I really like covers. Its the familiarity of something we know, which is comforting, plus the excitement of something we don't, which is intriguing. There are some songs which lend themselves beautifully to reinterpretations.
Original- The Beatles
You've Got To Hide Your Love Away was written by John Lennon and released on the Help! album in 1965. It's a beautiful little song, with a boisterous chorus vocal that belies the sad subject matter. Here is the video from the film Help!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKHA2AGbXtI
Cover- Eddie Vedder
Pearl Jam vocalist Eddie has been performing this solo as a warm to up PJ gigs for a while now, and he recorded it for the I Am Sam film soundtrack. Usually just him and a guitar, he does a beautiful job.Love this particular version, with self-effacing harmonica-related giggle at 2.26
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c8DaqgMPrmQ
Cover- Joe Cocker
Much more of an epic production here, but in the kind of way that Cocker does so well. My first knowledge of his version is from 1991, on the album Night Calls. With stadium style drums, gospel choir and guitar solo, it should all be a bit much, but in context I think it works rather nicely.
Cover- Barry McGuire and the Mamas and the Papas
I'm not really sure of what to make of this. McGuire can never be accused of under performing, and i'm not sure he really evokes much emotion from the lyrics but it's certainly fun to watch. Here's footage from Shindig in '65.
Cover- Terence Trent D'Arby/ Sananda Maitreya
Many Beatles songs lend themselves beautifully to a soul interpretation, and this version combines this with soundtrack-style string arrangment. Personally I'm not a great fan of his voice, but the audience seem to be liking it....
From the Lennon tribute, 1990.
Cover- Waylon Jennings
I am a BIG fan of Waylon, and I always felt this song would lend itself beautifully to a countrified interpretation, but i'm not sure this works too well. The backing is twee and bland, the backing vocals sound all 1950's Disney (and not in a good way) and he changes the lyrics at one point (?!). Plus I can't stand the added syllable on 'wall'.
Cover- The Silkie
How very interesting, using a male/female dual vocal to tell the story. The Silkie were an English folk band, mostly known for their covers. I love the sweet 60's backing on this one, very mellow and tender, and with lovely harmonies. Although the woman's vocal makes me think of someone trying to sing without moving their mouth (but she is a Staffordshire girl, so she is forgiven).
Cover- The Beau Brummels
A much more interesting version with full instrumentation and backing vocals. The offbeat on the verses livens things up a bit, and Sal Valentino gives us a nicely wounded vocal. It sounds very 'of the era' which is no bad thing.
And for the random featured Youtube cover...... Julieta Venegas ft. Los Shajatos!
Inspired fiddle!! Wonderful percussion. Love this instrumentation.
There are many more versions from Tim Rose, Elvis Costello, Chris Cornell, The Beach Boys, Jan and Dean etc
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