Brief Summary
This video explores the top six cover songs of the 1980s, highlighting how these remakes became iconic hits in their own right. The video delves into the stories behind each cover, the magic they brought to the table, and how they achieved massive success.
- The video features covers by artists like The Bangles, Paul Young, Robert Plant, Run DMC, Quiet Riot, and Los Lobos.
- Each cover song is analyzed in detail, including its original artist, the context of its release, and the impact it had on the music scene.
A Hazy Shade of Winter
This chapter focuses on The Bangles' cover of Simon & Garfunkle's "A Hazy Shade of Winter." The original song, written by Paul Simon, was released in 1966 and reached number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100. The Bangles' version, recorded for the soundtrack of the 1987 film "Less Than Zero," reached number two on the charts. The Bangles' rendition features gritty guitars and a driving beat, giving the song a more rock-oriented feel. The band's cover became a staple in their live performances, captivating fans with its infectious energy.
Every Time You Go Away
This chapter explores Paul Young's soulful remake of Daryl Hall & John Oates' "Every Time You Go Away." The original song was released in 1980 but didn't become a single. Paul Young's version, released in 1985, became a global pop hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100. The song's popularity was fueled by its unique vocal performance and the misheard lyric "every time you go away, you take a piece of meat with you," which became a popular meme.
Sea of Love
This chapter examines Robert Plant's cover of Phil Phillips' "Sea of Love." The original song was released in 1959 and became a local sensation in Louisiana before gaining national recognition. Robert Plant's version, recorded with his band The Honeydrippers, was released in 1984 and reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100. Plant's rendition is a heartfelt and passionate reimagining of the classic ballad, showcasing his powerful vocals and deep respect for the song's roots in rhythm and blues.
Walk This Way
This chapter delves into Run DMC's iconic cover of Aerosmith's "Walk This Way." The original song was released in 1975 and became a hit for Aerosmith. Run DMC's version, released in 1986, featured a collaboration with Aerosmith and became a game-changer in the music industry. The song bridged the gap between rock and hip-hop, paving the way for future collaborations between the two genres. The cover also became Run DMC's biggest hit, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and making history as the first hip-hop single to break into the top five.
Come On Feel the Noise
This chapter focuses on Quiet Riot's cover of Slade's "Come On Feel the Noise." The original song was released in 1973 and became a defining hit of the glam rock genre in the UK. Quiet Riot's version, released in 1983, reached number five on the Billboard Hot 100 and helped their album "Metal Health" become the first metal album to hit number one on the charts. The band's raw and rebellious take on the song captured the energy and spontaneity that made it a massive hit. The song's popularity was also fueled by its music video, which was tailor-made for MTV's young male audience.
La Bamba
This chapter explores Los Lobos' spirited rendition of Ritchie Valens' "La Bamba." The original song, a traditional Mexican folk song, was released in 1958 and became a top 40 hit in the US. Los Lobos' version, featured in the 1987 biopic about Richie Valens, became a massive hit, reaching number one in 20 countries. The band's cover maintained the original song's folk style while adding a contemporary touch that resonated with new generations of listeners. The song's success was also tied to the tragic story of Richie Valens, who died in a plane crash on "The Day the Music Died" in 1959.
