Ten must-hear new millennium cover songs

1. Johnny Cash – Hurt (original by Nine Inch Nails)

Without this guy, no list of cover songs would ever be complete. The legendary Johnny Cash covering a Nine Inch Nails song was to be the last he would ever sing. With a career spanning as far back as you can remember, there’s no doubt this song will definitely live on for many years to come.

2. Gary Jules with Michael Andrews – Mad World (original by Tears for Fears)

Released in the Christmas of 2003, Mad World showed no sign of abdicating from its reign at number one. Not everyone’s favourite cover but definitely a well-known one. Gary’s voice combined with the softly played piano, creates something truly beautiful.

3. The White Stripes – I Just Don’t Know What to Do with Myself (original by Dusty Springfield)

Well-known for its video containing a pole dancing Kate Moss, this song brings a more rocky edge to the original. Jack and Meg manage to make this song their own with just themselves and a solitary drum and guitar. This song has a sultry, seedy feel to it that keeps it raw.

4. Ryan Adams – Wonderwall (original by Oasis)

Who could forget the classic Oasis number one hit, but did you know Ryan Adams also covered it in 2004? Peaking at number 27 in the UK singles chart, it was given a slower, more intimate sound with a voice that could hypnotise anyone. A real gem – even Noel Gallagher started to play that version live.

5. Muse – Feeling Good (original by Anthony Newley and Leslie Bricusse)

Muse have had many hits since making it big on the music scene and Feeling Good, originally sung by Anthony Newley and Leslie Bricusse, is from their Origin of Symmetry album. Matt Bellamy is well-known for his unusual vocals and catchy lyrics, and this song suits him perfectly.

6. The Futureheads – Hounds of Love (original by Kate Bush)

Bringing a Kate Bush’s 80s hit into the noughties with their more upbeat modern take on it, The Futureheads hadn’t been around too long when this was released. Definitely a song you find yourself singing along to, that’s for sure!

7. Coldplay feat. Michael Stipe – In the Sun (original by Joseph Arthur)

The aching song by Joseph Arthur has been wonderfully interpreted by two masters of touching songs: Coldplay’s Chris Martin and R.E.M.’s Michael Stipe. A masterpiece of tenderness.

8. Limp Bizkit – Behind Blue Eyes (original by The Who)

Limp Bizkit’s version of this song is a little dubious but very good. Coming from the Gothika soundtrack, it makes us actually feel sad, which is what is being conveyed in the song.

9. Mark Ronson feat. Amy Winehouse – Valerie (original by The Zutons)

Top music producer teaming up with the Amy Winehouse was always going to be a winner. Amy’s voice is razor sharp, cutting through crepe paper beats. A singalong extravaganza.

10. Jose Gonzalez – Heartbeats (original by The Knifes)

Amazing. Beautiful. There are no words to describe why this is an awesome cover song. Heartfelt and emotional, it makes you want to listen to it over and over again.

Natalie Sexby