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Non Smiley Smile Stuff => General Music Discussion => Topic started by: punkinhead on April 19, 2011, 10:13:07 AM



Title: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: punkinhead on April 19, 2011, 10:13:07 AM
I can't remember if I had written a thread about this, I tried searching but you know how often the words cover, song, and original are used on this board.
I'll come up with mine in a bit.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: the captain on April 19, 2011, 10:27:20 AM
I know this has been brought up at some point, and definitely in Beach Boys context (covers of their tunes or tunes they covered). But it doesn't look like it has been a recent topic, anyway, so if you have something to say on it, I say go for it. I'll stick my neck out on a couple right off: Byrds Mr. Tambourine Man tops Dylan's, and Wondermints' Ooh Child is my favorite version of the song ever. I also prefer Great Lakes' Some of Shelley's Blues more than Mike Nesmith's.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: punkinhead on April 19, 2011, 10:30:36 AM
I know this has been brought up at some point, and definitely in Beach Boys context (covers of their tunes or tunes they covered). But it doesn't look like it has been a recent topic, anyway, so if you have something to say on it, I say go for it. I'll stick my neck out on a couple right off: Byrds Mr. Tambourine Man tops Dylan's, and Wondermints' Ooh Child is my favorite version of the song ever. I also prefer Great Lakes' Some of Shelley's Blues more than Mike Nesmith's.
WOuld the Monkees' version of Cuddly Toy be a cover or a song written for the group?


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: the captain on April 19, 2011, 10:42:56 AM
That's a good question. There is that idea of how we ought to treat what I'll call the pre-Dylan pre-Beatles era (i.e. before we expected the writer to be the performer). And Nilsson was definitely a part of that phenomenon, during its waning days of prominence. I don't think he wrote Cuddly Toy for the Monkees, but he certainly was selling tunes. So is that a cover? I don't know.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: rab2591 on April 19, 2011, 10:44:31 AM
I prefer Dylan's Tambourine Man over the Byrds....however, I prefer their version of 'All I really Want to Do' over Dylan's.

The Four Tops version of 'Walk Away Renee' over The Left Banke's - though both are VERY good.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: the captain on April 19, 2011, 10:51:31 AM
I like Iron & Wine's version of Flaming Lips' Waiting For Superman quite a bit. Maybe not better, I don't know. But in some ways I do think it is. It shows different sides of it, being so removed from the unmistakable Fridmann sound of the original.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: punkinhead on April 19, 2011, 11:12:29 AM
I prefer Dylan's Tambourine Man over the Byrds....however, I prefer their version of 'All I really Want to Do' over Dylan's.

The Four Tops version of 'Walk Away Renee' over The Left Banke's - though both are VERY good.

REALLY?
Though I've never heard the Four Tops' version, that Left Banke version would be hard to top....no pun intended...

BTW, I will say any version is better than Mike's version (He did with Dean T, right?) of Walk Away.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: rab2591 on April 19, 2011, 11:18:38 AM
I prefer Dylan's Tambourine Man over the Byrds....however, I prefer their version of 'All I really Want to Do' over Dylan's.

The Four Tops version of 'Walk Away Renee' over The Left Banke's - though both are VERY good.

REALLY?
Though I've never heard the Four Tops' version, that Left Banke version would be hard to top....no pun intended...

BTW, I will say any version is better than Mike's version (He did with Dean T, right?) of Walk Away.

The Four Tops version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wICc8bU95u8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wICc8bU95u8)

I guess it's because I grew up listening to the Four Tops version that I have a bias :-D - however I really think that the harmonies in the Four Tops version are far superior, however the string arrangement in The Left Banke's version is excellent. So, it's a close call.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: rab2591 on April 19, 2011, 11:22:08 AM
I prefer Dylan's Tambourine Man over the Byrds....however, I prefer their version of 'All I really Want to Do' over Dylan's.


BTW, I will say any version is better than Mike's version (He did with Dean T, right?) of Walk Away.


Damn, it's not on youtube. How I would love to hear that....If it is as good as their Jingle Bell Rock duet I'm in for a real treat!


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: punkinhead on April 19, 2011, 11:24:10 AM
I can Hear Music- Beach Boys, of course
Heart and Soul- Jan and Dean
Ain't She Sweet- Beatles (either version; early sessions or Get Back sessions)
Rock and Roll Music- Beatles
Louie Louie- Beach Boys (no, I'm not kidding)
Hey Baby- Ringo
Good Ol' Days- The Blanks
Vine Street- Harry Nilsson...a close 2nd with Van Dyke Parks
Just Once in My Life- Beach Boys/Rightous Brothers-----gotta be a tie...I can't pick, those vocals are sooooooooo good!
Three Cool Cats- Beatles
All Along the Watchtower- Hendrix
Black Magic Woman- Santana
I shot the Sherriff- Clapton
Had to Phone Ya---toss up here...I love the vocals on the Beach Boys but the backing track to the American Spring is so Love You synthy


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: rab2591 on April 19, 2011, 11:32:16 AM
Another one from 15 Big Ones I like over the original is 'Palisades Park' - I find myself listening to The Beach Boys version quite often.

Have to disagree with Louie Louie - love the original. However, 'Papa Oom Mow Mow' from Party definitely beats the original for me....Brian does a great job singing "Dip Dip Dip" in his falsetto...love it!

Definitely agree with the Hendrix version of All Along The Watchtower.

I haven't heard Nilsson's Vine Street though - One of my favorite tracks from Song Cycle. The Newman demo is on youtube - that is a really class recording of it too.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: the captain on April 19, 2011, 12:15:36 PM


I haven't heard Nilsson's Vine Street though
You have to, not just for that tune but the whole album: Nilsson Sings Newman is in my opinion one of the 10 or 15 best albums there has ever been. Wow, it's good.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: TdHabib on April 19, 2011, 12:22:06 PM
That version of "Vine Street" really stands out too...the first time I heard those wall of harmonies on the chorus....man I had to sit down! The Nilsson sings Newman album is just brilliant.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: roll plymouth rock on April 19, 2011, 12:30:26 PM
I prefer Dylan's Tambourine Man over the Byrds....however, I prefer their version of 'All I really Want to Do' over Dylan's.


BTW, I will say any version is better than Mike's version (He did with Dean T, right?) of Walk Away.


Damn, it's not on youtube. How I would love to hear that....If it is as good as their Jingle Bell Rock duet I'm in for a real treat!

No its on the Mike & Dean album but its actually The Association - Walk Away Renee (One of Curt Boettcher's very last productions also, if not the last)


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: stack-o-tracks on April 19, 2011, 01:19:05 PM
Stone Temple Pilots do some pretty good covers.

Dancing Days by Led Zeppelin: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQRPM8Mm6RQ
Break On Through by The Doors: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TEpj0VM6K3w


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: punkinhead on April 19, 2011, 01:28:08 PM


I haven't heard Nilsson's Vine Street though
You have to, not just for that tune but the whole album: Nilsson Sings Newman is in my opinion one of the 10 or 15 best albums there has ever been. Wow, it's good.

VDP and Nilsson both sing two different songs before launching into....."That's a tape, that we made.....etc..etc."

Are the songs they sing before before both Newman songs? 
Both songs are very fitting for each singer.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: roll plymouth rock on April 19, 2011, 01:34:56 PM


I haven't heard Nilsson's Vine Street though
You have to, not just for that tune but the whole album: Nilsson Sings Newman is in my opinion one of the 10 or 15 best albums there has ever been. Wow, it's good.

VDP and Nilsson both sing two different songs before launching into....."That's a tape, that we made.....etc..etc."

Are the songs they sing before before both Newman songs? 
Both songs are very fitting for each singer.

I've always really enjoyed the Harpers Bizarre version of Vine Street, has a cool intro tape version of their old Tikis song Bye Bye Bye. VDP's early version is of an old folk song called Black Jack David. Nilsson's is the one Newman wrote for the song, which can also be heard on his debut S/T album (with VDP/Warronker production)


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: punkinhead on April 19, 2011, 01:38:08 PM
Do tributes to the artist count as covers?
Because if so, there's a lot of ties and really close 2nds for the BW Tribute (All Star Tribute) let alone numerous other tribute albums.

To name a few:
Surfer Girl- Paul Simon (mind blowing!)
Pet Sounds (song)- Gary Usher is gotta be a tie with the original, honestly!
Don't Worry Baby- Billy Joel, close 2nd, I love his vocals, but the BB are still dominant.
City Blues- Richie Sambora
Warmth of the Sun- Vince Gill
Where I Belong- Adam Marsland's Chaos Band; Carl's version is a close 2nd


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: punkinhead on April 19, 2011, 01:42:44 PM


I haven't heard Nilsson's Vine Street though
You have to, not just for that tune but the whole album: Nilsson Sings Newman is in my opinion one of the 10 or 15 best albums there has ever been. Wow, it's good.

VDP and Nilsson both sing two different songs before launching into....."That's a tape, that we made.....etc..etc."

Are the songs they sing before before both Newman songs? 
Both songs are very fitting for each singer.

I've always really enjoyed the Harpers Bizarre version of Vine Street, has a cool intro tape version of their old Tikis song Bye Bye Bye. VDP's early version is of an old folk song called Black Jack David. Nilsson's is the one Newman wrote for the song, which can also be heard on his debut S/T album (with VDP/Warronker production)
Didn't know Harper's Bizarre did a version, look out Youtube


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: punkinhead on April 19, 2011, 01:46:31 PM
Another tribute I just thought of was at a Lennon tribute a while ago, I think Sean Lennon sang This Boy and I loved it! The vocals were great.


That is if we're counting tributes   ;)


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: punkinhead on April 19, 2011, 02:05:09 PM
Speaking of Nilsson, I'm surprised nobody has brought up one of his best cover songs: Without You (versus Badfinger, though both have very sentimental reasons behind them)



I also enjoy:
Spanish Harlem- Mama's and Papa's
Yellow Submarine- Black Dyke Mills Band
My Way- Sid Vicious
Romeo and Juliet- American Spring
I Fought the Law- The Clash
Try Some Buy Some- Ronnie Spector
Glad to Be Unhappy- Mama's and Papa's
I Was Made to Love Her- I really can't choose between the Beach Boy's and Stevie's version, Carl's vocals are sooo good but I love the track and vocals to Stevie's, and the BB version has that WH vibe (obviously, being on the album)  :lol
Come and Get It- Badfinger...though it was written for them by Paul, Paul had the original
Never My Love- the 5th Dimension's version has got to be a really close 2nd to the Association.
Muskrat Love- America
Love Will Keep Us Together- Captain & Tennille
Sour Milk Sea- Jackie Lomax
Unchained Melody- Vito and the Salutations
Monster Mash- Beach Boys


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: punkinhead on April 19, 2011, 03:52:20 PM
the Let it Be album- Laibach   :o






Just kidding, but they certainly did make its a more interesting album out of that material than the Beatles did...but it


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: punkinhead on April 19, 2011, 04:50:04 PM
Even more additional tunes, I can't quit!

Going Out of My Head- Sergio Mendes and Brasil 66
Please Mister Postman- The Beatles
Night & Day- The Temptations
Pinball Wizard- Elton John
Ticket to Ride- The Carpenters
Be-Bop-a-Lula- John Lennon
Angel Baby- John Lennon


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: roll plymouth rock on April 19, 2011, 06:27:39 PM


I haven't heard Nilsson's Vine Street though
You have to, not just for that tune but the whole album: Nilsson Sings Newman is in my opinion one of the 10 or 15 best albums there has ever been. Wow, it's good.

VDP and Nilsson both sing two different songs before launching into....."That's a tape, that we made.....etc..etc."

Are the songs they sing before before both Newman songs? 
Both songs are very fitting for each singer.

I've always really enjoyed the Harpers Bizarre version of Vine Street, has a cool intro tape version of their old Tikis song Bye Bye Bye. VDP's early version is of an old folk song called Black Jack David. Nilsson's is the one Newman wrote for the song, which can also be heard on his debut S/T album (with VDP/Warronker production)
Didn't know Harper's Bizarre did a version, look out Youtube

Off the Secret Life Of Harpers Bizarre....worth tracking down! The CD release includes the B-Sides which were covers of Nilsson Poly High & Joni Mitchell's Both Sides Now


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: pixletwin on April 19, 2011, 07:18:36 PM
I really enjoy Fiona Apple's version of Across the Universe.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: GuyOnTheBeach on April 20, 2011, 03:29:10 AM
Johnny Cash's cover of "Love's Been Good To Me"


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: rab2591 on April 20, 2011, 07:15:34 AM
I really enjoy Fiona Apple's version of Across the Universe.

Wow! Just looked it up - that's a great cover!


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Roger Ryan on April 20, 2011, 09:37:00 AM
Material Issue - "Kim The Waitress" (Green Pajamas)
Johnny Cash - "Hurt" (Nine Inch Nails)
The Volebeats - "This Is Where I Belong" (The Kinks)
The Ramones - "I Don't Want To Grow Up" (Tom Waits)
The Church - "Hiroshima Mon Amour" (Ultravox)
Talking Heads - "Take Me To The River" (Al Green)
Them - "It's All Over Now Baby Blue" (Bob Dylan)
Robyn Hitchcock - "It's All Over Now Baby Blue" (Bob Dylan)
Bryan Ferry - "It's All Over Now Baby Blue" (Bob Dylan)

...and I really like Dylan's version!


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Alex on April 20, 2011, 09:40:51 PM
Barenaked Ladies-Still Ill
Beach Boys-Little Old Lady From Pasadena
Belle and Sebastian-The Boys Are Back In Town
Frankie Goes to Hollywood-Born to Run
Darian Sahanaja-Do You Have Any Regrets
Ted Leo-Since You Been Gone
Richard Cheese-Down With the Sickness
Neko Case-Bowling Green
Feist-Now at Last
Barenaked Ladies-(They Long to Be) Close to You
Death Cab-Free Fallin`
Death Cab-Earth Angel
The Raveonettes-My Boyfriends Back
Twisted Sister-Leader of the Pack


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: punkinhead on April 21, 2011, 05:46:34 AM
Deep Purple- Donny and Marie Osmond and Brian Wilson (Adult Child)---both two different versions/recordings of the same song.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Jonas on April 21, 2011, 06:08:52 AM
Schneider TM remix of The Smiths' "There is a Light That Never Goes Out"


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: shelter on April 21, 2011, 02:34:56 PM
I always thought of ABBA's Super Trooper as just a catchy little disco tune. Until I heard Camera Obscura's heartbreakingly beautiful acoustic version. They do the song much more justice than ABBA.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: punkinhead on April 22, 2011, 08:27:05 AM
Barenaked Ladies-Still Ill
Beach Boys-Little Old Lady From Pasadena
Belle and Sebastian-The Boys Are Back In Town
Frankie Goes to Hollywood-Born to Run
Darian Sahanaja-Do You Have Any Regrets
Ted Leo-Since You Been Gone
Richard Cheese-Down With the Sickness
Neko Case-Bowling Green
Feist-Now at Last
Barenaked Ladies-(They Long to Be) Close to You
Death Cab-Free Fallin`
Death Cab-Earth Angel
The Raveonettes-My Boyfriends Back
Twisted Sister-Leader of the Pack

i concur


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Mike's Beard on April 23, 2011, 05:32:19 AM
The Carpenters version of "Calling Occupants Of Interplanetary Craft" blows away the original.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: punkinhead on April 23, 2011, 03:47:26 PM
The Carpenters version of "Calling Occupants Of Interplanetary Craft" blows away the original.
weird, I was thinkin the same thing...but I wanted to listen to them back to back just to make sure...I'd only listened to the Carpenters' version a handful of times as opposed to the Klaatu version....Anyone else think this song is kinda obscure of the Carpenters to cover?


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Alex on May 07, 2011, 08:38:49 AM
I always thought of ABBA's Super Trooper as just a catchy little disco tune. Until I heard Camera Obscura's heartbreakingly beautiful acoustic version. They do the song much more justice than ABBA.
They did a damn good job with that song! In another era Camera Obscura could've been huge as opposed to just being an 'indie' band.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RollPlymouthRock on May 08, 2011, 10:19:10 AM
I'm amazed that no one has mentioned the Aretha Franklin cover of Respect or the Jeff Buckley version of Halleujah.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: All Golden 74 on May 08, 2011, 11:19:50 AM
This may be obvious - how about Sagittarius with My World Fell Down(the version with the long bridge).  I really love this song - too bad the whole album wasn't this good.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Andreas on May 08, 2011, 12:53:38 PM
The first two Led Zeppelin albums. :)

Seriously, All Along The Watchtower by Hendrix is the quintessential cover version. Others:

Elvis Presley - Suspicious Minds (original by Mark James)
The Isley Brothers - Twist And Shout (original by The Top Notes)
The Beach Boys - I Can Hear Music (original by The Ronettes)
Wilson Pickett - Mustang Sally (original by Sir Mack Rice)
both Dionne Warkwick and The Carpenters - (They Long To Be) Close To Me (original by Richard Chamberlain)
Glenn Campbell - By The Time I Get To Phoenix (original by Johnny Rivers)
Bill Haley - Rock Around The Clock (original by Sunny Dae & The Knights)
Joe Cocker - You Are So Beautiful (original by Billy Preston)
Deep Purple - Hush (original by Billy Joe Royal)


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: All Golden 74 on May 08, 2011, 03:07:31 PM
It's a slow day (sorry Mom! ;D)

Elvis Presley - Good Rocking Tonight (original Roy Brown)
Jerry Lee Lewis - Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On (original Big Maybelle)
Link Wray - Hidden Charms (original Charles Clark, but also beats every other version I've heard!)
Doors - Back Door Man (original Howlin' Wolf)
Black Flag - Louie Louie (original The Kingsmen), my favorite version and the funniest lyrics!
Ray Charles - Modern Sounds in Country and Western music (original lotta people), better version of all of 'em except the Buck Owens stuff.



Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RollPlymouthRock on May 09, 2011, 07:36:21 AM
How could i forget the Beach Boys' cover of Do You Wanna Dance.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: punkinhead on May 17, 2011, 10:32:37 AM
I'm kinda at a crossroad with a song, Hold Me Tight


I love love love the Beatles' version, but then again, I love Spector's version (The Treasures, I believe). Both very different versions of the song. The instrumental track to Spector's is far superior in my opinion, but the Beatles is more of a bubblegum/pop type song (IMO). To me, the Treasures' vocals on HMT is more of a 50s/motown/soul type.

