Covers of songs that surpassed their originals

The Pet Shop Boys' version is much more popular and recognizable than Brenda Lee's original. Their synth-pop style gave it a unique touch and turned it into an '80s classic.

Jeff Buckley's interpretation of this Leonard Cohen song is considered one of the best versions of all time. His angelic voice and the emotion he conveys make it a very special version.

The Stranglers gave a punk twist to the original song by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, performed by Dionne Warwick. Their version is more energetic and has a distinctive sound.

Although the original is by Nine Inch Nails, Johnny Cash's interpretation is considered by many to be superior. His raspy voice and the emotion he conveys make it an iconic version.

Jimi Hendrix's version of Bob Dylan's song is legendary. His guitar virtuosity and the intensity he brings to it make it one of the best versions in history.

Dolly Parton's original composition is a country masterpiece that, although acclaimed, was eclipsed in massive popularity by Whitney Houston's iconic version.

Otis Redding's original version of "Respect" is a powerful expression of a man's demands for respect in his relationship, laying the groundwork for the iconic later version.

Nine Inch Nails' original version of 'Hurt', written by Trent Reznor, is a powerful expression of pain and despair that laid the groundwork for its later reinterpretation.

Sinéad O'Connor's rendition of "Nothing Compares 2 U" is widely regarded as a version that eclipsed the original, bringing a raw emotional depth and iconic vocal delivery that made it a global hit and an enduring anthem.

Jeff Buckley's version of "Hallelujah" is widely regarded as one of the most emotional and acclaimed performances, often eclipsing the popularity of the original.

Ednaswap is the band that originally wrote and recorded 'Torn' in 1993. Their version laid the groundwork for the song, although Imbruglia's version achieved much greater commercial success.

Puddles Pity Party and Haley Reinhart's Postmodern Jukebox-style version reimagines 'Mad World' in a vintage Vaudeville style, offering a unique and theatrical take on the song.

The Zutons' original song, released in 2006, laid the groundwork for their subsequent massive success through later versions.

Soft Cell's version of "Tainted Love" became an '80s synth-pop anthem, eclipsing Gloria Jones' original 1964 recording with its distinctive sound and commercial success.

Joan Jett's version of "I Love Rock 'n' Roll" surpassed The Arrows' original in popularity and commercial success, becoming an 80s rock anthem.

The Arrows recorded the original version of "I Love Rock 'n' Roll" in 1975. Although their version did not reach the same level of fame, it laid the groundwork for future success.

The Bobby Fuller Four's version of 'I Fought the Law' was a hit that took it to the top ten in 1966, popularizing the song and being considered by many as the definitive version before The Clash.

Big Mama Thornton's version of "Hound Dog" is a powerful and raw blues rendition that laid the foundation for rock and roll. Her powerful voice and bold style gave the song an energy that influenced countless artists.

The Fugees' version of "Killing Me Softly With His Song" became a massive hit, surpassing Roberta Flack's original version in popularity and recognition and establishing itself as a 90s anthem.

UB40's version of "Red Red Wine" became a massive worldwide hit, surpassing Neil Diamond's original 1967 acoustic ballad in popularity and recognition, thanks to its distinctive reggae style and the addition of a verse by Astro.

Pet Shop Boys' version of "Always On My Mind" was voted the best cover of all time in a BBC Music poll, beating the original.