In the field of invention I have often wondered what gave inspiration to those who came up with the great ideas. What made anyone think of harnessing electricity, or even having the insight to realize that it had the potential to be harnessed. Yeah, I know of Ben and the kite in the storm. How did Marconi come up with the idea of wireless communications. It is like science fiction. Some minds obviously work differently than others.

I have an example of this in the entertainment field. I consider it a great example of someone recognizing potential when most of us probably would not have caught on to anything other than a weird novelty. This is turning the sow's ear into a silk purse. One of the standards of blues, often considered one of the greatest performances ever, was the late Nina Simone and her outstanding rendition of "I Put A Spell On You." Check out at least part of that below, if you do not know the song.   

 

Where did this classic come from? It was written and first performed by a novelty act from the 50's. The guy's name was Screamin' Jay Hawkins. He specialized in the weirdest stage persona ever and his act was largely grunting. Make fun of the act if you want but he was one of a kind. Another of his creations was the Constipation Blues. Nobody saw the greatness in that one I guess but you can find it at youtube if you want. Instead, here is the original I Put a Spell on You.

I find it amazing that anyone listening to that would see and hear through the silliness. Somebody did and mainstream artists began recording it -- without the personal frills. It has ended up as one of the standards of blues and rock n' roll. Who would have thunk it?