What's your thoughts?

Which is better?


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: punkinhead on May 17, 2011, 10:39:47 AM
I'm kinda at a crossroad with a song, Hold Me Tight


I love love love the Beatles' version, but then again, I love Spector's version (The Treasures, I believe). Both very different versions of the song. The instrumental track to Spector's is far superior in my opinion, but the Beatles is more of a bubblegum/pop type song (IMO). To me, the Treasures' vocals on HMT is more of a 50s/motown/soul type.

What's your thoughts?

Which is better?
This also reminds me how Brian and Phil have such different takes on covers (more of the time), perhaps later, I could come up with a list, not just Spector & Wilson covering each other...but their covers themselve.

And even then, I feel like Bacharach has a lot of different versions of his songs with different artists...unless they're just a cover by different artist and have no connection to Bacharach...But mostly, all the "originals" that are on the 3 disc Look Of Love boxed set are my preferred version....However, I did download (what I thought was this 3 disc set) but was actually a 2 disc set with a different track selection/artist such as A. Franklin singing I Say a Little Prayer rather than the original artist (Dionne Warwick? I think) or This (Girl's) In Love with You sung by Petula Clark rather than Herb Alpert...which is quite different in my opinion...anyone else experience or notice this?


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Catbirdman on May 17, 2011, 04:28:52 PM
I'm amazed that no one has mentioned the Aretha Franklin cover of Respect or the Jeff Buckley version of Halleujah.

I will give you both of those for sure, great examples. Actually, until last night (whilst listening to the Vagrants' version of "Respect" on the Nuggets compilation), I didn't even realize that Aretha Franklin's version was technically a cover.

Speaking of the Queen of Soul, I would say the Flying Burrito Brothers did a classic version of "Do Right Woman, Do Right Man." It would be audacious to suggest it tops the original, but it's a different take (different genre, different gender) and stands on its own like a great movie can stand apart (without necessarily being "better") from its book source.

But my favorite cover version of anything ever goes to the Red House Painters' version of The Cars' "All Mixed Up." Mark Kozelek wrenches every ounce of real, unabashed emotion that you never knew the song had in the first place. A truly beautiful track.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Roger Ryan on May 17, 2011, 04:39:20 PM
But my favorite cover version of anything ever goes to the Red House Painters' version of The Cars' "All Mixed Up." Mark Kozelek wrenches every ounce of real, unabashed emotion that you never knew the song had in the first place. A truly beautiful track.

Hey, thanks for the tip! I was listening to The Cars' original on repeat on my drive home from work today and would love to hear another band's take on it.

(By the way, I'm digging the new Cars' CD a lot - I felt they lost their way after SHAKE IT UP [1981] and I can't believe Ocasek and company delivered an album on par with SHAKE... and PANORAMA thirty years later. I just wish Ben Orr could have lived to take the lead on half the tracks.)

EDIT: Just listened to the Red House Painters version and found it quite lovely...although I think it might be too earnest.  The coolness of the original arrangement makes the song feel more desperate or melancholic to me (and you can't beat the "Be My Baby" drum quote that shows up after the first bridge). The icy synths, the sax, the mechanical rhythm and Orr's near-monotone delivery puts the performance of the song on the same level as the emotionally distant supermodel the song is persumably about. In other words, it feels like The Cars deserve to be pining for that type of woman whereas Mark Kozelek sounds like a guy who doesn't even live in the same city as that girl.

All the same, thanks for bringing the cover to my attention!


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Catbirdman on May 17, 2011, 09:41:09 PM
Just listened to the Red House Painters version and found it quite lovely...although I think it might be too earnest.  The coolness of the original arrangement makes the song feel more desperate or melancholic to me (and you can't beat the "Be My Baby" drum quote that shows up after the first bridge). The icy synths, the sax, the mechanical rhythm and Orr's near-monotone delivery puts the performance of the song on the same level as the emotionally distant supermodel the song is presumably about. In other words, it feels like The Cars deserve to be pining for that type of woman whereas Mark Kozelek sounds like a guy who doesn't even live in the same city as that girl.

All the same, thanks for bringing the cover to my attention!

And thank YOU for bringing the Cars to top of mind for me. I've been meaning to check out Move Like This, as well as their vintage material, for quite a while, and this was the impetus I needed. Your description of the Cars' recording of "All Mixed Up" was well-framed and helpful for further listening. I'm purchasing the material now, will check back later...

Mark Kozelek is nothing if not earnest. Good choice of words there. Indeed, he doesn't live in the same city as his envied love object - all the more reason why his take on the material is poignant to me. But your description of icy synths and monotone vocals has prompted me to revisit the original...


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on July 13, 2011, 11:30:42 AM
Wilson Pickett - "Hey Jude" (original by The Beatles)
The Kingsmen - "Louie Louie" (original by its composer Richard Berry & The Pharaohs)


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: punkinhead on July 14, 2011, 12:21:30 AM
This may be obvious - how about Sagittarius with My World Fell Down(the version with the long bridge).  I really love this song - too bad the whole album wasn't this good.
Huh?

Are you saying My World Fell Down is a cover done by Sagittarius? I didn't know it was a cover, I always thought it was written for the album Present Tense ....If you're saying this version is a cover, who did the original?

By the way the, some of my fav tracks from the album (besides my World Fell Down) are Song of the Magic Frog, The Keeper of the Games, and Hotel Indiscreet.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on October 20, 2011, 08:31:50 AM
I prefer Dylan's Tambourine Man over the Byrds....however, I prefer their version of 'All I really Want to Do' over Dylan's.


BTW, I will say any version is better than Mike's version (He did with Dean T, right?) of Walk Away.


Damn, it's not on youtube. How I would love to hear that....If it is as good as their Jingle Bell Rock duet I'm in for a real treat!

No its on the Mike & Dean album but its actually The Association - Walk Away Renee (One of Curt Boettcher's very last productions also, if not the last)

I can only assume it's this:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3lzGJGGDlQk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3lzGJGGDlQk)


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: donald on October 20, 2011, 11:48:04 AM
Geraint Watkins version of Heroes and Villains is one of my very favorite covers.  Maybe not my favorite of favorites but certainly one of the most surprising and pleasing covers I've heard in recent years.  Shows a real jazzy side of the song.  And of course the Jez Graham interpretations of the Beach Boys songs are very good listening.

Of course if you go back to the pre singer songwriter era most songs were covers of sorts.  For example, most all of the Brill Building songs were covered by others even though there are original recordings by many of the writers.

For a while, the Beatles were covering everything that wasn't nailed down.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: hypehat on October 24, 2011, 04:37:17 PM
Can't believe I wasn't repping for Nilsson Sings Newman in this thread. It's the bloody greatest thing.

Hmm.

I can think of good covers, but BETTER?

Evie Sands - Anyway That You Want Me
Harry Nilsson's Blackbird is incredible for a rough studio cut. (It exists in higher quality, but give it a go http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r1UufABxMeE )
Dion - Born To Be With You

God, it's tough.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Ron on October 24, 2011, 09:18:34 PM
Smith's verison of Baby It's You is far superior to the original.  Probably the best cover song ever. 

It's KIND OF cheating, but Bob Dylan's music almost always has better versions recorded by somebody else.  He's a singer/songwriter though, so I'm not sure if he's fair game. 

"Blowing in the Wind" by Stevie Wonder is awesome. 

also,

"It Ain't Me Babe" by Johnny and June takes on a whole other level when they do it.  I mean it's HEAVY. 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: John Stivaktas on October 29, 2011, 06:04:17 AM
It's KIND OF cheating, but Bob Dylan's music almost always has better versions recorded by somebody else.  He's a singer/songwriter though, so I'm not sure if he's fair game. 

That's because so many other bands have taken his decent songs and applied decent vocals to them...which he never really had, did he?


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Ron on October 29, 2011, 06:40:10 PM
I agree.  No disrespect to Dylan (I have no problem with his voice), but about anybody can sing his stuff better than him, lol. 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: hypehat on October 30, 2011, 02:50:58 AM
Are you really sure about that? I always find Dylan covers lacking.

Despite what some claim, Dylan is actually an amazing singer. It's just stupid pop culture discourse that Dylan can't sing.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Ron on October 30, 2011, 10:07:52 PM
I gave two examples of Dylan songs that are much better as covers in my opinion.  I'm not stupid for thinking Bob Dylan has a shitty voice. 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Dunderhead on October 31, 2011, 12:03:51 AM
"Too Much of Nothing" on the first Spooky Tooth LP
"My Back Pages" by The Byrds


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: hypehat on October 31, 2011, 01:59:17 AM
I gave two examples of Dylan songs that are much better as covers in my opinion.  I'm not stupid for thinking Bob Dylan has a sh*tty voice. 

I'm sure you have your reasons and your opinion, which of course you're entitled to. And you know his work, so it's not uninformed. But that really is the sort of thing people who don't know much about music say about Bob Dylan. And I respectfully (no matter what my wine/adrenalin fuelled post last night gave to the contrary, it was snippy) disagree.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Ron on November 01, 2011, 04:45:08 PM
Come on man.  You've got to know you're fighting a losing battle trying to argue that Bob Dylan has a good voice.  I'm no music major but to these ears, he's not even in key some of the time.  That's kind of like singing 101.  I'm not talking about 'Willie Nelson oh he's weird but it's just his style' singing, i'm talking about 'man that's pretty bad and sounds painful' type of singing.  One of my examples was Stevie Wonder.  Stevie Wonder is obviously in a different league, vocally, than Bob Dylan.  To think that the original version with Dylan could even come close to Stevie's version is bordering on insanity.  The other example was Johnny and June, neither had a particularly 'great' voice, but both knew key and stayed in it.  lol  If somebody's making the point that Johnny Cash sang it better, whoever they're talking about by default has to have a pretty shitty voice. 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: the captain on November 01, 2011, 05:51:31 PM
I think you're incorrect, Ron.

In a way--and obviously a very traditional and widely held way--Stevie Wonder sings better than Bob Dylan. You say you're no music major; conversely, I was one. And yes, as such, I hear why Stevie Wonder is a better singer than Bob Dylan. But it's all about criteria. The argument could as easily be what makes Steve Vai a better guitarist than Jimi Hendrix, or maybe Duane Allman a better one than Bert Jansch. The question of quality depends upon the questions of expectations or frame of reference.

As what I consider an important aside: I've begun to think that with any artist, there is some balance of salesmanship, craftsmanship, and inspiration.  

Through the past few years, I've decided Bob Dylan lacks in craftsmanship as a singer on the level of his technical proficiency. That instrument might not be unlimited in its capacity, not now and not 45 years ago. Not never. But he does maintain control over that thing, over that art. The inspiration, I doubt anyone would question. What he also has is the salesmanship that is part of being an artist. Even with a limited palette, he maintains control, selling what he's singing. He is among what on short notice I group as three guys--Waits and Reed the other two--who are great singers despite severe shortcomings in the technical (craftsmanship) side of things. Great singers. Not "they have feeling" singers. Not "we like them because they're old" singers.

Those guys are great singers, even if they're by some measures terrible singers.

And you know, to a serious tenor, Brian Wilson was a terrible singer. Or Harry Nilsson. It's always a balance of elements, but it's also always context. So much of it: context.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: hypehat on November 02, 2011, 04:01:02 AM
Luther, as usual, nails it. I can't believe you think the original 'Blowing In The Wind' is hugely inferior to Stevie. To frame it as purely technical is missing the point.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Mike's Beard on November 02, 2011, 11:37:17 AM
Not that his original was too shabby but The Band's version of "When I Paint my Masterpiece" batters Bob's version.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Ron on November 02, 2011, 09:27:03 PM
I think you're incorrect, Ron.

In a way--and obviously a very traditional and widely held way--Stevie Wonder sings better than Bob Dylan. You say you're no music major; conversely, I was one. And yes, as such, I hear why Stevie Wonder is a better singer than Bob Dylan. But it's all about criteria. The argument could as easily be what makes Steve Vai a better guitarist than Jimi Hendrix, or maybe Duane Allman a better one than Bert Jansch. The question of quality depends upon the questions of expectations or frame of reference.

As what I consider an important aside: I've begun to think that with any artist, there is some balance of salesmanship, craftsmanship, and inspiration.  

Through the past few years, I've decided Bob Dylan lacks in craftsmanship as a singer on the level of his technical proficiency. That instrument might not be unlimited in its capacity, not now and not 45 years ago. Not never. But he does maintain control over that thing, over that art. The inspiration, I doubt anyone would question. What he also has is the salesmanship that is part of being an artist. Even with a limited palette, he maintains control, selling what he's singing. He is among what on short notice I group as three guys--Waits and Reed the other two--who are great singers despite severe shortcomings in the technical (craftsmanship) side of things. Great singers. Not "they have feeling" singers. Not "we like them because they're old" singers.

Those guys are great singers, even if they're by some measures terrible singers.

And you know, to a serious tenor, Brian Wilson was a terrible singer. Or Harry Nilsson. It's always a balance of elements, but it's also always context. So much of it: context.

Well spoken, but I disagree.  I"ll try to be short and sweet.

I'm talking about "Blowing in the Wind".  Bob Dylan wrote about what he saw.  Stevie Wonder sang it about what he experienced.   Stevie's version is far superior. 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: runnersdialzero on November 05, 2011, 04:56:20 PM
Darian Sahanaja-Do You Have Any Regrets

Still have never been able to find this one - halp? = )


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Jay on November 06, 2011, 10:54:08 PM
I could name a bunch, but I'm going to name one pretty obscure one. Most people would say that The Beatles version of Twist and Shout is better than the one done by The Isley Brothers, right? Well, most people don't know that The Isley Brothers were not the first group to record the song. It was originally recorded by The Top Notes in 1961. I'm going to say that the version done by The Isley Brothers blows the original away(which was produced by Phil Spector, by the way). This is the original, recorded under the original name of "Shake It Up, Babe". http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LsDpc-8iR8g


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on November 07, 2011, 12:54:00 AM
Darian Sahanaja-Do You Have Any Regrets

Still have never been able to find this one - halp? = )

You can hear it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ndMltIVTJc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ndMltIVTJc)


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: onkster on June 07, 2012, 03:46:11 PM
Pinball Wizard: Elton vs. The Who (though I love both)


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: onkster on June 08, 2012, 06:08:45 PM
Oh yeah, and The Beatles' "Long Tall Sally" vs. the original.

Sorry, Little!


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Ron on June 08, 2012, 09:02:50 PM
Here's one many may not agree with (or care).

Buck Owen's streets of Bakersfield, the version with him and Dwight Yoakum is much better than Buck's original version.

O.G. version

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_dBdO3zYclI

Dwight & Buck version

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t5P6zdlPJ34&feature=related

Anyway you look at it, though, the guy was a great songwriter.  "Hey You Don't KNow Me, but You Don't Like Me"  "How Many Of You That Sit And Judge Me, Ever Walked the Streets Of Bakersfield?"

Awesome. 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Newguy562 on June 11, 2012, 01:53:23 PM
ok this is the best cover ever..actually he fuckin freaks the song so much it shouldnt even be considered a cover lol
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vYmcxsIzMY ....this probably scared the sh*t out of mick jagger lol


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Summertime Blooz on June 12, 2012, 04:44:40 PM
Jesus Is Just Alright- Doobie Brothers over The Byrds original
Lotta Love- Nicolette Larsen over Neil Young original
A Song For You- Carpenters over Leon Russell original
Ready For Love- Bad Co. over Mott The Hoople
Take It All-= Todd Rundgren over Badfinger


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: rab2591 on June 19, 2012, 06:49:21 PM
Drip Drop - Brian Wilson

I'm having a 'Be My Baby'-like obsession with this song - Brian's vocals on the 2nd and 3rd chorus are plain awesome.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Moon Dawg on June 19, 2012, 06:59:02 PM
Drip Drop - Brian Wilson

I'm having a 'Be My Baby'-like obsession with this song - Brian's vocals on the 2nd and 3rd chorus are plain awesome.

  Are we talking about Dion's "Drip Drop"?  Can't agree.

  Brian Hyland's "Gypsy Woman" over The Impressions


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Aum Bop Diddit on June 19, 2012, 08:43:30 PM
The Flamin' Groovies' version of "Sometimes" (from the so amazing you should own it though you don't classic LP "Shake Some Action") originally by Paul Revere and the Raiders.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on March 21, 2014, 11:06:19 PM
Not long ago, I found that Skip-A-Long Sam isn't the Sugar Shoppe song but the Donovan cover. 1st time I heard it I thought what a tremendous song that is. After listening to the original, my opinion still remains, & it's not only because I'm not too keen on Donovan's voice, but also because it was overall pretty dull. For instance, in the tag, the Sugar Shoppe made a sudden key change, went from the whole forte vibe to piano, brass orchestra minimizing to acoustic guitar & chatter. Also, love whistling, it's a thing I enjoy hearing consistently on all songs that feature it. Judge for yourself:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k2m3wmnyU3c

Fun fact: one of the bandmates was Victor Garber who played the captain's chief helper in "Titanic". If any of you are his fans, be shocked (in a good way).


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: halblaineisgood on March 22, 2014, 12:10:17 AM
.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on March 22, 2014, 06:07:08 AM
Superior cover of a song first done by The Monkees:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDWesbFa5hk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDWesbFa5hk)


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Sheriff John Stone on March 22, 2014, 06:42:48 AM
A lot of Bob Dylan covers mentioned here, but there's actually a song that Dylan covered that I like a lot. "Lily Of The West" is one of my favorite Dylan songs; I think it's underrated, maybe because of the album it appeared on. I don't even know who recorded the original version.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: EgoHanger1966 on March 22, 2014, 06:45:49 AM
Superior cover of a song first done by The Monkees:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDWesbFa5hk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDWesbFa5hk)

Actually, first recorded by The Liverpool Five and then Paul Revere & The Raiders.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Pinder's Gone To Kokomo And Back Again on March 22, 2014, 01:44:45 PM
John Cale's version of "Hallelujah" just blows Leonard Cohen's away, I think.

Aside from the lyrics, Cale made it his own song entirely.

