Rick Astley Records A New Take On His Iconic Track

Photo credit: ici.radio-canada.ca

Singer Rick Astley has recorded a new version of a classic hit to raise awareness for hearing loss. The English pop star has re-recorded his 1987 hit “Never Gonna Give You Up” with incorrect lyrics as a playful way to bring attention to one of the many ways hearing loss can affect people. 

A classic with a twist 

The new track, entitled “Never Gonna Give You Up – The Misheard Version,” sounds almost identical to the original. However, if you pay attention, you’ll hear that Astley has changed the lyrics to incorporate phrases often misheard by listeners. On the chorus, Astley’s soulful voice belts, “Then I’m gonna give you up, then I’m gonna let you down, then I’m gonna run around with dessert spoons.” 

Other lyric twists in the re-recorded song include “a broken mitten” instead of “a full commitment” and “your aunt’s been naked” instead of “your heart’s been aching.”  

Personal experience with hearing loss 

Like many professional musicians and others exposed to frequent loud noises, Astley has experienced some hearing loss. He has received hearing aids from a professional audiologist and continues to perform. In a video he’s shared through his social media channels, he says, “I’d encourage anyone to get their hearing tested if they notice any changes, so they don’t lose the sounds or music they love.” 

Different types of hearing loss 

Hearing loss can reveal itself in different ways, and its early stages can easily be ignored or overlooked. In addition to mishearing lyrics, some telltale signs of hearing loss include: 

• Difficulty understanding conversations 
• Failing to hear the doorbell or telephone 
• Inability to tell which direction a sound is coming from 
• Inability to hear speech in crowded spaces 
• Difficulty hearing certain pitches of voice 
• Ringing in the ears 

You don’t have to wait until you’re certain of hearing loss to schedule a hearing test at a hearing clinic, especially if you spend a lot of time in noisy environments. An audiologist can check your hearing and advise you on strategies to ensure you keep hearing your favourite music for years to come. 

Your Trusted Audiologist In Calgary 

Whether you’re mishearing song lyrics or missing the sound of a loved one’s voice, the dedicated team at Soundwave Hearing Care can help. We provide hearing tests and comprehensive hearing assessments for people of all ages. In addition to our Calgary hearing clinic, we have locations in Lethbridge, High River and Grande Prairie. We also carry protective gear to keep you hearing at your best for longer. Contact us today to make your appointment.