Realizing that a popular song you thought was by one artist is actually a cover can be an eye-opening experience. It goes to show how important timing, music producing, marketing, and different kinds of talent can be. Here are some you may not have known about, including a lot that surprised me as well. Note: this is the first installment. There is more to come!
Manfred Mann – Blinded By the Light (originally Bruce Springsteen)
Nirvana – Lake of Fire (originally Meat Puppets)
Janis Joplin – Me and Bobby McGee (originally Kris Kristoffersen)
The Carpenters – Close To You (originally Richard Chamberlain)
Nina Simone – Mr. Bojangles (originally Jerry Jeff Walker)
Joan Jett and the Blackhearts – I Love Rock N Roll (originally The Arrows)
Allman Brothers Band – Statesboro Blues (originally Blind Willie McTell)
Jimi Hendrix – Hey Joe (originally The Leaves)
Quiet Riot – Cum On Feel the Noize (originally Slade)