he song was originally written and recorded by Bruce Springsteen for his 1973 album, Greetings from Asbury Park, N.J. Three years later, British rock band Manfred Mann’s Earth Band released their cover as the opening track of their 1976 album, The Roaring Silence. “Blinded by the Light” was an enormous hit for the band, leading to their breakthrough in the U.S.
One-upping a master songwriter like Springsteen is an incredible musical achievement, and Manfred Mann’s Earth Band managed to pull it off. In fact, their cover became Springsteen’s first and only songwriting credit to hit No. 1.
When putting their own spin on “Blinded by the Light,” Manfred Mann’s Earth Band changed a few of Springsteen’s original lyrics. The most recognizable part of the song, Blinded by the light / Revved up like a Deuce / Another runner in the night, was initially, Cut loose like a Deuce / Another runner in the night.
Even though this chorus is the most iconic part of the song, it is also notoriously misheard by fans. In the cover, Revved up like a Deuce sounds an awful lot like Wrapped up like a douche.
In 2005, Springsteen himself commented on this amusing mistake. “Deuce was like a Little Deuce Coupe, as in a 2-seater Hot Rod. Douche is a feminine hygienic procedure. But what can I say, the public spoke,” he joked.
Manfred Mann’s version of the song is seven minutes long, compared to Springsteen’s five-minute original version.
Manfred Mann’s cover of “Blinded by the Light” is just as well-known as the original song, if not more. While the band used their own sound and style to make it their own, they still kept Springsteen’s vision at the core. Both songs have the same lyrics, melody, and rock and roll sound. Regardless, Springsteen and Manfred Mann each have distinct vocals and massively talented bands, making both versions of the song totally unique.
“Blinded by the Light” is evidence that the perfect cover is an even blend of creativity and respect
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