12 Rock Songs You Didn’t Know Were Covers

For music enthusiasts, there is a unique thrill in discovering the true origins of beloved songs. It is fascinating to realize that what we assumed to be an original creation by a legendary rock band actually has deep roots elsewhere, possibly stemming from a completely different genre.

Classic rock is built on this foundation of musical archaeology, where musicians constantly delve into the past, breathing new life into classics through distorted guitars, dramatic arrangements, and their own distinct performances that appeal to a whole new audience. Here are twelve recordings that reveal surprising origins predating their well-known renditions.

Ram Jam’s “Black Betty” from 1977 is actually an electric rendition of an older American work song performed by Lead Belly in 1939, based on earlier field recordings from prison crews. This edgy version propelled the New York City band to one-hit wonder status in the late ’70s.

Humble Pie transformed “I Don’t Need No Doctor” into a fiery anthem on their 1971 live album, inspired by Ray Charles’ 1966 recording. Originating from the minds of songwriters Nick Ashford, Valerie Simpson, and Jo Armstead, Steve Marriott’s passionate vocals and the group’s powerful rhythm section placed the song firmly in the realm of early ’70s blues-rock.

Deep Purple’s lively cover of “Kentucky Woman” in 1968 had originally been penned and recorded by Neil Diamond in his mellow style just a year prior. The band’s electrifying rendition infused the track with keyboards and bombast, heralding the sound that would define their future work.

Robert Palmer’s 1979 hit “Bad Case of Loving You (Doctor, Doctor)” was actually written and recorded a year earlier by Moon Martin. Palmer’s polished rock interpretation added a radio-friendly edge to the track, garnering popularity in the United States and presenting it as a fresh release to audiences.

The Yardbirds’ take on “Train Kept A-Rollin’” in 1965 was a rock fan’s dream, with the blues standard reimagined into a guitar-driven anthem that influenced generations of musicians. Originally recorded in 1951 by Tiny Bradshaw and later by Johnny Burnette and His Rock and Roll Trio, the Yardbirds’ dynamic performance featured guitar virtuoso Jeff Beck and, later, Jimmy Page.

The Clash’s high-energy cover of Eddy Grant’s “Police on My Back” in 1980, from their album “Sandinista!,” transformed the soul-pop original into a charged-up rock anthem, reflecting the band’s political and social commentary during a time of repression.

The bluesy track “Tobacco Road” gained a rock edge when British group The Nashville Teens revamped John D. Loudermilk’s original version from 1959. Their gritty rendition became a hit in the ’60s and solidified the song’s place as a rock classic.

Janis Joplin’s iconic rendition of “Piece of My Heart” in 1968, originally recorded by Erma Franklin in 1967, showcased the soulful cry of hurt that she captured with her powerhouse vocals. This track, performed at Woodstock in 1969, cemented Joplin as one of the greatest voices of late ’60s rock.

Aretha Franklin’s sensational version of “Respect” in 1967, originally a 1965 hit for Otis Redding, became a defining moment in her career, reaching #1 on the pop charts. Her phenomenal delivery and top-notch performance elevated the song to new heights, solidifying her status as the Queen of Soul.

These recordings serve as a testament to the transformative power of music and the timeless appeal of songs that bridge genres and eras, resonating with audiences across generations.