"I Will Always Love You" is one of Whitney Houston's most iconic hits. She recorded the song for the 1992 film The Bodyguard. The song spent 14 weeks at the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100. On top of this, it is the best-selling single by a woman in history.
Because the Houston version of the song is so popular, not everyone realizes that the original was recorded many years before by a woman who is equally, if not more famous – Dolly Parton. But given that Dolly Parton has so many hits, it's easy to forget which songs she actually wrote. The original version was recorded in 1973 and released in 1974.
Most people think of Ring of Fire as a Johnny Cash song. After all, the most famous version of the song comes from him. It peaked at number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 and at number one on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles. Recorded on March 25, 1963, it was one of his greatest hits.
But, believe it or not, Johnny Cash's version wasn't the first. The song, written by June Carter and Merle Kilgore, was originally sang by June Carter's sister, Anita. Johnny Cash decided to make it his own by including the sound of "Mexican Horns," an idea that came to him in a dream, supposedly.
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When Aretha Franklin released "Respect" in 1967, it became an anthem for both the feminist and civil rights movements. However, many people don't realize that this powerful song was originally recorded by Otis Redding in 1965. Redding's version, while energetic and heartfelt, did not carry the same weight or urgency as Franklin's rendition.
Aretha transformed the song into a declaration of independence and empowerment, adding the famous "R-E-S-P-E-C-T" chorus and her own soulful touch. Her version quickly overshadowed Redding's, becoming a massive hit and earning her two Grammy Awards. Franklin's "Respect" not only brought her widespread acclaim but also solidified the song's place in music history, far outshining the original.
Ike & Tina Turner's version of "Proud Mary" is a phenomenal cover song that arguably overshadowed the original's popularity. John Fogerty of the American rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR) originally wrote it in 1969. It's a roots-rock song with lyrics that could be interpreted in a few ways, possibly referencing a riverboat or a hardworking woman.
The Turners completely transformed the song for their 1971 live album What You Get is What You See. Famously, Tina even mispronounced a lyric, singing "pumped a lot of tane" instead of "pumped a lot of pain," which became a beloved part of the performance. Ike & Tina Turner's version became a massive hit, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and winning a Grammy Award for Best R&B Vocal Group Performance.
"Turn the Page" is a prime example of a well-known cover song. The song's roots tie back to rock legend Bob Seger, who wrote and recorded it in 1971 for his album Back in '72. Seger's version explores the struggles and loneliness of a touring musician's life.
Metallica released their cover in 1998 on their album Garage Inc., which is a collection dedicated to covers. Drummer Lars Ulrich stumbled upon the song while driving and felt it resonated with James Hetfield's voice and their own experiences on the road. Kirk Hammett's guitar solo replaced the original saxophone melody.
Celine Dion's 2003 cover of "I Drove All Night" brought the song to a new level of popularity, but it was originally recorded by Roy Orbison in 1987. Orbison's version, with its passionate delivery and classic rock vibe, was released posthumously and garnered significant acclaim.
However, it was Cyndi Lauper's 1989 cover that first introduced the song to a wider audience. Dion's rendition, with its powerful vocals and modern production, further cemented the song's place in pop music. Many listeners today associate the song primarily with Dion, overshadowing both Orbison's original and Lauper's earlier cover.
Marilyn Monroe's performance of "Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend" in the 1953 film "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" is iconic, but the song was originally written by Jule Styne and Leo Robin for the Broadway production of the same name in 1949.
Carol Channing first performed it on stage, but Monroe's glamorous portrayal and the lavish film production made her version unforgettable. The image of Monroe in a pink gown, surrounded by diamonds, has become synonymous with the song, often leading people to forget its Broadway origins and Channing's initial performance.
"Always on my Mind's" origins trace back to 1979, written by a country songwriter named Johnny Willis and originally titled "You Are Always on My Mind." This version explored themes of regret and longing for a lost love, resonating within the country music scene.
