From Madonna’s “American Pie” to A1’s “Take on Me”: Singers Who Released Popular Song Covers

Song covers

Song covers have been a staple in the music industry for decades, and they continue to captivate audiences around the world. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most popular song covers released by singers over the years, from Madonna’s “American Pie” to A1’s “Take on Me” and Atomic Kitten’s “Stand By You.”

Madonna – “American Pie”

In 2000, Madonna released a cover of Don McLean’s classic hit “American Pie.” The song was featured in the film “The Next Best Thing,” which starred Madonna and Rupert Everett. Madonna’s cover became an instant hit, reaching the top ten in several countries and becoming one of the most popular song covers of the year.

Gareth Gates – “Unchained Melody”

In 2002, former “Pop Idol” contestant Gareth Gates released a cover of “Unchained Melody,” a song made famous by the Righteous Brothers. Gates’ version of the song became an instant hit, reaching number one on the UK singles chart and remaining there for four weeks. The song was also featured on Gates’ debut album “What My Heart Wants to Say.”

A1 – “Take On Me”

In 2000, British-Norwegian boy band A1 released a cover of A-ha’s classic hit “Take on Me.” The song was included on A1’s second album, “The A List,” and became one of their biggest hits, reaching number one on the UK singles chart. A1’s cover of the song features a more upbeat, pop-infused sound than the original, and remains a fan favorite to this day.

Atomic Kitten – “The Tide Is High (Get the Feeling)”

In 2002, British girl group Atomic Kitten released a cover of “The Tide Is High (Get the Feeling),” a song originally recorded by The Paragons in 1967. Atomic Kitten’s version of the song became a massive hit, reaching number one in several countries and becoming one of the most popular song covers of the year. The song was also included on Atomic Kitten’s second album, “Feels So Good.”

Leona Lewis – “Run”

In 2008, British singer Leona Lewis released a cover of Snow Patrol’s hit song “Run.” Lewis’ version of the song was a huge success, reaching number one on the UK singles chart and becoming the fastest-selling digital release at the time. The song was also included on Lewis’ second album, “Echo,” and remains one of her most beloved songs.

“Respect” by Aretha Franklin. Originally by: Otis Redding.

“Respect” is one of Aretha Franklin’s most famous songs, and it’s hard to believe that it was originally written and recorded by Otis Redding. Franklin’s cover of the song became a feminist anthem and a symbol of the civil rights movement in the 1960s. Her powerful vocals and the addition of the iconic “sock it to me” line made the song unforgettable.

Daughter, “Get Lucky” (Daft Punk)

Daft Punk’s “Get Lucky” was a massive hit in 2013, but few people know that the song was actually covered by the British indie folk band, Daughter. The band’s stripped-down, melancholic version of the song is a far cry from the funky original, but it still managed to capture the attention of fans and critics alike.

Eric Clapton: I Shot The Sheriff (Bob Marley and the Wailers)

Bob Marley’s “I Shot The Sheriff” is a classic reggae tune that has been covered by several artists over the years. Eric Clapton’s version of the song, which was released in 1974, became a massive hit and helped introduce reggae music to a wider audience. Clapton’s cover of the song is slower and more laid-back than the original, but it still captures the essence of Marley’s music.

Cyndi Lauper: Girls Just Want To Have Fun (Robert Hazard)

“Girls Just Want To Have Fun” is one of Cyndi Lauper’s most popular songs, but it was actually written and recorded by Robert Hazard in 1979. Lauper’s cover of the song, which was released in 1983, became an instant hit and helped establish her as one of the most influential female artists of the 1980s. Her high-energy, fun-loving rendition of the song is still a party favorite today.

Joe Cocker: With A Little Help From My Friends (The Beatles)

The Beatles’ “With A Little Help From My Friends” is a classic tune that has been covered by countless artists over the years. However, Joe Cocker’s version of the song, which he recorded in 1968, is perhaps the most famous. Cocker’s soulful, bluesy interpretation of the song was a massive hit and helped cement his status as one of the greatest rock singers of all time.

Conclusion

Song covers have been a part of the music industry for decades, and these popular covers show that sometimes, a fresh take on a classic hit can become a hit all over again. From Madonna’s “American Pie” to A1’s “Take on Me” and Atomic Kitten’s “The Tide Is High (Get the Feeling),” these popular song covers have captivated audiences and remained fan favorites for years to come.