Last week, our cohorts at Daily RFT brought you the story of an albino ruby-throated hummingbird, or maybe a pair of them, seen in northeast Missouri. The exceptionally rare species is easily spotted by predators and is therefore a small population that dwindles every year. The hummingbird, with its precision and grace, has long inspired all manner of artists, musicians very much included. In honor of this beautiful and likely short-lived oddity, we give you six songs in tribute to the hummingbird.
See also: Albino Hummingbird Spotted in KC Is "Extremely Rare," Probably Going to Die Soon The Six Best Songs about Birds Nitpick Six Archives
6. Les Paul and Mary Ford -- "Hummingbird" The late, great Les Paul wasn't always looking the future. Here he is with his wife, Mary Ford, singing a song written by Don Robertson. In so doing, the family Paul joins such luminaries as Lorne Greene, Hal Blair and one Elvis Presley, all of whom recorded songs written by Robertson.
5. Leon Russell -- "Hummingbird" Leon Russell committed his tribute to the tiny bird (and its metaphorical value) to tape on his debut, self-titled solo album in 1970. Strongly recommended: BB King's cover, which he played on Letterman.
4. Paul McCartney -- "You Tell Me" Maca has always been best in Silly Love Song mode. That's the thematic starting point for "You Tell Me," which heads off toward wistfulness with beautiful results. Plucked from the long, long, looooong tail of the legend's career. There are other winged beasts with mention, but the hummingbird bats cleanup.