Jeff Buckley's version is great too, but he's clearly doing Cale's version.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: retrokid67 on March 22, 2014, 02:34:22 PM
Jackson 5's version of "Who's Loving You"


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on March 22, 2014, 05:36:42 PM
Superior cover of a song first done by The Monkees:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDWesbFa5hk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDWesbFa5hk)

Actually, first recorded by The Liverpool Five and then Paul Revere & The Raiders.
I stand corrected----although it seems it's debatable which of these two versions came first...


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on March 23, 2014, 04:50:47 AM
Superior cover of a song first done by The Monkees:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDWesbFa5hk (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDWesbFa5hk)

Actually, first recorded by The Liverpool Five and then Paul Revere & The Raiders.
I stand corrected----although it seems it's debatable which of these two versions came first...
I didn't realize just how many people had recorded it!

http://garagetapes.blogspot.nl/2011/12/tape-no89-im-not-your-stepping-stone_07.html (http://garagetapes.blogspot.nl/2011/12/tape-no89-im-not-your-stepping-stone_07.html)

I'll list them here in case the link gets broken. This "Garage Tape" claims that all 28 are covers of the song:


Tape No89 - (I'm Not Your) Stepping Stone

A-Side
01 - Paul Revere & The Raiders - (I'm Not Your) Steppin' Stone (1966 US)
02 - The Monkees  -  I'm Not Your Steppin' Stone (live version) (1967 US)
03 - The Flies - I'm Not Your Stepping Stone (1966 UK)
04 - Les Corduroy - Je T'Aime Trop (196? CA)
05 - The Bachs - (I'm Not Your) Stepping Stone (1967 US)
06 - Choab - I'm Not Your Steppin' Stone (196? US)
07 - Hoppi & The Beau Heems - I'm Not Your Stepping Stone (196? US)
08 - The 2 x 2 - I'm Not Your Steppin Stone (1967 CA)
09 - Liverpool Five - I'm Not Your Stepping Stone (1966 UK)
10 - Los Monjes - No Te Burles Mas (196? MX)
11 - Los Monkys - Triste Estoy (1967 MX)
12 - So On And So Forth - (I'm Not Your) Steppin' Stone (1967 UK)
13 - Spider & The Crabs - I'm Not Your Steppin' Stone (1967 US)
14 - Teddy Robin & The Playboys - I'm Not Your Steppin' Stone (196? HK)

B-Side
01 - The Alliance - (I'm Not Your) Steppin' Stone (1967 US)
02 - The Dynamic Distortions - (I'm Not Your) Stepping Stone (1967 US)
03 - The Gyrations - Steppin' Stone (196? US)
04 - The Morning Dew - Steppin' Stone (1968 US)
05 - The Outer Limits - (I'm Not) You're Stepping Stone (1968 UK)
06 - The Phantom Raiders - (I'm Not Your) Steppin' Stone (1967 US)
07 - The Possums - Steppin' Stone (1966 US)
08 - The Rebounds - Steppin' Stone (196? US)
09 - The Stillroven - I'm Not Your Stepping Stone (1966 US)
10 - The Trashmen - I'm Not Your Steppin' Stone (196? US)
11 - W.C. Fields Memorial Electric Band - (I'm Not Your) Stepping Stone (1966 US)
12 - Los York's - Solo Estoy (1968 PE)
13 - The Pivots (Feminine Complex) - (I'm Not Your) Stepping Stone (1967 US)
14 - The Other Half - The Girl With The Long Black Hair (1967 US)
 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Ron on March 23, 2014, 11:54:42 AM
Alright!  I got one. 

"Crystal Blue Persusasion" the famous version of course is by Tommy James and the Shondells.  I have nothing bur respect for them of course, they are excellent and the song is excellent.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2821Jvnaeg8

That came out in 1969.

---------------------------------------------------------

Joe Bataan's version from 1972 .... in my opinion, even better.  This is the best type of cover.  They took a great song, and a great recording, and did it in their own style, showing the song the respect it deserves.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18GLgSghXZ8



Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on March 24, 2014, 03:41:35 AM
Alright!  I got one. 

"Crystal Blue Persusasion" the famous version of course is by Tommy James and the Shondells.  I have nothing bur respect for them of course, they are excellent and the song is excellent.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2821Jvnaeg8

That came out in 1969.

---------------------------------------------------------

Joe Bataan's version from 1972 .... in my opinion, even better.  This is the best type of cover.  They took a great song, and a great recording, and did it in their own style, showing the song the respect it deserves.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18GLgSghXZ8
Agreed, on every count. TJ's version sounds fresh, a foray into new territory, and Joe's has the authority of an inveterate (Latin) soul singer. Or something. Like 'em both. 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on March 24, 2014, 11:34:51 PM
Recently I remembered 1 song I never got to hear which was mentioned here many times - "Eve of Destruction". Because I like to compare all things-music, I went to listen to variety of covers & came to thinking that most of those beat the original. Especially The Grass Roots, I so liked their version I didn't even mind dylanesque intonations of the lead singer. Though "Eve of Destruction" is good regardless of who performs it. The melody may sound generic, but I ignore this flaw as long as I enjoy the song, more so if it has catchy chorus.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: SurfRiderHawaii on March 25, 2014, 01:49:24 AM
Harry Nilsson's "Without You" is hands down better than the Badfinger original. Harry made it his own!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_bQGRRolrg0

I have always loved "The Last Thing on My Mind" version by the Move. Their version is from one of my all time favorite albums - "Shazam"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4xl3WBZ3Trs

All the Three Dog Night hits were covers. Speaking of Harry, their cover of "One" was great!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UiKcd7yPLdU


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on March 25, 2014, 09:39:06 AM
Recently I remembered 1 song I never got to hear which was mentioned here many times - "Eve of Destruction". Because I like to compare all things-music, I went to listen to variety of covers & came to thinking that most of those beat the original. Especially The Grass Roots, I so liked their version I didn't even mind dylanesque intonations of the lead singer. Though "Eve of Destruction" is good regardless of who performs it. The melody may sound generic, but I ignore this flaw as long as I enjoy the song, more so if it has catchy chorus.
Did you ever hear this rather strange answer record to "EOD"? It even made the US top ten...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mkGZKOgfOi4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mkGZKOgfOi4)


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: donald on March 26, 2014, 08:01:18 AM
I've recently heard what seem to be several different versions of Gypsy Woman.  At least two seem to involve the Impressions, Curtis Mayfield, and Major Lance.  Anyone care to elaborate or expand on the history of this song and the artists involved over the years?


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on March 27, 2014, 03:13:38 AM
I've recently heard what seem to be several different versions of Gypsy Woman.  At least two seem to involve the Impressions, Curtis Mayfield, and Major Lance.  Anyone care to elaborate or expand on the history of this song and the artists involved over the years?
I found this list of versions of the Curtis Mayfield composition: http://www.secondhandsongs.com/work/13188/versions (http://www.secondhandsongs.com/work/13188/versions)  
Oh, and this list----http://www.coverinfo.de/start.php?wert=12&lang=2&suchbegriff=%22Gypsy+Woman%22&sort=2&suchenach=title&tabelle=1&suchebemerkung=&suchoption=xsearch&seite=1&xpert=0 (http://www.coverinfo.de/start.php?wert=12&lang=2&suchbegriff=%22Gypsy+Woman%22&sort=2&suchenach=title&tabelle=1&suchebemerkung=&suchoption=xsearch&seite=1&xpert=0)----but some are different songs of that name, at least three others judging from the composer credits.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Ron on March 27, 2014, 08:54:01 AM
I'm sure everybody knows this one, but it's very arguable that UB40 actually bested Elvis's version of "I Can't Help Falling In Love With You".  Same scenario, took a great song, did it their own way, kind of made it even better.



Elvis - "Can't Help Falling In Love With You"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cqhMopq5r6I

----------------------------------------------------------------

UB40 - "Can't Help Falling In Love With You"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ajp0Uaw4rqo



Elvis's version is smokey and probably one of the most beautiful things he ever did in his entire life... but UB40's version somehow is even more beautiful, I think it has something to do with how joyous it sounds.  Instead of being just a private song from 1 person to another, it's a proclamation, out loud, about his love for this girl. 




Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Blue2013 on April 01, 2014, 03:33:17 AM
Devo - Satisfaction

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jadvt7CbH1o

Yellow Magic Orchestra - Day Tripper

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ViU_WM0lKg

The Sonics - Money (That's What I Want)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKI6c6BYbp0

The Residents - Jailhouse Rock

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7zwmt7hdaHw

Julia Holter - Hello Stranger

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6TrX9_qaN9M





Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on June 09, 2014, 09:33:54 PM
Did you ever hear this rather strange answer record to "EOD"? It even made the US top ten...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mkGZKOgfOi4 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mkGZKOgfOi4)
In some ways, "Dawn..." outdid "Eve..."; better vocal.

I'm sure everybody knows this one, but it's very arguable that UB40 actually bested Elvis's version of "I Can't Help Falling In Love With You".  Same scenario, took a great song, did it their own way, kind of made it even better.
You just reminded me Jan., 2006. That was the 1st time I heard the song on AM radio "Mayak" (great station, btw). Not knowing it's an Elvis cover, I instantly liked the song thinking what a cool band this is. Then, year later I hear the original & not impressed at all. I shall (possibly) never get the universal appeal to Elvis's voice. So, right, the UB40 v-n is greater.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Just listened to The Explorers Club's "We've Only Just Begun" on Soundcloud & gotta say, in spite of my admiration for Karen Carpenter, the guys did fantastic job on covering this "wedding song". Beautiful arrangements, lead vocs & stuff. In the original, Richard's voice kind of lets the whole thing down for me.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on July 10, 2014, 08:16:19 PM
I was watching the Buddy Holly: Listen to Me concert & the title song sung by Raul Malo was easily the highlight for me. I never heard of this singer before, he has incredibly beautiful voice, just wow. Very seamless high tone. Blows the original outta the water, & that's my favorite Buddy number.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lWVkaP6edPw

Other goodies were Stevie Nicks' "Not Fade Away", Chris Isaak's "Crying, Waiting, Hoping", Boz Scaggs' "Maybe Baby", Shawn Colvin's "Learning the Game" & the final singalong of "That'll Be the Day". 1st 2 names are in my Top-30 singers definitely.

While we're at it, "Everyday" by Luther is the best cover of that song among custom Youtubers or biggies.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Ron on July 10, 2014, 11:30:33 PM
Raul Malo's pretty damn good and i'm not even into that hipster sh*t.

Cover songs better than the original...

It gets kind of complicated if you list stuff from the 50's and 60's, because you had so many instances of songs kind of being 'standards', that everybody would record.  so it wouldn't be strange to have 10 different people do the same song, and if the 1st version wasn't the best, there you go.

One i'll mention, though, is this awesome song.  The original was recorded by Gene Pitney, written by Burt Bacharach.

Gene Pitney - 24 Hours from Tulsa

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dmvnTqrm-_o

What a great song, so well written, and I always loved Gene Pitney. 



But then a year later (1964) the incredible, incomparable Dusty Springfield did her version.  Far Far Far superior just because she's so perfect.

Dusty Springfield - 24 Hours from Tulsa

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ne9UuzivW1A



Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: the captain on July 11, 2014, 05:42:11 AM
While we're at it, "Everyday" by Luther is the best cover of that song among custom Youtubers or biggies.

Thanks, that's nice of you to say.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on July 28, 2014, 05:30:33 AM
But then a year later (1964) the incredible, incomparable Dusty Springfield did her version.  Far Far Far superior just because she's so perfect.

Dusty Springfield - 24 Hours from Tulsa

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ne9UuzivW1A
Talking of Dusty, her take on "Am I The Same Girl" knocks spots off Barbara Acklin's original and Swing Out Sister's cover as well as Young-Holt Unlimited's instrumental cover (retitled "Soulful Strut").

Another cover song I feel is better than the original (by Seals and Croft) is The Isley Brothers' "Summer Breeze". Ernie's guitar takes it to another place and that three-note banjo (?) figure eats itself into your brain...


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on July 28, 2014, 06:00:12 AM
We know that black singers have very soulful & strong voices - however, I'm gonna say that no Wade Flemons can beat The Rip Chords' "Here I Stand". Jus' listen to the drums & twangy guitar that goes along the melody in the back - fantastic! And the fact that the same guy is on lead as in "She Thinks I Still Care" - Ernie  Bringas - gives an edge. I assume both songs were recorded the same day, they even share similar arr., only this one were added piano (before the verse kicks in).


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on October 25, 2014, 05:40:50 AM
Burt Bacharach singing "Alfie" live (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rKt4IWKy1mU). This is my 1st acquaintance with the song, & the best one. Everything after - Dionne Warwick, Barbara Streisand, Cilla Black - seemed pale in comparison. Of course, no one would say that Burt is a good singer - hey, he's not a singer at all - but that's what made it, effortlessness, the fact that he didn't take himself seriously, thus pointing, "I'll try do it justice." The piano, it's beautiful, even elegant. I liked the crescendo/diminuendo moments throughout. So yes, amazing version indeed.

Post scriptum. the lyrics are really good too. My favorite line is "[And] the life belongs only to the strong [, Alfie]". Very hopeful.

Another thing occurred: the more I listen to all these covers, the more I start to think the song doesn't fit for female voice. It doesn't get the same vibe as when hearing boys. F. ex., I enjoyed Stevie Wonder's performance & I'm not even a fan.*

*except his version of "Christmas Song". to these ears, it's better than the Nat King Cole classic.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Summertime Blooz on October 25, 2014, 05:49:25 PM
The Sun Ain't Gonna Shine Anymore by The Walker Brothers (1966) is waaaaay better than the original Frankie Valli version (1965). Heck, until recently I thought that the Walker Brothers version WAS the original, but nope. Anyway, Valli's version just lacks the drama and dynamics of the Walker's, which is strange, because when I think of Valli, I don't think  "subdued". I've always loved that Walker Brothers record though.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Summertime Blooz on October 25, 2014, 05:55:04 PM
Alright!  I got one.  

"Crystal Blue Persusasion" the famous version of course is by Tommy James and the Shondells.  I have nothing bur respect for them of course, they are excellent and the song is excellent.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2821Jvnaeg8

That came out in 1969.

---------------------------------------------------------

Joe Bataan's version from 1972 .... in my opinion, even better.  This is the best type of cover.  They took a great song, and a great recording, and did it in their own style, showing the song the respect it deserves.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18GLgSghXZ8



Interesting? Yes. No way I would say it was better though. They turned it into some rather generic soul music. It's not bad, but not unique like the original.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: MugginsXO on October 26, 2014, 07:24:36 AM
As much as I love Smokey Robinson and The Miracles, the Jackson 5 recording of Who's Loving You knocks out the original. This little guy had so much soul it was ridiculous. Smokey turns in a fine performance but Michael really got the heart of the thing.

The Miracles (http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=i5mt6KSGtbA&list=PL419409FCF88AC8F6)

The Jackson 5 (http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=0bR4L0Y94AQ)


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on October 26, 2014, 07:34:33 AM
The Sun Ain't Gonna Shine Anymore by The Walker Brothers (1966) is waaaaay better than the original Frankie Valli version (1965). Heck, until recently I thought that the Walker Brothers version WAS the original, but nope. Anyway, Valli's version just lacks the drama and dynamics of the Walker's, which is strange, because when I think of Valli, I don't think  "subdued". I've always loved that Walker Brothers record though.
Wow, never knew that Frankie sang it. The melody is very beautiful regardless of who's on lead. But yes, The Walker Bros. for me too. I prefer them over The Righteous.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on November 13, 2014, 05:46:57 AM
Many songs that regarded classics cannot be enjoyed heard by another artist. Other case in point - when you think the cover increasingly makes you forget the original. And 3rd - when nothing hits home, not any version. So, for me until now it's been "Brown Eyed Handsome Man". John Fogerty, Berry or the worst off the bunch Paul McCartney's - I just didn't & couldn't like it. Listening to Buddy Holly's "20 Golden Greats" CD - need to say, I knew him only by "That'll Be the Day" (my go-to favorite, heard it on radio in 2006 & still love it), "Words of Love" & 2 "Peggy Sue" numbers - I find out he sang on this Chuck tune! I mean, how cool is that, one rocker covering another? Maybe that notion did the mind trick, I wouldn't know, but nonetheless, it was fun! Real fun. What I've noticed about Buddy Holly records is the guitar work, it's so good! Notably on "Wishing", the last song on the same CD - so ahead & inventive for its time. It's a little charming tune. "Well...All Right" is a goodun as well, but not nearly enough to fit this thread.

So, Buddy Holly beats Chuck Berry on "Brown Eyed...".


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: MugginsXO on November 13, 2014, 07:24:51 AM
Elusive by Lianne La Haves (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MVS3crqBzSA) is a superior cover of

Elusive by Scott Matthews (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3U51q8zD53E).


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Moon Dawg on November 13, 2014, 03:59:23 PM
  I like The Isley Bros' "Summer Breeze" better than Seals & Crofts' original.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Ron on November 13, 2014, 07:40:39 PM
In 1969 Judy Collins recorded "Someday Soon"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Jn90y9H9S4


In 1983 Moe Bandy recorded a far superior version of the same song

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HNFUQIHsQOQ

In 1991, Suzy Bogguss recorded a version even better than THAT

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4tEu9vUemgI



Over the years, Moe Bandy's voice got much thicker, soulful, and expressive.  As a result, when he sings the song NOW, it's become the definitive version

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5nTHxPcuojg




Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Aum Bop Diddit on November 13, 2014, 07:56:08 PM
  I like The Isley Bros' "Summer Breeze" better than Seals & Crofts' original.

Yes!


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on November 13, 2014, 08:18:02 PM
Thanks for these, Ron! That was an interesting chain. I liked them all, but I still gotta say that no one can better the original with Judy's pure celtic princess kinda voice (yes, I know, she's American).


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: MugginsXO on November 14, 2014, 04:21:47 AM
  I like The Isley Bros' "Summer Breeze" better than Seals & Crofts' original.

They do a bunch of good covers. I love their Don't Let Me Be Lonely Tonight. Their Ohio is good too.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: feelsflow on November 14, 2014, 11:36:07 AM
There are many on this page I disagree with, but a few I am quick to defend.  Swing Out Sister Owns "Am I the Same Girl" tho' I like "Soulful Strut" - but you are comparing an instrumental.  And as much as I love Dusty.  Not on this one.

I've never heard anybody do "Someday Soon" like Judy.  There are many singer/songwriters she bettered with her choice of material.  That would be a long list.

