Cover songs are a crap shoot. Forever compared with the originals, you'll always have dissenters and purists who prefer the original versions of songs. That's often entirely founded. However, sometimes a cover song comes along that's so magically good, you can't help but love it – sometimes even more than the OG version. These are some of the top covers ever created – with, admittedly, a few of my personal favorites tangled in there somewhere. What? I never claimed to be an unbiased writer, stalkers.
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1. Sleeping at Last, “Chasing Cars”
This cover version of Snow Patrol's yearning, pleading love song is the initial inspiration behind this post. Sleeping at Last is worth a listen no matter what, but Ryan O'Neal's voice taking on this tune is just beyond.
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Discovering this rendition adds a layer of delicate emotion to an already powerful anthem of love and longing. The mastery of Sleeping at Last transforms "Chasing Cars," a song deeply etched in the hearts of many, into a hauntingly beautiful lullaby. Ryan O’Neal's gentle voice weaves through the melody, offering comfort and a fresh sense of vulnerability. It's a cover that doesn't just pay homage to the original but elevates it, leaving listeners enveloped in a bittersweet sense of nostalgia and warmth.
2. Johnny Cash, “Personal Jesus”
Johnny Cash had a gift for taking popular songs and making them entirely his own. Very often, his versions are better than the originals. That's true for “Personal Jesus,” and I say that as someone who loves Depeche Mode.
Frequently asked questions
A cover song is cool when it brings a fresh twist or new energy to an existing song. It's about making someone else's song feel like it's your own.
Sometimes, a cover can highlight aspects of the song that were missed in the original. A different voice, tempo, or arrangement can bring out emotions or details that resonate more deeply with listeners.
There are so many! Think of 'All Along the Watchtower' by Jimi Hendrix, originally by Bob Dylan, or 'Hallelujah' by Jeff Buckley, originally by Leonard Cohen. These covers are often more recognized than the originals.
Artists might choose songs they personally love, that inspire them, or that they think they can give a unique spin to. Sometimes they pick songs from a different genre entirely to really make it their own.
Absolutely! Cover songs can win awards and receive just as much acclaim as original songs. For instance, Johnny Cash’s cover of 'Hurt' by Nine Inch Nails has earned immense praise.
3. Johnny Cash, “Hurt”
This, however, is arguably the most popular and well-known Cash cover. Even Trent Reznor is enamored with Johnny's version of his desperate ode to numbness.
4. The Shins, “We Will Become Silhouettes”
The Postal Service has such a distinctive sound that any cover poses a risk. The Shins took this song and made it a little folky, which shouldn't work at all, but man, it really does.
5. Iron & Wine, “Such Great Heights”
Iron & Wine's take on The Postal Service strips away the hip digital quality of the original and gives it a dreamy sweetness that kind of tugs at the heart strings.
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Iron & Wine's cover of The Postal Service's "Such Great Heights" was released in 2004 as part of the indie-folk artist's EP, "The Creek Drank the Cradle." The song gained mainstream popularity when it was featured in the film "Garden State" and has since been covered by numerous artists. Iron & Wine's version features a stripped-down acoustic sound, showcasing lead singer Sam Beam's soothing vocals and poetic lyrics. The cover has been praised for its dreamy and emotional quality, making it a perfect fit for the film's soundtrack. It has also been featured in popular TV shows like "Grey's Anatomy" and "The O.C." Iron & Wine's cover of "Such Great Heights" has become a fan favorite and a staple in the indie-folk genre.
6. Joni Mitchell, “Both Sides Now”
On the surface of things, “Both Sides Now” is typically taken as a Joni Mitchell original, probably because she sings it like it should be. Judy Collins sang the original and it was certainly a hit, but nowhere near as iconic as Joni's version.
7. Bright Eyes, “Devil Town”
There's just enough homage to Daniel Johnston in the beginnings of this song to let you know where it came from, but from that point on, Conor Oberst makes “Devil Town” all its own. Good lord, that guitar solo!
8. Screaming Eagles, “if It Makes You Happy”
I'm still a fan of Sheryl Crow's slightly snarky, subtly sassy ode to the idea of pleasing your man, but the Screaming Females' rock ballad take on it makes it something else entirely.
9. Jeff Buckley, “Hallelujah”
A lot of artists have taken on Leonard Cohen's biblical ballad, but Jeff Buckley – RIP, always – truly made it his own, to the point that it's almost the only version worth listening to. His voice, which is so raw and musical and plaintive anyway, turns the tune into a bareboned, slow-burning tragedy. Rufus Wainwright has a version that's almost as good – almost, but not quite.
