“Hey Jude,” one of The Beatles’ most iconic and enduring songs, has seen numerous artists offer their unique interpretations through cover versions. From heartfelt renditions to innovative twists, here are the 10 best covers of “Hey Jude”:
1. **Wilson Pickett (1969)**: The soulful powerhouse brought his signature style to the song, infusing it with raw emotion and gospel-inspired vocals.
2. **Elvis Presley (1972)**: The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll put his own spin on “Hey Jude,” showcasing his rich vocal range and adding a touch of rockabilly charm.
3. **Joe Cocker (1974)**: Cocker’s raspy voice and bluesy approach breathed new life into the song, turning it into a soulful anthem.
4. **Frank Sinatra (1981)**: Ol’ Blue Eyes took a smoother approach, offering a velvet-voiced rendition that added a touch of classic elegance to the track.
5. **Clapton, McCartney, and Starr (2002)**: In a memorable live performance, Eric Clapton, Paul McCartney, and Ringo Starr joined forces to celebrate George Harrison. Their collaboration resulted in a heartfelt rendition of “Hey Jude.”
6. **Wilson Phillips (2004)**: The harmonious trio delivered a refreshing take on the song, infusing it with their signature vocal blend and a touch of pop-rock energy.
7. **Diana Krall (2007)**: The jazz pianist and vocalist brought a unique jazz-infused arrangement to “Hey Jude,” demonstrating her impeccable musicianship.
8. **Alicia Keys and John Legend (2010)**: This powerful duet combined two soulful voices, resulting in a moving rendition that showcased their chemistry and vocal prowess.
9. **Sting (2010)**: The former Police frontman lent his distinctive voice to “Hey Jude,” creating a stripped-down version that emphasized the song’s emotional depth.
10. **The Flaming Lips (2014)**: Known for their experimental sound, The Flaming Lips delivered an imaginative and psychedelic interpretation of “Hey Jude,” incorporating their signature sonic elements.
Each of these covers brings a fresh perspective to “Hey Jude,” highlighting the song’s timeless appeal and its ability to resonate with different musical genres and generations. From soul to jazz to rock, these artists have paid homage to The Beatles while adding their own distinct touch to this beloved classic.
