The Beatles have long been credited as one of the greatest rock bands ever. Their prolific songwriting partnership of John Lennon and Paul McCartney, and later George Harrison’s mastery of composition, set a high bar for musicians to try and reach, and have inspired no shortage of covers.
While many a musician has tried to replicate the genius of The Beatles, few have succeeded in doing so. Those who have managed to make a mark with their interpretation of a Beatles song are able to stand apart from the crowd and add a unique spin to one of their favorite tunes. The following are 10 of the best Beatles covers that have stood the test of time.
1. Otis Redding’s version of “Day Tripper”
Otis Redding’s soulful voice and vocal styling seemed almost tailor-made for this particular Beatles song, and his take on the classic with Booker T & the MG’s backing him is among the most memorable and moving of all Beatles covers.
2. The Breeders’ cover of “Ebony and Ivory”
While Pod, the Pixies’ debut album, was filled with many of the band’s best beatles cover band original songs, the Breeders also made room for a couple of Beatles covers on the record as well. This particular rendition of the underrated Beatles deep cut – which was originally a hit for Earth, Wind & Fire – is dark and direct and a testament to the strength of this quintessential alternative band.
3. Siouxsie Sue’s slinky version of “Helter Skelter”
When the late singer-songwriter Siouxsie Sue recorded her version of this raucous Beatles track, she added a new level of depth to a classic that had already been covered many times before. She and her back-up band took the song and made it their own, and this sultry reimagining is worth a listen.
4. The Counting Crows’ cover of “Yesterday”
The Crows’ version of this classic song is one of the most haunting and poignant versions out there. The acoustic arrangement and the singer’s raw emotion truly capture the meaning of the lyrics, making this version one to remember.
5. The Return’s cover of “With a Little Help From My Friends”
As you can see, there are many great Beatles covers out there, and it’s hard to pick just ten to showcase. However, the above groups all offer something different and are worth checking out if you’re interested in hearing a different interpretation of some of the Fab Four’s most beloved songs. The Counting Crows, The WannaBeatles, and Studio Two are all excellent Beatles tribute bands that combine precision musical renditions with an engaging show. If you have any other recommendations for great Beatles covers, let us know in the comments! We would love to hear them!