Don't think I've posted in this thread before.  This is all just personal tastes - subjective.  Another place to post lists.  Does it ever change your mind to hear what somebody else thinks is better?  Not me.

And Mari, you're kidding on that "Alfie" pick, right?  Burt?  Burt did it better?  That's like saying Stephen Sondheim sings one of his songs better than the folks whose loving hands he put them in.  I own those two Sondheim records he put out doing his own songs.  Nice enough, but Feel is not enough in the case of any of them.  As is the case with Burt.

I do agree a bit, but only a bit with the Walker Brothers choice over the Four Seasons.  On that one song.  I like the Righteous Brothers way more than the Walker Brothers.  Do you think they could have done "Ebb Tide" as well?  Scott's voice and especially his material is an acquired taste.  No contest to the Four Seasons topping both groups.  My opinion.   "Brown Eyed Handsome Man" goes to Chuck.  He did many of his songs better than others, he's just not remembered for doing so.  "Words of Love" to The Beatles.  "Well All Right" to Blind Faith.  "That'll Be the Day" to maybe Linda Ronstadt.  I could go on all day with who did Holly better than Holly.  Holly was one of the artists who didn't do his own songs as well as others.  That's My Opinion.  Many would disagree.  I don't own any of his records, but I do have a comp of others doing his.  Damn, now I'm making lists.  I'm not trying to come off as angry, but sometimes I feel baited.  Just my choices - same as all of you.  Did it change your mind?   


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: the captain on November 14, 2014, 12:21:52 PM
"Brown Eyed Handsome Man" goes to Chuck.  He did many of his songs better than others, he's just not remembered for doing so.  "Words of Love" to The Beatles.  "Well All Right" to Blind Faith.  "That'll Be the Day" to maybe Linda Ronstadt.  I could go on all day with who did Holly better than Holly.  Holly was one of the artists who didn't do his own songs as well as others.  That's My Opinion.  Many would disagree.  I don't own any of his records, but I do have a comp of others doing his.  Damn, now I'm making lists.  I'm not trying to come off as angry, but sometimes I feel baited.  Just my choices - same as all of you.  Did it change your mind?   

Interesting, I'd have never picked a single Buddy Holly cover as better than the original--at least not any that come to mind or that you mentioned. But then again, I really love Buddy Holly, and heard him on my dad's records in my formative years. (I tend to think sometimes experiential things like that play into our tastes as much as their pure sound, for what it's worth.) It doesn't bother me whether anyone agrees or disagrees, really, so I definitely don't mind your opinion. Just surprising to me, is all. I'm not sure I've ever heard anyone say they generally prefer Holly's songs by other people in the way that you do with, say, Bob Dylan (where the next sentence is inevitably along the lines of "he writes great songs, he just can't sing." With which I also disagree, by the way.).


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: The Cincinnati Kid on November 18, 2014, 04:22:07 PM
Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down - Nancy Sinatra, original by Cher


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Sheriff John Stone on November 18, 2014, 06:48:20 PM
Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down - Nancy Sinatra, original by Cher

I like Frank Sinatra's version, too. However, in all fairness, Cher's version is great and credit goes to Sonny Bono for writing the song!


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on November 19, 2014, 10:02:57 PM
Does it ever change your mind to hear what somebody else thinks is better?  Not me.
Same here.

Quote
And Mari, you're kidding on that "Alfie" pick, right?  Burt?  Burt did it better?  That's like saying Stephen Sondheim sings one of his songs better than the folks whose loving hands he put them in.  I own those two Sondheim records he put out doing his own songs.  Nice enough, but Feel is not enough in the case of any of them.  As is the case with Burt.
That's why I specifically said that he's not a singer, more of a composer, but I thought the way he sang it, w/o trying, was marvelous. I didn't hear any other songs he wrote & performed himself. They could be not to my liking, but "Alfie", it's good. According to my ears anyway.

Quote
Damn, now I'm making lists.
No, you just added 2c to this cover vs. original discussion. Otherwise, you'd post them in one row.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: feelsflow on November 19, 2014, 11:05:55 PM
Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down - Nancy Sinatra, original by Cher

I like Frank Sinatra's version, too. However, in all fairness, Cher's version is great and credit goes to Sonny Bono for writing the song!
My favorite version is by Terry Reid.  Sonny and Cher is second best, in all fairness.  And Sonny has written several great songs.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Lee Marshall on November 21, 2014, 01:37:16 PM
Subject Subjectivity...Perhaps not BETTER than...but different than and at least as good as.... .... ....

The Letter...The Arbors.

I like Buddy Holly's songs but many can outsing him...
Peter and Gordon...True Love Ways
Beach Boys...Peggy Sue
Beatles...Words of Love
Stones...Not Fade Away [just to grab 4 easy ones.]

Da Do Ron Ron...Ian Mathews [great a capella 'read']

You've Made Me So Very Happy  [BS & T's version trumps Brenda Holloway's]

Bird On a Wire...Joe Bonamassa [I think Joe beats EVERYBODY with his version]

Palisades Park...Beach Boys

16 Tons...The Platters annihilate Tennessee Ernie.

Dion's bluesy remake of this own 'The Wanderer' on his Sanctuary album is tremendous.

Night and Day...Chicago

On the Street Where You Live...Dennis De Young NAILS it.

Why Do Fools Fall in Love...Both The Beach Boys and Ben Zeppa

That's enough for now...



Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on December 21, 2014, 02:22:08 PM
Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down - Nancy Sinatra, original by Cher

I like Frank Sinatra's version, too. However, in all fairness, Cher's version is great and credit goes to Sonny Bono for writing the song!
My favorite version is by Terry Reid.  Sonny and Cher is second best, in all fairness.  And Sonny has written several great songs.
And the Fudge then?  ;D   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QoRz9lCPDwA

It took me a while to locate but that super-familiar melody in the intro is from "The March of The Siamese Children" from The King and I: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9L_lilJKQQ


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on December 21, 2014, 02:30:50 PM
I like Buddy Holly's songs but many can outsing him...
Peter and Gordon...True Love Ways
Beach Boys...Peggy Sue
Beatles...Words of Love
Stones...Not Fade Away [just to grab 4 easy ones.]
How about Buddy's spooky ultra-slow version (with posthumous overdubs, apparently by The Fireballs) of Little Richard's "Slippin' And Slidin'"?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOTT_DIclDQ


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Ron on December 23, 2014, 10:03:17 PM
Original:


The Drifters - This Magic Moment

Great, classic record

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cy99-66BZow


Cover:

Jay & the Americans - This Magic Moment

As much as it pains me to say, I think it's better

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HX6898nw-ks



one version is perfect R&B Black soul.  The other is perfect Blue-eyed soul... usually that's going to come out the other way around, but I think Jay Black topped the original in my opinion. 

Here's Jay about a year ago singing it live... voice still intact even though he's positively geriatric.  Love the cool bridge they added in, too...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NRBi5zA1PC4


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: retrokid67 on December 24, 2014, 12:15:45 PM
As much as I love Smokey Robinson and The Miracles, the Jackson 5 recording of Who's Loving You knocks out the original. This little guy had so much soul it was ridiculous. Smokey turns in a fine performance but Michael really got the heart of the thing.

The Miracles (http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=i5mt6KSGtbA&list=PL419409FCF88AC8F6)

The Jackson 5 (http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=0bR4L0Y94AQ)

Berry Gordy even told Smokey "I think he's got you on this one" and Smokey said "I know..."  :-D


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on January 03, 2015, 07:53:25 AM
I like Buddy Holly's songs but many can outsing him...
Peter and Gordon...True Love Ways
Beach Boys...Peggy Sue
Beatles...Words of Love
Stones...Not Fade Away [just to grab 4 easy ones.]
How about Buddy's spooky ultra-slow version (with posthumous overdubs, apparently by The Fireballs) of Little Richard's "Slippin' And Slidin'"?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOTT_DIclDQ
Can't speak for Add Some, but I'm too much a fan of Little to ever select the cover over ANY original. I basically reckon he's the best r-n-roller. Buddy's good on his own.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Empire Of Love on January 03, 2015, 08:24:07 AM
Both better than the Rolling Stones originals, both by Chris Farlowe:

Out Of Time
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=bpDjbul0WyE

Ride On Baby
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=_E9SnOR-hUA

Full disclosure:  I don't like the Rolling Stones much.



Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on January 03, 2015, 03:20:06 PM
Both better than the Rolling Stones originals, both by Chris Farlowe:

Out Of Time
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=bpDjbul0WyE

Ride On Baby
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=_E9SnOR-hUA

Full disclosure:  I don't like the Rolling Stones much.
I used to own "The Fool" by Mr Farlowe. What a voice!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UspwsWU_iQ8


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: joshferrell on January 03, 2015, 10:52:30 PM
I remember someone telling me that GNR's version of "Live and let die" blew Paul's version away because and i quote "Axle has a better voice." I strongly disagree,,,lol


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: joshferrell on January 03, 2015, 11:19:01 PM
Elton's version of Lennon's "One day at a time." too be honest with you imo that song brings down Mind Games a few notches, it's a great album and that song is the sore thumb of the album..he sounds like he's singing in a key way too high for him and he sounds like a female.. and the production is bad.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bpxoO58GxQw


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Ron on June 28, 2015, 07:38:37 PM
Heard another one today I had forgotten about.  The Spniners version of "Workin My Way Back To You" absolutely destroys the original by the Four Seasons.    In my humble opinion, of course.  The Four Seasons version is classic, the Spinners disco version is much much better.  The production I suppose is better on the Seasons' version though... although I much prefer the arrangement and quite frankly even the vocals of the Spinners version.

Four Seasons - Workin' My Way Back To You

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KmNG0BZlFyg

The Detroit Spinners - Workin' My Way Back To You

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TY_AlrfB3U0



It's just got so much soul in the vocal it can't stop...  Frankie's version always sounded like he was a little braggadocio about it... The Spinners version sounds like the guy's sad about it... where it ought to be... but still has the upbeat, optimism...





Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: undercover-m on July 03, 2015, 12:18:35 PM
I don't know if this is better than the original but it's a great cover at the least. Father John Misty covers Arcade Fire's "The Suburbs." The way he sings "still screamin'!"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6krmom_hjEE


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Moon Dawg on July 04, 2015, 06:41:31 AM
Heard another one today I had forgotten about.  The Spniners version of "Workin My Way Back To You" absolutely destroys the original by the Four Seasons.    In my humble opinion, of course.  The Four Seasons version is classic, the Spinners disco version is much much better.  The production I suppose is better on the Seasons' version though... although I much prefer the arrangement and quite frankly even the vocals of the Spinners version.

Four Seasons - Workin' My Way Back To You

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KmNG0BZlFyg

The Detroit Spinners - Workin' My Way Back To You

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TY_AlrfB3U0



It's just got so much soul in the vocal it can't stop...  Frankie's version always sounded like he was a little braggadocio about it... The Spinners version sounds like the guy's sad about it... where it ought to be... but still has the upbeat, optimism...






 Both good but I agree. The Spinners' disc isn't up to the level of the Phillipe Wynne/Thom Bell Era, but it was a nice moment in a long and storied career. BTW- The O'Jays are in Wenner's Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Cool with me. But if The O'Jays belong, so do The Spinners.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Ron on July 05, 2015, 01:33:02 PM
absolutely. 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on July 05, 2015, 02:53:43 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_oLaZ5N3UPQ


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Ron on July 05, 2015, 11:01:23 PM
Is that the Bar Kays playing in the background?  I like it.... but the Stones version I still like better. 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: elnombre on July 06, 2015, 02:55:21 AM
Lydia Loveless'  recent version of Prince's 'I Would Die 4 U' not only blows the original away, it's probably the best cut I've heard so far this year.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on July 08, 2015, 04:18:40 AM
Is that the Bar Kays playing in the background?  I like it.... but the Stones version I still like better. 

I reckon it's The Memphis Horns (formely the Mar-Keys):

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Otis_Blue/Otis_Redding_Sings_Soul

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Memphis_Horns



Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Ron on July 08, 2015, 09:49:51 AM
I misspelled it "Bar Keys" lol shows how much I know about it.  Lassssst Niiiiighhhttt


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on July 08, 2015, 09:59:42 AM
I misspelled it "Bar Keys" lol shows how much I know about it.  Lassssst Niiiiighhhttt

Bar-Kays is a logical mistake to make. The instrumental group of that name were Otis's backing group at the time of the plane crash, in which four of the original six perished.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AfK1IPLpcqs


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Ron on July 08, 2015, 09:29:36 PM
So, there were Bar-Kay's, AND Mar-Keys, and they both played for Otis?  I never knew that, and I've heard both of their big hits (Soul Finger, and Last Night, which of course sound nothing alike), never really noticed that they were two different bands with two different names.  Thanks, I learned something new today!



Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on July 11, 2015, 10:09:06 AM
Ananda Shankar, courtesy of Ravi Shankar, covered Jumpin' Jack Flash (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CbVSFVOJnLU). Upfront: guitar triplets, sitar added & sound fx. Note the 1st "Jumpin Jack Flash..." is recreated by sitar, then multitrack backing takes its place as it should. I say "multitrack" because it's less expensive to record voices alone than hire a choir to help build the chant (is that a word for this?).


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Rob Dean on July 11, 2015, 10:24:57 AM
Couple of prog covers , I know the first was originally a 'Modern' Orchestra piece by Aaron Copeland but (IMHO) superb

E.L.P. 'Fanfare For The Common Man'

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VyJBNZ4i4Yc

And always like this cover by Vanilla Fudge 'You Keep Me Hanging On'

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dup6KUUWlMQ


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on July 16, 2015, 08:00:47 AM
I reckon hearing "Blue Moon" in instrumental form is only best way. The Ventures' version wasn't crash'n'burn. It's great! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iFhJshUHr_A) Big fan of optimism here. :3d


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: KDS on July 16, 2015, 08:09:20 AM
Couple of prog covers , I know the first was originally a 'Modern' Orchestra piece by Aaron Copeland but (IMHO) superb

E.L.P. 'Fanfare For The Common Man'

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VyJBNZ4i4Yc

And always like this cover by Vanilla Fudge 'You Keep Me Hanging On'

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dup6KUUWlMQ


I'll second Vanilla Fudge's cover of You Keep Me Hanging On.

I'll also add their cover of Season of the Witch.  Personally, I think its far superior to Donovan's version. 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: mel91679 on July 16, 2015, 07:26:29 PM
Hey there
Some of my fave cover versions-Ricky Nelson's cover of I'm A Fool way more outshines Dino Desi and Billy's hit of this song. Ricky also gave Petula Clark's I Know A Place a run for the money also. One of my favorite albums of all time is The Tom Jones Fever Zone. Loaded with covers which rival the original hits so check out You Keep Me Hanging On, Hold On I'm Coming, I Was Made To Love Her, and a kick butt version of the Temptations Get Ready. Check em out on youtube. Later.
Joe


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on September 30, 2015, 02:11:21 PM
Not sure if this stupendous Little Richard cover has been on yet: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aymif_OsGRg


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Vegetable Man on September 30, 2015, 09:29:47 PM
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/f/f1/Harry_Nilsson_Nilsson_Sings_Newman.jpg)

While Randy Newman is amazing in his own right, there's just something about the way Nilsson interprets these songs. His vocals are so complex and lovely, which is a great juxtaposition against the sparsity of the instrumentation.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on October 13, 2015, 07:33:54 AM
How about the Everlys' spooky version of the evergreen "Temptation"?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_TuuJ31bdM


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Rentatris on October 13, 2015, 08:30:49 AM
Cake - I will survive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7KJjVMqNIgA


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: KDS on October 14, 2015, 05:28:46 AM
Sammy Hagar did his own version of Toby Keith's I Love This Bar in 2006

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bB8Edhp55fM

I'm not a big fan of Toby Keith's country twang, so I really liked Sammy's version of a fun drinking song. 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Ron on October 15, 2015, 09:08:56 PM
I probably already mentioned this in this thread years ago, but Smith's version of "Baby It's You" is much better than the original Shirelles version.


Original Shirelles version (great)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKgkDxnG9Z8

Smith cover version (Amazing Live version)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pIGo31k-qkw

I love how they downplay the chorus over and over again, but your mind wants her to just belt it, and she finally does in the last chorus.  To her credit, her voice holds up, too. 









Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: KDS on October 16, 2015, 05:35:20 AM
I probably already mentioned this in this thread years ago, but Smith's version of "Baby It's You" is much better than the original Shirelles version.


Original Shirelles version (great)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKgkDxnG9Z8

Smith cover version (Amazing Live version)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pIGo31k-qkw

I love how they downplay the chorus over and over again, but your mind wants her to just belt it, and she finally does in the last chorus.  To her credit, her voice holds up, too. 









I really like The Beatles' version. 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on October 31, 2015, 06:53:59 AM
Eat your heart out, Snoop Dogg...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=draifMpM5ck#t=56


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Gertie J. on October 31, 2015, 07:34:33 AM
^ gnarly ! :smokin


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: the captain on October 31, 2015, 08:47:50 AM
I always loved this version of "Gin and Juice," by Sissy Bar, since first hearing it in the late '90s. I thought it was spectacular in how it brought out the absurdity of the original. "I've got bitches in the living room gettin' it on..." and "damn, I've got a pocketful of rubbers and my homeboys do, too," from these voices. LOL.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yDq2FGsEGd8


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on October 31, 2015, 03:08:41 PM
I always loved this version of "Gin and Juice," by Sissy Bar, since first hearing it in the late '90s. I thought it was spectacular in how it brought out the absurdity of the original. "I've got bitches in the living room gettin' it on..." and "damn, I've got a pocketful of rubbers and my homeboys do, too," from these voices. LOL.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yDq2FGsEGd8

Rather cool, that----although not cool enough to woo me away from Mr Cheese's version. 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on November 17, 2015, 09:36:26 PM
Belarusian band live-covers Yellow Sub & Ob-La-Di > https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ehFRmQ9G_r0 << This is seriously good; creative & the guys are all in sync, impeccable sense of rhythm. usually I don't give chance to non-vocal covers. Oh, & great national costumes.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Ron on November 19, 2015, 11:58:38 PM
I'm going to get sacrilegious here for a second. 

On "Glee" they did a cover better than both of the two original songs, Aerosmith's "Crazy" and Britney Spears "You Drive Me Crazy".


