Top 10 Cover Songs You Forgot Were Awesome

Original: Otis Redding (1968), Cover: The Black Crowes (1990)

If you grew up in the 1990s, this might have been your introduction to the Otis Redding song. The Black Crowes had a massive debut album that featured this rock cover of an R&B tune. This killer track features all the signature sounds of the Crowes’ throwback style, including Chris Robinson’s huge vocals and his brother’s slick guitar. The band gives this rendition all the energy it deserves. With this dramatic update, the group solidified themselves as a formidable force in rock. They also show that they can use their talents to pay tribute to a legend.

Original: John Lennon (1971), Cover: Roxy Music (1981)

Exploring everything from glam to new wave, Roxy Music spans a variety of rock and pop influences. This cover of a John Lennon song allows them to salute one of the great songwriters in popular music. Bryan Ferry is an emotional singer and his impassioned vocals perfectly compliment the beautiful arrangement. Among the more gifted vocalists of the decade, he makes you savor every note. In addition, the sophisticated sound brings another dimension to one of Lennon’s best solo tracks. Bringing their own spin to an iconic work, the band’s final product is a heartfelt performance worthy of the original.

Original: Don Henley (1984), Cover: The Ataris (2003)

The original artist might be the furthest thing from pop punk, but he does write timeless songs. This includes his solo hit “The Boys of Summer.” The Ataris bring the song into the 21st century, giving younger generations a chance to embrace the composition. The cover gets up to speed with some atmospheric riffs and a spirited production. It’s a solid rendition from the 2000s, complete with a sound that pays tribute to the 1980s. Even if you don’t like this fast-paced genre, you’ll likely feel nostalgic about the first recording. It’s an impressive feat to take on Don Henley and still succeed.

Original: Shocking Blue (1969), Cover: Bananarama (1986)

From its opening guitar riff, this 1980s single roars to life and never quits. Bananarama brings this Shocking Blue cover to a new decade with an exciting performance. The band members are in full effect, with a huge pop production to back them up. This one stays in your head for days, reminding you that there’s plenty of fun music from the decade. You’ll probably be so engaged that you’ll want to shout the chorus with them before it’s over. The three singers are clearly having a bawl throughout the track. You don’t even have to understand the lyrics, just listen with an open mind and get ready to dance.

Original: The Supremes (1966), Cover: Kim Wilde (1986)

If you’re a fan of Motown music, “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” is best remembered as a Supremes song. This doesn’t mean that there aren’t a number of other notable covers, however. Wilde delivers a 1980s pop remix of the classic tune, with some colorful synth lines and a strong vocal from the singer. Wilde gives a performance that you can feel to its core, giving you the sense that she’s directing this highly-charged song to an ex. This emotional depth stands out even in this large production that’s super catchy. You might want to sing or dance along, with the awesome beat keeping listeners engaged.

Original: George McCrae (1974), Cover: Yo La Tengo (2000)

The first recording of “You Can Have It All” is all about disco. George McCrae’s version doesn’t scream indie rock, but Yo La Tengo makes the transition work. The latter’s cover is a minimal affair with intricate background vocals. Georgia Hubley delivers a delicate performance, taking the romantic lyrics to a new level. It’s yet another reason to celebrate this band’s courageous efforts. If you’re not already a fan, this cover should encourage you to explore their catalog. It’s another example of their ingenious ability to blend an indie sensibility with some throwback sounds.

Original: The Clique (1969), Cover: R.E.M. (1986)

In this salute to sunshine pop, R.E.M. imbues this cover with their college rock sound. The original is by a Texas band named The Clique, who released their version in 1969. With vocals by bassist Mike Mills, the 1986 remake is a memorable version that celebrates a 1960s style. In this great track off of their fourth album “Lifes Rich Pageant,” the quartet shows off their musical synergy, demonstrating that they’re one of the best four-pieces of the 1980s. You might find yourself humming along, swept up in the band’s graceful effort. It’s also a reminder of Mills’ underrated voice, which usually takes a back seat to lead singer Michael Stipe’s.

Original: The Rolling Stones (1965), Cover: Devo (1977)

How can you improve on a classic from one of the giants of the British Invasion? While the original is tough to beat, the art rock band Devo decided to go in a completely new direction. This includes some inventive changes that make the song sound much more experimental. Hailing from Akron, Ohio, this group prefers to throw a few curve balls that showcases the band’s creativity. They deliver with a cool bass line and a singing performance you won’t soon forget. It’s a fun way to engage with a legendary tune, avoiding any cliches and finding its own memorable way.

Original: James Ray (1962), Cover: George Harrison (1987)

After leaving The Beatles, George Harrison embarked on a fruitful solo career with both original hits and covers. His take on this James Ray song is certainly one high point. Filled with a free spirit and fun energy, “Got My Mind Set on You” never fails to put a smile on our faces. This version finds Harrison in top form as he reinterprets the 1960s track. On this number one hit, his singing calls to mind some of the more upbeat sounds of his catalog. Channeling his earlier days, the artist finds a youthful sound in middle age.

Original: The Kinks (1964), Cover: The Pretenders (1979)

Influenced by Ray Davies, Chrissie Hynde and her bandmates did their own version of this Kinks song for their debut album - and they do more than justice to it! The songwriting remains solid and strong well over a decade after the original came out. When all is said and done, it all comes down to the cool mix of raw vocals and production values. Hynde’s performance gives the track an edge, while the instruments back her up with a dash of musical charm. The blend of pop and rock sounds will have you wanting to cue this one up again.



Did we forget another cover that deserves another listen? Let us know in the comments below.