Yesterday I heard the umpteenth version of the Righteous Brothers’ song “You’ve lost that lovin feeling”, a huge hit from the middle 60’s. They say it’s the most versioned song ever (even more than Beatles’ “Yesterday”).
Many song versions are made by not very popular singers or groups, but sometimes there are well-known artists that decide to make their contribution. Oops! But what a contribution sometimes! It’s like a photocopy.
I think that versions must add something to the original piece. It’s not a matter of respect to the original, but a question of being creative. I remember when, for example, Nirvana was going to version the great David Bowie’s “The man who sold the world”; I expected a new powerful song, but it really disappointed me.
However, we can find some very originative versions which worth paying attention to. Five examples:
Sure, I´ve not included many brilliant versions. If you have some favourites, just tell us. 🙂
Note: Talking about acoustics, unplugged concerts have given rise to a lot of acoustic reviews. The versions (those which really work as if they were new songs) usually go beyond a mere transcription of the same notes but for an acoustic instrument.
Related Article: Remembering Synthesizers