valencia at the time of its writing.
Live Performances
The song has been performed in numerous live shows by Tunstall since its release, and is usually featured in the middle of the set, preceded by the songs “Other Side of the World” and “Suddenly I See”. The song is also frequently played as the encore for most of Tunstall’s shows, and is often accompanied by audience participation.
Impact on Other Artists
The song has been covered by a wide range of artists, including Adam Levine, Rihanna, Bruno Mars, and Tori Amos. The song has also been sampled and remixed by artists such as Trip Lee, who released a remix of the song titled “Black Horse and the Rock ‘n Roll Tree”. The influence of “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree” can be heard in the work of many other artists, including Lauren O’Connell, Kina Grannis, and Christina Perri.
Social Impact
The song became popular in the UK and US due to its catchy melody, accessible lyrics, and positive message. The lyrics of the song have struck a chord with many people, inspiring them to break free from oppressive relationships, to assert themselves and work for change. The song has become an anthem of hope and self-determination for many, and has been featured in campaigns for charities such as the UK’s National Society for the Protection of Cruelty to Children.
Political Impact
The song has also had a political impact, with its lyrics being used as a rallying cry for social justice and human rights. The song’s message of freedom has been featured in multiple political rallies, including the 2018 Women’s March in Washington D.C., and the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests. The song has been seen as an anthem of hope and solidarity in the struggle for equality, and has been covered by numerous artists in support of various causes.
Composition Analysis
The lyrics of “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree” are full of powerful imagery, describing a conversation between the singer and a mysterious figure. The song has been praised for its vivid imagery, clever wordplay, and use of metaphor. KT Tunstall has stated that she was inspired by the “stark drama of the blues”, bringing a sense of urgency and passion to the song. The song’s horn and guitar-driven melody draws on rock, blues, folk and country elements, creating a distinctive sound that has resonated with audiences around the world.
Critical Reception and Awards
The song was widely praised by critics upon its release. It was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 2006, and won an Ivor Novello Award for Best Contemporary Song in 2005. It was also included in the compilation album “Now That’s What I Call Music! 17”, which charted at number one in the UK Albums Chart.
Enduring Legacy
The song has become an anthem of freedom and self-determination for many, and has spawned a large number of covers from a wide range of artists. The song has been featured in multiple film and television soundtracks, and has been used in political rallies for social justice and human rights. The song has become one of KT Tunstall’s defining songs, and her career has been built on the success of this song.
Conclusion
KT Tunstall’s “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree” has become an enduring classic, winning critical acclaim and resonating with audiences around the world. The song is an impressive blend of genres and has become a rallying cry for freedom and hope. The song has had lasting impact, resulting in numerous covers, political campaigns, and countless performances. KT Tunstall’s career has been built on the success of this song, and it remains one of her signature songs.
