Top Ten Cover Songs of the 1960s
Inspired by Metal_Treasure and his series of cover song lists charting the 70s, 80s, 90s, and 2000s. All songs on this list were cover versions released in the 1960s. Feel free to add more examples.
I like this song, too. When I first heard it I didn't know it was a cover. I just liked what I heard.
(by the way, thanks for mentioning me as an inspiration in the list description).
Originally recorded by Billy Joe Royal. It was their first single, released in 1968.
Although the original version was by a group called the Top Notes, the Beatles' version was based on the Isley Brothers version. Bert Berns, the writer of the song, actually preferred the Isley Brothers version because the Top Notes version was produced by a young Phil Spector, who drastically rearranged the tune.
I love that song. It reminds me of the 1980's movie that Matthew Broderick had starred in.
So catchy! I prefer the older version though.
Originally by Bob Dylan. They covered it after their manager, Jim Dickson, acquired a demo from Dylan's publishing company. It became their first single (and their first hit), becoming known as the first successful folk rock song.
Originally by Erma Franklin (Aretha's sister). She said that when she heard the Big Brother version on the radio, she didn't recognize it because of the way that Janis changed the vocal arrangement.
Sorry Erma, but Janis' cover blows your original out the water. Although I do like the original, everything about the cover is totally amazing. JJ's vocals are truly special.
This is the song that springs to my mind when I hear the name 'Janis Joplin'. A very powerful and catchy tune.
This song has such amazing vocal performance! Janis has an amazing voice.
What is wrong with me? I should have added this to the list! Kudos to you!
Satisfaction is my fave song by the Stones (mostly for the riff) but I didn't know this cover existed (I should give it a listen - Otis is a pretty interesting musician).
Originally by the Rolling Stones. Otis said that he made up some of the words because it was hard to understand some of the original lyrics.
Originally recorded by rhythm and blues musician Richard Berry in 1957. The song became a staple for garage bands after the Kingsmen recorded it.
Originally by blues musician Howlin' Wolf. The Doors did quite a few blues covers; this one's my personal favorite.
The Wolf (obviously) is my favourite; but as covers go, this one is really quite amazing. Love it.
Originally by The Crickets; the Crickets version was recorded in late 1958-1959. The song would later be covered by The Clash (their version is on the 70s list).
I like this song. He was a very talented guitarist and singer.
Originally by Bo Diddley. The ending of this song features a fast "rave-up" where the band starts out quietly and gradually grows louder. It gives me a rush every time I hear it.
Ahh...I know this song. I think I heard the tune for the first time in the film Dirty Dancing (maybe it was the original by The Contours but the cover sounds good, too)
The original version was by a group called the Contours, who were signed to Motown. I'm not a big fan of the Five, but I thought this was a solid-sounding cover.
Can't believe the greatest song of all-time wasn't already on the list. Way better than The Beatles' version.
Should be number 1
Nina Simone cover
I've never heard this. Sounds good!
Screamin' Jay Hawkins cover of 1966
Originally recorded by rockabilly musician Dale Hawkins. CCR slowed it down a little and made it sound more swampy; it became their first single.
I think it's the best cover of this song.