Suzanne Vega Influnced by"Tempted by Fruit of Another"
These two songs' similarity is obvious. But, was the later song, "Tom's Diner" a direct theft of Squeeze's "Tempted?" Suzanne Vega has so much damn integrity, that we should be hesitant to point fingers. Maybe it was unintentional or sub-conscience. Although released in 1987, she wrote the tune in November 1981, the same year that "Tempted" came out. Ironically, her song has been remixed and covered numerous times, prompting her to release a collection "Tom's Album." But there is no mention of any sonic inspiration for the original. And "Tempted" has also taken on new life, being covered by Sting and being used in movies and commercials.
Here are the facts:
"Tempted" written by Squeeze's Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook on 1981's "East Side Story" (produced by Elvis Costello). Details at All Music Guide.and Wikipedia.
"Tom's Diner" written on Nov. 18th by Suzanne Vega. No other attribution. Released 1987 on her album "Solitude Standing."See Wikipedia and AMG.
Musically, we cannot point to direct theft. "Tom's Diner" signature is the "doo doo doo doo..." refrain.. which is not a copy of the "Tempted" melody, but would work very well with it. The verse melodies are very similar.
This is actually a good example of what makes songs unique. The lyrcs/story, the vocal quality, the state of mind.. "Tom's Diner" is an original, and no one would want it to not have been made. It has touched many people and influenced new works of art and promotion. Further, there is no 'zero sum' game re. song popularity. "Tempted" has done just fine for itself, and is an original in itself. Some guys came together (it is the only album / song where lead is by short-term band member Paul Carrack) and worked with Elvis Costello and made a good album that so happens to include a chestnut.
In both cases, the songs were not deemed hit singles, but over years have become hugely popular, re-issued, covered, and re-purposed. They are original, masterworks. Still, there is strong reason to include "Tempted" in the historical writings of "..Diner" and it would be of value to learn if Vega did like the band Squeeze and was listening to them during the autumn of her composition of "..Diner."
This is a case where I (or YOU) should make a mix of the two tunes. Also we could ask Vega. I'll try that now... (just did via Twitter to @suzyv )
Listen to the Tunes via YouTube:
"Tempted" by Squeeze.
"Tom's Diner" by Suzanne Vega.