Constantine Maroulis, ‘Unchained Melody’ – Song Spotlight

On his latest single, 'American Idol' alum Constantine Maroulis capably provides the ballad 'Unchained Melody' with a contemporary rock edge.

Maroulis performed the song on 'Idol' last night and has released a studio recording of the song on iTunes. The remake is much busier musically than the classic version, with electric guitars and loud drums complementing the singer's powerful, Bono-esque vocals.

'Unchained Melody' was first recorded in 1955, but the most memorable rendition is the 1965 hit by Rock and Roll Hall of Famers the Righteous Brothers, who also recorded 'You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'' and '(You're My) Soul and Inspiration.'

The legendary vocal duo was made up of Bobby Hatfield and Bill Medley, though Hatfield actually performed 'Unchained Melody' solo.

The new Maroulis song fits in nicely with this week's 'American Idol' theme, Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll. The singer hasn't released an album since 2007 but did earn a Tony nomination for 'Rock of Ages.'

Listen to Constantine Maroulis, 'Unchained Melody'