Few artists are able to transform the elements of a successful popular song to perform a powerful rendition remotely close or better than its original version.
The best way for an artist to perform a successful cover song is to never try to imitate the original artists’ sound or voice. The musical arrangement and tone of voice are two ways in which an artist can deliver a cover song that completely blows audiences away.
Avant- Sailing
This soft rock song was originally recorded by Christopher Cross in 1980. Cross received a Grammy for Song of the Year for the recording in 1981. Avant’s self titled 2008 fourth album release contains a beautiful cover of “Sailing” reminiscent of the soothing sound of the original but with a personal touch of Avant’s distinct and calming voice.
Seal- It’s a Man’s World
This song was originally recorded by James Brown. Seal’s 2008 release of “Soul” an album of cover songs left many wondering if it would do any of the original artists’ songs justice. Seal puts a fantastic and soulful gut wrenching spin on the song leaving the listener feeling the realities of living in a man’s world that is nothing without the presence of a woman.
Jennifer Hudson- And I am telling You
The original version of “And I am telling You” was recorded and performed by Jennifer Holiday in Dreamgirls. Jennifer Hudson took on the role of Effie in Dreamgirls in 2006 and immediately gained the admiration of audiences with her beautiful cover of “And I am telling you.” Jennifer went on to win an Oscar for her performance and release a cover of the song on her debut album.
Marc Broussard- Love and Happiness
This song was originally recorded by Al Green. Al Green‘s career has spanned over thirty years and “Love and Happiness” is one of his signature songs. Marc Broussard has an amazing vocal range. On “Save our Soul” Marc delivers several cover songs worth remembering and “Love and Happiness” is at the top of the list.
Maxwell- This Woman’s Worth
This song was originally recorded by Kate Bush. The original version by Bush was set in a more opera style with a slight soft rock inspired tone. Maxwell puts his own soulful spin on the song set in the tune of love making it become one of the most successful songs of his career.
Donny Hathaway-I love you more than you’ll ever Know
This song was originally recorded by Blood, Sweat and Tears with a more rock and blues inspired groove. Donny Hathaway known for his soulful crooning takes the song to another level and makes the listener feel the intensity of a man in love and emotionally exploring the possibility of the loss of this love.
Sinead O’Connor- Nothing compares to You
This song was written by Prince and recorded by the group “The Family” originally signed to his Paisley Park Label. The group only released one album and O’Connor‘s version reached the top of the charts. Her alternative performance received a Grammy and made the song widely successful and more alluring than its original version.
Elliot Yamin-A Song for You
This song was originally recorded by Donny Hathaway. American Idol Season Five top three contestant Elliot Yamin wooed audiences with his soulful rendition of “A Song for You” by Donny Hathaway. Elliot’s self titled debut album includes the cover. The album was debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Independent Albums chart and at No. 3 on the Billboard 200.
D’Angelo- Cruisin
This song was originally recorded by Smokey Robinson. The cover of “Cruisin” on D’Angelo’s debut album is soulful, relaxing and actually makes listeners want to cruise on a long drive or day at the beach.
The Postal Service- Against All Odds
This soft rock song was originally recorded by Phil Collins. Phil Collins is a singer who will always be remembered for his beautiful love songs. The Postal Service performs a cover of “Against All Odds” that is a bit more up-tempo than the original version but definitely note worthy.
These are ten of the best soul and soft rock cover songs that places the remake in a league of its own.
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