The Best Cover Songs of the 90s: Hits That Breathed New Life Into Classics
The 90s were an incredible decade for music, with genres like alternative rock, pop, R&B, and hip-hop dominating the airwaves. One of the most fascinating aspects of 90s music was the way artists reimagined classic songs, transforming them into fresh hits for a new generation. Some covers stayed true to the originals, while others took creative liberties, making them even more iconic. Let’s take a look at some of the best cover songs of the 90s and why they stood out.
1. Whitney Houston – “I Will Always Love You” (1992)
Original Artist: Dolly Parton (1973)
When Whitney Houston recorded “I Will Always Love You” for The Bodyguard soundtrack, she turned Dolly Parton’s country ballad into one of the greatest power ballads of all time. Houston’s soaring vocals and emotional delivery made it an instant classic, and it remains one of the best-selling singles of all time.
2. Nirvana – “The Man Who Sold the World” (1994)
Original Artist: David Bowie (1970)
Nirvana’s haunting acoustic version of David Bowie’s “The Man Who Sold the World” became one of the most memorable performances from their MTV Unplugged session. Kurt Cobain’s raw and stripped-down take gave the song a grunge-era melancholy that resonated deeply with fans.
3. No Doubt – “It’s My Life” (1999)
Original Artist: Talk Talk (1984)
No Doubt revitalized Talk Talk’s “It’s My Life” with their 90s ska-pop sound, giving it a more modern and energetic twist. Gwen Stefani’s dynamic vocals brought new life to the track, making it a staple of late-90s alternative radio.
4. Sinead O’Connor – “Nothing Compares 2 U” (1990)
Original Artist: Prince (1985, written for The Family)
While Prince originally wrote “Nothing Compares 2 U” for his side project The Family, it was Sinead O’Connor’s heartbreaking rendition that turned it into an international hit. The song’s sparse arrangement and her deeply emotional performance made it one of the most unforgettable songs of the decade.
5. Red Hot Chili Peppers – “Higher Ground” (1990)
Original Artist: Stevie Wonder (1973)
The Red Hot Chili Peppers took Stevie Wonder’s “Higher Ground” and injected it with funk-rock energy. Their high-octane version, driven by Flea’s slap bass and Anthony Kiedis’ rapid-fire vocals, became a defining song for the band’s early 90s sound.
6. UB40 – “Can’t Help Falling in Love” (1993)
Original Artist: Elvis Presley (1961)
UB40’s reggae-infused version of “Can’t Help Falling in Love” turned the classic Elvis Presley ballad into a chilled-out love song that topped the charts worldwide. Their smooth, laid-back style made it a wedding and slow-dance favorite throughout the 90s.
7. Alien Ant Farm – “Smooth Criminal” (1999, became a hit in 2001)
Original Artist: Michael Jackson (1987)
While technically released in 1999, Alien Ant Farm’s rock cover of “Smooth Criminal” didn’t gain mainstream popularity until the early 2000s. Their high-energy version reimagined Michael Jackson’s hit as a punchy alternative rock anthem, complete with aggressive guitar riffs and infectious hooks.
8. Joan Osborne – “One of Us” (1995)
Original Artist: Eric Bazilian (The Hooters)
Eric Bazilian of The Hooters originally wrote “One of Us,” but Joan Osborne’s version became the definitive take. Her bluesy vocals and thought-provoking lyrics made it one of the most talked-about songs of the mid-90s.
9. Guns N’ Roses – “Live and Let Die” (1991)
Original Artist: Paul McCartney & Wings (1973)
Guns N’ Roses took the orchestral bombast of Paul McCartney & Wings’ “Live and Let Die”and turned it into a hard rock epic. Their aggressive take on the James Bond theme became a concert staple and one of their biggest hits of the 90s.
10. Marilyn Manson – “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” (1995)
Original Artist: Eurythmics (1983)
Marilyn Manson’s dark and twisted take on “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” completely transformed the synth-pop hit into a nightmarish industrial rock anthem. His eerie vocals and heavy guitar work gave the song a sinister edge, making it a standout cover of the decade.
Final Thoughts
The 90s proved that a great song can be reimagined in countless ways, whether through powerful vocals, grunge distortion, reggae rhythms, or hard-hitting rock. These covers not only paid tribute to the originals but, in many cases, introduced them to a whole new audience.
Which 90s cover song is your favorite? Let me know in the comments!