5 Classic Songs Revived by Hard Rock Covers – Grunge

The Goat’s Head Soup, one of the most underrated works in The Rolling Stones’ discography, may have been overshadowed by the likes of “Brown Sugar” and “Gimme Shelter.” The album’s lead single, “Angie,” remains a testament to the band’s ability to craft and deliver a sincere ballad with Mick Jagger’s heart-rending vocal performance. The stripped-down, acoustic nature of the song allows the lyrics to shine, underscoring the pain of heartbreak.
Fast forward to the turn of the millennium, and the nu-metal scene was a behemoth in the industry. Bands like Limp Bizkit were ruling the airwaves and commanding audiences with their aggression and infectious hooks. However, nobody expected Limp Bizkit to take on The Rolling Stones’ classic ballad, “Angie.”
In 2001, Limp Bizkit reimagined “Angie” in their own chaotic style, renaming it “Faith.” The cover, although vastly different from the original in terms of musicality, retains the essence of the song, with Fred Durst’s raw vocals carrying the emotional weight of the lyrics. Limp Bizkit injects their signature rap-metal sound into the song, turning it into an angst-ridden anthem that resonated with a whole new audience.
“Faith” became a massive hit for Limp Bizkit, reaching the top five on the charts in several countries. The cover’s success not only solidified Limp Bizkit’s standing in the music industry but also introduced a new generation of listeners to The Rolling Stones’ timeless catalog. The band’s bold reimagining of “Angie” signified a crossing of genres that few expected but ultimately proved to be a stroke of genius. The driving guitars and pounding drums of Limp Bizkit’s “Faith” breathed new life into a classic ballad, leaving fans of both bands with a renewed appreciation for the power of a great cover song, demonstrating that when executed well, covers can bring back classic songs to a whole new audience.