Covers can be hit or miss but here’s a selection of some well known song covers with an alternative twist. The beauty lies in the fact that the covers bring out unexpected life from their original, making them unique and treasured.
Rose Rouge – Jorja Smith
Jorja’s cover of Jazz artist St Germain’s ‘Rose Rouge’ is a recent release. It has strong elements of Jazz but with a contemporary twist, with the beauty of Jorja’s voice carrying the melody. This song was made in creative response to the resurgence of the global Black Live Matter Movement, the video showcases the vast protests in support for the black community and reclaiming a hidden identity, much like the roots of Jazz .
Billie Jean – Aloe Blacc
This is a classic soul cover of Michael Jackson’s ‘Billie Jean’, music is music and the artistry cannot be denied, this song simply will give you goosebumps. The cover is slowed down from the original for you to feel every effortless note in Aloe’s voice. The singing starts at the 1:53 mark after an exquisite introduction from his string band.
Durag z – Cookin Soul
This is a remix of Thunder Cat’s ‘Dragonball Durag’ a new classic for alternative fusion Hip Hop, had to go in this list. Cookin Soul amplifies the electric soul vibe of this chill good tune. Best experienced with the volume up so you feel like your floating through the day.
Rain – Sunday Service
This is a beautiful stripped back gospel version of SWV’s ‘Rain’. The voices of the choir are crisp and rise and fall in perfect harmony, full of soul and melody. Definitely a song to uplift your spirit!
Come Thru – Summer Walker ft Usher
‘Come Thru’ is a cover of Usher’s original ‘You make me wanna’, what’s special about this song is that Usher features in the new version too. This acoustic performance is soaked in Summer’s natural honey voice, a true showcase of sweet buttery R&B. Skip to the 1:30 mark for ‘Come Thru’