Following our previous feature on Rusty Reid, who impressed us with his thoughtful, microtonal interpretation of Blue Water Highway’s Alchemist, the Texas-born singer-songwriter is back with a new take on another iconic song: Johnny Nash’s 1972 classic, I Can See Clearly Now.
I Can See Clearly Now opens with textured drums and a glistening guitar soundscape. It immediately gives the song a warm, cinematic quality. We love the way Rusty approaches such a familiar classic. Instead of trying to completely reinvent it, he keeps the joy and simplicity of the OG version, whilst bringing his own voice and guitar work into the arrangement.
For some background, Johnny Nash’s version became a No. 1 hit in 1972 and remains one of those songs that feels super familiar. Its message is simple but long lasting. It’s optimistic and metaphorical showing us that the clouds have cleared, the difficult days are behind us, and there is a sense of freedom ahead. Rusty clearly understands what makes the song work and avoids overcomplicating it.
We learn that this was also a conscious decision on his part. After listening to numerous covers, Rusty felt that versions which tried to make the song edgier, heavier or more dramatic often lost the authentic optimism of Nash’s original. Instead, he asked Nashville musician Jed Demlow to create an arrangement that stayed close to the spirit of the 1972 recording.
We particularly enjoy the vocals, which feel natural and unforced, as well as the guitar work that becomes more prominent towards the third verse and outro. His 1966 Gibson ES-330 adds a distinctive Rusty touch to the track, helping it feel like an interpretation rather than simply another cover.
There is also something obviously cinematic about I Can See Clearly Now. Johnny Nash’s original has appeared in films like Thelma & Louise and Grosse Pointe Blank, whilst Jimmy Cliff’s later version became closely associated with Cool Runnings. Rusty’s version has the same quality.
As part of Lone Stardust (Masterworks of Texas Songwriters), the song also feels right at home. Nash was born in Houston, giving Rusty another connection to the Texas songwriting tradition that shapes the album.
Needless to say, we are very happy to welcome Rusty Reid back. I Can See Clearly Now is a respectful, warm and genuinely enjoyable interpretation that keeps the magic of Johnny Nash’s original while making room for Rusty’s own sound. We have added it to our New Music Spotlight playlist and will be keeping an eye on Lone Stardust.