I’ve never been really sure what Sparks’ “Never Turn Your Back On Mother Earth” is about but its sincere tone really stood out among the jokey archness of their records.
It’s such a gorgeous song I’m not surprised there are so many cover versions, and I adore this one by Billy Mackenzie released on the posthumous 2005 album Transmission Impossible. This doesn’t really diverge from the original (he sounds lot like Russell Mael anyway) but having it sung by the angelic, tragic voice of Billy with just a piano makes it an even sadder lament.
Download: Never Turn Your Back On Mother Earth – Billy Mackenzie (mp3)
Photo: Lady Bridgett Elizabeth Felicia Henrietta Augusta Poulett as ‘Arethusa’ by Madame Yevonda, 1935
cryingallthewaytothechipshop.wordpress.com 
A really wonderful version.
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Hi Lee – All OK in Chip Shop land? You haven’t posted in a while…
Phil
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Huh? I posted something yesterday
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Well, something must be wrong my end as the last post I have from you is the Billy Mackenze Don’t be tempted by her favour one on August 6!
Missing you!
Phil
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