20 Songs You Didn't Know Were Covers
It's happened to us all - hearing a song that you think is a weird cover, and then finding out that it's the original, and the version you know IS the cover. Mind blown. For me, the biggest shocker as a kid was #1...
1. "I Will Always Love You" by Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston's rendition of "I Will Always Love You" remains one of the best-selling singles of all time, earning its place as a timeless classic. Yet, the song was originally written and performed by country music icon Dolly Parton in 1973. Houston's soul-stirring interpretation, featured in the soundtrack of "The Bodyguard" (1992), captivated audiences with its emotional depth and vocal prowess.
2. "Respect" by Aretha Franklin
Instantly recognizable and an anthem of empowerment, "Respect" is often synonymous with the incomparable Aretha Franklin. However, few realize that this iconic hit was originally penned and performed by Otis Redding in 1965. Franklin's rendition, released in 1967, not only transformed the song but also became a symbol of the civil rights and feminist movements of the era.
3. "Hurt" by Johnny Cash
In 2002, Johnny Cash released "Hurt," a hauntingly poignant track that struck a chord with audiences worldwide. However, the song's origins trace back to the alternative rock band Nine Inch Nails, with Trent Reznor writing and recording the original version in 1994. Cash's cover, released shortly before his death, imbued "Hurt" with a raw emotional intensity that resonated deeply with listeners, cementing its status as a modern classic.
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4. "Tainted Love" by Soft Cell
A staple of the 1980s music scene, "Tainted Love" by Soft Cell is synonymous with synth-pop brilliance. Yet, many are unaware that the song was initially recorded by Gloria Jones in 1965 as a soul track. Soft Cell's electro-pop rendition, released in 1981, propelled "Tainted Love" to international acclaim, showcasing the transformative power of reinterpretation across genres.
5. "All Along the Watchtower" by Jimi Hendrix
Jimi Hendrix's electrifying rendition of "All Along the Watchtower" has become legendary, etching itself into the annals of rock history. However, the song was first crafted by Bob Dylan in 1967 for his album "John Wesley Harding." Hendrix's cover, released a year later, infused the track with his signature guitar virtuosity, elevating it to new heights of sonic innovation.
6. "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" by Cyndi Lauper
An anthem of female empowerment and liberation, "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" is synonymous with Cyndi Lauper's vivacious persona. However, the song was originally written and recorded by Robert Hazard in 1979. Lauper's exuberant cover, released in 1983, transformed the track into a cultural phenomenon, embodying the spirit of fun and freedom of the 1980s.
7. "I Love Rock 'n Roll" by Joan Jett & the Blackhearts
With its infectious guitar riff and rebellious spirit, "I Love Rock 'n Roll" is a rock classic that has stood the test of time. Yet, the song was first recorded by the Arrows in 1975, written by Alan Merrill and Jake Hooker. Joan Jett's electrifying cover, released in 1981, propelled her to stardom and solidified her status as the queen of rock 'n roll.
8. "The Man Who Sold the World" by Nirvana
Nirvana's haunting rendition of "The Man Who Sold the World" captivated audiences with its raw intensity and emotional depth. However, the song was originally penned and performed by David Bowie on his 1970 album of the same name. Nirvana's stripped-down interpretation, featured on their "MTV Unplugged in New York" album (1994), introduced a new generation to Bowie's timeless masterpiece.
9. "Nothing Compares 2 U" by Sinéad O'Connor
A ballad of heartache and longing, "Nothing Compares 2 U" remains one of Sinéad O'Connor's most iconic performances. Yet, the song was written by the legendary musician Prince and originally recorded by his side project, The Family, in 1985. O'Connor's soul-stirring cover, released in 1990, resonated with audiences worldwide, capturing the universal experience of lost love.
10. "Red Red Wine" by UB40
UB40's reggae-infused rendition of "Red Red Wine" became a chart-topping success in the 1980s, synonymous with laid-back vibes and summer nostalgia. However, the song was first recorded by Neil Diamond in 1967 as a soulful ballad. UB40's interpretation, released in 1983, injected new life into the track, transforming it into a reggae-pop sensation that continues to captivate audiences to this day.