10. The Clash, “I Fought the Law”
The remaining Crickets sang this song originally, and it is absolutely awesome, but there is nothing like The Clash's cover. Absolutely nothing.
11. The Beatles, “Twist and Shout”
I actually like The Isley Brothers' original version better than the Fab Four's cover … but it's close. The Beatles turned this into such a rousing song, and there's such a lot of soul in it.
12. Joe Cocker, “with a Little Help from My Friends”
You have to be a considerable artist to take on the Beatles, though. Mr. Joe Cocker was certainly that. His gritty, smokey, whiskey-rough voice turned this pop ballad into something not just special, but iconic.
13. The Fugees, “Killing Me Softly”
Praise be, Roberta Flack, but this song belongs to the Fugees. Forever and always.
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The iconic trio, Lauryn Hill, Wyclef Jean, and Pras Michel, took Flack's heart-wrenching ballad and infused it with their inimitable hip-hop soul. Lauryn Hill's velvety vocals caressing each verse is a revelation, transforming the song into a soothing, yet potent anthem for the brokenhearted. It's like they sprinkled magic dust all over the 1973 classic, taking us on a whirlwind of emotions. Certified platinum, the Fugees’ rendition is a testament to their artistry and the power of reinterpretation. If this song had boots, it'd wear them to moonwalk across our hearts, each and every time.
14. Aretha Franklin, “Respect”
It's honestly hard to believe that this was ever an Otis Redding song. It's Aretha's now, it's her signature, her anthem, and the world at large should be so grateful for that.
15. Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, “I Love Rock 'n' Roll”
Can you even imagine a world where Joan Jett doesn't sing this? Me either. I'll admit, I don't know anything about the Arrows, but I can't imagine that the original version sounds nearly as good as this one.
16. Soft Cell, “Tainted Love”
This is probably one of the most famous covers ever, to the point that most people believe that it's Soft Cell's song. I mean, I'll cop to that. The original, cheerily crooned by Gloria Jones, just doesn't fit with the lyrics. I gotta say, Marilyn Manson's take is pretty sweet, too.
17. Sleeping at Last, “99 Red Balloons”
This song has been covered by plenty of different artists. I have to be honest and admit that Nena's “99 Luftballons” is still my favorite, but again, it's Ryan O'Neal's voice that transforms the song.
18. Tina Turner, “Proud Mary”
Technically, okay, Ike and Tina did a cover of “Proud Mary,” but whatever, eff Ike, we all know Tina has always been the star. The song, however, belongs to Creedence Clearwater Revival, and their version is incredible, but it pales in comparison to Ms. Turner's.
19. Whitney Houston, “I Will Always Love You”
I think, at this point, even Dolly Parton acknowledges that Whitney's version was, is, and always will be the superior cover of this gorgeous song.
20. Nico, “These Days”
Before hearing this song on the soundtrack to The Royal Tenenbaums, I'd never heard it before, not even the original version by Jackson Browne. Since then, it's become one of my favorite songs when I'm in a gloomy mood – to the point where, to be honest, I don't even really like the original. Sorry!
21. Janis Joplin, “Me and Bobby McGee”
Janis recorded “Me and Bobby McGee” several days before she died, and it became not just a posthumous hit, but a legacy – it's the song many fans remember her by, the first song new fans hear for the first time. Yet it's a cover of a Kris Kristofferson song. Who knew?
22. Sleeping at Last, “I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)”
I adore the original by The Proclaimers, which is so poppy and upbeat, but this one ... as you can see, I'm on a Sleeping at Last kick. The original songs are lovely, but I really recommend the covers album.
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Sleeping at Last takes this iconic track and infuses it with a haunting intimacy that's as soothing as it is melancholic. The transformation from The Proclaimers’ foot-tapping energy to a tender lullaby speaks volumes of the artist's versatility. If this beautiful rendition doesn't stir something in your soul, I'd be surprised. It's a must-listen for those nights when you need a soundtrack for reflection or a momentary escape from the buzz of the world. Trust me, the covers album will sweep you off your feet—especially if you're already a fan of reimagined classics.
23. Jimi Hendrix, “All along the Watchtower”
Well … duh. As awesome as Bob Dylan is, Jimi owned this song. Owned it.
24. The Bangles, “Hazy Shade of Winter”
What? Seriously, the Bangles took this beautiful, folksy hit by Simon and Garfunkel, and they gave it this driving beat with plenty of '80s-friendly flair, and it just became kind of super magical.
