Laurie Anderson - O Superman

A slice of art-house electronica from Laurie Anderson, now Mrs. Lou Reed. This was a surprise number two hit in the UK singles chart back in 1981, after appearing on the John Peel show. Despite being voted the "least popular single of the year" by Radio Times readers, it's actually fantastic.



The full title of this song, taken from the album/performance piece United States is 'O Superman (for Massenet)' and the opening refrain of the song "O Superman, O Judge, O Mom and Dad" refers to the aria "Ô Souverain, ô juge, ô père" from Massenet's Opera Le Cid, performed here by Placido Domingo.

Howard Goodall: How Music Works

Watch Howard Goodall's 2006 documentary, How Music Works.

• Episode One: Melody
  
• Episode Two: Rhythm
  
• Episode Three: Harmony
  
• Episode Four: Bass
  

I can't find Goodall's other documentaries, so if anyone knows where I can find a link, especially for 20th Century Greats, I would be very grateful.