My friend was kind enough to share with me the soundtrack from The Vampire Diaries which features the track Running Up That Hill, Placebo’s version that is, and it’s Fangtastic! Spooky, sinister, edgy and atmospheric, it’s no wonder it was chosen to feature in a show filled with vampires, witches, werewolves and magic.
I have always loved Kate Bush’s original song, having grown up watching my Dad’s old MTV tapes featuring her weird and wonderful videos, along with many other classic songs from the 80s and early 90s. Kate’s version is beautiful and ethereal. Same songs but two very different versions. I love them both but how about you?
I have posted both songs from youtube below. Let me know which one you prefer?
Emma's Ramblings on Supernatural Fiction 
Wow, Emma! Such a hard question. Both are beautiful in their own way. I love the dark seductive sound of Placebo, but Kate Bush’s is just a bit lighter. I guess, my answer depends on what the song would be in relation to.
For example, if it were to represent a scene in a book that was dark and edgy, I think I would prefer the one by Pacebo; however, if it represented something a bit more sappy, I think I would prefer Kate Bush’s. 😀
Most definitely the Placebo version! But it might have helped that I got to watch Damon while listening to it. LOL
Christie, you are so right about the dark, seductive sound. If I was reading a paranormal book I’d be listening to Placebo all the way…
Lauralynn, Damon always helps!!
Hey Emma, the presence of Damon in the video of the Placebo version prejudices my decision to favour Placebo but having said that, listening to Kate Bush’s version, the fast paced beating of the drum makes it sound literally like running up a hill and that’s very cool!!! So as Christie Rich has said, it’s very difficult and depends on situation! 🙂 here endeth my statement! 🙂
Wow Laura, that’s like a college essay! Hope you’re enjoying watching Cary in The Good Wife right now
I love the Placebo one personally. The lead singer has such a distinctive voice that it just sounds awesome when he sings it.
Okay, looks like poor Kate is seriously lagging here
This is song about sacrificing yourself for somebody you love. It’s about wanting to swap places with them so you can make it better.
Well said, Ursula.
That is the toughest question to answer! U know my take on cover versions, I normally hate them, but this is one of the very few, if not the only one I like!! I actually think I prefer Placebo! Shock horror!! 🙂 I love Kate Bush but I I think Placebo’s version here is brilliant!
PS I didn’t realise I’ve already answered this question! What in the name of God was I talking about last time?!!! I think I prefer Placebo now!! 🙂
Ha ha. I love them both and will have to listen to them again, right now!
What is wrong with the people above me?
Kate Bush produced and wrote this song. It’s one of the best songs of all time. And even if it is a synth-pop song, Kate made it more relevant and the instrumentation is perfect. Placebo is a decent band, they never made a good album but they have a few great songs, and here they overproduced this song, and add terrible vocals so the answer is easy for a person with good taste in music.
Hey Julia.
I love Kate’s song too.
The Placebo version is suitable for the moody, vampirey tones of The Vampire Diaries.
Thanks.
Re you kidding right? You can’t compare them. Kate Bush for a thousand miles.