Better Than the Original: 10 Bodacious Michael Jackson Covers

When it comes to Michael Jackson, few covers are better than the originals. The King of Pop left an indelible mark on the music industry with his unmatched talent, catchy tunes, and groundbreaking performances. But what if I told you that there are cover songs out there that might just rival, or even surpass, the greatness of the originals? It’s a bold claim, to be sure, but in the world of music, the unexpected often happens.

In this article, we’ll explore 10 cover songs that have dared to take on the classics of Michael Jackson and, in the eyes (or ears) of some, have emerged as contenders for the title of “Better than the Original.” But before we dive into the list, let’s set the stage and examine what makes a cover song truly remarkable.

The Art of the Cover Song

Cover songs are a unique and fascinating aspect of the music industry. They involve artists paying homage to their musical influences or reimagining popular tracks in their own style. When done well, a cover can breathe new life into a song, bringing out emotions or interpretations that the original may not have conveyed.

However, not all cover songs are created equal. Some merely mimic the original, while others take the source material in bold, innovative directions. The best cover songs often bring a fresh perspective, revealing something new about the song or the artist performing it.

So, with that in mind, let’s embark on our musical journey and discover whether these 10 cover songs can truly be considered “Better than Michael Jackson.”

1. Alien Ant Farm – “Smooth Criminal” (Original by Michael Jackson)

We start our list with a bang – or should I say, a crunching guitar riff. Alien Ant Farm’s cover of “Smooth Criminal” took the world by storm in 2001. This rock-infused version of Jackson’s hit song not only brought the track into the new millennium but also introduced it to an entirely different audience.

The question here is whether Alien Ant Farm’s high-energy rendition of “Smooth Criminal” surpasses the original’s undeniable groove and MJ’s signature dance moves. Does it capture the essence of the song while giving it a fresh twist? Is it in fact better than the original? That’s a debate worth having.

2. Chris Cornell – “Billie Jean” (Original by Michael Jackson)

Chris Cornell, the legendary frontman of Soundgarden and Audioslave, was known for his powerhouse vocals and emotional delivery. In his cover of “Billie Jean,” Cornell strips away the pop elements and replaces them with haunting acoustic guitar and his soulful voice.

Check it out on YouTube.

The question that lingers here is whether Cornell’s raw and emotional interpretation surpasses the original’s infectious rhythm. Can a rock icon bring something to the table that Michael Jackson himself didn’t?

3. The Civil Wars – “Billie Jean” (Original by Michael Jackson)

Yes, we’re revisiting “Billie Jean,” but this time with a completely different take. The Civil Wars, known for their mesmerizing harmonies and folk-infused sound, presented their version of the classic hit.

Listen to it on YouTube.

The question here is whether The Civil Wars’ stripped-down, acoustic rendition transforms “Billie Jean” into a haunting ballad that rivals the original’s dancefloor appeal. Can simplicity sometimes outshine complexity?