6 songs you didn't know were covers
In the 21st century, there are SO many songs in all genres that it’s getting harder and harder to come up with something original! So some artists have decided to cover a former hit in an attempt to make it into a hit of their own.
On the whole, most of us karaoke/music lovers know who did the original, but there are a few exceptions to this rule. Take a look at this list and you’ll be amazed at the ones which aren’t actually originals.
1. Elvis Presley - Hound Dog, 1956 (Original: Big Mama Thornton, 1952)
One of Elvis’ most famous tunes, and what a number to belt out on the karaoke. Who’d have thought that it wasn’t actually his!?
2. Jeff Buckley - Hallelujah, 1993 (Original: Leonard Cohen, 1984)
Jeff Buckley stripped this song down to the bare essentials making it a very emotional (and long) song. You’re more likely to know his song from ‘The O.C.’ if you were born after 1988.
3. Aretha Franklin - Respect, 1967 (Original: Otis Redding, 1965)
Such a hard song to sing, but boy do you get some R-E-S-P-E-C-T if you can manage it! Aretha, changed a couple of words and added a couple - but more or less it’s Otis’ song.
4. The White Stripes - I Just Don’t Know What to Do with Myself, 2003 (Original: Dusty Springfield, 1964)
Everyone knows this classic - and could well know it was Dusty’s original, but it’s commonly acknowledged that The White Stripes have improved this beauty.
5. Soft Cell - Tainted Love, 1981 (Original: Gloria Jones, 1964)
This song has been covered more than once - notably by Marylin Manson - but the best of the lot was by Soft Cell. This is the version that everyone knows!
6. Johnny Cash - Hurt, 2002 (Original: Nine Inch Nails, 1994)
This song was barely known before the late Johnny Cash covered it and so it’s just been assumed as his. Warning: a VERY low voice is needed to attempt this on karaoke!
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