10 Classic Rock Songs You Didn’t Know Were Remakes
1. “Love Hurts” by Nazareth: This power ballad was originally written and recorded by The Everly Brothers in 1960. Nazareth covered it in 1974, adding a more rock-oriented and emotional interpretation.
2. “All Along the Watchtower” by Bob Dylan: While Jimi Hendrix’s version is more well-known, the original recording of this song was done by Bob Dylan himself in 1967. Dylan’s version has a folk-rock sound, while Hendrix’s rendition brought a psychedelic and guitar-driven approach.
3. “Black Magic Woman” by Santana: This Latin rock classic was originally recorded by Fleetwood Mac in 1968, with Peter Green on vocals. Santana covered it in 1970, infusing it with their signature blend of Latin rhythms and guitar virtuosity.
4. “Blinded by the Light” by Manfred Mann’s Earth Band: This catchy rock song was written and recorded by Bruce Springsteen in 1973. Manfred Mann’s Earth Band covered it in 1976, giving it a more upbeat and rock-oriented sound.
5. “Cum On Feel the Noize” by Quiet Riot: This heavy metal anthem was originally recorded by the British band Slade in 1973. Quiet Riot covered it in 1983, adding their own energetic and raucous style, and it became their biggest hit.
6. “Piece of My Heart” by Janis Joplin: This soulful song was originally recorded by Erma Franklin, the sister of Aretha Franklin, in 1967. Janis Joplin’s rendition with Big Brother and the Holding Company, released in 1968, became a breakthrough hit for her.
7. “Me and Bobby McGee” by Janis Joplin: This iconic song was written by Kris Kristofferson and Fred Foster and first recorded by Roger Miller in 1969. Janis Joplin’s heartfelt version, released posthumously in 1971, became a major hit and is closely associated with her.
8. “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” by Guns N’ Roses: This song was originally written and recorded by Bob Dylan in 1973. Guns N’ Roses covered it in 1991 and their version became a hit, reaching a new generation of rock fans.
9. “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” by Joan Jett & the Blackhearts: While many people associate this song with Joan Jett, it was actually a cover of a song originally recorded by The Arrows in 1975. Jett’s version, released in 1982, became a huge hit and a rock anthem.
10. “Hard to Handle” by The Black Crowes: This energetic rock song was originally recorded by Otis Redding in 1968. The Black Crowes covered it in 1990 and their version became one of their signature songs.