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFeNzkiGVJA

Unfortunately the autotune is so bad even I can hear it, but it grows on you after awhile and it's pretty hauntingly beautiful.  Something about how they made it a simple acoustic song and about a couple teenagers works.



Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on November 24, 2015, 05:10:51 AM
Marvin Gaye's chart-topping cover of "I Heard It through The Grapevine". The Miracles' less developed version was earlier. Gladys Knight's version----a US #2----was recorded after Marvin's but released as a single first. Gladys sounds like she just don't care----let's party! Marvin sounds terrified----those floor tom thumps sound like a death knell. This is the all but unknown original from 1966:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SH0Tzx5brVE





 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Emily on November 24, 2015, 01:48:11 PM
I'm going to get sacrilegious here for a second. 

On "Glee" they did a cover better than both of the two original songs, Aerosmith's "Crazy" and Britney Spears "You Drive Me Crazy".


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFeNzkiGVJA

Unfortunately the autotune is so bad even I can hear it, but it grows on you after awhile and it's pretty hauntingly beautiful.  Something about how they made it a simple acoustic song and about a couple teenagers works.


It is shocking to bring up "Glee" but honestly, some of their covers were really good.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on November 24, 2015, 11:13:43 PM
Sound of Feeling - Hurdy Gurdy Man (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lct-PFOkBls) It sure nice to hear a song defined as "psychedelia" sound like psychedelia. Donovan's voice just isn't enough, uh, fit for the genre. It's rather mundane, even effects don't help.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on November 25, 2015, 03:58:48 AM
Sound of Feeling - Hurdy Gurdy Man (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lct-PFOkBls) It sure nice to hear a song defined as "psychedelia" sound like psychedelia. Donovan's voice just isn't enough, uh, fit for the genre. It's rather mundane, even effects don't help.

I love Donovan's "breathy", laid-back original but the cover by Steve Hillage is not far behind in my estimation:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DKTpKG5jQIo

The extended coda is something else! 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on December 06, 2015, 08:18:04 PM
This is sth. I've been searching - the version of "In the Mood" with vocals <- & that's what I should've written to find it. Slowpoke. Anyway, Brian Setzer Orchestra (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pUWP8d930mg)
I heard it several yrs ago on radio & ever since loved it. Cool guitar solo. [dat video, though... Epic fail]


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on December 27, 2015, 10:29:04 PM
Mary Hopkin - Que Sera Sera. Really dislike the Doris Day version. She has no (special) voice. Granted, I'm not huge fan of Mary either but I think it has its merits.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on December 28, 2015, 01:39:47 AM
Mary Hopkin - Que Sera Sera. Really dislike the Doris Day version. She has no (special) voice. Granted, I'm not huge fan of Mary either but I think it has its merits.

Sly & the Family Stone do a nice over-the-top version. When its album, Fresh, was released in '73 there was this crazy rumour going round that Sly and Doris were having an affair. :lol

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Son_p6sPeI 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on January 24, 2016, 10:15:26 PM
Sly & the Family Stone do a nice over-the-top version. When its album, Fresh, was released in '73 there was this crazy rumour going round that Sly and Doris were having an affair. :lol

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Son_p6sPeI 
I'll change my Mary Hopkin statement. Though I wouldn't say I'm a fan of them either.
Didn't know that covering somebody's song=having affair with them. Some got very twisted mind.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Jay on February 03, 2016, 12:01:33 AM
This cover of Wildest Dreams by Taylor Swift putrs the original to shame https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_Fh83VwHRo&list=FLV1RDQ0_F5rhRw-6iYbh-8Q&index=27


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: KDS on February 03, 2016, 05:12:44 AM
Wouldn't take much to put a Taylor Swift song to shame.

Speaking of pop covers, the band Halestorm does a killer hard rock cover of Lady Gaga's Bad Romance.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: the captain on February 03, 2016, 07:23:22 AM
Actually I think Ryan Adams's 2015 cover of Taylor Swift's 1989 is pretty good, start to finish, if you're interested in a sort of roots-rock meets Nebraska sound. Swift is a talented writer. I didn't care for the production style of her version of 1989--to me, that synth-driven '80s sound was annoying then and more so now--but the songs are good.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: KDS on February 03, 2016, 07:53:09 AM
Actually I think Ryan Adams's 2015 cover of Taylor Swift's 1989 is pretty good, start to finish, if you're interested in a sort of roots-rock meets Nebraska sound. Swift is a talented writer. I didn't care for the production style of her version of 1989--to me, that synth-driven '80s sound was annoying then and more so now--but the songs are good.

I've heard bits of pieces, but I'm not really a fan of Ryan Adams either. 

Plus, I think certain songs can't be fixed.  IMO, Swift has written a couple of those ie. Bad Blood and Shake It Off.  Nothing more than earworms. 

I remember a few years ago, Alanis Morrisette jokingly released a piano ballad version of Black Eyed Peas "My Humps."  That was pretty amusing. 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: the captain on February 03, 2016, 07:59:48 AM
Actually I think Ryan Adams's 2015 cover of Taylor Swift's 1989 is pretty good, start to finish, if you're interested in a sort of roots-rock meets Nebraska sound. Swift is a talented writer. I didn't care for the production style of her version of 1989--to me, that synth-driven '80s sound was annoying then and more so now--but the songs are good.

I've heard bits of pieces, but I'm not really a fan of Ryan Adams either. 

Plus, I think certain songs can't be fixed.  IMO, Swift has written a couple of those ie. Bad Blood and Shake It Off.  Nothing more than earworms. 

I remember a few years ago, Alanis Morrisette jokingly released a piano ballad version of Black Eyed Peas "My Humps."  That was pretty amusing. 

I'm not an Adams fan generally, either. In fact, not at all. This is the only album of his I've ever bought and liked. I agree with most everything else you've said except the specific examples (e.g., some songs can't be fixed). But I also don't think earworms should be discredited, either. A little dessert can be worked into a well-balanced diet.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: KDS on February 03, 2016, 08:18:30 AM
Actually I think Ryan Adams's 2015 cover of Taylor Swift's 1989 is pretty good, start to finish, if you're interested in a sort of roots-rock meets Nebraska sound. Swift is a talented writer. I didn't care for the production style of her version of 1989--to me, that synth-driven '80s sound was annoying then and more so now--but the songs are good.

I've heard bits of pieces, but I'm not really a fan of Ryan Adams either. 

Plus, I think certain songs can't be fixed.  IMO, Swift has written a couple of those ie. Bad Blood and Shake It Off.  Nothing more than earworms. 

I remember a few years ago, Alanis Morrisette jokingly released a piano ballad version of Black Eyed Peas "My Humps."  That was pretty amusing. 

I'm not an Adams fan generally, either. In fact, not at all. This is the only album of his I've ever bought and liked. I agree with most everything else you've said except the specific examples (e.g., some songs can't be fixed). But I also don't think earworms should be discredited, either. A little dessert can be worked into a well-balanced diet.

Capt,

We'll have to agree to disagree on earworms.  I think most Top 40 today is just the worst type of mindless, soulless, vapid pop. 

And, keep in mind, I hold that opinion as somebody who's a huge fan of the so-called hair metal movement.  :)  I'll listen to that if I want a good dessert. 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: the captain on February 03, 2016, 08:27:31 AM
I agree that most Top 40 is indeed as you describe it. But I wouldn't call most of it earworms, either. Most is entirely forgettable, which is the opposite of an earworm.

As for the disagreement, that's fine by me. I need not be agreed with ... JUST FEARED AND OBEYED! (OK, I don't need those things either.)


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: KDS on February 03, 2016, 09:49:47 AM
I agree that most Top 40 is indeed as you describe it. But I wouldn't call most of it earworms, either. Most is entirely forgettable, which is the opposite of an earworm.

As for the disagreement, that's fine by me. I need not be agreed with ... JUST FEARED AND OBEYED! (OK, I don't need those things either.)


Most of the Top 40 songs I've heard get instantly buried in my brain, and usually won't leave until I'm able to flush them out with much more quality music. 

I'm 100% convinced that's why many of these songs sell.  I mean, could that many people actually have liked Izzy Azalea's Fancy?  I think they got the song in their head, couldn't get it out, and that somehow compelled them to buy it. 

Getting back to covers, I really enjoyed Disturbed's version of Shout by Tears for Fears in 2000.  But Disturbed's recently released cover of Simon and Garfunkel's The Sound of Silence is horrid. 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: alf wiedersehen on February 03, 2016, 12:19:40 PM
This lady (I think she might be angel, on account of her voice and having a harp) does an incredible cover of a Swans song. I'm hesitant to say it's better than the original, but she conjures up much more emotion than the original even tried to. It's pretty wonderful. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=54c_aayWn6w&ab_channel=EliseMorton


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Ron on February 05, 2016, 09:33:32 AM
Ima REALLLLLLLY go Sacrilegious on this one.  I doubt 10% would agree... but I've grown to appreciate Tiffany's "I Think We're Alone Now" over the original by the incredible Tommy James & the Shondells. 

Of course the original is a great song and well produced, well written... great guitar work as always... but when Tiffany redid it, it finally got the 1 thing it was missing, the youthful sound of young love that the song is written about.  She's not even a very good singer... but she was a young girl and it feels more right than the original. 

Tommy James & the Shondells - I think we're alone now

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IkMFLUXTEwM

Tiffany - I think we're alone now

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6Q3mHyzn78


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: the captain on February 05, 2016, 04:30:01 PM
I agree.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on February 15, 2016, 08:12:52 AM
I went backpage to make sure it wasn't posted: "Heart and Soul" by Jan&Dean. When today it came out on shuffle, I had to listen it again. Larry Clinton is nice but there is sth. pure & sincere in the way Jan sings with Dean delaying. I like their vocal blend. That & double-tracked (?) piano.
If I went to New York, my 1st stop would be FAO Schwarz. There is walking piano; Tom Hanks & Robert Loggia played it in the film "Big". They did "Heart & Soul" & "Chopsticks". Favorite scene of the whole movie.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on May 13, 2016, 10:38:13 AM
"Donna" by Hep Stars (feat. young Benny Andersson. Nope, not vocals) is better than Ritchie Valens'. Sth. about the guy's voice that I don't like original. The band singer has pleasant voice and it's overall well done. The only good thing about Ritchie was when he sang "Where...can.you be" as dotted note whereas the Sweds went simply "where-can-you-be".

Btw, not a fan of the song as is. Jus' saying what's better. As in topic subject.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on May 13, 2016, 04:29:50 PM
"Donna" by Hep Stars (feat. young Benny Andersson. Nope, not vocals) is better than Ritchie Valens'. Sth. about the guy's voice that I don't like original. The band singer has pleasant voice and it's overall well done. The only good thing about Ritchie was when he sang "Where...can.you be" as dotted note whereas the Sweds went simply "where-can-you-be".

Btw, not a fan of the song as is. Jus' saying what's better. As in topic subject.

For comparison. First those Swedes: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aee7SEhv554

And now the fantastic atmospheric original:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bHBcblwYVWU

What a song, what a version! Tears me up every time...


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on May 13, 2016, 04:57:21 PM
I didn't pay attn. to atmosphere; I just don't like Ritchie's voice. And as I stated, I don't actually like the song in the 1st place. It just came up with other youtube results and by sheer comparison the Hep Stars imo did better. It's totally cool if you prefer the orig. I don't.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on May 17, 2016, 02:58:47 AM
Dave Van Ronk & The Hudson Dusters "Both Sides Now" (as renamed "Clouds")  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3z7NxFbZzA  Never fan of the singer/song; Dave tackled it.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on May 18, 2016, 07:05:30 AM
Couple here that feature among my all-time favourite 45s, let alone covers of song (I may have posted one earlier):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jhJypQzo1to

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pn8SFdyOA_M


 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on May 18, 2016, 07:28:19 PM
...& all this time I thought it was original (2nd vid). Gotta check the other versions to see which I like.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on May 19, 2016, 04:50:33 AM
Original single of 1966, The Ivy League "My World Fell Down" written by John Carter  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z2xbqExuB1o
[Fun fact: the Ivy League did back-ups in the Who's "I Can't Explain"]

1967, "My World Fell Down" recorded by Sagittarius. Glen Campbell sings  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qs-oGEhDP0E


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on July 24, 2016, 07:51:41 AM
The Four Seasons' "Lucky Ladybug" (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3vUVF0L0llM) > Billy & Lillie's (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zr8ESNuk14A)
They also covered their "La Dee Dah" but imo it's very annoyingly silly song they shouldn't bother. "Lucky Ladybug" is fun & joyful.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on September 14, 2016, 06:28:56 AM
PLMW by "Andrew's Science Project". It's in soundcloud. Mind you, still don't like the song but this is better because they changed the melody a bit & it's totally different arrangement. I like the absence of main guitar riff. It's fresh & actually good.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on September 24, 2016, 05:09:57 AM
The Carpenters "(They long to be) Close to you". Coz I like Karen. She is miles away better than boring Dionne Warwick.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on September 30, 2016, 02:32:00 AM
Much prefer Otis's "Satisfaction" to Keith and Mick's... *reaches for hard hat*:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gmnZRBTPzg0   


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Aum Bop Diddit on September 30, 2016, 05:55:16 PM
Much prefer Otis's "Satisfaction" to Keith and Mick's... *reaches for hard hat*:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gmnZRBTPzg0   

I disagree but I can dig it.

I may be alone on the obverse -- I prefer Otis's original "Respect" (particularly the wild Monterey version) to Aretha's.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on October 01, 2016, 03:46:00 AM
I may be alone on the obverse -- I prefer Otis's original "Respect" (particularly the wild Monterey version) to Aretha's.

You are not alone (not familiar with the live version though).

I could never warm to all those sockittome's (straight out of the Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In show).

On the other hand I was so glad that Ms Franklyn was finally getting material that was worthy of her fantastic voice.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: feelsflow on October 01, 2016, 02:25:31 PM
I may be alone on the obverse -- I prefer Otis's original "Respect" (particularly the wild Monterey version) to Aretha's.

You are not alone (not familiar with the live version though).

I could never warm to all those sockittome's (straight out of the Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In show).

On the other hand I was so glad that Ms Franklyn was finally getting material that was worthy of her fantastic voice.

John, Ross,  how are you guys doing tonight?  Stone's "Satisfaction" for me.  Otis' "Respect" - Aretha was just getting started.  Hard to say who had the best music overall.  Otis was cut-off so quickly.

Ron, and the captain's agreement on "I Think We're Alone Now" is so far out in left field it's difficult to make a comment.  Jaw drops.  Shocking observation.  That's the one where one should be going for a hard hat.

And I'll answer on the "(They Long to be) Close to You" - I like both about equally.  They were both great singers.  The Carpenters had a bigger hit with it.  Think so, I have both records.  Remember the Carpenters version on the radio more.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Aum Bop Diddit on October 03, 2016, 08:23:23 PM
I may be alone on the obverse -- I prefer Otis's original "Respect" (particularly the wild Monterey version) to Aretha's.

You are not alone (not familiar with the live version though).

I could never warm to all those sockittome's (straight out of the Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In show).

On the other hand I was so glad that Ms Franklyn was finally getting material that was worthy of her fantastic voice.

John, Ross,  how are you guys doing tonight?  Stone's "Satisfaction" for me.  Otis' "Respect" - Aretha was just getting started.  Hard to say who had the best music overall.  Otis was cut-off so quickly.

Ron, and the captain's agreement on "I Think We're Alone Now" is so far out in left field it's difficult to make a comment.  Jaw drops.  Shocking observation.  That's the one where one should be going for a hard hat.

And I'll answer on the "(They Long to be) Close to You" - I like both about equally.  They were both great singers.  The Carpenters had a bigger hit with it.  Think so, I have both records.  Remember the Carpenters version on the radio more.

We good, thanks for asking.  Hope u b 2.

You know I never liked the Carpenters in their hey day -- wasn't my thing.  But heard a deejay  play "Close to You" and "We've Only Just Begun" at a wedding the other day.  Sounded gorgeous.  I also enjoyed a documentary I saw on PBS.  Richard was a very adept musician/arranger.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on October 03, 2016, 08:42:40 PM
Quote
I also enjoyed a documentary I saw on PBS.  Richard was a very adept musician/arranger.
Indeed he was - undeservedly gets backlash from fans here & now for not caring about Karen, utilizing her voice for commercial reasons. Comments in Youtube to the interview after Karen's death say that Richard didn't seem too upset & various negative readings of his posture & words. Well if he didn't cry maybe he doesn't like showing tears? Doesn't mean the event didn't sadden him.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: feelsflow on October 04, 2016, 03:50:25 PM
I may be alone on the obverse -- I prefer Otis's original "Respect" (particularly the wild Monterey version) to Aretha's.

You are not alone (not familiar with the live version though).

I could never warm to all those sockittome's (straight out of the Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In show).

On the other hand I was so glad that Ms Franklyn was finally getting material that was worthy of her fantastic voice.

John, Ross,  how are you guys doing tonight?  Stone's "Satisfaction" for me.  Otis' "Respect" - Aretha was just getting started.  Hard to say who had the best music overall.  Otis was cut-off so quickly.

Ron, and the captain's agreement on "I Think We're Alone Now" is so far out in left field it's difficult to make a comment.  Jaw drops.  Shocking observation.  That's the one where one should be going for a hard hat.

And I'll answer on the "(They Long to be) Close to You" - I like both about equally.  They were both great singers.  The Carpenters had a bigger hit with it.  Think so, I have both records.  Remember the Carpenters version on the radio more.

We good, thanks for asking.  Hope u b 2.

You know I never liked the Carpenters in their hey day -- wasn't my thing.  But heard a deejay  play "Close to You" and "We've Only Just Begun" at a wedding the other day.  Sounded gorgeous.  I also enjoyed a documentary I saw on PBS.  Richard was a very adept musician/arranger.

That's how I felt, too.  I got into them after I got older, something like the mid-80s.  A lot of the 70s music was like that for me.  I grew to even like some of the BubbleGum stuff.  Crazy tracks like "Sugar, Sugar" - though in all honesty, it was only after I heard Alex Chilton do it.  Also, "Gimmie, Gimme, Gimmie" - and my friends give me sh*it for it!   They don't like ABBA, either.  I do, and did when they first came out.  In the 70s if you did like something like that, you kept it to yourself. :lol 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on October 04, 2016, 06:56:14 PM
I like bubblegum band Ohio Express. "Chewy Chewy" is favorite.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: ♩♬🐸 Billy C ♯♫♩🐇 on October 04, 2016, 07:36:48 PM
I may be alone on the obverse -- I prefer Otis's original "Respect" (particularly the wild Monterey version) to Aretha's.

