Isn’t it an unspoken fact that music has the power to stretch beyond mundane borders? Songs have the capacity to evoke feelings that tap into the core of our humanity and can leave us speechless, emotion-heavy, or perfectly content. Take any song that comes to mind—its individual, wholly unique sound affects each listener differently. Not everyone will take away the same meaning from a particular song even though the piece’s construction doesn’t change.
Here’s where the technique of revamping a song comes into play. “Revamping” is just an artist’s fancy nickname for covering an already published song and putting his or her own personal stamp on it. Over the years, there have been some really talented singers who reorganize the bones of famous songs that are plastered all over the radio and top the Billboard charts for weeks who've managed to blow our minds with their new changes. Their ability to produce something so distinctively altered from the original is enough to send shivers down our spines. The list below features some of the most earth-shattering and life-changing covers I’ve ever heard. Get ready for the type of feels that only the best songs can bring—goosebumps on your skin, tears in your eyes, and soul in the clouds. Tread carefully my friends, you’re in for an incredible ride.
1. Somebody To Love, Queen
Cover by: Justin Crum
Anne Hathaway’s cover in the movie Ella Enchanted will always be a crowd favorite., but Justin Crum’s audition on America’s Got Talent will truly shake your world and make you rethink this legendary ballad. He surprised us all, brought the house down, and managed to get a standing ovation from everyone in the crowd, even the four tough judges. Need I say more?
2. I Can’t Make You Love Me, Bonnie Raitt
Cover by: Bon Iver
It’s one of those songs that you can listen to on repeat and never get sick of. This mashup isn’t his only great rendition of an amazing song. If you’ve never been exposed to Bon Iver, Google him right now—you’ve seriously been missing out!
3. Hello, Adele
Cover by: Walk Off The Earth
It’s almost too hard to pinpoint exactly what makes this group so special—their earthy vibes, intriguing instruments, and stellar group dynamic make it hard not to love them. Especially when their unique sound is unbeatable and they’re easy on the eyes. Make no mistake: they take creativity to a whole new level. If you’re dying for more, check out their newest album, R.E.V.O.
4. Get Lucky, Daft Punk
Cover by: Anna McLuckie
Anna McLuckie’s inventive rendition of Daft Punk’s hit song speaks for itself, not to mention her flawless fingers on the harp lend an accompaniment that’s rockets us into an entirely different universe.
5. Mirrors, Justin Timberlake
Cover by: Boyce Avenue & Fifth Harmony
Boyce Avenue is almost always on their game, and this cover is no exception. Teaming up with Fifth Harmony, their version (dare I say) rivals the one and only JT’s. If you don’t have time for the entire video, start two minutes in where it gets really good! Or at 3:05 if you’re really on a time crunch.
6. Dreams, Fleetwood Mac
Cover by: Leighton Meester & Dana Williams
We all know Leighton Meester as stuck-up Manhattan princess Blair Waldorf, but did you know she could sing?? This song definitely proves she is more than just a good actress.
7. No Diggity, Blackstreet
Cover by: Ed Sheeran & Passenger
Ed Sheeran has always had a knack for whipping up some amazing songs, but this rendition of the rap-esque “No Diggity” may be his best ever. And with the aid of Passenger’s soft-toned vocals, this song doesn’t get any better.
8. Kids, MGMT
Cover by: Sam Meador
The guitar percussion is unlike anything you’ve heard before. And add that to the catchy, rhythmic style of the original song and we’ve got a winner.
9. The Scientist, Coldplay
Cover by: Kina Granis, Tyler Ward, Lindsey Sterling
If you struggle with patience like me, skip to 2:45 and watch at least until 3:30. P.S. Lindsey Sterling on the violin is like an angel from heaven. Shivers and goosebumps guaranteed.
10. Airplanes, B.O.B
Cover by: Lisa Scinta
It’s an oldie but a goodie! Anyone who can turn a rap into a beautiful melody deserves some serious credit. If you enjoyed her cover of "Airplanes," there’s much more where that came from. Check out her Youtube channel. I’ve got to warn you though—getting lost in her amazing voice for a few hours is a very strong possibility.
11. Paparazzi, Lady Gaga
Cover by: Greyson Chance
Does the name Greyson Chance ring a bell? Think middle school heartthrob…adorably cute middle school heartthrob. Even when I watch it now I’m still head over heels for his talented take on this song. Plus any kid who can play piano like that is hands down going places in life.
12. Crazy, Gnarls Barkley
Cover by: Daniela Andrade
As entertaining as Barkley’s original song is, Daniela Andrade’s stripped version of this popular jam is raw and completely compelling. Literally music to your ears.
13. Hey Ya, Outcast
Covers by: Sarah Blasko & Obadiah Parker
Got a couple good frontrunners here. I just couldn’t chose my favorite, so help me out!