The Nostalgic Cover Songs Of The 1970s

The 1970s was a remarkable era for music, not just for the original hits but for the unforgettable covers that took well-known tracks and gave them new life. These covers didn’t just pay tribute to the originals—they often elevated the songs, sometimes even surpassing the success of the first versions. Check out these standout covers from the decade, where artists took familiar tunes and made them their own, leaving a lasting legacy in music history.

Black Magic Woman – Santana (1970)
Originally recorded by Fleetwood Mac in 1968, “Black Magic Woman” didn’t reach its full potential until Santana got his hands on it. Santana’s version mixed Latin rock and blues, transforming the track into a chart-topping hit. The signature smooth guitar riffs and conga beats created an irresistible rhythm, giving the song a unique vibrancy that the original lacked. This cover truly became Santana’s own.

Proud Mary – Ike & Tina Turner (1970)
Creedence Clearwater Revival first released “Proud Mary” in 1969, but Ike & Tina Turner turned it into something unforgettable. Their 1970 cover gave the song a fiery new twist, thanks to Tina’s raw and powerful vocals paired with their high-energy stage performances. This version added soul and grit, turning it into a showstopper that became their biggest hit. Many fans now associate the song more with Tina Turner’s iconic rendition than the original.

You Really Got Me – Van Halen (1978)
The Kinks’ “You Really Got Me” was a rock staple when it came out in 1964, but Van Halen took it to another level in 1978. The band’s cover added electrifying guitar solos, courtesy of Eddie Van Halen, along with a punch of energy that made it stand out. This version became their breakthrough hit and showed how a well-executed cover could launch a band’s career. Van Halen’s take on the song remains a fan favorite, often considered better than the original.

Woodstock – Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young (1970)
Joni Mitchell may have written “Woodstock”, but it was Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young who brought the song to life in 1970. Their cover captured the spirit of the iconic festival even though Mitchell herself didn’t attend. The group’s harmonies and folksy acoustic arrangement gave the song a dreamy yet powerful vibe. It became an anthem of the 60s counterculture, and to this day, their version is often associated with the historic event itself.

Wild Horses – The Rolling Stones (1971)
The Flying Burrito Brothers first recorded “Wild Horses” in 1970, but The Rolling Stones took it to a whole new level in 1971. The Stones’ version became the definitive take on the song, turning it into one of their most beloved ballads. With its gentle yet haunting melody, the cover track showed the softer side of the band, while Mick Jagger’s heartfelt performance gave it emotional depth. Many fans still mistakenly believe it’s an original Stones song.

I Fought The Law – The Clash (1979)
Originally performed by The Crickets in 1961, “I Fought The Law” was famously covered by The Clash in 1979, injecting it with punk rock spirit. Their fast-paced, gritty rendition turned the song into a rebellious anthem, perfectly fitting with the anti-authority vibe of the late 70s. The Clash’s version spoke to a generation fed up with the establishment, making it a defining song for both the band and the punk movement.

Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds – Elton John (1974)
Elton John took on The Beatles’ psychedelic hit “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” in 1974, adding his signature flair to it. Elton’s version maintained the trippy essence of the original but gave it a new twist with his piano-driven arrangement and energetic performance. The cover featured John Lennon on guitar and backing vocals, making it an unforgettable collaboration between two of music’s biggest legends. This rendition became another hit for Elton, standing out as one of the best Beatles covers of the decade.

I Shot The Sheriff – Eric Clapton (1974)
Bob Marley’s “I Shot The Sheriff” was already a hit in 1973, but Eric Clapton brought it into the rock mainstream with his 1974 cover. Clapton’s bluesy guitar and laid-back vocals gave the song a different feel while keeping its reggae roots intact. His version reached a wider audience, introducing many to reggae for the first time and becoming one of his biggest hits. Clapton’s cover helped bridge the gap between rock and reggae, forever linking him to Marley’s legacy.

Whiskey In The Jar – Thin Lizzy (1972)
“Whiskey In The Jar” is a traditional Irish folk song, but it was Thin Lizzy’s 1972 rock version that turned it into a modern classic. Their hard-hitting rendition, full of catchy guitar riffs and raw energy, made it a massive hit. While the band didn’t initially want to be known for this cover, it became one of their most famous tracks. Despite their later reluctance, the song remains a fan favorite and is still a staple of their legacy.

Bridge Over Troubled Water – Aretha Franklin (1971)
Simon and Garfunkel’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water” was already a chart-topping hit in 1970, but Aretha Franklin’s gospel-infused cover in 1971 took it to new emotional heights. Aretha’s powerful voice and heartfelt delivery gave the song an uplifting, spiritual quality that resonated deeply with listeners. Her version won her a Grammy and is still considered one of the best covers of the 70s. It’s a perfect example of how a great song can be reinterpreted and made even more impactful.