A cover, by definition, offers a new take on the original work.  This is almost always interesting to me, even when it turns out that I prefer the original. Some covers, however, leave me wondering why the second artist even bothered. What surprises me in this case is the success that met the cover – people really dug it. Maybe you will, too. In a reverse from the usual order, I’ll present the cover first – The White Stripes’ 2004 take on Jolene:
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gE3-q-aoFZI[/youtube]
Now, I’m a fan of Jack White. I’m a fan of gender bending. I’m a fan of Jolene – an amazing song. And yet that struck me as an utter disaster.  Not even close to touching Dolly’s original:
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGEubdH8m0s[/youtube]
Peej
100% in agreement.
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You know what was an even bigger travesty? The makeover of her ‘I Will Always Love You’. There are some artitsts who you shouldn’t mess with their songs.