You are not alone (not familiar with the live version though).

I could never warm to all those sockittome's (straight out of the Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In show).

On the other hand I was so glad that Ms Franklyn was finally getting material that was worthy of her fantastic voice.

John, Ross,  how are you guys doing tonight?  Stone's "Satisfaction" for me.  Otis' "Respect" - Aretha was just getting started.  Hard to say who had the best music overall.  Otis was cut-off so quickly.

Ron, and the captain's agreement on "I Think We're Alone Now" is so far out in left field it's difficult to make a comment.  Jaw drops.  Shocking observation.  That's the one where one should be going for a hard hat.

And I'll answer on the "(They Long to be) Close to You" - I like both about equally.  They were both great singers.  The Carpenters had a bigger hit with it.  Think so, I have both records.  Remember the Carpenters version on the radio more.

We good, thanks for asking.  Hope u b 2.

You know I never liked the Carpenters in their hey day -- wasn't my thing.  But heard a deejay  play "Close to You" and "We've Only Just Begun" at a wedding the other day.  Sounded gorgeous.  I also enjoyed a documentary I saw on PBS.  Richard was a very adept musician/arranger.

I would've liked to see Brian and Richard Carpenter collaborate, personally.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on October 06, 2016, 05:52:16 PM
I would've liked to see Brian and Richard Carpenter collaborate, personally.
Smb. should arrange the meeting of these 2. Brian being polite would say 1st that he really liked them & their "Fun Fun Fun", Richard would say he's big BBs fan (he liked 3 "B" - Beatles, Bacharach & BBs) etc. Would be cool.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on October 10, 2016, 08:50:33 PM
The Mavericks' jazzy "Are you lonesome tonight?". Sung beautifully by Raul Malo.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on October 19, 2016, 07:09:18 PM
Larry as usual with brilliant speech https://ironleg.wordpress.com/2016/09/25/glori-loring-song-to-a-seagull/


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: bullman on October 20, 2016, 04:29:03 PM
Man, this one sends me.
Anybody on this board, I'm sure, can relate to the BB influence. I saw it live.
Straight No Chaser, A Cappella,...cover of Radiohead Creep...Enjoy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jKV6MY5H-Jg

T


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on October 25, 2016, 06:13:38 AM
To broaden this topic as "interesting covers", here's 2 by The Alan Lorber Orch. - The Blues Project's "Flute Thing" & 5th Dimension's "Up Up & Away". Listen by checking this blog post (& read too): https://ironleg.wordpress.com/2016/10/23/the-alan-lorber-orchestra-flute-thingup-up-and-away/


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on October 25, 2016, 06:56:28 AM
To broaden this topic as "interesting covers", here's 2 by The Alan Lorber Orch. - The Blues Project's "Flute Thing" & 5th Dimension's "Up Up & Away". Listen by checking this blog post (& read too): https://ironleg.wordpress.com/2016/10/23/the-alan-lorber-orchestra-flute-thingup-up-and-away/

Most interesting. Thanks for the link. Poking around on YT, I didn't realize Alan Lorber arranged "Killer Joe" for The Rocky Fellers in 1963:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhEy743xwZA

And now back to topic. :lol


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on October 25, 2016, 07:09:22 AM
Man, this one sends me.
Anybody on this board, I'm sure, can relate to the BB influence. I saw it live.
Straight No Chaser, A Cappella,...cover of Radiohead Creep...Enjoy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jKV6MY5H-Jg

This is stunning! Thanks, bullman.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on October 25, 2016, 08:07:30 AM
Quote
I didn't realize Alan Lorber arranged "Killer Joe" for The Rocky Fellers in 1963
Cool track. Here's Larry brought 2 Bee Gees covers done by...the arranger of their 1st albums! with his band: https://ironleg.wordpress.com/2016/09/04/the-bill-shepherd-singers-soften-up-the-bee-gees/
I like both, "Red Chair Fadeaway" is really good choice. Conversely, "Turn of the Century" was boring 'til this new arr./vocs.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on October 26, 2016, 07:24:04 AM
Featured in my favorite kid flick "Kit Kittredge" set in the 1930s - "Ain't we got fun" by some Renee Olstead; jolly good version, retro style intact but the voice recent: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GnEorpAdsK4


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on October 30, 2016, 07:25:17 AM
Little Richard is THE rock&roll, hands down. That said, Swinging Blue Jeans' "Good golly miss Molly" is THE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJ3B92nSpQs


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: bullman on November 01, 2016, 12:32:12 PM
Man, this one sends me.
Anybody on this board, I'm sure, can relate to the BB influence. I saw it live.
Straight No Chaser, A Cappella,...cover of Radiohead Creep...Enjoy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jKV6MY5H-Jg

This is stunning! Thanks, bullman.

Equally interesting, at least, is the fact that this song was lawfully declared a ripoff of The Hollies "The Air That I Breathe" and
royalties were affected at a 50/50(?) split.
Here are the The Moon Loungers singing a mashup and easily showing the similarities...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0XbogWA-riU

Enjoy!
Tim


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on November 01, 2016, 12:57:44 PM
Man, this one sends me.
Anybody on this board, I'm sure, can relate to the BB influence. I saw it live.
Straight No Chaser, A Cappella,...cover of Radiohead Creep...Enjoy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jKV6MY5H-Jg

This is stunning! Thanks, bullman.

Equally interesting, at least, is the fact that this song was lawfully declared a ripoff of The Hollies "The Air That I Breathe" and
royalties were affected at a 50/50(?) split.
Here are the The Moon Loungers singing a mashup and easily showing the similarities...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0XbogWA-riU

Enjoy!
Tim

Brilliantly done! But I don't know... there are only so many notes and only so many chords. Whatever, thanks for the link, Tim. :=)


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on November 01, 2016, 06:43:24 PM
Yes, 12 notes but they create combinations & tunes. This is newest from Larry, he brings 3 covers - The Who's "I Can See for Miles", Billy Joe Royal's "Hush", Strawberry Alarm Clock's "Incense & Peppermints" by Mike Landers & Bobby Sty respectively. Produced by Ed Chalpin (not Chaplin) who might be familiar to Jimi Hendrix & Curtis Knight's fans. The 2 Mike Landers were 45s in South America. The Bobby Sty was 45 in Africa. I agree with Larry that the Who garagey cover is uber-cool. Listen here (youtube & google don't detect these artists): https://ironleg.wordpress.com/2016/10/30/who-the-hell-were-mike-landers-and-bobby-sty/


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: SurfRapGrungeFiend on November 02, 2016, 04:31:55 PM
Melvins- Goin blind originally by KISS


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on December 13, 2016, 06:47:35 PM
Larry says

Quote from: Larry Grogan
I am always a sucker for a cover version of a favorite song.

in reference to "Hello L.A. Bye bye Birmingham". As he says, the only straight country rendition of the song, by The Chaparral Brothers (whose names are John & Paul ;) )

Listen here, the link is fresh, should work: https://ironleg.wordpress.com/2016/12/11/the-chaparral-brothers-hello-la-bye-bye-birmingham/


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on December 20, 2016, 09:39:53 AM
Winter song - not many know that "Coldest Night of the Year" was 1st recorded by Nino Tempo & April Stevens. Not by Twice As Much ft. Vashti Bunyan. It's track from their tough-to-find 1966 album "Hey Baby". Vashti covered it 2 yrs later in 1968. Respectively:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ueT48FEla8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mhCdKkZf8co

Nino has very nice tone of voice, can't say the same about April. She sings like gypsy. Plus she's got trying-to-sound-cute-on-purpose air about it. I mean, in 1st verse she says "Know" very well, then in the 2nd she says it "Knyow"? "To dew" instead of "to do"? Lame. But, still good song & I like the scaled-down arr.

Vashti & Twice As Much version is lush, in good way; the vocals are very good, as is harmonizing between Vashti & that guy. She's really good & doesn't goof up anywhere in the song, & it's difficult to hear one's voice during such difficult harmony bits.

Now this year, Zooey Deshanel & M. Ward under "She & Him" disguise did their take, dig this :3d:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CPx-I-GZjtE


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on January 15, 2017, 07:35:06 AM
I like "Sunday Morning" by Velvet Underground & was curious if smb. else did it (aside from casual fans) - here's Billy Bragg & some Courtney Barnett singing it live: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Yg6xDAekPI

Not better but darn good. I just wish Billy's voice wasn't low in the mix. The girl plays cool guitar solo.
There's other "duet" videos in youtube. It looks like festival of duets (famous + young artist) doing old classics & backed by RocKwiz orchestra.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on January 23, 2017, 11:05:05 AM
This "Winnie the Pooh" got better vocal: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5XaMSCNTLb0


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on February 06, 2017, 10:11:59 PM
70s Van McCoy-penned Jackie Wilson cover by rock/ power pop band Earth Quake: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZkhR2TXz98


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on February 10, 2017, 04:08:33 PM
Barbra Streisand is great jazz singer. Her pop stuff's not my cup of tea. Here she sings "Adelaide's Lament" that Vivian Blaine sang in musical "Guys and Dolls" (1950) & its film version 5 yrs later: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a0d-EitpmWg

Blaine's original: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_44osRNdyvw
Blaine at 1971 Tony Awards: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B-UHDhOJI48

This song features sneezing, coughing (up) & "reading" book pages alternating with commenting what she reads. Neat song with humorous twist.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Moon Dawg on February 10, 2017, 05:16:16 PM
Little Richard is THE rock&roll, hands down. That said, Swinging Blue Jeans' "Good golly miss Molly" is THE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJ3B92nSpQs


 :lol


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on March 24, 2017, 06:56:02 PM
Unusually arranged segment from "Swan Lake" https://youtu.be/kxJXODbbAsE?t=297 till 5:40-45. The cartoon is popular Soviet series about Wolf & Hare, kinda like "Tom & Jerry".


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on April 03, 2017, 06:23:12 AM
Larry posted Herman's Hermits & Bo Diddley covers: https://ironleg.wordpress.com/2017/02/12/los-gatos-negros-la-tierra-de-las-mil-danzastodo-cambio/ https://ironleg.wordpress.com/2017/02/19/the-chancellors-im-a-man/


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: feelsflow on April 04, 2017, 01:43:17 PM
I could safely say any of the many songs Laura Nyro chose to cover would then be my favorite version of that song.
No examples needed, but if you insist.  Check the album, Gonna Take A Miracle.  Press Play.

"Walk On By"... maybe that one would be a tie with Brian's version.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: feelsflow on April 04, 2017, 01:58:54 PM
Okay, I found a code, but it's very long.  If this doesn't work, you can find the list at youtube.  Just key in the details.
Laura Nyro Gonna Take A Miracle full album Here we go...

https://youtu.be/lx5rP2vQFxA?list=PLHpBwsyfBWDHYC5ruYuRin-MaJR-ddBzt



Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: feelsflow on April 04, 2017, 02:00:15 PM
The link works.  enjoy.  she is my thrill. 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on April 04, 2017, 02:02:57 PM
I could safely say any of the many songs Laura Nyro chose to cover would then be my favorite version of that song.
No examples needed, but if you insist.  Check the album, Gonna Take A Miracle.  Press Play.

"Walk On By"... maybe that one would be a tie with Brian's version.

How about this one she wrote? Surely this is the definitive version:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8gxwutvlTw8

Jus love those brass chords towards the end!


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on April 04, 2017, 04:24:12 PM
Laura's voice is very beautiful. & she sings with the groove. Like in "Lu" - my favorite of hers.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on May 12, 2017, 08:06:57 AM
From Larry's blog: https://ironleg.wordpress.com/2017/05/07/rocky-and-the-border-kings-michoacan/

Larry's huge Sir Douglas Quintet fan, he found obscure 45 covering his favorite tune "Michoacan". You will not find it in youtube. Check the link to listen. Dunno what the original sounds like but hearing the cover, it's not bad!


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on August 17, 2017, 07:05:46 AM
Beverley Martyn "Museum" (https://ironleg.wordpress.com/2017/08/13/beverley-museum/) I don't like Donovan, comparison to Dylan makes it worse so by default I like his songs sung by anybody but.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: KDS on August 17, 2017, 07:25:07 AM
Beverley Martyn "Museum" (https://ironleg.wordpress.com/2017/08/13/beverley-museum/) I don't like Donovan, comparison to Dylan makes it worse so by default I like his songs sung by anybody but.

I'm not really into Donovan either, but check out Vanilla Fudge's version of his "Season of the Witch."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h-eiDLkDi2k


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on August 22, 2017, 11:51:00 PM
Nice.

Found Glen Campbell singing "Hello Goodbye": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=doO0MZhCtfo
It's short yet says "full version". It's the best Magical Mystery Tour track miles away & Glen backed with such arrangement definitely did it justice.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on September 29, 2017, 05:57:04 AM
I like song "Dream A Little Dream", listened to possibly every cover. The 3 that stand out - Cass Elliot, Jarhead Ghost (in there garychester?) & Robbie Williams & Lily Allen's: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4MFx8ySwOVI

The backing track is the same as in Elliot's, Lily even took her style which I liked, it's during the last chorus when Cass sings some words in waves, up & down - "craving"/ "longing"/ "just". But Lily's got different voice so it's not too rip-off. Robbie does justice to song as well. I do think he's good singer but wouldn't say I'm fan.

Now, here's song I disliked immediately - "Shakin' All Over", esp. by Guess Who. But, the recent post in Larry's blog is child of the 1890s Mae West singing it with backing band Somebody's Chyldren (nope, it's not typo). Off-beat https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9yo3dDJScM


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: KDS on September 29, 2017, 06:45:14 AM
I like song "Dream A Little Dream", listened to possibly every cover. The 3 that stand out - Cass Elliot, Jarhead Ghost (in there garychester?) & Robbie Williams & Lily Allen's: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4MFx8ySwOVI

The backing track is the same as in Elliot's, Lily even took her style which I liked, it's during the last chorus when Cass sings some words in waves, up & down - "craving"/ "longing"/ "just". But Lily's got different voice so it's not too rip-off. Robbie does justice to song as well. I do think he's good singer but wouldn't say I'm fan.

Now, here's song I disliked immediately - "Shakin' All Over", esp. by Guess Who. But, the recent post in Larry's blog is child of the 1890s Mae West singing it with backing band Somebody's Chyldren (nope, it's not typo). Off-beat https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9yo3dDJScM

I like The Guess Who's version of Shakin All Over.  But, I think The Who did a better version. 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on September 29, 2017, 04:14:58 PM
Quote
I like The Guess Who's version of Shakin All Over.
The vocal's unbearable to hear - too whiney & desperate.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: KDS on September 29, 2017, 07:18:38 PM
Quote
I like The Guess Who's version of Shakin All Over.
The vocal's unbearable to hear - too whiney & desperate.

Agree to disagree.  I think its a pretty powerful lead


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on October 05, 2017, 11:59:55 AM
Quote
I like The Guess Who's version of Shakin All Over.
The vocal's unbearable to hear - too whiney & desperate.

Agree to disagree.  I think its a pretty powerful lead

Nothing beats the original in my book, by Johnny Kidd & The Pirates:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n327ncoU_ZU

As a commenter rightly says: "A rarity, a genuine English classic Rock n Roll record".


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on October 05, 2017, 12:11:50 PM
Actually I came here to post Fats Domino's cover of The Beatles' "Everybody's Got Something To Hide Except Me And My Monkey".

This was the version I heard first----it was released as a 45 in 1969 but didn't do a boiled bean anywhere. It got a certain amount of radio time in the UK.

I feel it's more of a song than the otherwise splendid original, which is more of a musical kick up the arse.     

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TNeSJVUxOkc


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on October 06, 2017, 06:28:22 PM
Favorite Beatles cover - "Hey Jude" by Wilson Pickett.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: B.E. on October 06, 2017, 07:04:42 PM
Favorite Beatles cover - "Hey Jude" by Wilson Pickett.

I was just listening to that last night! Great cover!


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on October 07, 2017, 01:48:15 AM
Favorite Beatles cover - "Hey Jude" by Wilson Pickett.

I was just listening to that last night! Great cover!

God yes! I'd be flayed alive for saying this on a Beatles forum but in my opinion it beats the singalong original hands down.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Aum Bop Diddit on October 07, 2017, 05:20:35 PM
Favorite Beatles cover - "Hey Jude" by Wilson Pickett.

I was just listening to that last night! Great cover!

God yes! I'd be flayed alive for saying this on a Beatles forum but in my opinion it beats the singalong original hands down.

Duane Allman on lead guitar.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on October 08, 2017, 03:30:29 AM
It doesn't beat the original - it's equal to it.

Beatles set the record as band covered million times. Question to B.E., JK & whole Smiley lot - what's your Top 3 favorite Beatles covers? To "Hey Jude", I'd add Tenacious D's "And Your Bird Can Sing" & Slade's "Martha My Dear". You tell now.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: KDS on October 08, 2017, 07:58:05 AM
It doesn't beat the original - it's equal to it.

Beatles set the record as band covered million times. Question to B.E., JK & whole Smiley lot - what's your Top 3 favorite Beatles covers? To "Hey Jude", I'd add Tenacious D's "And Your Bird Can Sing" & Slade's "Martha My Dear". You tell now.

Joe Cocker - With a Little Help From my Friends

Helloween - All My Loving

Aerosmith - Come Together


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on October 08, 2017, 08:43:45 AM
It doesn't beat the original - it's equal to it.

Well, it's a prolonged salvo of stupendous screams by the Wicked Pickett plus "Skydog" Allman's stratospheric guitar, against a lot of la-la-la-ing and Macca's self-indulgent ad-libs. Easy choice for me. But I digress. ;D

Off the top of my head, my three are Wilson's "Hey Jude", Candy Flip's "Strawberry Fields Forever" and Steve Hillage's "It's All Too Much"...


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: B.E. on October 08, 2017, 03:50:30 PM
Question to B.E., JK & whole Smiley lot - what's your Top 3 favorite Beatles covers? To "Hey Jude", I'd add Tenacious D's "And Your Bird Can Sing" & Slade's "Martha My Dear". You tell now.

