Dave McCabe, the lead singer and songwriter for the band The Zutons, crafted the song "Valerie" inspired by a makeup artist named Valerie Star he met in Florida. The song, which highlights Valerie's legal troubles following a DUI, quickly became popular after the band played it live, including at a show in Texas where Valerie herself attended.
The song's distinct line about ginger hair was nearly modified but ultimately retained, becoming a key part of its appeal. The Zutons recorded the track with producer Stephen Street, who suggested slight changes that enhanced the song’s sound.
"Valerie" reached further acclaim when music producer Mark Ronson and singer Amy Winehouse covered it. This version was developed during the production of Ronson's album "Version" and featured a Motown-style rendition that became notably successful. Despite initial doubts from McCabe about the cover's potential success, it proved to be a hit.
The song holds a special place in Winehouse's repertoire as it diverges from the personal pain expressed in much of her music, allowing listeners to appreciate her vocal performance without the backdrop of her tumultuous life.
Both the original song by The Zutons and the cover by Ronson and Winehouse highlight the significant impact "Valerie" has had in music, remembered both for its catchy tune and its backstory.