25. Alien Ant Farm, “Smooth Criminal”
I can't be the only person in the world who loves this cover, right? Yes, of course, the song will always be a Michael Jackson song, but … this version is pretty sweet.
26. Muse, “Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want”
As a fan of both The Smiths and Muse, I completely approve of this cover.
27. Orgy, “Blue Monday”
Orgy seemed like they were going to blow up big time when their New Order cover hit the airwaves. Although the entire band was a feast of synthetic goth eye candy … nope, didn't happen.
28. The Kingsmen, “Louie Louie”
I have no idea if Richard Berry's original version was as incomprehensible as the Kingsmen's take on this fun little ditty, but I bet it wasn't nearly as catchy.
29. Saint Etienne, “Only Love Can Break Your Heart”
Not everyone can take on a Neil Young tune, but Saint Etienne's version of “Only Love Can Break Your Heart” will actually break your heart.
30. The Ataris, “Boys of Summer”
“Boys of Summer” is a gorgeous song and Don Henley's voice makes it what it is … but the Ataris do a damn good job making it their own, to the point that even I like it, and the original is one of my favorite golden oldies.
31. Scissor Sisters, “Comfortably Numb”
If you're going to take on Pink Floyd, you better be pretty phenomenal. Scissor Sisters have it covered. Promise.
32. The White Stripes, “Jolene”
I would never have thought that I'd like this at all. Dolly Parton gave the original a haunting quality, but in my skepticism, I severely underestimated Jack and Meg.
33. Pet Shop Boys, “Always on My Mind”
You wouldn't think the Pet Shop Boys could take on a tune by sweet Brenda Lee and do anything with it. But oh … they do. They do.
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Originally made famous by Elvis Presley, and not Brenda Lee, the Pet Shop Boys worked their synth-pop magic on "Always on My Mind," infusing it with a pulsating beat and futuristic vibes that transformed this tender lament into a dance floor staple. Their rendition became a massive hit, showcasing their unique ability to merge poignancy with pop. It's a classic example of how a song can be completely reimagined and yet lose none of its original heart-tugging power. The cover stands as a testament to the duo's innovative approach to music and their undeniable influence on the '80s pop scene.
34. The Byrds, “Turn, Turn, Turn”
Pete Seeger's responsible for the song, but the Byrds cemented its track listing on the soundtrack of an entire generation. This song still gives me feels.
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The Byrds transformed Seeger's folk tune into a jangly, harmonious anthem that perfectly captured the spirit of the 60s. With its iconic opening guitar riff and wise lyrics borrowed from the book of Ecclesiastes, the song's timeless message of change resonates through the ages. As these folk rock pioneers took the melody to new heights, they left an indelible mark on music history, turning "Turn, Turn, Turn" into a beloved classic that echoes the call for peace and understanding. It's no wonder that even now, the chords stir a sense of nostalgia and hope in our hearts.
35. The Weeknd, “Dirty Diana”
So, look. The Weeknd's version of “Dirty Diana” is better than Michael Jackson's version of “Dirty Diana.” Do with me what you will.
36. Hole, “Gold Dust Woman”
I have a love/hate relationship with Hole because I hate to love them (or, rather, I hate to love Courtney Love). I also adore Fleetwood Mac. That being said, Hole had some really ridiculously good songs during the heyday of grunge, and also, this cover is cosmically epic.
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Their rendition of Gold Dust Woman, originally by Fleetwood Mac, is proof that even in a world with unbridled Courtney Love opinions flying left and right, there's simply no denying the magic she brings to the microphone. Soaked in grunge-tinted nostalgia, their version gives a shoutout to the past while defiantly screaming into the 90s zeitgeist. It’s like going to a séance only to find Stevie Nicks wailing away as the ghost of honor—it's enchanting, haunting, and undeniably cool.
37. David Bowie and Mick Jagger, “Dancing in the Street”
Martha Reeves deserves our thanks for creating this song in the first place. Without it, we would not have the feast for the ears that is this song, or the feast for the eyes that is the accompanying video. Also, good night, Starman.
38. Lenny Kravitz, “American Woman”
The Guess Who did the '70s proud with their OG version of “American Woman,” but the raw, sexy funk in Lenny's cover is just the best thing ever.
