Cover songs versus the original track, which ones are better?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the comparative quality of cover songs versus their original versions. Participants explore which covers are considered better or worse, including both singles and album tracks, and express personal opinions on various songs and their interpretations.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that the quality of a cover depends on personal judgment and taste, while others argue for an independent standard of "better."
  • Several examples of covers and originals are presented, with participants expressing preferences and discussing the emotional impact of different versions.
  • There are claims that some covers add new interpretations or arrangements, while others feel certain covers do not justify their existence compared to the originals.
  • Participants mention specific songs and artists, such as "Hurt" by Nine Inch Nails and Johnny Cash, and "Twist and Shout" by The Beatles, highlighting varying opinions on their respective covers.
  • Some participants express a desire for arguments or reasoning behind preferences, while others emphasize the subjective nature of musical appreciation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally do not reach consensus on the criteria for evaluating covers versus originals. Multiple competing views remain regarding the subjective nature of musical quality and the validity of personal taste in judgments.

Contextual Notes

Discussions include references to specific songs and artists without resolving the subjective interpretations or emotional responses elicited by different versions. The conversation reflects a range of personal experiences and preferences, which may not align universally.

Who May Find This Useful

Music enthusiasts, fans of specific artists, and those interested in the dynamics of musical interpretation and cover songs may find this discussion engaging.

  • #2,491
Hornbein said:
That guitarist is really good.
Nice. I have no idea who the guitarist is, but he/she did really well.
 
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  • #2,492
If you blindfolded me and told me it was the real thing I might believe it.

 
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  • #2,493
robphy said:

robphy said:
  • some more covers in #2035

not-so-Honorable Mention: (2006) worst cover ever! *the final count down* (6M views)


(2026) Europe - The Final Countdown Acoustic Guitar Cover ft. William Halajyan Solo - Neo Acoustix


(2019) THE FINAL COUNTDOWN (Music Video) - Gabriela Bee (solo &t=2m31s )


(2026) THE FINAL COUNTDOWN by Europe | Missioned Souls - family band studio cover



another not-so-Honorable Mention: (2012) Worst Cover Ever - The Final Countdown
 
  • #2,494
Orig I've long thought this could become a jazz standard. But jazz people these days take things seriously. Patrick Bartley is the exception but he says in jazz school he caught grief for having fun.



Cover
 
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  • #2,495


From the Department of Silly Covers

 
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  • #2,496
Hornbein said:
It almost seems too good to be true. Can they really do this?


Apparently not. The piano continues when there is nobody playing it. The voices sound layered too, all done in the studio then mime to the vid. A lot of tribute bands do this to advertise themselves, then you go and see them live and there is stuff missing.
 
  • #2,498
If there is ever a Best Rock Guitar Solo poll this will get votes.



Gramps does it his own way while staying faithful to the orig.



I used to think the lyric was "you can still buy a house baby, by the riverside."
 

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