Same song, different meaning

(Whitley 2008, 'Dancing Queen on Triple J like a version', online video, retrieved 11 June 2010, from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frI8q2GLZI4&feature=player_embedded)

This cover version of the Abba song 'Dancing Queen' shows how voice and music are a separate text. In Chapter 7, Schlunke says that "certain voices combined with music or memory or both may render us ecstatic, morbid or formless" (2008: 265).

Although the Whitley version of the song uses the same lyrics and melody, the aesthetics are completely different. The lyrics seem more meaningful as many aspects of the song have changed. The more upbeat, pop sound of Abba has been replaced with a slow and softer sound. Whitley's voice in particular is very soft and calm. Theo Van Leeuwen discusses how voice level evokes certain feelings. A softer voice is considered to be more intimate, which is why Whitley's version feels like the story in the lyrics are more meaningful.