The Beatles have some standout covers in their catalog. Many artists have taken on their songs over the years, but which ones are the best? We’ve ranked them based on a few key points:
– Does the cover stay true to the original, or does it offer a new twist?
– How does it compare to the original? Does it even surpass it?
– Does it showcase impressive vocals or instrumentals?
Here are twenty of the best Beatles covers, ranked.
20. The Rolling Stones – “I Wanna Be Your Man”
The Beatles recorded this song first but gave it to the Stones, who released their version as a single before the Fab Four. It’s a classic example of the Stones as the “bad boys” compared to the Beatles.
19. Siouxsie & The Banshees – “Dear Prudence”
Though it wasn’t a single in the U.S., Siouxsie & The Banshees’ moody cover became their biggest hit in the U.K., reaching number three. Robert Smith from The Cure played guitar on this track.
18. Elton John – “Lucy In the Sky With Diamonds”
Elton John’s version of this song did something the Beatles never did: it topped the Billboard 100 chart. The Beatles didn’t release it as a single, making this achievement even more impressive.
17. U2 – “Helter Skelter”
U2’s live cover kicks off their film and soundtrack for *Rattle & Hum*. The band boldly claimed, “This is a song Charles Manson stole from the Beatles; we’re stealing it back.”
16. Aerosmith – “Come Together”
Despite the 1978 film *Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band* flopping, its soundtrack featured Aerosmith’s great cover of “Come Together,” which peaked at number 23 on the Billboard Hot 100.
15. Amy Winehouse – “All My Loving”
Amy Winehouse’s live cover of “All My Loving” from 2004 is a stunning reminder of her talent. She turned the upbeat pop song into a soulful ballad.
14. Beyoncé – “BLACKBIRD”
Beyoncé added her unique touch to this Beatles classic on her 2024 country-themed album, *Cowboy Carter*.
