When you think of the 2005 smash hit “Don’t Cha” you most likely instantaneously associate it with the girl group, The Pussycat Dolls. Chances are that you’ve never even heard the name Tori Alamaze. Who is Tori Alamaze?
Tori is a make up artist and former backup singer for OutKast.
Tori originally recorded the song “Don’t Cha” (written and produced by Cee-Lo Green) for her debut album that was slated for release in May of 2006 by Universal Records’ independent distribution arm, Fontana. The record sampled Sir Mix-A-Lot’s song “Swass.” DJ’s had begun to spin her record, but before it could even gain momentum, Universal Records abruptly shelved her album before a video could even be shot. The song didn’t gain much exposure and her project was scrapped due to The Pussycat Dolls inking a deal with Interscope Records (A company of Universal Records). “The next year, The Pussycat Dolls recorded it in a version also produced by Cee Lo and with Busta Rhymes on guest vocals.” (Songfacts.com)
Cee-Lo Green recalled to The Guardian newspaper March 22, 2008: “I originally wrote it for another artist – Tori Alamaze – but it found its way to the Pussycat Dolls and the rest is history. I was more than content with it going to the original artist, but of course the Pussycat Dolls took it to another level.”
Tori Alamaze’s Version of “Don’t Cha
“Don’t Cha” was used as The Pussycat Dolls lead single for their debut album, PCD. The single reached #2 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart as well as #1 on the dance charts for its club remix. Worldwide, the song has sold more than 6 million copies, making it one of the best selling singles of all time.
The group’s lead singer Nicole Scherzinger stated: ”I had [Alamaze’s] version as a guide. But ours is just a bit fresher.”
**Ouch!!!**
The Pussycat Dolls’ version of “Don’t Cha”
Tori is unable to collect any monies from the song since she has no songwriting or production credits. It seems like Tori may have missed out on what may have been her big break…
**Another song was also “taken” from her project entitled, “Take Control” which was re-recorded by Ameriie. The song wasn’t as successful as “Don’t Cha” but it peaked at #66 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip Hop Songs chart. It also reached #2 on the iTunes UK Top 100 chart.**
References:
Entertainment Weekly: Pussycat or Copycat?
Tori Alamaze Explains “Don’t Cha” Controversy
NY Times: “Don’t Cha Blink”
Don’t Cha Song Facts
Global Music Tribune 