Covers that are better than the originals

Quite often, we come across videos that people have posted on Facebook or Twitter of fairly average covers, to a karaoke backing track a lot of the time. But rarely, some of these will stand out as being completely different, either due to strong vocals or brilliant instrumental arrangements, sometimes both. I've picked out a few of my favourites that I've stumbled upon over the last few years and that I believe have overtaken the original song. Do take the time to watch and appreciate.


1. Vela- Earthquake (Labrinth cover)

I wasn't a huge fan of the original, but I love this. I would've preferred it on an acoustic piano rather than a keyboard but this still sounds good. There's something about playing a song on a piano, with such detail, that makes it a whole lot more appealing. 

2. Jessie J- We Found Love (Rihanna Cover)

A very talented performer. If you've seen some of her early youtube videos you'll know that she can sing almost anything. Again, the original version of this song is pretty boring but Jessie's voice on this has won me over.

3. Birdy- The A Team (Ed Sheeran Cover)

At 15, this girls voice is way beyond anyone I've ever heard her age. Teamed with the fact that she's a pianist, she ticks all the right boxes for me. I'm a huge Ed Sheeran fan and 'The A Team' was one of my favourite songs of last year. In my opinion, all his songs are incredible, however, Birdy's version just about wins it for me and I can't really explain why. Just listen, it's beautiful.

4. Ed Sheeran- Skinny Love (Birdy/Bon Iver Cover)

Incidentally, Ed has covered Birdy/Bon Iver in this hauntingly beautiful interpretation. His voice is so pure. Need I say more?

5. Boyce Avenue- What Makes You Beautiful (One Direction cover)

Now, I have to be careful what I say here due to fear of possibly being violently slaughtered by pre-pubescent One Direction fans. I have to admit, I have a huge soft spot for One Direction (just call me Caroline Flack!) and I think their songs are pretty catchy, but let's be honest; they're average singers and are only successful because of their looks. So when I came across this cover by Boyce Avenue I was pleasantly surprised. Not what I was expecting but I love their twist on it. That being said, I still like One Direction. So please don't kill me- thanks.

6. Collin McLoughlin- Titanium (David Guetta Cover)

Hate David Guetta. Love this song. I've not heard of Collin before but I think I will be following him closely after this. He has a very unique voice and the acoustic arrangement is very original. Although I'm not a fan, fair play to Davey G for writing some amazing lyrics too.

7. Pandora's Box- Changed the Way you Kissed me (Example cover)

This is very 'Gleeful' but enjoyable all the same. I love the vocal harmonies and the use of beatboxing. It's completely different to the original and unlike any other cover of this song. 

That's all for now. Enjoy. X