In 1978, Elvis Presley recorded his version of "Always on My Mind," but it wasn't released until after his death in 1977. Even better, country legend Willie Nelson released his cover in 1982, which achieved significant success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.
The Kinks' "You Really Got Me" is a groundbreaking rock song that helped shaped the genre in the '60s. Even better, Van Halen's cover in 1978 introduced the song to a new generation, helped along by its explosive guitar work and energetic performance.
Now people don't realize that The Kinks' made the original. But Van Halen's version, with Eddie Van Halen's iconic guitar solo and David Lee Roth's dynamic vocals, reimagined the song for the hard rock era and solidified the song as an enduring classic.
Okay, so y’all may have known about this one. But just in case you didn’t, this song was first written and performed by Dolly Parton in 1973 and it has been since ranked as the number 217th out of the “the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time” by Rolling Stones magazine.
It has been covered by singers such as Pentatonix, the White Stripes, and Olivia Newton-John. However, in 2012, Miley Cyrus (Parton’s Goddaughter) recorded a cover of the song in a video series, entitled “Backyard Sessions,” which garnered much attention. Beyoncé's controversial rendition, with her powerful and soulful delivery, ensures "Jolene" remains relevant and cherished across different musical eras.
Thin Lizzy's 1970s version of "Whiskey in the Jar" brought this traditional Irish folk song to rock audiences, but Metallica's 1998 cover further solidified its place in rock history. Thin Lizzy gave it a modern rock twist, while Metallica's heavier instrumentation and powerful vocals reinterpreted it for a metal audience. Both versions honor the song's folk origins while showcasing the artists' distinct styles.
The exact origin is unclear, but it's estimated to be from around the 17th century. There are various versions floating around, with different lyrics and melodies passed down orally through generations. Irish folk band The Dubliners are often credited with popularizing the song in the 20th century before cover artists made it a hit.
The original "Nothing Else Matters" is a classic power ballad by Metallica, released in 1992 on their self-titled Black Album. Miley Cyrus covered the song for the 2021 tribute album The Blacklist. Her version strips down the song, featuring a more intimate piano and strings arrangement.
Despite initial skepticism, Cyrus's cover was well-received by many Metallica fans. Lars Ulrich, drummer for Metallica, even stated in an interview that Cyrus's cover felt "written for her" and validated her connection to the song.
Elvis Presley's 1956 hit "Hound Dog" became one of his most iconic songs, but it was originally recorded by blues singer Big Mama Thornton in 1952. Thornton's version, with its raw blues sound and powerful vocals, was a hit on the R&B charts.
Presley's rock and roll rendition brought the song to a much wider audience, transforming it into a pop culture phenomenon. His energetic performance and the song's catchy beat overshadowed Thornton's original, making it one of Elvis's signature songs and a classic in rock and roll history.
Heart's powerful rendition of "Stairway to Heaven" is indeed a cover song of Led Zeppelin's original track. Ann Wilson, lead singer of Heart, is known for her incredible vocal range and powerful delivery. Her rendition of the song captures the emotional core of the original while adding her own distinct style.
Heart performed "Stairway to Heaven" in 2012 at the Kennedy Center Honors, a ceremony recognizing lifetime achievement in the arts. They were specifically chosen to pay tribute to Led Zeppelin. Heart's cover was widely praised by critics; even members of Led Zeppelin, including Robert Plant, expressed their appreciation for the performance.
Nirvana's haunting cover of "Where Did You Sleep Last Night" during their MTV Unplugged performance in 1993 brought new attention to this traditional folk song. Lead Belly's earlier version is one of the most well-known, showcasing its deep roots in American folk music. This song stretches way back to the 1870s or earlier.
Blues musician Lead Belly originally brought the song out of obscurity in the '40s and '50s, which helped users in the American folk revival, eventually leading Nirvana to make it a worldwide phenomenon.
The Beatles' electrifying version of "Twist and Shout," recorded in 1963, became a major hit and a staple of their early performances. However, the song was originally recorded by The Isley Brothers in 1962. The Isley Brothers' version had a rhythm and blues flavor, but it was The Beatles' high-energy rendition that catapulted the song to international fame.
