Best versions of classic songs

Soft Cell reinvented Gloria Jones's soul song as a synth-pop classic, with a distinctive 80s sound. Their version is much better known than the original and remains a pillar of electronic and pop music.

Aretha Franklin transformed Otis Redding's original song into an anthem of female empowerment, adding the iconic chorus 'R-E-S-P-E-C-T'. Her vocal performance turned it into a powerful and timeless statement that continues to resonate today.

UB40 transformed Neil Diamond's folk song into a global reggae-pop hit. It is one of the most recognizable reggae songs and an example of how a genre change can revitalize a classic.

The Pet Shop Boys gave the country/pop ballad a synth-pop twist, creating a distinctive and very successful version. It was voted the best cover of all time by the BBC in 2014 and remains an 80s classic.

'Iz''s version with ukulele and his soft voice offers a unique and moving interpretation of this classic. Its popularity has grown exponentially, becoming an iconic and relaxing version.

Amy Winehouse and Mark Ronson transformed The Zutons' indie rock song into a soul-pop piece with a nostalgic sound and Amy's unmistakable voice. It is one of Winehouse's most popular songs and an example of her genius for reinterpreting tracks.

Joan Jett not only transformed The Arrows' song but turned it into a generational rock anthem. It is one of the most iconic rock songs and a symbol of rebellious attitude.

Adele's vocal performance of this Bob Dylan song brings a vulnerability and emotionality that made it a global hit. It is a modern ballad that remains very popular and an example of Adele's interpretive power.

Whitney Houston's vocal performance of this Dolly Parton ballad is considered one of the most powerful and emotional of all time. It became a massive global hit and an unparalleled vocal benchmark.

Johnny Cash imbued the Nine Inch Nails song with unique melancholy and emotional depth, recorded at the end of his life. His version is a poignant testament to music's power to transcend genres.

Jimi Hendrix transformed Bob Dylan's folk ballad into a psychedelic rock anthem with his distinctive guitar work. It is one of the most influential rock versions and an example of how an artist can make a song their own.

Nirvana's acoustic and raw performance on their 'MTV Unplugged' introduced David Bowie's song to a new generation. It gave it new life and resonance, becoming one of the format's most iconic performances.

Joe Cocker transformed The Beatles' joyful song into a powerful blues-rock ballad with his distinctive raspy voice. His performance at Woodstock is legendary, and the song remains a rock classic.

Guns N' Roses gave Bob Dylan's folk ballad a hard rock touch, turning it into a stadium anthem. It is one of the most recognizable rock versions and a staple at the band's concerts.

Cyndi Lauper changed the perspective of Robert Hazard's lyrics and turned it into a feminist anthem and an icon of 80s pop culture. Its message of empowerment and infectious energy keep it relevant.

The Beatles' explosive energy turned this song into a rock and roll anthem. It is a timeless classic that remains synonymous with Beatlemania and the joy of early rock.

Lenny Kravitz modernized The Guess Who's classic riff with a rawer and more sensual aesthetic, giving it new life for a movie. His version won a Grammy and remains a benchmark of modern rock.

Sinéad O'Connor's emotional and vulnerable performance, along with its iconic music video, made it a global hit. Her version is the best known and remains a powerful and poignant ballad.

Santana added their distinctive Latin and guitar sound, transforming Fleetwood Mac's song into a Latin rock hit. It is one of Santana's most emblematic songs and an example of how an artist can meaningfully reinterpret a track.