Doing covers is a safe bet for most musicians. For one, the material has already been written, the wheel invented. All you have to do is do a tweak here, add a touch there and sing it again.
A healthy percentage of covers have always sounded better than the original. That makes picking 5 of them a real tough ask. I’ll illustrate with an example:
Take a look at the CATS IN THE CRADLE track. It was originally written and performed by Harry Chapin. Well crafted instrumental phrases, decent vocals and real good lyrics made this song a great one. The came the Cat Stevens version and he managed to upstage the original in his inimitable style. Finally you have the Ugly Kids Joe version which kicks @$. Not to mention lots of other bands that covered the song.
Anyway, here’s my pick:
-
Crying in the Rain
Covered by: A-Ha
Album: East Of The Sun, West Of The Moon
Originally by: Carole King & Howie Greenfield / Everley Brothers
I’m a big fan of this Norwegian trio. They churned out some real good synth laden songs. Their version of Crying in the rain is one of the most beautiful covers you can ever hear.
The song begins with sounds of rain and thunder. Pal Waktaar slowly blends his synth sounds in and the song takes you on a sonic journey you’ll never forget.
(I Cant Help) Falling In Love With You
Covered by: UB40
Originally by: Elvis Presley
They took this great love song, added some reggae beats, they blended some great notes by the brass section and they made Ali Campbell sing it in his unique way. Peppier than the original, this is one cover that you might want to listen more often than the original.
Perfect Day
Covered by: Various Artistes(Bono.)
Originally by: Lou Reed
A timeless song by the legendary Lou Reed. A song that makes a perfect gift for someone you care about or an invaluable addition to your collection. A song covered by many bands including Duran Duran. Now visualize this song being sung by Bono of U2 for Children in Need and ably supported by a host of singers including the legendary Luciano Pavarotti.
Beautiful!
The Man Who Sold The World
Covered by: Nirvana
Originally by: David Bowie
Nirvana unplugged is a classic. Its got acoustic versions of some great Nirvana songs including Polly and also covers of bands like the Leadbellies and Meat Puppets. This song is the pick of the lot. David Bowie is a genius. Kurt Cobain was a phenomenal genius.
I would also like to mention the songs PLATEAU and LAKE OF FIRE from this record. They’re great.
Knockin On Heavens Door
Covered by: Guns n Roses
Originally by: Bob Dylan
GNR took this song to heaven and back with some great hooks and wonderful orchestration. Axl Rose is also one of the best frontmen of all time.
~finis~
Quick List Of Other Noteworthy Covers
SMOOTH CRIMINAL - Alien Ant Farm’s version of this Michael Jackson hit is very very cool.
HUSH - originally by Joe South - well done by Deep Purple;)
Always On My Mind - Pet Shop Boys did a great synth pop version of this classic
Lucy In the Sky with Diamonds - The Beatles song was covered rather well by that eccentric dude - Elton John
American Woman - Creedence Clearwater Revival did a good version. Lenny Kravitz also did a good version.
We Will Rock You - listen to the version of this Queen anthem. by FIVE. its great and the video also features the Queen members - Roger Taylor and the legendary Brian May.