If you are an avid music listener, you may know that most of the time “covers” of original, popular songs usually don’t live up to the hype as their prior. However, these songs are arguably better than the originals and have to be shared with the world.
1. “Pursuit of Happiness” by Lissie
The original Kid Cudi hit really put him on the map for many people, but this cover by Lissie is a mix of Lana Del Rey and Adele. The deep tones in her voice make you truly feel the emotion behind the song, whereas the original slightly skates over the meaning of the song. Check out her other songs; they’re ingenious.
2. “Tiny Dancer” by Tim McGraw
The original by the famous Elton John is a classic, but Tim McGraw’s quality and dragged out vocal tones are perfect for this song. His country spin and drawl add an emotional appeal and although it may not be AS good as Elton John’s, it comes extremely close.
3. “Dirty Diana” by The Weeknd
First of all, if you haven’t heard anything by The Weeknd you are severely missing out. The guy behind The Weekend has perfected many covers, and “Dirty Diana” is definitely one of the best (check out “Drunk in Love” here). Originally by Michael Jackson, The Weeknd took their biggest inspiration and did a cover on one of his songs. Although Jackson is a legend in his own right, The Weeknd has put a new spin on his famous tune.
4. “We Own It” by Mike Posner, Niykee Heaton, Sammy Adams, and T-Mills
One of my personal favorites, this song originally sung by 2 Chainz and Wiz Khalifa was from the most Fast and Furious, and was also primarily a rap based song. However, Posner, Heaton, Adams, and T-Mills puts there own artistic spin on the song and made it a work of art.
5. “You Got What I Need” by Joshua Radin
This 1968 classic was originally sung by Freddie Scott and has been a popular song to cover, but the best one I have found is by Joshua Radin. He recently reached fame because this song was used in the Nicholas Sparks’ film “The Lucky One”. This song will make you feel every emotion behind every word. This will definitely be a favorite.
6. “Climax” by Daniel De Bourg
Usher has an extremely rare falsetto voice, and to be able to cover this song you have to be able to compete with that. Daniel De Bourg has the greatest falsetto voice with amazing control in this popular cover. He has a significant following on YouTube and also isn’t too bad to look at either. Definitely check out his other videos.
7. “The Man Who Can’t Be Moved” by Straight No Chaser
The Script sings the original song with a pop tone, but Straight No Chaser puts an accapella spin on this popular radio hit. This version is great because of the raw voice that is used, which makes you truly feel the emotion behind the song. This is a song that would ultimately be put on repeat for anyone who hears it.
8. “We Can’t Stop” by Bastille
Don’t expect an upbeat song like the original artist Miley Cyrus has performed, Bastille puts their own spin on it by slowing it down and changing up the beats and lyrics, which puts a more literal meaning to the song. This song is ingeniously done, by adding extra musical elements like a violin and bass guitar. Bastille does many covers including Locked out of Heaven originally by Bruno Mars.
9. “Drunk in Love” by Ed Sheeran
Queen B is arguably the most influential artist on the planet right now, and to say that Ed Sheeran’s version of Drunk in Love is better is quite a huge stretch, nonetheless, his effortless singing with only his guitar make you yearn for more. I don’t know if it beats Beyonce’s famous hit, however it come pretty damn close. Another amazing cover by Sheeran is “She Looks So Perfect” originally sung by 5SOS. He again slows it down and puts his own twang to the words.
10. “Valerie” by Amy Winehouse
Originally sung by Steve Winwood in 1982, Amy Winehouse puts her own sound to this classic and ultimately made it the song it is tonight. This is one of her most listened to songs, despite it being just a cover. By listening to the song you can tell that she has so much passion while singing it. Bruno Mars also performed this song in tribute to Winehouse after her sudden death.
11. “Twist and Shout” by The Beatles
Many people are unaware that The Beatles indeed did not originally sing this, but instead by The Isley Brothers. Ultimately, the song wasn’t truly what was until The Beatles sang it. The version is often the one you would hear in films and television as well.