Mocking Byrds: Feel A Whole Lot Better

Our final selection in our Mocking Byrds Second Week Special evokes the spirit of The Byrds’ Gene Clark with a 1978 cover of his signature tune, “Feel A Whole Lot Better.” While many artists have recorded “Feel A Whole Lot Better,” I prefer the rendition of the tune by the Flamin’ Groovies.

The Byrds recorded Gene Clark’s composition on their debut album: “Mr. Tambourine Man.” Although the song was the “B” side to the band’s second single “All I Really Want to Do.” The “A” side just made it into the Top 40 at the #40 slot and even “Feel A Whole Lot Better” made a splash at #103.

Columbia issued both sides as separate promo singles. Clark later admitted that he borrowed the riff from The Searcher’s “Needles and Pins.” When you think of it, you can hear the influence of the former tune.

The Flamin’ Groovies reincarnate The Byrds’ spirit and even have a jangly 12-string electric. Released on their 1978 LP, “Now,” “Feel A Whole Lot Better” appeared solely as an album cut. The great Dave Edmunds produced this record.