Northern Irish musician Phil Coulter expresses delight as his ’60s hit “Puppet on a String” gets sampled in Jade Thirlwall’s debut solo single, “Angel of My Dreams

A song written by Phil Coulter in the 1960s is experiencing a resurgence 57 years after its original release. The Northern Ireland musician’s iconic track, “Puppet on a String,” has been sampled in Jade Thirlwall’s debut solo single, “Angel of My Dreams,” which was released on Friday. This marks Thirlwall’s first solo endeavour since Little Mix announced their hiatus.

Co-written by Coulter and Bill Martin, “Puppet on a String” gained fame when Sandie Shaw performed it to win the Eurovision Song Contest in 1967. Speaking to BBC News NI, Coulter shared his excitement about the new version of his song. “I was thrilled when I found out about the sample,” he said. “My grandchildren were the first to inform me, telling me that the record was getting rave reviews and could be the song of the summer.”

Coulter, who was awarded the freedom of Derry in 2022, expressed his surprise and delight at the renewed interest in his song. “I made a point of listening to ‘Angel of My Dreams,’ and I am delighted, flattered, and flabbergasted to be part of this project,” he said. “It’s astonishing that a song from so long ago is even on the radar of a young artist like Jade Thirlwall.”

The songwriter explained that he had no involvement in the sampling process. “I had nothing to do with it,” he said. “Jade’s producer, a current hot shot with numerous hits, decided that ‘Puppet on a String’ would work well to set the mood at the start of the track.”

Coulter’s family has been particularly thrilled by the news. “It’s very unusual for my kids to bask in the glory of their dad having music in the charts,” he said. “They would have preferred if I was an accountant. But now, if this becomes the hit of the summer, I might just become cool in their eyes.”

Reflecting on his career, Coulter said, “For every professional songwriter, the ambition is to write songs that stand the test of time. I’ve been lucky to have a kitbag of songs that have outlived their time on the charts. Nothing makes a songwriter happier than when somebody breathes new life into a song that has been asleep for a while.”

Coulter, a winner of five Ivor Novello awards and holder of numerous platinum, gold, and silver discs, described himself as one of Jade Thirlwall’s newest and biggest fans. “I’ve been talking her up to all my friends and acquaintances,” he said, embracing his newfound relevance in the modern music scene.

Analysis

Political

The resurgence of “Puppet on a String” through Jade Thirlwall’s “Angel of My Dreams” highlights the enduring influence of classical music on contemporary culture. Politically, this underscores the importance of cultural heritage and the preservation of artistic legacies. The collaboration between generations through music can serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness of past and present, influencing political discussions on cultural policies and the funding of arts programs.

Social

Socially, this event illustrates the power of music to transcend generations. Thirlwall’s sampling of a 1960s hit introduces Coulter’s work to a new audience, bridging the gap between different age groups. This phenomenon reflects broader societal trends where nostalgia and contemporary culture intersect, allowing older generations to share their musical heritage with younger listeners. It also highlights the role of the family in maintaining cultural connections, as Coulter’s grandchildren played a key role in informing him about the new single.

Racial

While the article does not directly address racial themes, the collaboration between artists of different generations and backgrounds can be seen as a celebration of diversity in the music industry. The blending of Coulter’s Northern Irish heritage with Thirlwall’s contemporary British pop influences represents a fusion of cultural identities, promoting inclusivity and the sharing of diverse musical traditions.

Gender

Jade Thirlwall’s solo debut marks a significant step in her career, emphasizing the empowerment of female artists in the music industry. By sampling a classic hit, she not only pays homage to the past but also asserts her creative independence and artistic vision. This move aligns with broader gender equality movements within the entertainment industry, highlighting the importance of supporting and celebrating female musicians.

Economic

Economically, the revival of “Puppet on a String” through Thirlwall’s single demonstrates the financial potential of leveraging classic hits in modern music. Sampling well-known tracks can attract both nostalgic listeners and new fans, driving sales and streaming numbers. This strategy benefits not only the current artist but also the original songwriter, creating a symbiotic relationship that can lead to increased revenue for both parties. The success of “Angel of My Dreams” could inspire other artists to explore similar collaborations, further boosting the music industry’s economic landscape