Classic Cover Songs That Outshine Their Originals
When discussing music, it's common to explore which version of a song might be considered the better one. Often, debates arise over whether a cover version can ever outshine the original. In this article, we examine some cover songs that have achieved a higher standing than their original counterparts, particularly focusing on well-known artists like The Beatles and other incredible renditions. Let's dive in and explore some captivating musical history.
The Isley Brothers and ‘Twist and Shout’
One of the most memorable cover songs that has been elevated to greatness is ‘Twist and Shout,’ originally written by Phil Medley and Bert Berns. While The Beatles brought this song to worldwide prominence, it was The Isley Brothers, with their 1962 version, who first brought attention to this powerful track. The song was initially done by The Top Notes, but their rendition was quite bland, lacking the energy and dynamism that later versions achieved.
Anticipating the success of The Isley Brothers, another cover version came from Clark Dale in the same year. However, it was a Swing instrument version titled Regine Twist, performed by Maxim Saury, that opened new possibilities for the song. Interestingly, The Beatles recorded their iconic version in February 1963, subsequently becoming a #1 hit, albeit on their first LP and later an EP. EMI chose The Beatles over Brian Poole and The Tremeloes for a record deal at Decca, but Poole's version was shelved until after The Beatles' version was released, missing out on what could have been a significant hit.
The Rolling Stones and ‘Satisfaction’
It's worth noting that while The Isley Brothers were the first to record ‘Twist and Shout,’ The Rolling Stones' ‘Satisfaction’ is considered the definitive original. The auto-reply pointed out that ‘Satisfaction’ is not a cover but the original version, highlighting the belief that a band needs at least basic knowledge before making such statements online. The band's energetic and rebellious take on ‘Satisfaction’ remains the most recognized and beloved version of the song, setting the bar for many future cover artists.
Chubby Checker’s Impact
In 1963, Chubby Checker’s version of ‘Twist and Shout’ (commonly known as ‘The Twist’ in the US) added another dynamic layer to the song. Checker’s playful and energetic interpretation brought the song to the forefront of popular culture, influencing dance styles and cultural trends of the era.
Evolution of The Beatles
As The Beatles evolved from a covers band to a pioneering force in the music industry, the originality and creativity of their covers began to stand out on their own. It's important to recognize that many of their early albums featured cover songs, showcasing their ability to reimagine and personalize musical pieces. While many argue that there isn’t a better cover version of ‘Twist and Shout’ than their rendition, it's clear that their versatility and talent brought a new life to the song, making it an enduring classic.
By delving into the roots of these cover songs and exploring the diverse interpretations over the years, we can appreciate the evolution and influence of musical renditions. Cover songs are not just reproductions—they are an extension of a song's legacy, often contributing to its enduring popularity and broader musical impact.