Top 5 covers by The Smithereens that are not Beatles songs

rican Beatles albums, but here we explore some of The Smithereens’ standout covers that aren’t Beatles songs. The New Jersey band, known for their signature sound influenced by pre-Beatles girl-groups and Black Sabbath, has left a lasting impact on the rock music landscape since their inception in 1980.

The band’s mastermind Pat DiNizio, along with fellow members Jim Babjak, Mike Mesaros, and Dennis Diken, steered The Smithereens through the decades before DiNizio’s passing in 2017. Despite lineup changes, the band has persevered with various lead vocalists, showcasing their adaptability and enduring spirit.

While The Smithereens’ original works stand strong, their choice of covers sheds light on their musical roots and wide-ranging influences. In honor of DiNizio, we delve into some of their best non-Beatles covers that showcase their musical prowess and reverence for classic songs.

Their debut EP, “Girls About Town,” housed the memorable cover of Brian Wilson’s “Girl Don’t Tell Me,” alongside DiNizio’s original compositions. Another highlight is “Hand of Glory,” a Jimmy Silva cover featured on their album “Especially for You,” paying tribute to a lesser-known but talented artist.

“Somethin’ Stupid,” recorded as a B-side of “Get a Hold of My Heart” encapsulates the band’s diverse artistic vision, exploring unusual musical territory with a charming rendition of the Sinatra father-daughter duet. Their captivating interpretation of Buddy Holly’s “Well… Alright” from “Live in Concert! Greatest Hits and More” underscores their knack for transforming classic songs into fresh, compelling versions.

In a bold move, The Smithereens took on The Who’s iconic album “Tommy” with “The Smithereens Play Tommy,” a bold reimagination of the rock opera. Their cover of Sonny Boy Williamson’s “Eyesight to the Blind” from this album exemplifies their ability to infuse new life into legendary tracks.

Overall, The Smithereens’ non-Beatles covers offer a glimpse into the band’s eclectic tastes and artistry. Through their emotive interpretations and unique spin on classic songs, they have carved a niche for themselves in the annals of rock music history, solidifying their legacy as one of America’s great rock bands.