-in no specific order-

Harry Nilsson - Mother Nature's Son [greatest, most faithful recreation]

Wilson Pickett - Hey Jude [incredible, authentic interpretation]

Harry Nilsson - You Can't Do That [most creative and fun]

I think Nilsson's Mother Nature's Son sounds more like The Beatles version than any other Beatles cover I've ever heard. Of course, the bigger Beatles or Nilsson fan you are the easier it is to tell them apart, but that's always true. Beautiful song, beautifully sung. Listening to Nilsson's various Beatles-related work, it's obvious how much he admired them. As a Beatles fan, I appreciate that.

I think Pickett's Hey Jude stands up in its own right...and then some. Most Beatles covers feel more like tributes to me, perhaps most are. Not this one. A lot of people would add Cocker's With A Little Help From My Friends to this category (I'm not crazy about it...I'd rather listen to the Beatles version 99% of the time). But, generally speaking, I think the Beatles just loom too large to successfully cover. You can't compete with their presence.


I'm kinda at a crossroad with a song, Hold Me Tight


I love love love the Beatles' version, but then again, I love Spector's version (The Treasures, I believe). Both very different versions of the song. The instrumental track to Spector's is far superior in my opinion, but the Beatles is more of a bubblegum/pop type song (IMO). To me, the Treasures' vocals on HMT is more of a 50s/motown/soul type.

What's your thoughts?

Which is better?
Btw, yes, blast from the past, but I wanted to thank punkinhead for bringing this cover of Hold Me Tight to my attention! Cool.


Hey Baby- Ringo
Also, this is awesome  ;D


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on October 10, 2017, 06:17:26 AM
Quote
against a lot of la-la-la-ing
It's na-na-naing. :P

Quote
A lot of people would add Cocker's With A Little Help From My Friends to this category (I'm not crazy about it
Agree 100%. You listed 2 times Nilsson - if we change it to Top 5, would it be again Nilsson or smb. else?


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JL on October 10, 2017, 09:33:57 AM
Four Tops version of "Everybody's Talkin", I like this one more than Fred Neil's original or Nilsson's version for that matter. Leave it to Levi and the other Tops to bring out the soul in something.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4MOiUqk4mVk

OR, their version of 'MacArthur Park'. I never really liked this song until I heard Levi Stubbs sing it. When he does, I suddenly get it...the heartbreak, the longing, the cake left out in the rain, the stripped pants. It all comes together.

Yeah, I'm in a Four Tops mood today.  :hat


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: B.E. on October 10, 2017, 03:40:27 PM
You listed 2 times Nilsson - if we change it to Top 5, would it be again Nilsson or smb. else?

I think I only have a top 3 ;D Those are the especially noteworthy ones to me. Perhaps I'd consider CSN performing 'Blackbird' in the top 5. That's another one I seek out to listen to from time to time. I've enjoyed many Beatles covers, but I'm also not particularly interested. I'd rather just listen to the Beatles! That said, I've recently been listening to Yusuf/Cat Stevens versions of Long And Winding Road, All Things Must Pass, and The Day The World Gets 'Round. He's also performed Love Me Do and All You Need Is Love live. Completely off-topic now, but (as a Beatles fan) I think it's pretty cool that after quitting popular music for decades, Yusuf reemerges with a great affinity for the Beatles music. Prior to his performing these songs in recent years I wasn't aware of any significant fondness for or connection to the Beatles (other than recording with Ringo once in the late '70s).


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Aum Bop Diddit on October 13, 2017, 06:48:53 PM
Flamin' Groovies "There's a Place."  They do a good "Please Please Me" too.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on October 28, 2017, 05:40:43 AM
This is new favorite "Summertime"  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9vGp9ghpe8


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: MikestheGreatest!! on November 03, 2017, 02:36:54 PM
I Heard It Through the Grape Vine, Marvin Gaye....


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on January 03, 2018, 08:09:45 PM
Long time tried to ID who sang the coolest, jazzy, luxurious cover of "Just a gigolo" I taped at 15 straight from radio. I went by Wiki list, 1st checking black artists as it sounds "black" - accent, timbre. This didn't give fruits - google jazz singers not listed in Wiki. Again, luck free. Later check it back, now scan the white singers with "black"/ kinda "black" voice. & what do you know? David Lee Roth: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MFV1biHrOBU

It's arranged as Louis Prima/ Sam Butera medley but vocally it's cooler by David. I say it as Louis fan. Didn't check Van Halen.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: KDS on January 04, 2018, 05:15:45 AM
I Heard It Through the Grape Vine, Marvin Gaye....

Same song, but the CCR version. 

Speaking of CCR, I also prefer their take on I Put a Spell on You


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on January 14, 2018, 05:08:44 AM
Short funny "Downtown" cover by charming Bennett Cerf in What's My Line :-D (Jack Jones mystery guest) But listen 1st from here: https://youtu.be/z9Ei0o_90V4?t=1254


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on January 20, 2018, 01:43:15 PM
I was reminded today of this great cover I used to hear on Sky Radio in the '80s before it became blander than bland. Eye to Eye did it first, but to these ears Virginia David's version of "Am I Normal?" has something magical about it that the original lacks.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tyWPChIR9ss

http://meaninglessinsights.blogspot.nl/2014/03/lost-80s-gems-1-am-i-normal-david.html


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on January 21, 2018, 04:27:51 AM
My favorite blogger Larry posted Buffalo Springfield cover by Kin Vassy, link to listen here: https://ironleg.wordpress.com/2018/01/14/kin-vassy-blue-bird/


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on January 30, 2018, 05:26:28 AM
As What's My Line? freak, I check everything about it. Here's beautiful glamorous Jayne Meadows, comedian Steve Allen's wife (he & she used to be guest panelists few times at WML?, BBs sang at Steve Allen show). Steve introduces Jayne by saying she lived in China. She dances & sings in Chinese "Hello Dolly", it's really sth. else: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cLZ0jLCb_2o


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: pixletwin on January 30, 2018, 06:20:49 AM
Taco's version of "Puttin' on the Ritz" is pretty awesome.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on January 30, 2018, 06:38:25 AM
You know Taco too? I decided since nobody replied to this

Taco "Cheek to Cheek", forget Fred Astaire: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_ZQxwox59Y

Such great "retro" voice.

nobody knew him. Sang praises to Taco before & very familiar with his "Ritz" cover. To reiterate, he's blessed with great "retro" voice, perfection to the T articulation.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: pixletwin on January 30, 2018, 11:06:03 AM
You know Taco too? I decided since nobody replied to this

Taco "Cheek to Cheek", forget Fred Astaire: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_ZQxwox59Y

Such great "retro" voice.

nobody knew him. Sang praises to Taco before & very familiar with his "Ritz" cover. To reiterate, he's blessed with great "retro" voice, perfection to the T articulation.

Agreed on all counts!

I just taught a unit on Irving Berlin and I played Taco for my students.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on February 24, 2018, 05:11:24 AM
Dlt button


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Aum Bop Diddit on February 27, 2018, 06:30:02 PM
Ladies and Gentlemen, the Queers....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yK289WAUGmY


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on March 10, 2018, 04:58:09 AM
Looking for songs whose lyrics mention "The Beach Boys" I came across this version by Alex Goot of Katy P's "California Gurls" in which Snoop Doggy Dogg is replaced by The Beach Boys in the "Sex on the beach" verse.

I do like this----it's a lot less twee than Ms. Perry's original:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=StRcO0_CqRg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alex_Goot


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: marcusb on March 13, 2018, 05:38:35 AM
Miracle Legion's cover of "Heart Disease Called Love" by John Cooper Clarke: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k34COzWzKcY

JCC original version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XiPNC2DJR8M

Also, Elvis Costello's What's So Funny About Peace, Love and Understanding?


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on March 19, 2018, 04:26:46 PM
Deleted, nobody cares to check anyway.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Buckethead on March 24, 2018, 02:54:11 PM
     "I Can Hear Music" is my absolute favorite BB cover.  It blows the original out of the water with the in-your-face energy from  the first note, and that Carl vocal - sublime, perfect, never gets dated.

     I saw another poster states that he prefers the Four Top's version of "Walk Away Renee" to the Left Banke's. Might I suggest a listen to the version done by the Cowsills, none other than John Cowsill and his siblings? Made soon after oldest brother Bill was unceremoniously kicked out of the band, it features a lead by brother Bob, with the rest, including John, on gorgeous, soaring harmonies.  The Four tops were fully grown, mature  men when they did their version; although they did a terrific job, it sounded a bit weird for a song that is clearly about a tender teenage boy. And while I love the original, the Cowsills, while still young, were professional vocalists who  nailed every note - breathtaking!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r-BjJq_yO-Q


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on March 24, 2018, 03:36:34 PM
I saw another poster states that he prefers the Four Top's version of "Walk Away Renee" to the Left Banke's. Might I suggest a listen to the version done by the Cowsills, none other than John Cowsill and his siblings? Made soon after oldest brother Bill was unceremoniously kicked out of the band, it features a lead by brother Bob, with the rest, including John, on gorgeous, soaring harmonies.  The Four tops were fully grown, mature  men when they did their version; although they did a terrific job, it sounded a bit weird for a song that is clearly about a tender teenage boy. And while I love the original, the Cowsills, while still young, were professional vocalists who  nailed every note - breathtaking!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r-BjJq_yO-Q

That is stunning. Those harmonies! Thanks for sharing, B.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Buckethead on March 24, 2018, 04:00:20 PM
Your welcome! I have always loved the Cowsills, so was so excited when John joined the Boys.  He was in one of the episodes where Uncle Jesse had the Rippers over - you can really hear his vocal talent there, as well as on records and youtube performances over the years. I've been to two M & B shows, but was disappointed i n how little he was used beyond  thickening of the harmony. His vocal talents are wasted, IMO. especially since he shows no signs of aging in  that way!


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on March 24, 2018, 04:15:47 PM
Not "John Cowsill-vocalist" fan. Cool drummer but he described his voice in the old thread as "Kermit the Frog". I agree 100%. John used to post here, username "Cowsii". Read what he said few years back:

I'm not a fan of my voice either but that was the first time we ever did it. I know. No excuse. The voice is what it is. Christian would sound good on it if he had the range. We'd have to lower way too far... I am generally a back ground singer. I dred singing Darlin, especially after sitting next to Darian when he does it.  sh*t! I sound more like Kermit the frog... oh well I like singing. But I don't want to hear me either. so for those who agree I'm sorry for your misery...
You see? When John criticizes his vocals, you realize this is real cool chap. :3d

You're right that Four Tops' "Walk Away Renee" is epic fail. If that band didn't exist, it'd be the same as they existing. It's band you could take or leave, not big difference. That said, Left Banke's "Renee" can't be beat. Beautiful backing track, the Cowsills' backing arrangement isn't interesting to my ears. Nice vocs but Left Banke sang it much better.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Buckethead on March 24, 2018, 08:01:39 PM
I don't like the sound of my singing voice, either, but people keep asking me to sing a their weddings! Guess we'll have to agree to disagree on that one...  I don't think that the Four Top's version of WAR  was an "epic fail," really; my only criticism is that the song seems so clearly an expression of a kid closer to puberty than manhood, and sounds more comfy sung by a younger guy with a sweeter tenor. Theirs, on the other hand,  had a very manly vibe.  Otherwise, it was an excellent cover that they truly made their own. 


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on March 25, 2018, 03:36:21 AM
If you click that John Cowsill post, it'll lead you to thread in which posters said they didn't like his singing. &.... John agreed with it! Usually people like positive feedback to things they do. But, he was totes cool about it. It's refreshing attitude.

Any guy's voice is technically "manly". Broadly speaking, here's male voice & there's female voice. That said, you do have point. "Renee" is written by young chap, inspired by real young girl. Makes sense for youthful voice to sing it. We'll agree to disagree about the last bit "it was an excellent cover that they truly made their own." The Four Tops really ruined it. The reason Left Banke's arrangement is the best is beautiful, elegant baroque mood, catchy intro with harpsichord playing cool beat, many interesting things that makes The Cowsills pale in compare.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Rick5150 on May 02, 2018, 04:17:45 PM
Pat Benatar's version of  I Need A Lover is WAY better than John Cougar Mellencamp's rather monotonous version.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on May 02, 2018, 05:22:17 PM
Charles Manson's "Home Is Where You're Happy" & Smiley poster DonnyL's cover would be equal. Charles' is better vocally - DonnyL's got cool faster arrangement.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Buckethead on May 02, 2018, 06:25:11 PM
Timothy B. Schmit's Caroline No on Stars and Stripes Vol. 1. He nails the lead, just as tender and wistfully as Brian, and the Boy's background harmonies elevate the song to the sublime.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on June 07, 2018, 04:43:48 AM
Today they played Pet Shop Boys "Always On My Mind" by radio. Well done barring few silly arranging choices. This band's lead vocalist sings well as usual. I didn't like the previous versions due to downtempo.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on July 16, 2018, 12:22:16 AM
Despite detesting "I Fought The Law", cover by Paul Stefen & Royal Lancers is nice, it differs than the other popular covers.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on August 12, 2018, 03:50:58 PM
Paul-sung "She's So Heavy" is miles better than John's. Paul sings it with groove. John, when sings in "cool" style, doesn't get to Paul's "cool" level.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on September 27, 2018, 07:38:56 AM
"Walk Right Back" by Dana, U.K. singer, Eurovision-1970 winner. She managed surprisingly to erase sadness of melody (reason I'm not the song's fan), esp. in compare with Everly bros. It helps I like her voice.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: SMiLE-addict on September 27, 2018, 03:49:43 PM
Just about any song Linda Ronstadt covered, was better than the original.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on September 27, 2018, 04:21:15 PM
I disagree. Linda's voice is like nails scratching glass.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: SMiLE-addict on September 27, 2018, 06:04:10 PM
I thought she had a great voice.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on September 27, 2018, 09:36:46 PM
She didn't.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: SMiLE-addict on September 28, 2018, 03:20:25 PM
She did.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on September 28, 2018, 03:23:41 PM
You like her voice. I don't. Plain & simple.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on October 20, 2018, 02:45:12 PM
Not sure if lt's better but it's a pretty cool take on the Cream song "Badge" by Fanny. I must say I prefer it!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M24xNZYXOZw

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fanny_(band) (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fanny_(band))


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on October 20, 2018, 03:40:59 PM
It's familiar band name - I frequent Beatles.ru & some moderator raved about it few yrs back AND in fact befriended their bass guitarist, one of the sisters in band, IIRC. Cool, right?  He even posed with her, met her where she lives when she's old. Anyhoo, that's when I discovered that girl band. I too will not say better but they did kinda nice RS rendition "Let's Spend The Night Together". MicK sings it MUCH better ofc.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on December 14, 2018, 07:41:45 AM
"Rockin' Good Way" by Shakin' Stevens & some American (I think? going by accent) singer Bonnie Tyler. Clip to it where they sing it is cringey, with 80s stupid fashion. But song's catchy & good vocs. Season-related, Stevens' song "Merry Christmas Everyone" is in Top 5 fave Christmas songs.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Seaside Woman on December 18, 2018, 03:46:16 PM
I always thought Phoebe Snow's version of McCartney's Every Night was better.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-NqKi7SMVU



Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: beachcat on December 18, 2018, 06:58:39 PM
I prefer the Beach Boys' version of "Just Once in My Life" over The Righteous Brothers' version. Sure, the Brothers' version is great in its own right, with the baritone vocals and Spector Wall of Sound, but there's something about the mix of Carl's sincere lead and Brian's raw, aching pleading that comes through in the chorus that I just love. It just makes the song seem so much more, I dunno, personal, I guess? And I love the use of the synthesizer in the BBs' version because it feels grand but not overpowering-- like the vocals are allowed to be the star of the show.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on December 20, 2018, 04:11:09 PM
Talking about BBs, wish they didn't choose "Blueberry Hill" to sing. It's dull beyond. Couldn't sth. else be covered instead?


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Seaside Woman on December 20, 2018, 05:35:42 PM
"Rockin' Good Way" by Shakin' Stevens & some American (I think? going by accent) singer Bonnie Tyler. Clip to it where they sing it is cringey, with 80s stupid fashion. But song's catchy & good vocs. Season-related, Stevens' song "Merry Christmas Everyone" is in Top 5 fave Christmas songs.

Bonnie Tyler is Welsh. She comes from the same area South Wales as Richard Burton and Anthony Hopkins a place called Port Talbot. Cathrine Zeta-Jones is also from quite near there.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: beachcat on December 22, 2018, 07:50:35 PM
Talking about BBs, wish they didn't choose "Blueberry Hill" to sing. It's dull beyond. Couldn't sth. else be covered instead?

Yeah, Blueberry Hill's not my favorite, but you know, I just looked it up and it looks like it's been covered by dozens of bands, so what do I know? As for something else? Hmm, how about "Since I Don't Have You" by the Skyliners, with Carl on lead vocals. I dunno, it sounds good in my head ¯\_(ツ)_/¯


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on January 02, 2019, 12:16:31 AM
SLY in Beatles film MMT is way cool than usual song. It's really bizarre yet got the carnival/ circus tune flair about it.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on January 11, 2019, 05:36:17 AM
Chocolate Watch Band's "I'm Not Like Everybody Else" is thousand times cooler than The Kinks'. It's super, add to it the fact the vocalist channels Mick Jagger as if Mick secretly sang as guest lead singer during CWB's INLEE session. Being Mick Jagger's fan, it's big plus.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on January 14, 2019, 04:31:41 AM
Listening to Winamp shuffle, what do I hear? The Animals' spectacular "House Of The Rising Sun". It's sheer coolness layered with coolnesses. It's freshly cool as back then. The band did the song the best.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on January 23, 2019, 02:33:07 PM
"Brady Bunch Theme" should be covered by The Ramones. Maybe Phil Collins. Either could sing it with dedication & de-square & de-cheesy it.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: gruelingpace on January 24, 2019, 11:49:11 PM
Talking about BBs, wish they didn't choose "Blueberry Hill" to sing. It's dull beyond. Couldn't sth. else be covered instead?

Yeah, Blueberry Hill's not my favorite, but you know, I just looked it up and it looks like it's been covered by dozens of bands, so what do I know? As for something else? Hmm, how about "Since I Don't Have You" by the Skyliners, with Carl on lead vocals. I dunno, it sounds good in my head ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
That sounds terrible! It sounds terrible in my head [fancy compoutersymbols[


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: gruelingpace on January 24, 2019, 11:55:17 PM
that version of "Man of Constant Sorrow" or whatever from Oh Brother Where art ThouI don't know what the original would be.

