Amy Winehouse turns 41: Remember the music icon's 10 best songs

Times of discover News: Celebrate Amy Winehouse's 41st birthday by taking a look back at 10 of her best songs, from Back to Black to Valerie, honoring her eternal legacy and unforgettable musicianship.

Amy Winehouse, a once-in-a-generation talent, has left an indelible mark on the music industry with her raw sound and emotional vulnerability. Known for her soulful voice and intensely personal lyrics, Amy has delivered some of the most iconic songs of the 21st century. With chart-topping hits like Back to Black and fan favorites like Valerie, she mesmerized audiences with her unique blend of jazz, soul, and R&B.

Her songs weren't just catchy tunes; it held loads of experiences, emotions, and struggles, making it timeless artwork. This list pays tribute to 10 of Amy Winehouse's greatest songs, offering an in-depth look and ongoing talent that continues to influence the artist today. Whether you're a longtime fan or you've just discovered her work, her music is a powerful reminder of her talent.

1. Back to Red

Released as the title track of Winehouse's 2006 album, Back to Black is a song that epitomizes her ability to transform personal pain into a universal anthem. The song describes her tumultuous relationship with her then-boyfriend Blake Fielder-Civil, who left her for his ex-girlfriend. The title depicts Winehouse's emotional fallout, which turns her into a dark place, a symbolic red place, after their separation.

Produced by Mark Ronson, Back to Black blends 1960s girl group melodies with modernity. His lush orchestration, filled with reflective strings and resonating drums, complements Winehouse's deeply melancholic lyrics. Her vocals, raw and full of despair, reflect the frailty and pain of lost love. The song became a global hit and a defining moment in her career, establishing her as a unique voice in the music industry.

Directed by Phil Griffin, the accompanying music video further enhances the song's moody, retro aesthetic. It shows Amy grieving the end of a relationship, attending the funeral of her heart, as her romantic hopes die. This imagery, combined with the soulful performance, makes Back to Black one of the most enduring tracks, capturing the raw essence of Amy's emotional world.

2. Rehab

Rehab is arguably Amy Winehouse's signature song, a rebellious anthem that tells the story of her refusal to seek help for her addiction. Released in 2006, the song is based on the real-life intervention of her management team, who tried to convince her to go to rehab. Her refusal, summed up in the line, 'They tried to force me to go to rehab, I said no, no, no,' became iconic.

Musically, Rehab borrows heavily from Motown and soul influences, featuring shrill brass, upbeat drums and a catchy chorus. But underneath the lively instrumentals is a dark commentary on Amy's struggles with fame, addiction and mental health. The combination of its energetic melody and tragic subject matter makes Rehab both an infectious beat and a poignant call for help.

The song became a meteoric success, winning multiple Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year, Song of the Year and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. Rehab has come to symbolize Winehouse's public battle with addiction, but it also highlights her unique ability to create music that is both deeply personal and universally relevant.

3. About Valerie

Valerie was originally written by British band The Zutons in 2006, but it was Amy Winehouse's version, produced by Mark Ronson, that turned the song into a soul classic. Their collaboration on this song was included on Ronson's album Versions (2007), and it was one of the most beloved covers of the 2000s.

Amy takes the rock elements of the original in Valerie's rendition and combines them with a jazzy, retro vibe, making the song her own. Her powerful yet playful vocals add emotional depth to the song, making it a hit. The track's live brass section and uptempo beats perfectly complement Amy's charismatic style, showcasing her versatility as an artist.

It became a staple of Valerie Winehouse's live performances and reached the top 10 of the UK charts. In contrast to the darker themes of most of Amy's work, it is often remembered as one of the most entertaining tracks in Amy's repertoire. To this day, Valerie remains a fan favorite, a testament to Amy's ability to take an existing song and elevate it with her unique voice.