The Top 9 Classic Rock Cover Songs
From our 95.9 The Hawk Top 9 panel of experts.
9. Santana – “Black Magic Woman” (Originally by Fleetwood Mac): Santana’s Latin-infused interpretation of “Black Magic Woman” became one of the band’s signature songs, blending rock with Latin rhythms and captivating guitar work.
8. Led Zeppelin – “Dazed and Confused” (Originally by Jake Holmes): Led Zeppelin made this song their own with a heavy, bluesy arrangement. The band’s rendition of “Dazed and Confused” showcases their virtuosity and innovation in classic rock.
7. Pearl Jam – “Last Kiss” (Originally by J. Frank Wilson and the Cavaliers): Pearl Jam’s cover of “Last Kiss” was a tribute to a 1960s pop classic, showcasing the band’s emotional depth and connecting with a broad audience.
6. Nirvana – “The Man Who Sold the World” (Originally by David Bowie): Nirvana’s haunting cover of this David Bowie song brought it to the attention of a new generation and demonstrated the band’s ability to blend rock with alternative and grunge elements.
5. Eric Clapton – “I Shot the Sheriff” (Originally by Bob Marley & The Wailers): Clapton’s reggae-infused version of this Bob Marley hit was a significant crossover between rock and reggae music and a commercial success.
4. Van Halen – “You Really Got Me” (Originally by The Kinks): Van Halen’s high-energy cover of The Kinks’ “You Really Got Me” helped define the sound of 1980s rock and showcased Eddie Van Halen’s innovative guitar work.
3. Guns N’ Roses – “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” (Originally by Bob Dylan): Guns N’ Roses’ energetic and heartfelt cover of this Dylan classic is a staple in the band’s live performances and helped introduce the song to a new generation.
2. Joan Jett and the Blackhearts – “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” (Originally by The Arrows): Joan Jett’s cover of “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” is an iconic classic rock anthem with a powerful, infectious energy that helped define her career.
1. Jimi Hendrix – “All Along the Watchtower” (Originally by Bob Dylan): Jimi Hendrix’s cover of this Bob Dylan song is often regarded as one of the greatest cover songs ever. Hendrix’s electrifying guitar work and reimagined arrangement turned a folk song into a rock masterpiece.