Nearly 20 Years Later, “Valerie” Returns—A Soulful New Take

When I first heard “Valerie”—the soulful track originally written by The Zutons and later made famous by Amy Winehouse and Mark Ronson—I knew it was the kind of song that stays with you. Nearly 20 years after its original release, I’m proud to share my own rendition, bringing a fresh blend of soul, funk, and indie pop energy to a classic that shaped a generation.

This isn’t just a cover—it’s a tribute. And it’s a track that’s been a long time coming.

Philip James gets ready to record "Valerie" at Pacific Beat Recording, putting on headphones and starting soundcheck.

Reviving a Soul Classic with New Energy

My version of “Valerie” was recorded in San Diego, California at Pacific Beat Recording, with Grammy Award-winning producer Alan Sanderson behind the board. We didn’t approach this song to copy what had been done—we came in to capture a feeling. A groove. A moment.

We assembled a crew of incredibly talented friends and musicians, and the chemistry was real. The track features:

• 🎸 Smooth rhythm guitar and vocals by yours truly, Philip James

• 🎛️ Electrifying lead guitar and solo by James Howard

• 🎷 Killer saxophone by Chris Guarino

• 🎹 Groovy Rhodes electric piano by Jeremy Miller

• 🎶 Thumping bass by Michael Emilio

• 🥁 Tight, driving drums by Christopher Thiel

The result is a soulful, modern twist that blends the best of R&B, pop rock, indie, and neo-soul. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the original or hearing “Valerie” for the first time—this version was made to move you.

In the sound booth, Chris Guarino captures the joy of music while recording saxophone, surrounded by vibrant lights.

Finding the Groove—One Take at a Time

From the moment we set foot in the studio, there was a kind of magic in the room. We weren’t just laying down parts—we were feeding off one another, chasing a groove that felt familiar yet fresh. Alan (our producer) kept the energy focused and flowing, and every take brought new life to the track.

There’s something special that happens when you play with people you trust—when everyone’s listening, responding, and locked into the same moment. That’s what happened here. James laid down a guitar solo that just soars. Jeremy’s Rhodes parts gave it this warm, velvety feel. And Chris’s drums were sharp and dynamic—never overdone, always just right. Chris Guarino’s saxophone added a layer of soul that felt like it was always meant to be there.

We weren’t overthinking it—we were feeling it. And that made all the difference.

Christopher Thiel recording drums in session over at Pacific Beat Recording.

Covering “Valerie” Without Copying It

Taking on a song as iconic as “Valerie”—especially one tied so closely to Amy Winehouse’s voice—is no small thing. I didn’t want to mimic it. I wanted to honor it.

Instead, we focused on our sound. On bringing the flavor we naturally carry—soulful vocals, tight musicianship, a touch of funk, and a whole lot of heart. That’s what led to this version: one that nods to the past but lives fully in the present.

Philip James singing passionately into the mic while recording live in studio.

Why This Song Still Hits

“Valerie” has that timeless quality—one of those tracks that hits no matter what decade you’re in. There’s pain in it. There’s playfulness. And there’s a rhythm that just moves you. That’s why I’m proud to have brought my own voice to it. We gave it space to breathe, and what came out of it was something that feels true to who I am as an artist today.

Thanks for being part of this moment with me—here’s to honoring the past, creating in the present, and building something timeless together.

Cheers,

Philip James