I know it's not easy to find on youtube
. It's one of those weird soundtrack songs, where you'll easily find the wrong version redone by the performers for their financial gain, but the actual performance you want is some  guarded financial secret.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: beachcat on January 26, 2019, 01:56:39 PM
Talking about BBs, wish they didn't choose "Blueberry Hill" to sing. It's dull beyond. Couldn't sth. else be covered instead?

Yeah, Blueberry Hill's not my favorite, but you know, I just looked it up and it looks like it's been covered by dozens of bands, so what do I know? As for something else? Hmm, how about "Since I Don't Have You" by the Skyliners, with Carl on lead vocals. I dunno, it sounds good in my head ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
That sounds terrible! It sounds terrible in my head [fancy compoutersymbols[

Well, it sounds dreamy to me. To each his or her own!


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on January 26, 2019, 05:34:52 PM
Listened to The Roomates' (with single "m") "It's Cold Outside" - it's vocally better than Choir's but this song really doesn't fit doo wop style, it's really cool in its garagey style. Sure, it's doo wop band but why not sing garage just once? Since they covered, you know, garage song. Else they should cover sth. else. It doesn't make sense.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: beachcat on January 26, 2019, 08:16:18 PM
"Hush"

Its writer Joe South did a fine job on his own recorded version in 1968, and it sounds great, but for me, Deep Purple nailed this one. Their version of "Hush" just makes me want to get up and start dancing. The vocals are sexy, even the organ solo is sexy!

Gotta say, though, I despise the Billy Joe Royal version (the first version recorded in 1967, despite being written by Joe South). The vocals sound annoyingly nasal to me. Thank you, Deep Purple, for redeeming it!


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on February 02, 2019, 12:50:09 PM
There aren't many songs The Beatles covered that fit into this category but this might conceivably be one. I only heard the original by The Miracles a few months back and I've known this one since it was released:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9rokS8Ao4nQ

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/You%27ve_Really_Got_a_Hold_on_Me


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: gruelingpace on February 25, 2019, 10:49:15 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KLkLs6SvyDM


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: gruelingpace on February 26, 2019, 08:02:31 PM
(http://images.45cat.com/ike-and-tina-turner-get-back-1972-2.jpg)

"Takin away my wisdom, let it be.."  <I LOVE that lyric change


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on March 31, 2019, 01:52:09 PM
I don't know if it's better but its certainly equal to the original. I used to be nonplussed by the idea of The Damned singing "Eloise" but it works wonderfully well. And you have to admit Dave Vanian looks yummy. ::)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b31L4P7G5j8

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eloise_(Paul_Ryan_song) (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eloise_(Paul_Ryan_song))


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: Summer_Days on March 31, 2019, 09:35:06 PM
'Respect', Aretha Franklin. Otis' original is really great but man Sister Re went places with it. I'd also say that about her cover of Elton John's 'Border Song'.

'See You in September' by The Happenings is a big improvement over The Tempos' original.

The Beach Boys' version of 'Hushabye' is way better than the original by The Mystics.

Dunno if it quite counts since it's a standard but The Four Seasons take on 'I Got You Under My Skin' is my favorite, even over Sinatra's.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on April 05, 2019, 11:44:55 AM
I've never heard the original of this Bowie song. My wife saw Joan Wasser in concert a few years back (just her voice and piano) and was most impressed. So this is for her:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qtLJfEcGwcI

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joan_As_Police_Woman


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on April 22, 2019, 03:56:36 AM
2 Smiley Smilers - what do you regard the best "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes"? It's song featured in few films; by different artists in different times. Don't give Platters. :P


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on April 22, 2019, 03:27:10 PM
2 Smiley Smilers - what do you regard the best "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes"? It's song featured in few films; by different artists in different times. Don't give Platters. :P

Love to join in, RR, but to be honest I only know The Platters' rendition.

I checked the song's wiki page and listened to a few versions but in my view The Platters own it. ;D


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on April 30, 2019, 01:52:32 AM
This is one I play every day these days. "Jet Boy Jet Girl" was written and first sung by Alan Ward aka Elton Motello. It may be about something Ward went through himself (see link). The Damned's version adds a new, more sinister twist by being one step removed. The original is pretty cool but to these ears The Damned nail it. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQKyMZ8gsPI

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jet_Boy,_Jet_Girl


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on May 23, 2019, 03:27:43 AM
Thru youtube comments found fast garage "Runaway" cover: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=dL2fzJ2qxpQ

It doesn't tell year but could be 80s. Pretty cool.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on May 23, 2019, 04:23:55 AM
Thru youtube comments found fast garage "Runaway" cover: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=dL2fzJ2qxpQ

It doesn't tell year but could be 80s. Pretty cool.

Good find! Of course, JK wouldn't be JK if he didn't go in search of these things. :lol

Batmobile is a Dutch psychobilly band and "Runaway" comes from their 1993 album Blast from the Past. (The cover in the vid is misleading.)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Batmobile_(band) (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Batmobile_(band))


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on June 29, 2019, 07:46:36 AM
2 Smiley Smilers - what do you regard the best "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes"?
Heh, not the best but found & liked this instra by Fausto Papetti; it brings good New Year/ Christmas imagery, it bizarrely seems to these ears jolly Christmasey/ winter-festive. Besides, pretty melody's intact - even hideous s'pho' doesn't ruin it.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=knCRo2qD5JQ


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on July 11, 2019, 04:51:29 AM
Dana "Who Put The Lights Out" >>>>>> dull weak-voiced Barry Ryan (Ryan Brothers' fame, UK twin duo, soon Paul'll refuse & begin writing songs to Barry who went single; Irish 1970 Eurovision winner Dana asked Paul/Barry to sing it. She did it pitch perfectly).
Dana's rendition is interesting due to least bit fact she sang choir girls' bits, whilst Barry didn't.
Peculiar tune with baroqueness to it. Btw, she got beautifully-shaped lips & the way she moves them when sings. Pretty girl, in addition to lovely & really good voice. Next thing - I still hear it "who who the lights", "put" said in such breezy way like they breathe it than say "put". Interesting technique. Next next thing - she sings it *live*. Barry's link is *studio*, after how many takes.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=RJTP3OdTM8Y
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=NvGazVSLPuc


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on July 11, 2019, 06:04:48 AM
Finally. Mary Hopkin gets out of safety zone - she made changes to her samey half-folkie-half-operatic ballady singing style, here she added drive & what seems like grooving to the song. I'm usually really curious to hear & *must* hear smb. with samey singing to break away it & try at least single time different way to sing. Scanned thru many-many clips with Mary to find precisely this.
She in 1981 with some country guys Sundance with "Cottonfields": https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=qPBZUbaNe14


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on July 11, 2019, 09:46:40 AM
Ha, usual duh in the Internet - nobody pays attn to things you say.
I like RS "The Singer Not The Song" better than by anybody.
Ditto "Time Is At My Side".
Ditto "Piglets Dance Around Freaky Clownades".


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on July 11, 2019, 12:20:52 PM
Ha, usual duh in the Internet - nobody pays attn to things you say.

Actually, RR, I really enjoyed reading your two posts about Dana and Mary H., they're just not favourite artists of mine.

So I for one did pay attention but had nothing further to say on either subject. For better or for worse, the internet is like that at times. ;D


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on July 13, 2019, 03:21:04 AM
I won't say it's better, hahaha, but it's so very touching!  ::)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dpwIbqm-umk

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/More_than_This_(Roxy_Music_song) (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/More_than_This_(Roxy_Music_song))


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on July 15, 2019, 08:48:44 PM
I use this thread to link "interesting covers", "new songs which didn't hear till today", "faves". It's fine, thus.

Right now, shall link example 2 - I didn't hear song "Everyone's Gone To The Moon" till today. I read it's famous standard, many-many artists sang it, yet I didn't hear it - you see, usually it's very easy to be familiar with standards due to the reason stated - MANY sang it. It should be difficult to pass it by. Easy to pass by obscure songs by famous & rare artists. Not standards. But, looks like even standards can be "new".

Been checking Dana's catalog, she sings the song described. I.e. she's gateway to this famous standard. Will listen to everybody singing it. But back to Dana, it's really nice melody with good arrangement. & significantly, this song/melody fits Dana's lovely, princess-like youthful pitch-perfect crystally pure voice (it'll change in the 80s, get lower, *little bit* husky).

Puzzling title. What's it mean? Reading lyrics, it seems to be saying everybody went crazy. Is it it?

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=xtSZhPSTzoE


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on July 16, 2019, 01:35:40 AM
I use this thread to link "interesting covers", "new songs which didn't hear till today", "faves". It's fine, thus.

Right now, shall link example 2 - I didn't hear song "Everyone's Gone To The Moon" till today. I read it's famous standard, many-many artists sang it, yet I didn't hear it - you see, usually it's very easy to be familiar with standards due to the reason stated - MANY sang it. It should be difficult to pass it by. Easy to pass by obscure songs by famous & rare artists. Not standards. But, looks like even standards can be "new".

Been checking Dana's catalog, she sings the song described. I.e. she's gateway to this famous standard. Will listen to everybody singing it. But back to Dana, it's really nice melody with good arrangement. & significantly, this song/melody fits Dana's lovely, princess-like youthful pitch-perfect crystally pure voice (it'll change in the 80s, get lower, *little bit* husky).

Puzzling title. What's it mean? Reading lyrics, it seems to be saying everybody went crazy. Is it it?

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=xtSZhPSTzoE

I only know the 1965 original by its author, Jonathan King:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=73ks2TPPyho

It seems to be about loneliness and alienation, using the moon as a metaphor. See the page linked below, which adds other interesting information about Mr. King:

https://rbhsjukebox.wordpress.com/tag/everyones-gone-to-the-moon/


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on September 06, 2019, 05:01:33 AM
Dana "Crossword Puzzle" > Lynsey De Paul
Dana "Trying To Say Goodbye" > Neil Sedaka
Fortunes "Storm In Teacup" > Lynsey De Paul
Dana "If" > Bread
Dana "Do I Still Figure" > Joe Bore Cocker
Dana "I'm Not" > 10cc
Dana "Day By Day" > musical

tbc


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on September 19, 2019, 01:47:48 PM
I never realized "You Might Need Somebody" was recorded earlier by Randy Crawford. (And that wasn't even its first outing, which was by Turley Richards). I still prefer the more fragile take by Shola Ama:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4swgfp17kkk

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/You_Might_Need_Somebody


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on October 31, 2019, 06:27:20 AM
95% songs Dana sang = better than originals. She's better than many Motown singers. Btw, she's Irish singer & you know what, folks? Irish is amazingly VERY similar by accent to...(drums)...American! They got "r" which British/ limeys mute. & the other details. Cool, ain't it? Googled it to check & I been right! Many stated Irish sound like Americans. Knew I got good ear to these things. :3d


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on November 01, 2019, 04:42:54 AM
^Check Dana. She's got voice, she sings since being school girl going to cabarets each Saturday. She's like Beatles - they began by singing in stuffy nothing special clubs nobody cared about. She & they got experience b4 real cool careers. She'd written song at 15 AND get it published 45 double side vinyl. She's cool like it. That.Is.Facts. Best thing about Dana she didn't get star disease, she & husband in fact created Fan Club "Friends Of Dana" when they'll invite really nicely fans, treat them with tea, cookies,candies - food, y'know. Such good people, such good Dana. She can sing jazz, blues, pop, even Christian music. Versatile artist, zero denying years in cabaret added to it. In short, she's great!


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: B.E. on April 05, 2020, 08:40:30 PM
America's version of "Head and Heart" from their 1972 album, Homecoming. I prefer the lead vocal and the addition of chorus harmony vocals.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWsPXxIGTkg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWsPXxIGTkg)


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on April 06, 2020, 01:44:25 AM
Good call to resurrect this topic, B.E.

I was only thinking of this one yesterday. I'm not a fan of the original 1930 rendition by Lotte Lenya but The Doors really nail it for me:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nbtEkZIvMAg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alabama_Song (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alabama_Song)


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on April 06, 2020, 01:01:33 PM
FB brought "Weight" international cover, diff. musicians in diff. places sing-play the Band's song featuring Robby Robertson, Ringo Starr. Sitar player's even joined. Cool collab, to the song's fans (link accessible):

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10157908563491142&id=591766141


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on April 06, 2020, 02:41:22 PM
FB brought "Weight" international cover, diff. musicians in diff. places sing-play the Band's song featuring Robby Robertson, Ringo Starr. Sitar player's even joined. Cool collab, to the song's fans (link accessible):

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10157908563491142&id=591766141

Wow, amazing! They're right about it making you a bit happier. Thanks for sharing, RR. ;)


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on May 28, 2020, 05:53:37 PM
Taco's "Cheek To Cheek" can't be beat (duh). Nevertheless, Desi Arnaz sings it really well, croon paired with mischievous sweetness "as dancing cheek to cheek":
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=mL7m_Pvnkqg


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: mtaber on June 04, 2020, 02:57:24 PM
I don’t know if this has been mentioned in this space, but Johnny Rivers has to be included in any “cover versions” thread.  The guy took several songs that had previously been hits and made his own recordings, most of which were bigger hits by him than by the original artist.  “Maybelline”, “Memphis”, “Baby I Need Your Lovin”, “The Tracks of My Tears” - all huge hits for him.  He failed to top the success of the song’s originator when he covered some little-known tune called “Help Me, Rhonda”...


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: guitarfool2002 on June 04, 2020, 04:57:31 PM
I don’t know if this has been mentioned in this space, but Johnny Rivers has to be included in any “cover versions” thread.  The guy took several songs that had previously been hits and made his own recordings, most of which were bigger hits by him than by the original artist.  “Maybelline”, “Memphis”, “Baby I Need Your Lovin”, “The Tracks of My Tears” - all huge hits for him.  He failed to top the success of the song’s originator when he covered some little-known tune called “Help Me, Rhonda”...

Great choice! Big fan of Johnny Rivers, and was fortunate enough to see him play live in Boston, summer of either '98 or '99. Not getting into whether Johnny's covers were "better" than the originals, but quite a few others alongside the ones you mentioned did eclipse the originals in terms of sales and visibility, where people know or knew Johnny's cover more than the original. Off the top of my head, "Seventh Son", "Rockin Pneumonia and the Boogie Woogie Flu" (GREAT piano licks on that one, I believe it was Larry Knechtel?), and "Swayin To The Music (Slow Dancin) in the later 70's. And of course "Mountain Of Love", Harold Dorman's old hit which Johnny made top 10 in '64. Someone may have addressed this, but I wonder if the Beach Boys Party! cover of that song was influenced more by Johnny's cover hit in '64 than Dorman's original.

Great records. And Johnny basically got the Whiskey A Go Go off the ground, I think he was the first resident artist there who packed that place every night when it was starting out, hence the live album that was big too. Lot of those with Joe Osborn playing bass after his gig with Ricky Nelson, they were friends in Louisiana I think.



Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: thefollicleneverdies on June 04, 2020, 04:59:23 PM
Kenny Rogers - We've Got Tonight


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: guitarfool2002 on June 04, 2020, 05:16:58 PM
Speaking of Kenny Rogers..."Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In)".  The original Teddy Hill version is a cool Memphis soul record, but Kenny and the First Edition owned that song after their version was released. It's hard to think of that song without all the pop/psych production touches.

Teddy Hill's original version of the Mickey Newbury song:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pFCVme78YL0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pFCVme78YL0)


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: SMiLE Brian on June 05, 2020, 08:04:36 AM
Nice to see Johnny Rivers mentioned, was on a listening binge myself before Mtaber's post... 8)


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: RangeRoverA1 on June 06, 2020, 09:04:10 AM
Desi Arnaz "Granada" = the best.
Steve Lawrence-Eydie Gorme short 5th Dimension mash-up.


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: thefollicleneverdies on June 12, 2020, 03:54:16 AM
I don’t know if this has been mentioned in this space, but Johnny Rivers has to be included in any “cover versions” thread.  The guy took several songs that had previously been hits and made his own recordings, most of which were bigger hits by him than by the original artist.  “Maybelline”, “Memphis”, “Baby I Need Your Lovin”, “The Tracks of My Tears” - all huge hits for him.  He failed to top the success of the song’s originator when he covered some little-known tune called “Help Me, Rhonda”...

Great choice! Big fan of Johnny Rivers, and was fortunate enough to see him play live in Boston, summer of either '98 or '99. Not getting into whether Johnny's covers were "better" than the originals, but quite a few others alongside the ones you mentioned did eclipse the originals in terms of sales and visibility, where people know or knew Johnny's cover more than the original. Off the top of my head, "Seventh Son", "Rockin Pneumonia and the Boogie Woogie Flu" (GREAT piano licks on that one, I believe it was Larry Knechtel?), and "Swayin To The Music (Slow Dancin) in the later 70's. And of course "Mountain Of Love", Harold Dorman's old hit which Johnny made top 10 in '64. Someone may have addressed this, but I wonder if the Beach Boys Party! cover of that song was influenced more by Johnny's cover hit in '64 than Dorman's original.

Great records. And Johnny basically got the Whiskey A Go Go off the ground, I think he was the first resident artist there who packed that place every night when it was starting out, hence the live album that was big too. Lot of those with Joe Osborn playing bass after his gig with Ricky Nelson, they were friends in Louisiana I think.


I was not familiar with Harold Dorman's original when I head it on a compilation. What a mess.

Harold Dorfman or whatever, has No groove at all on that record.



Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: PrayForSurf on September 28, 2021, 08:43:24 AM
An FYI . . .

Mark Dillon and I discussed "The Best of The Bech Boys: Cover Versions" on the Surf's Up: Beach Boys Podcast Safari:
https://music.amazon.ca/podcasts/bbc3bc9f-1e71-4a4f-be1d-69cdb86cff42/episodes/c431a0ba-177f-448e-b491-73fa7614d67b/surf's-up-a-beach-boys-podcast-safari-best-of-the-beach-boys'-cover-versions


Title: Re: Cover songs better than their original
Post by: JK on September 18, 2022, 10:41:18 AM
Heard Tavares' take on "She's Gone" while on holiday, decided to check out Hall & Oates' original and much preferred the cover version:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zP20RxVPUCk (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zP20RxVPUCk)