Cover version

In pop music a cover version is a new rendition of a previously recorded song. Pop musicians may play covers as a tribute to the original performer or group, to win audiences who like to hear a familiar song, or to increase their chance of success by using a proven hit or to gain credibility by its comparison with the original song. Covering material is an important method in learning various styles of music. Bands may also do it simply because they enjoy playing it.

Tributes

Established artists often pay homage to artists or songs that inspired them before they started their careers by recording cover versions, or perform unrecorded cover versions in their live performances for variety. For example U2 have performed ABBA's Dancing Queen live, and Kylie Minogue has performed The Clash's "Should I Stay Or Should I Go" - songs that would be completely out of character for them to record, but which allow them artistic freedom when performing live. These performances are often released as part of authorised "live recordings" and thus become legitimate cover versions.

Related Topics:
U2 - ABBA - Dancing Queen - Kylie Minogue - The Clash

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In recent years unrelated contemporary artists have contributed individual cover versions to tribute albums for well established artists who are considered to be influential and inspiring. Each project has resulted in a collection of the particular artist's best recognised or most highly regarded songs reworked by more current performers. Among the artists to receive this form of recognition are ABBA, Fleetwood Mac, Bob Dylan, The Carpenters, Dolly Parton, Leonard Cohen, Elton John, Duran Duran, Carole King and Led Zeppelin.

Related Topics:
ABBA - Fleetwood Mac - Bob Dylan - The Carpenters - Dolly Parton - Leonard Cohen - Elton John - Duran Duran - Carole King - Led Zeppelin

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