what cover versions are better than the original


For example, Mott the Hoople's version of Sweet Jane is the equal if not better than the Velvets. Also, as long as I'm on the Velvets, a one album band called Detroit, fronted by Mitch Ryder, did a version of Rock and Roll that destroys the Velvets original.What are some other examples....this post is not for rock only....
tubino
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?
I guess I'm the senile one, it was Steve Hunter not Wagner (the other half of the Rock 'n Roll Animal guitar duo) on 'Detroit'. There are two copies of the CD for sale on ebay right now for big dollars. I believe I'll just stay with my vinyl copy.