Whether you like it or not, John Lennon's raw, throaty vocals and the band's dynamic arrangement made it a standout track, often leading listeners to associate "Twist and Shout" more with The Beatles than its original artists.
"Go Your Own Way" is widely recognized as a Fleetwood Mac classic from their 1977 album "Rumours," but it was originally written and performed by Lindsey Buckingham as a solo track before it was integrated into the band's body of work.
While Buckingham's initial version laid the groundwork, it was Fleetwood Mac's polished production, harmonized vocals, and cohesive band dynamics that transformed the song into a rock staple. The collaborative effort and the album's massive success overshadowed Buckingham's solo origins, leading many to associate the song solely with Fleetwood Mac.
Believe it or not, Shinedown's "Simple Man" isn't their original song! Lynyrd Skynyrd originally released it in 1973, and it became a huge hit. It's a song about staying true to yourself and following your dreams. Shinedown's cover isn't just a copy; it's a way to show respect to Skynyrd.
Shinedown's version, released in 2003, keeps the same message but adds a modern twist. They use heavier guitars and Brent Smith's unique voice to create a fresh sound.
In 1987, the all-female rock band The Bangles were approached to record a song for the soundtrack of the film "Less Than Zero." They chose "A Hazy Shade of Winter," a song they had already been performing live for several years. Their version completely transformed the song.
The song was originally written and performed by the iconic folk-rock duo Simon & Garfunkel. It was released as a single in 1966 and later appeared on their 1968 album "Bookends." The Bangles' rock version reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, solidifying it as a classic.
Joan Jett & the Blackhearts made "I Love Rock 'n' Roll" an anthem in 1981, but the song was first recorded by The Arrows in 1975. The Arrows' version, while catchy, didn't make a significant impact on the charts. Jett's cover, with its raw energy and rebellious spirit, struck a chord with rock fans and became a number-one hit.
Her version's immense popularity and association with her persona led many to believe it was an original song, overshadowing The Arrows' initial recording. To this day, listeners immediately think of Joan Jett when the song starts to play.
Yes, Talking Heads' "Take Me to the River" is also a cover! Shocker! Al Green recorded the ballad in 1974 for Let's Get Married. Later, in 1978, producer Brian Eno convinced Talking Heads frontman David Byrne to give it a try, and it was released on their album More Songs About Buildings and Food.
Talking Heads stripped the song down to its core. They slowed the melody, removed the gospel melody, and incorporated their iconic synthesizers, of course. As a result, Byrne's vocals transformed it into a more introspective and haunting piece.
Fuel's cover of Led Zeppelin's "Going to California" achieved mainstream success, reaching number six on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It introduced Led Zeppelin's classic song to a whole new generation of rock fans who might not have been familiar with the original.
Fuel released the cover in 2000 as a single and included it on their album Something Like Human. The song was originally written and performed for Led Zepplin's 1971 album IV AKA Four Symbols.
No Doubt's 2003 hit "It's My Life" is widely recognized as one of their signature songs, but it was originally recorded by Talk Talk in 1984. Talk Talk's version, with its synth-pop style, was a moderate hit in the UK but didn't achieve the same level of success internationally.
No Doubt's cover (featuring founding member Gwen Stephani as the lead vocalist) was an energetic, ska-punk version that became so iconic that it's easy to forget that it was originally a moody Talk Talk track. No Doubt transformed the song into a rebellious anthem and brought a new wave of popularity to the song.
The original "Gin and Juice" was written and performed by Snoop Dogg (then known as Snoop Doggy Dogg). Released in 1994 on his debut album, and it became a massive West Coast hip-hop hit. The Gourds, an American alternative country/bluegrass band, took a surprising yet delightful turn by covering "Gin and Juice" in the late 1990s.
Their version completely transforms the song with bluegrass guitars, mandolins, banjos, and even a fiddle solo. The cover went viral online and was often misattributed to other bands. Despite the lack of traditional radio play, the song gained a cult following for its unexpected twist on a familiar track.
