Some songs are so evergreen that their renditions continue to make an appearance time after again and here are some such coveted tracks.
‘Yesterday’, Beatles
This legendary track is considered to be the most covered song of all time since its release in 1965. The dreamy melody, which is emulsified with the vocals of Paul McCartney, resonated with the audience in such a capacity that it shifted the Beatles to experiment more with emotive music. The simplistic song, which is devoid of the rock arrangement in the band’s previous outings, made the song even more profound. Heavyweights like Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra also covered the song in their own flair.
‘Cry Me a River’ by Arthur Hamilton
This jazz and pop standard song, which has a touch of blues and is loaded with all the melancholic feels though made an appearance in 1955 by Arthur Hamilton was further popularised by Julie London with her crystal like voice. Ella Fitzgerald and Joe Crocker have offered their interpretation making it a staple for all the lovelorn people.
‘Over the Rainbow’ from The Wizard of Oz
This one may be around 85 years old, but its charm is undying, and this highly imaginative and visual song’s hopeful vibe makes it deeply impactful. Judy Garland who became a household name with this song casted her spell with her innocence and a yearn for better days. Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s ukulele version is one of the popular covers.
‘Imagine’ by John Lennon
One of the most perfect songs ever created where Lenon imagines a world without war and a peaceful environment for the citizens of earth. The subtle piano combined with poignant lyrics made this an anthem of change. Elton John and Stevie Wonder both have covered this song with their own interpretation and style infused in it.
‘Stand by Me’ by Ben E. King
Sixty years after its release, any person who knows the English language has surely heard this masterpiece. The soulful melody and impactful lyrics, combined with the undulating charm of Ben E. King, make this song bliss for the ears. The likes of John Lennon and Tracy Chapman have covered this one owing to its classic title.
‘Unchained Melody’ by The Righteous Brothers
This soft and romantic song, which was composed for a 1955 film, blended a theme of longing and passion and was amplified with an orchestral backdrop. Its popularity was heightened when it was included in the hit movie ‘Ghost’ as it skyrocketed to fame once again. Elvis Presley and LeAnn Rimes also cast their own spell in their own unique versions.
‘I Will Always Love You by Dolly Parton’
A song which is often credited to the late Whitney Houston when it appeared in the 1992 movie ‘The Bodyguard’ was actually written and recorded by Dolly Parton in 1973. While the original was emotive and tender, Houston’s solid vocals as a power ballad can still send shivers down the spine of the listener, thereby making it one of the best-selling singles of all time.
‘Ain’t No Sunshine’ by Bill Withers
The slow strumming, which features Bill Withers’s heartfelt emotions of longing and heartache, captures the true essence of a powerful talent. It is not filled with too many lyrics, but the iconic ‘I know’ has a fan base of its own, which serves as a depth of feelings that is in conflict with heart and mind. Michael Jackson, John Mayer and Lighthouse Family have added their own intricacies to this track.
‘Killing Me Softly with His Song’ by Charles Fox and Norman Gimbel
This deeply moving song, which has been covered countless times, made headlines with Roberta Flack’s 1973 rendition, which had smooth vocals, moving music, and, most of all, true-to-the-heart lyrics. The Fugees’ 1996, which made this into a hip-hop sensation, made it popular with the current generation, sealing its iconic status.
