Jeff’s Top Five Cover Songs [VIDEOS]

Pick only 5 great cover songs?  IMPOSSIBLE.  There are so many.  How could I possibly pick only 5?  Now, 30 would work, but I know that would be too many for this post.  Maybe I'll publish a series of these so I get everyone in!  Cover songs help carry the entire business.  We are all inspired by our favorite music and so many artists are eager to make their own versions of songs that inspire them.  You would be surprised at how many there are!  Here are my picks, from 5 down to 1.

5. 'Summertime Blues' - Blue Cheer

My number 5 choice goes to Blue Cheer for their version of this old Eddie Cochran classic 'Summertime Blues.' Even though The Who's version is more popular, a lot of credit needs to be piled on the Cheer, who helped usher in what became known as "Heavy Metal."  Plus it's just plain smokin' fun!

4. 'You Really Got Me" - Van Halen

Van Halen comes in at number 4 with their high octane 1978 version of The Kinks 'You Really Got Me.' C'mon, how can you possibly favor the original over this?  OK, purists aside.  The video clip version here catches the band at their Roth peak, buttocks and all!

3. 'Black Magic Women' - Santana

Number 3: Santana with "Black Magic Woman".  I'm guessing in 1970 when Carlos and crew did this, they had no idea it would still be loved so much 41 years later.  A testament to a great song, thanks to Peter Green and Fleetwood Mac.  Heck, the original is great too!

2. 'With a Little Help From My Friends' - Joe Cocker

Cover master Joe Cocker comes in at number 2 with his timeless version of  The Beatles 'With A Little Help From My Friends.'  His Woodstock version (included here) made him a star in 1969.  It didn't hurt The Wonder Years TV show either!

1. 'All Along the Watchtower' - Jimi Hendrix

And finally, James Marshall Hendrix magical version of Bob Dylan's 'All Along The Watchtower.'  Easily my number 1 pick.  Even Dylan himself admitted it is the best version of it he's ever heard.  Good job Jimi!

These happen to be my personal top five, I do however have many more in mind.  Chicago's version of 'I'm A Man', Manfred Mann's penchant for Bruce tunes with 'Spirit In The Night'  and so many more.  What would be your top five?  Try to assemble your own list, it's tough to pick only five!  Comment and let me know.  Let us all know!