what’s a song cover that you think is better than the original?

What's So Funny About Peace, Love and Understanding by Elvis Costello (written by Nick Lowe), and A Certain Girl by Warren Zevon (written by Allen Tousssaint, originally performed by the Ernie K-Doe, then The Yardbirds).

Oh, and My Way by Frank Sinatra- written by Paul Anka!

I've rarely read a post where I so strongly disagree with almost everyone!  The trend here seems to be a "prettier" version of songs, which completely lack the genuine quality of the original performer.  The outlier is All Along The Watchtower, where Jimi Hendrix really did create an equally valid version; I agree that's hard to argue with.  Another which comes to mind is Respect by Aretha Franklin.  Even Otis Redding had to agree that her version was much better!

Dreams Allman Brothers Band

remake: Molly Hatchet 

close...... 

Cortez The Killer. Built to Spill

John Coltrane "My Favorite Things"

Nirvana "The Man Who Sold The World"

Talking Heads "Take Me To The River"

Beth Hart: Stairway to Heaven

Hanne Boel: House of the Rising Sun

Laila Biali: Where Will I Be

My most recent favorite cover of a song that I never really cared for.

DeKay

JOHN McDERMOTT - “Danny Boy” ( a capella version” )

( …there won’t be a dry eye in the pub on St Paddy’s Day ..,.)

The Della Mae cover of the Stones No Expectations!

IL VOLO “ Angel” cover of Sarah McLachlan

IL VOLO “ Beautiful Day “ cover of U2

IL DIVO “ Hallelujah “ “
 

Peter Paul Mary cover of "Blowing in the Wind"

Simon/Garfunkle cover of "Peggy O"

Glen Campbell : “The Highwayman”

Bonnie Raitt did a LOT of covers that were as good or better.

EVA CASSIDY: “Fields of Gold” …. Especially on XRCD 

"All Along The Watchtower" covered by Jimi Hendrix could be the consensus pick which is tough to argue. My pick could upset some "Boomers"... House Of Lords cover of "Can't Find My Way Home". From a technical aspect everything is better vocals and musicianship/production even the emotional aspect is at least its equal. James Christian"s voice soars and Lanny Cordola's guitar solo electrifies this great song.

John Lennon/The Beatles, Rock and Roll Music

Hallelujah, Jeff Buckley