What do Michael Jackson, Taylor Swift, and Beyoncé have in common?
They all have songs that have been covered by other artists!
Imitation is the highest form of flattery, but I think it’s even more of an honor when someone takes something you have created, and likes it enough to put their own spin on it. These covers truly honor the original song, while making them new and exciting.
11. Mirrors//Boyce Avenue ft. Fifth Harmony
This song is amazing, and this version is spectacular. The ladies of Fifth Harmony add another dimension to the song. Their voices soar, and so will your spirits when you listen to this song.
Sometimes slowing down a song gets old, but not this one. It is beautiful and gives the song a new perspective. (Side note: for any Grey’s Anatomy fans, this song was featured in Season 10 Episode 24)
Taylor Swift turned screamo. No further explanation required.
This classic got a lovely remix, and I can’t stop listening to it!
7. Smooth Criminal//Alien Ant Farm
The intensity of this song is really accentuated in this version. Head banging and Michael Jackson—what more could you want?
First of all, Lacey’s voice is otherworldly. She takes this classic to an even more emotional level. This song is meant to be a plea, it is meant to be desperate, and it is very well done.
Yet another classic that takes on a new meaning and a completely different sentiment. Sam has a voice that brings me to tears, and his rendition of this Whitney Houston song is extremely moving.
Yo. Oh Wonder is wonderful. They took a Beyoncé song and changed it. Dare I say they made it better? Give it a listen. You won’t be sorry.
3. 99 Red Balloons//Goldfinger
Now this one is just amazing. A lot of covers take a song and slow it down. This song is definitely not one of those. It’s fast, it’s crazy, and it’s a total jam.
2. 679 & No Diggity//Jackson Breit
Now this… this one is just very good. Not only is it a cover, it blends two songs! It keeps the swag and the cool factor of the originals, while adding some really, really impressive vocals.
This one has been on repeat for me. I love it. I can’t stop listening. The tempo isn’t changed much from the original, but there is a different feel to it. The arrangement and the production feels so big and emotional, and it’s just incredible.
A good cover is one that pays homage to the original and respects where it came from, while also bringing a new aspect and a personal flair to the beloved songs. For more, check out the Spotify playlist I made while creating this article, which includes all of the songs on this list, and I will add any new ones that I find!
Happy disCOVERing!