what cover versions are better than the original

I second Eva Cassidy's version of Fields of Gold.

With A Little Help From My Friends by Joe Cocker!

All Along The Watchtower - Hendrix
Respect - Aretha
I Fought The Law - The Clash

Tubino, 'Detroit' was a great one shot album from 1971 featuring Mitch Ryder & Dick Wagner(sp?) who later played guitar w/ Alice Cooper & Lou Reed.

I have a few that come to mind:

David Bowie's cover of the Beach Boys' "God Only Knows" is awesome, his vocal range finally does the song justice. Pick up a copy of Bowie's "Tonight" album and see if you agree.

For some odd reason I really dig the Fine Young Cannibal's cover of Elvis' "Suspicious Minds". Upbeat, rockin', just plainly fun.

Tom Cochrane does a terrific job of covering Leonard Cohen's "Bird on a Wire". The addition of some very tasteful acoustic guitar and a more melodic vocal approach really makes the song shine!

I like Metallica's version of Bob Seger's "Turn the Page". Harder edge while maintaining the essence of the tune.

Thank you Bld63!!! I knew I wasn't totally senile (yet). Do you know if the Detroit album was ever released on CD?