Dion is a singular talent with an affinity for lovelorn tracks, making her 2002 rendition of Etta James’ cherished classic a must-hear for any Dion fan.
Celine Dion’s Performance of “At Last”
Dion’s mesmerizing vocals and the song’s soulful lyrics are a match made in music heaven, bound to give any listener goosebumps. She performed “At Last ” on a March 2002 episode of The Oprah Winfrey Show, hypnotizing the audience while showcasing her take on James’ mythic hit.
The set was a testament to Dion’s vocal perfection as the crowd buzzed with energy and Oprah beamed from ear to ear.
Dion’s spin on the go-to wedding song also garnered critical acclaim, peaking at No. 16 on Billboard‘s Adult Contemporary charts after she included the cover on her 18th studio album, A New Day Has Come (2002). She also included “At Last” in her Las Vegas residency track list and later released a live performance version on 2004’s A New Day… Live in Las Vegas.
Who else has covered Etta James’ “At Last”?
The heartwarming single, first recorded by big band musician Glenn Miller, was made famous in the 1940s after appearing on the soundtrack to the 1941 film Sun Valley Serenade. The single has since become a canvas for various vocal titans, each adding unique strokes to the song throughout the decades.
Etta James’ 1960 rendition of the track was releasedon her debut album At Last! (In 1992, James’ recording was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.)
Dozens of vocal powerhouses, each with their interpretation, have recorded versions of the romantic jazz ballad.
Standout artists who’ve grabbed the microphone to record the hit include Dion, Cyndi Lauper, Christina Aguilera, Jason Mraz, Kelly Clarkson, and Beyoncé, who recorded the track for the 2008 film Cadillac Records and later performed it at then-President Barack Obama’s inauguration.