Rod Stewart's version of "The First Cut Is the Deepest" is a timeless classic, but it was Cat Stevens who originally penned and recorded the song in 1967. Stevens’ rendition, with its gentle folk-rock vibe, was well-received but didn't achieve the same level of fame as Stewart's 1977 cover.
Stewart's raspy voice and emotive delivery brought a new emotional depth to the song that appealed to a wider audience. The cover's success helped cement its place in the pop-rock canon, leading many to mistakenly believe it was an original Stewart hit.
Sinéad O'Connor's haunting rendition of "Nothing Compares 2 U" in 1990 became a global sensation, but the song was originally written by Prince and recorded by his side project, The Family, in 1985. The Family's version remained relatively obscure until O'Connor's emotionally charged cover brought it to the spotlight.
Her powerful performance and the iconic music video turned the song into an international hit, often overshadowing its origin. O'Connor's version is so well-known that many fans are unaware of Prince's initial composition and recording.
Take That's cover of "How Deep Is Your Love" became a huge hit in the late '90s, but the song was originally recorded by the Bee Gees in 1977. The Bee Gees' version, featured on the Saturday Night Fever" soundtrack, is a quintessential disco-era ballad, but Take That's version managed to bridge the generational divide.
Take That reintroduced the song to a new generation with their 1996 cover, infusing it with a contemporary pop sound. While the Bee Gees' original remains iconic, Take That's version gained significant popularity in its own right, often leading younger listeners to believe it was their song.
The Clash's 1979 version of "I Fought the Law" is often seen as the best (and only) recording of this rebellious anthem. However, the song was first recorded by The Crickets in 1960, written by their member Sonny Curtis. It gained greater fame when The Bobby Fuller Four released their version in 1966, which became a top-ten hit.
The Clash's punk rock rendition gave the song a new edge and political significance, resonating with a generation of punk fans. Their punk cover of the rockabilly classic became so influential that many listeners are unaware of its origins.
Beyoncé's 2008 hit "If I Were a Boy" struck a chord with audiences worldwide, thanks to its poignant lyrics and powerful vocal delivery. It's a heart-wrenching exploration of gender roles., and surprisingly, was originally written and recorded by singer-songwriter BC Jean, but her version didn't achieve commercial success. Beyoncé's version, however, catapulted the song to global fame.
Beyoncé's rendition brought the song to the forefront of mainstream music, highlighting its emotional depth and lyrical narrative about femininity and relationships. The cover's popularity far exceeded the original, establishing it as one of Beyoncé's memorable ballads and leaving many unaware of its origins with BC Jean.
Natalie Imbruglia's "Torn" became a massive hit in 1997, topping the charts and becoming a defining song of the decade. But did you know it was originally a rock song by the band Ednaswap? It was originally performed by the American rock band in 1995, but because the production was darker and raw, it didn't achieve the same commercial success.
Imbruglia's stripped-down, emotional interpretation resonated with a broader audience and is now considered a pop classic. The success of her rendition was so overwhelming that it overshadowed the original, leading many to believe "Torn" was Imbruglia's own creation.
You probably remember "Tainted Love" as Soft Cell's haunting synth-pop classic, but it was actually a soul hit for Gloria Jones in the '60s. Soft Cell's dark, atmospheric cover transformed the song into a new wave anthem, proving that sometimes a completely different take can make a song even more iconic.
Soft Cell's version became a defining song of the '80s thanks to it's with its distinctive electronic sound along with Marc Almond's unique vocals. The cover's popularity far eclipsed the original, and for many, it remains the definitive version of "Tainted Love."
Nirvana's haunting acoustic performance of "The Man Who Sold the World" during their 1993 MTV Unplugged session brought renewed attention to the song, originally recorded by David Bowie in 1970. Bowie's version, with its psychedelic rock elements, was a cult favorite but didn't achieve mainstream success at the time.
