Five Cover Songs that Are BETTER than the original.

Usually, an original artist has the best version of their song. These are the exceptions.

5. Respect-Aretha Franklin (Originally by Otis Redding)

That's right, Aretha Franklin's signature song is actually a cover of a song by Otis Redding. Otis' version is okay, but not in the same league. The roles are reversed in Franklin's version, and a lot more soul is to be found here, plus a lot of music is actually added. It's a lot more prominent for a reason, it's better. Sorry Otis, we respect you man, but your version just doesn't stack up.

4. Between you and Me-Relient K (Originally by DC Talk)

The DC talk version isn't bad, but it's overproduced with a very Boys II Men feel, something DC Talk suffered from a lot. While Matt Thiessan is not the singer Michael Tait is, this cover feels a lot more heartfelt, more emotional and more real. It's just a better song, and that's all there is to it.

3. Mad World-Michael Andrews and Gary Jules (Originally by Tears for Fears)

While the original new-wave song by Tears for Fears is fun, nostalgic and catchy, Michael Andrews and Gary Jules bring the song to the next level. It's slow, meditative and emotive. You can't not love it. The original, well it could turn some people off and doesn't make you think as much as it perhaps should have. Andrews and Jules take this song and make it great.

2. Electric Feel-Justice (Originally by MGMT)

Enough old folks music, let's talk about stoners! MGMT's version of this song is enchanting amazing, and can probably give you a contact high. It was one of my favorite songs ever. Then I heard the Justice version and wow. I'm not even a big Justice fan, this is their best song, and it's a doozy. Insanely dance-to-able and unforgettable. The original seems a little uneventful by comparison, and considering how amazing and layered the original is, that's saying a heckuvalot.

1. Hurt-Johnny Cash (Originally by Nine inch Nails)

You saw this coming. If you didn't you're stupid. Nine Inch Nails does a fine job okay, but the changes that Cash made make the song 10,000 times better. It goes from a fairly good piano-based rock ballad to a world-shattering experience. Reznor emphasizes the wrong words, his vocals are overly breathy and he makes it much more laborious than it should be. Cash lets it come from his soul, every moment is pitch perfect. It's rumored that he finished the video within hours of his death. While I don't think that's true, if you can get through the video with dry eyes, you have no soul. NO SOUL!!!

A Quick Retraction and my Five Fave Bands.

Okay, first thing first, MGMT is a good band. I needed a tenth band for my list, and they were handy. Over the last week or so, I've discovered they are an acquired taste, and I've now acquired it. "Kids" which I previously stated was their "only good song" is their mainstream hit. If you hear the song, you probably won't think mainstream, but yeah, it is.

And now, my five favorite bands.

5. LUDO

I first heard of Ludo when they went on tour with my #1 on this list, but I didn't check them out until they released "Prepare the Preparations" which I bought on a whim. Best whim ever. An insanely eclectic piece of awesome, it features everything from smooth jazz, to classic bard playing, to heavy metal, all in one song. For all the genres the album encompasses, it would take up the rest of the blog, but the point is, they're all good. Can't wait to get more of there music, but unfortunately like everyone else, I'm broke. Oh, and did I mention, the lyrics are hilarious?

4. Ben Folds Five/Ben Folds

A superbly talented musician, Ben Folds has found himself a large fan-base, and most of them are younger than him. Piano pop/rock is not dead, it's just on life support, and that life-support is Ben Folds. Metaphors aside, you will have difficulty finding a more gifted musician. Unlike most of these other bands, his music is instantly accessible. However, like all these other bands, it is infinitely listenable. He has a large catalogue so of course I have a lot to listen to, but I have no doubt it will never cease to impress me.

3. Family Force 5

Say what you will about "Dance or Die", Family Force 5 is an amazing band. For once I have both of their albums (don't have "Dance or Die with a Vengeance", but hey, not made of money). While there is a big stylistic difference between their two albums, the core style remains, overbearing self-aware camp, phat beats and freaking awesomeness.

2. The Killers

The Killers are the most mainstream band on my list, scoring four albums in the top 10. Does that mean I'm a sell-out a shill and a poser? Heck no, it means they're awesome. "Hot Fuss" is an integral part of my life's soundtrack, but they're true masterpiece is "Day & Age". Even the critically derided "Sam's Town" is worth a look. While the lyrics are sometimes lacking and overwrought, one thing you know is it will always sound awesome. And after all, isn't that what music is all about? Note: Brandon Flowers solo album is so-so, you can't compensate for Killers.

1. Relient K

Surprised? Then you don't know me. I have every single one of their albums. Sue me, they're awesome. Lyrically inspired on every tune, never missing a chance at awesomeness, they are the soundtrack of my life. They've changed a lot over the years, but I for one dig the changes. The old stuff is still good, but it can't match the emotional and musical depth of their new stuff. If you're a poser fan who knows "Sadie Hawkin's Dance" and has a burned copy of "MMHMM", then take another look at this band. You'll never look back.