9 Bands That Released a Cover Song as a Lead Single

In rock and pop music, artists sometimes choose to release a cover song as the first single from an album. These covers can introduce the band’s style to a wider audience or pay tribute to influential musicians. Here are nine bands that released a cover song as a lead single, each adding their unique touch to the original.

Deep Purple – “Hush”

Deep Purple’s rendition of “Hush,” originally written by Joe South and first recorded by Billy Joe Royal in 1967, was released as a single on June 21, 1968, in the UK and in July 1968 in the US. This track became the band’s first major hit, peaking at number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 in September 1968 and reaching number 2 in Canada, though it went largely unnoticed in the UK.

The song was featured on Deep Purple’s debut album, Shades of Deep Purple, and showcased the band’s early blend of psychedelic rock, hard rock, and blues rock.

The Fugees – “Killing Me Softly With His Song”

The Fugees released their version of “Killing Me Softly” in 1996, featuring Lauryn Hill’s vocals. Originally performed by Roberta Flack in 1973, the Fugees’ rendition became an international hit, topping charts in several countries. In the U.S., it reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100 Airplay chart and was certified triple-platinum.

Their version introduced the song to a new generation, blending hip-hop and soul elements. It remains one of the group’s most recognized tracks.

Santana – “Black Magic Woman”

Santana’s 1970 version of “Black Magic Woman” became one of their signature songs. Originally written and recorded by Peter Green of Fleetwood Mac in 1968, Santana’s cover added Latin rock elements, featuring extended instrumental sections. The song reached number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100.

This rendition showcased Santana’s unique style, blending rock with Latin rhythms, and helped solidify their place in rock history.

Nirvana – “The Man Who Sold the World”

Nirvana performed a cover of David Bowie’s “The Man Who Sold the World” during their MTV Unplugged session in 1993. The live version was included on their 1994 album “MTV Unplugged in New York” and released as a promotional single in 1995.

Kurt Cobain’s haunting vocals and the acoustic arrangement gave the song a new dimension, introducing it to a younger audience unfamiliar with Bowie’s original.

Red Hot Chili Peppers – “Higher Ground”

In 1989, Red Hot Chili Peppers released a cover of Stevie Wonder’s “Higher Ground” as the lead single from their album “Mother’s Milk.” The band’s funk-rock interpretation brought the song to a new audience, reaching number 11 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart.

Their energetic performance and distinctive style made the cover stand out, contributing to the band’s growing popularity in the late ’80s and early ’90s.

Disturbed – “Land of Confusion”

Disturbed released a cover of Genesis’s “Land of Confusion” as a single from their 2005 album “Ten Thousand Fists.” Their heavy metal rendition brought a new intensity to the song, accompanied by an animated music video.

The cover was well-received by fans and introduced the classic track to a new generation, highlighting the band’s ability to reinterpret songs across genres.

Limp Bizkit – “Faith”

Limp Bizkit’s 1997 cover of George Michael’s “Faith” was included on their debut album “Three Dollar Bill, Y’all$.” The band’s aggressive nu-metal take on the pop hit garnered attention and became one of their early breakout songs.

Their version transformed the upbeat original into a heavier track, reflecting the band’s style and setting the stage for their future success.

Black Sabbath – “Evil Woman”

Black Sabbath’s first single, “Evil Woman,” released in 1970, was a cover of the song by the band Crow. The track was included on the UK version of their debut album but replaced by “Wicked World” in the US release.

Their rendition introduced the band’s dark, heavy sound to the world, laying the groundwork for their influential role in the development of heavy metal.