Nirvana's stripped-down, raw interpretation introduced the song to a new generation of listeners. Kurt Cobain's emotional delivery made a lasting impact, leading many fans to associate the song more closely with Nirvana than with Bowie.
The Jimi Hendrix Experience's 1968 version of "All Along the Watchtower" is widely regarded as one of the greatest cover songs of all time. The song was originally written and recorded by Bob Dylan in 1967, with a folk-rock style.
Hendrix's cover, with its groundbreaking electric guitar work and intensity, transformed the song into a rock anthem. Dylan himself acknowledged the impact of Hendrix's version, often performing it in a style closer to Hendrix's interpretation. The cover's popularity and innovation have led many to consider it the best version of the song.
Guns N' Roses' powerful 1990 rendition of "Knockin' on Heaven's Door" introduced the song to a new generation of rock fans, but it was originally written and recorded by Bob Dylan in 1973 for the film Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid. Dylan's folk-rock style made it a significant hit, yes, but the Guns N' Roses' cover, featuring their signature hard rock sound and Axl Rose's distinctive vocals, appealed to a modern, broader audience.
"Purple Rain," one of Prince's most iconic songs, is often thought to be an original masterpiece, but it was initially written for his side project, The Time. The song evolved significantly during its creation and eventually became the title track of Prince's 1984 album and film.
While The Time's early version laid the foundation, it was Prince's soulful guitar solos, emotive vocals, and the sweeping orchestration that turned "Purple Rain" into an enduring anthem. The final product, attributed solely to Prince, eclipsed its origins, making it a signature song of his career.
"My Girl," a timeless classic by The Temptations, was originally written by Smokey Robinson and Ronald White of The Miracles. While it was The Temptations who first recorded and popularized the song in 1964, many are unaware of its connection to The Miracles.
Smokey Robinson's influence is evident in the song's soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics. The Temptations' smooth harmonies and David Ruffin's lead vocals made "My Girl" a chart-topping hit and an enduring favorite, often overshadowing its origin as a creation of Robinson and White.
Johnny Cash's 2002 cover of "Hurt" is a poignant and deeply moving rendition that resonated with a wide audience. The song was originally recorded by industrial rock band Nine Inch Nails in 1994, written by Trent Reznor. While the original is raw and intense, Cash's version is stripped down and emotional, reflecting his own life experiences and struggles.
The accompanying music video, featuring images from Cash's career, added to its impact, earning critical acclaim and multiple awards. Reznor himself praised Cash's interpretation, saying it felt like the song now belonged to Cash. The cover's profound emotional depth and Cash's iconic status made it far more recognizable than the original.
Bob Marley and the Wailers' "No Woman, No Cry" is one of the most beloved reggae songs, but it was actually written by Vincent Ford, a close friend of Marley. The live version from the 1975 album "Live!" is particularly famous, showcasing Marley's emotive vocals and the band's tight performance.
Ford's contribution to the song, reflecting the struggles and resilience of the Trenchtown community, is often overshadowed by Marley's iconic status. The song's widespread recognition is so strongly tied to Marley that few realize its true origins lie with Ford.
"Nights in White Satin" by The Moody Blues, released in 1967, is a hallmark of progressive rock, featuring lush orchestration and haunting lyrics. However, it was inspired by It's a Beautiful Day's earlier composition. While not a direct cover, the influence is evident, and the song's success eclipsed its precursor.
The Moody Blues' version, with its sweeping symphonic elements and Justin Hayward's poignant vocals, became a defining track of the era. Its immense popularity often leads listeners to overlook its roots and the inspiration drawn from It's a Beautiful Day's work.
The Beatles' hit "I Feel Fine," released in 1964, is celebrated for its pioneering use of guitar feedback and catchy melody. However, it was heavily inspired by The Hollies' earlier work. While not an outright cover, the influence of The Hollies' sound on the song's creation is significant.
The Beatles' version was obviously an instant hit, which means that the song is typically associated The Beatles and their groundbreaking approach before it's credited to The Hollies. But when The Beatles make a cover of your song, it's really a compliment in the end.