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Kravitz's rendition adds a smoldering guitar lick and distinct demeanor that brings a modern edge to an already classic tune. Paying homage to its rock roots while infusing it with his signature flair, Lenny manages to make the song both nostalgic and fresh at the same time. This cover doesn't just stand out, it struts down the avenue of reinvention with a swagger that could only come from him. It’s a bold reinterpretation that confirmed Kravitz's position as a rock icon for a whole new generation.
39. Pearl Jam, “Last Kiss”
Way, way, way back in the day, love songs about doomed teens were all the rage. As such, J. Frank Wilson's version of “Last Kiss” is lovely. Pearl Jam's version is heartbreaking, raw, and tragic – and I believe that has more than a little to do with Eddie Vedder's voice.
40. Fiona Apple, “across the Universe”
Say what you will about Fiona Apple, her attitude, and her weird proclivities, but the girl can sing. She can sing so well, in fact, that she successfully covered the Beatles. Seriously, her vocals give this song such an unbelievable twist.
41. Cowboy Junkies, “Sweet Jane”
This charming song showed up on the soundtrack for Natural Born Killers, and my, was it perfectly placed. That's saying something, as well, because it's hard to do a Lou Reed song justice unless you're actually Lou Reed.
42. UB40, “Red, Red Wine”
I'm weird. I love UB40. The way they added a reggae beat to Neil Diamond's ode to wine and sex was just … magical. UB40 does a likewise amazing version of a certain Elvis hit, by the way ...
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UB40's cover of Neil Diamond's "Red, Red Wine" was a huge success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1988. The reggae band from Birmingham, England, put their own spin on the song by incorporating their signature sound and adding a new layer of depth to the lyrics. This cover not only introduced a new generation to the classic song, but also solidified UB40's place in the music industry. Additionally, their cover of Elvis Presley's "Can't Help Falling in Love" also became a hit, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart in 1993. UB40's unique take on these iconic songs showcases their talent and ability to make any song their own.
43. Siouxsie and the Banshees, “Dear Prudence”
Only Siouxsie could take a Beatles song and make it goth.
44. The Pet Shop Boys, “Always on My Mind”
Willie Nelson is an incredible singer and by all rights, “Always on My Mind” should not sound so good when it is re-imagined as a techno-pop masterpiece with European flair … but it does. It really, really does.
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The Pet Shop Boys took the plaintive twang of Nelson’s classic and infused it with their own unique blend of synth-pop energy, a sound they had been cultivating since their breakthrough in the 80s. Even die-hard country fans have to nod to the infectious beat that transforms this heartfelt ballad into a dance floor filler. The British duo’s rendition not only pays homage to the original but also showcases their ability to cross genres, creating a track that is as timeless as it is unexpected. Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe truly made it their own, forever joining the ranks of cover gold.
45. Social Distortion, “Ring of Fire”
It doesn't make any sense that some raggedy little punk band could make a Johnny Cash hit sound so … punk. This cover is killer, though. Just killer.
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But that's the raw power Social Distortion harnessed when they took “Ring of Fire”, a song that's practically a country anthem, and cranked up the amps to a defiantly punk energy. It’s like the band swirled a bit of eyeliner in the bourbon and gave it a shake. The cover slams into the listener with an unapologetic growl and a tempo made for moshing—not line dancing. And, honestly? It’s a bit of a heart-stopper for anyone who loves their tunes with a bit of leather-jacket-toughened love.
46. Nirvana, “the Man Who Sold the World”
Nirvana? Taking on David Bowie? Yup. Beautifully. Consider this my ode to two beautiful men whose music helped shape my life.
47. Johnny Cash, “the Mercy Seat”
I advise you to listen to the Nick Cave version of this song, as well. They're both stunning, but Johnny … well, Johnny was Johnny. He made this song his own, too.
48. Marilyn Manson, “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)”
I love Annie Lennox and the Eurythmics without reservation. The original version of this song will always be best. Marilyn Manson's version, however, is just … haunting and creepy and disturbingly sexy. I used to make out with my goth boyfriend with this tune playing in the background.
49. Carole King, “a Natural Woman”
Whether Aretha Franklin's belting out her original take or Carole King's crooning her smooth, velvety cover, this song is dedicated to all of us.
Quick! Your favorite cover! And … go!
Comments
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Fangirl: I LIVE for twist and shout!
Lavie: Thank you for including the Pet Shop Boys on this list... twice. ☺️ If anyone deserves it, they do
Curiositykills: I agree that Michael's version is better.
Cass: Sorry not sorry, but Michael Jacksons version of dirty Diana is most definitely the best version. No question there
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