11. "I Fought the Law" by The Clash
A punk rock anthem synonymous with rebellion and defiance, "I Fought the Law" was popularized by The Clash in 1979. However, the song was originally recorded by the Crickets, with songwriter Sonny Curtis penning the track in 1959. The Clash's energetic cover brought renewed attention to the song, cementing its status as a punk rock classic.
12. "Mad World" by Gary Jules
Gary Jules' haunting rendition of "Mad World" captivated audiences with its melancholic beauty and introspective lyrics. However, the song was first recorded by the British band Tears for Fears in 1982 as an upbeat synth-pop track. Jules' stripped-down cover, featured in the soundtrack of the film "Donnie Darko" (2001), resonated deeply with listeners, offering a poignant reflection on the human experience.
13. "Twist and Shout" by The Beatles
A high-energy crowd-pleaser, "Twist and Shout" became a signature song for The Beatles during their early years. Yet, many might not realize that the song was originally recorded by the Isley Brothers in 1962. The Beatles' electrifying cover, featured on their debut album "Please Please Me" (1963), showcased their dynamic vocal harmonies and infectious energy, propelling the song to iconic status.
14. "I Will Survive" by Gloria Gaynor
An anthem of resilience and empowerment, "I Will Survive" by Gloria Gaynor became a disco classic and a symbol of strength in the face of adversity. However, the song was originally recorded by the American soul singer Freddie Perren and Dino Fekaris in 1978. Gaynor's powerful interpretation, released the same year, resonated with audiences worldwide, earning its place as an enduring anthem of self-empowerment.
15. "Blinded by the Light" by Manfred Mann's Earth Band
With its infectious melody and enigmatic lyrics, "Blinded by the Light" by Manfred Mann's Earth Band remains a staple of classic rock radio. However, the song was written and originally recorded by Bruce Springsteen on his debut album "Greetings from Asbury Park, N.J." (1973). Manfred Mann's progressive rock cover, released in 1976, propelled the song to commercial success, introducing it to a wider audience and immortalizing its memorable chorus.
16. "Knockin' on Heaven's Door" by Guns N' Roses
Guns N' Roses' emotive rendition of "Knockin' on Heaven's Door" captivated audiences with its raw intensity and impassioned vocals. However, the song was originally written and recorded by Bob Dylan for the soundtrack of the 1973 film "Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid." Guns N' Roses' cover, featured on their album "Use Your Illusion II" (1991), paid homage to Dylan's enduring legacy while adding a distinct rock edge to the timeless ballad.
17. "Me and Bobby McGee" by Janis Joplin
Janis Joplin's soulful rendition of "Me and Bobby McGee" remains one of her most beloved performances. Yet, the song was penned by Kris Kristofferson and Fred Foster, with Roger Miller recording the original version in 1969. Joplin's heartfelt interpretation, released posthumously in 1971, captured the essence of longing and wanderlust, earning its place as a timeless classic.
18. "I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch)" by The Four Tops
A soulful classic of the 1960s, "I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch)" is often associated with The Four Tops' smooth harmonies and infectious rhythm. However, the song was originally recorded by the Motown group The Supremes in 1965 under the title "Sugar Pie Honey Bunch." The Four Tops' rendition, released the same year, became an instant hit and remains a timeless favorite.
19. "Come On Feel the Noize" by Quiet Riot
A hard rock anthem of the 1980s, "Come On Feel the Noize" is often associated with Quiet Riot's explosive energy. However, the song was originally written and recorded by the British band Slade in 1973. Quiet Riot's cover, released in 1983, introduced the song to a new audience and became a staple of the glam metal era.
20. "I Want Candy" by Bow Wow Wow
A new wave favorite of the 1980s, "I Want Candy" by Bow Wow Wow is synonymous with infectious hooks and youthful exuberance. However, the song was first recorded by the Strangeloves in 1965, written by Bob Feldman, Jerry Goldstein, Richard Gottehrer, and Bert Berns. Bow Wow Wow's punk-infused cover, released in 1982, added a fresh twist to the pop gem, earning it a place in music history.
I'm embarrassed to say... I honestly thought this song was by Aaron Carter. So this one has levels of cover confusion.
So, the next time you find yourself immersed in a familiar melody, take a moment to delve deeper into its origins. You may uncover a hidden treasure — a cover song that challenges perceptions and enriches your musical journey in ways you never imagined. After all, in the vast tapestry of music, the most extraordinary discoveries often lie just beneath the surface.
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