Rivals open playlists in bid to rock the presidential vote
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Your support makes all the difference.There would be little joy for either John McCain or Barack Obama if they were to mistakenly trade iPods. Only one musical artist has appeal for both of them: Ol' Blue Eyes. Barack would surely wince at John's Abba. And who knows what John would do on hearing Barack's "Yes We Can" by the hip hop musician will.i.am.
This we learn courtesy of Blender magazine, which asked the hoary old question: "Who are your top 10 music faves?" That Mr Obama and Mr McCain do not exactly hear ear to ear on matters musical is hardly a surprise. Yes, both like Frank Sinatra, but pick different songs. Beyond that, their tastes diverge quickly. Mr Obama has a few oldies – Marvin Gaye, Roy Orbison and Bruce Springsteen – but gets more up to date with Kanye West, the Fugees and will.i.am.
As for Mr McCain, there is no shame in loving Abba, but twice in your list might seem excessive. He also lists Neil Diamond, the Beach Boys and the Platters.
Few artists have been more flattered, however, than Britain's soul singer Joss Stone. Apparently she has been asked by Mr Obama to write a new theme song for the final weeks of his campaign.
Barack Obama's top 10
Ready or Not, Fugees
What's Going On, Marvin Gaye
I'm On Fire, Bruce Springsteen
Gimme Shelter, Rolling Stones
Sinnerman, Nina Simone
Touch the Sky, Kanye West
You'd Be So Easy to Love, Frank Sinatra
Think, Aretha Franklin
City of Blinding Lights, U2
Yes We Can, will.i.am
John McCain's top 10
Dancing Queen, Abba
Blue Bayou, Roy Orbison
Take a Chance On Me, Abba
If We Make It Through December, Merle Haggard
As Time Goes By, Dooley Wilson
Good Vibrations, The Beach Boys
What A Wonderful World, Louis Armstrong
I've Got You Under My Skin, Frank Sinatra
Sweet Caroline, Neil Diamond
Smoke Gets In Your Eyes, The Platters
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