Back a year after her single release of “Ahead of Myself,” Mo Kenney is here with her subdued rendition of a heartfelt classic: “You Belong To Me.” Though the track differs slightly from her usual style, it still contains Kenney’s signature sound — but with an extra dose of softness and sweetness.
Written by Chilton Price, Pee Wee King and Redd Stewart, the track was initially recorded in 1952 by Joni James. The song was written first with the title “Hurry Home to Me” as an anthem for wives anxiously awaiting the return of their soldier husbands during World War II. Before its release, however, its focus was shifted along with its title to reflect a more universal sentiment felt by any pair of separated lovers.
Though the track has been covered by many over the years, the version that resonated the most with Kenney (and perhaps the most popular version to date) was Patsy Cline’s 1962 rendition. Kenney’s cover of the track not only demonstrates her own longing for love but also offers a glimpse into her musical influence. And with influences like Patsy Cline, it is no wonder Kenney has such a strong ability to craft highly emotional and relatable songs.
In addition, Kenney relates the track’s meaning to our universal longing to be with family during the current difficult times. Being far from our loved ones for so many months is tough, and missing them feels as natural as breathing.
“Old country songs always remind me of hanging out with my grandfather Ozzy in West Gore,” says Kenney. “The radio was always on, and those tunes were always playing. I’ve been a fan of Patsy Cline since I was a kid, and this is my favourite song of hers.”
Though she has been fairly quiet over the past year, we know that the work Kenney is putting into whatever it is she has in store for us will make it well worth the wait.