Rod Stewart's Covers That Sound Even Better Than the Originals
Rod Stewart, the legendary rock singer and songwriter, has a unique talent for transforming songs into his own. While he writes a significant portion of his music, he also covers songs from other artists, often with remarkable success. These four covers are prime examples of how Stewart's interpretation can surpass the original, captivating audiences and becoming some of his most beloved hits.
Have I Told You Lately
One of Stewart's most poignant and emotionally resonant songs, "Have I Told You Lately" is a cover of Van Morrison's 1989 hit. Stewart's version, released in 1991 on his album Vagabond Heart, and later as a live performance on Unplugged...and Seated, became a No. 1 single. What makes Stewart's rendition so compelling is his ability to infuse the song with a raw, intimate feel, capturing the essence of the original while adding his own unique touch. Many listeners might not even realize it's a cover, which is a testament to Stewart's skill in making it his own.
The song's emotional depth and Stewart's soulful vocals create a powerful connection with the audience. It's a perfect example of how a cover can become a signature song, earning a Grammy nomination and the love of fans worldwide. The song's universal themes of love and longing resonate with listeners of all ages, making it a timeless classic.
Sailing
"Sailing," a 1975 hit from Stewart's album Atlantic Crossing, is an intriguing cover story. The song was originally written and recorded by Gavin Sutherland and The Sutherland Brothers in 1972. However, Stewart's version, with its smooth, laid-back vibe and his distinctive gravelly voice, became a major hit in the UK. The irony lies in the fact that while it was a success in the UK, it didn't achieve the same level of popularity in the United States.
What makes "Sailing" so captivating is the contrast between the original and Stewart's interpretation. Sutherland's version has a more folk-rock feel, while Stewart's rendition has a more relaxed, soulful quality. This transformation showcases Stewart's ability to adapt and enhance a song, making it his own while preserving its essence.
Some Guys Have All The Luck
Another Top 10 hit, "Some Guys Have All The Luck," is a cover of a song written by Jeff Fortgang. The Persuaders released it in 1973, but it wasn't until Stewart's 1984 version that it became a massive success. Stewart's interpretation adds a playful, upbeat energy to the song, making it a signature part of his repertoire.
The song's catchy melody and Stewart's energetic delivery have made it a fan favorite. It's a great example of how a cover can become a defining moment in an artist's career, even if it wasn't their original hit. The song's enduring popularity demonstrates the power of a well-executed cover to leave its mark on pop culture.
Downtown Train
Tom Waits wrote the original "Downtown Train," which didn't gain prominence until Stewart's 1989 cover. Stewart's version, featured on his album Vagabond Heart, became the most successful interpretation of the song. This cover showcases Stewart's ability to take a song and make it his own, even if it wasn't originally his.
Stewart's rendition adds a gritty, bluesy edge to the song, making it a standout track on his album. His unique vocal style and interpretation have made "Downtown Train" a fan favorite, often considered one of his best covers. The song's success demonstrates the impact a cover can have, even if it's not the original artist's version.
In conclusion, Rod Stewart's covers are a testament to his artistic prowess and ability to enhance songs beyond their original form. These four examples showcase his skill in transforming songs into his own, creating hits that resonate with audiences and become part of his iconic legacy.
