The Best Covers of The Who’s Songs by Other Artists
The Who, a powerhouse in the rock music landscape, has left an indelible mark on generations of musicians. Revered for their revolutionary sound in the 1960s and 1970s, The Who composed tracks that explored themes of rebellion, identity, and generational angst. Their influence is evident in the numerous artists who have endeavored to reinterpret and cover their iconic songs. These renditions, whether in live performances or studio recordings, showcase a broad array of styles and interpretations, illustrating the universal appeal and timelessness of The Who’s catalog.
Won’t Get Fooled Again by Van Halen
Renowned for their electric performances and legendary guitar work, Van Halen embarked on covering Won’t Get Fooled Again, a track originally known for its anti-establishment theme and thought-provoking lyrics. Their energetic version is immortalized in the live album “Live: Right Here, Right Now,” which captured the band’s intense stage presence and dynamic sound. Eddie Van Halen’s unforgettable guitar riffs seamlessly blend with the song’s original rebellious essence, offering a spirited homage to The Who while inserting Van Halen’s distinct rock flair. Notably, Van Halen maintained the song’s gallant spirit, ensuring it remained true to its roots while invigorating it with powerful guitar solos, providing a fresh take on an enduring classic.
Behind Blue Eyes by Limp Bizkit
Limp Bizkit, the pioneers of the nu-metal genre, took on the challenge of covering Behind Blue Eyes, injecting it with a modern twist that showcases the band’s unique sound. Emerging on their album “Results May Vary,” their rendition deviates from The Who’s classic rock overtones, setting a new tone through a fusion of emotive lyrics and contemporary soundscapes. Though musically distinct, Limp Bizkit preserved the emotional depth found within the song, emphasizing recurrent themes of isolation and introspection. The infusion of electronic elements and Fred Durst’s vocal interpretation brings a different dynamic to the track, connecting with newer generations while honoring the profound legacy of the original piece.
Substitute by Sex Pistols
Generating an undeniable punk rock edge, the Sex Pistols’ rendition of Substitute is characterized by its raw energy and unfiltered aggression. Known for challenging social norms and defying conventionality, the Sex Pistols excelled at embodying the defiant spirit within The Who’s lyrics, effectively bridging two revolutionary musical styles. Their interpretation of Substitute is celebrated for the distinct punk flare they bring to the song—an expression marked by rapid tempos, gritty guitar licks, and fervent vocal executions. This version succeeds in transforming The Who’s rock anthem into a quintessential punk rock experience, preserving the song’s essence while contributing to its continuation as an anthem for questioning societal structures.
The Kids Are Alright by Pearl Jam
Pearl Jam, an influential force in the alternative rock scene, found inspiration in The Who when covering The Kids Are Alright during their live performances. The song emerges across various bootlegs and compilations, testifying to its enduring resonance and the mutual appreciation between the bands. Pearl Jam’s passionate and soulful rendition accentuates the core message of youthful freedom and camaraderie that The Who initially conveyed. Eddie Vedder’s profound vocal expressions, coupled with the band’s instrumental prowess, breathe new life into the track, captivating audiences familiar with both bands. This cover showcases Pearl Jam’s respect for The Who’s foundational contributions to rock music, adding layers of contemporary intensity and emotionality.
I Can’t Explain by David Bowie
David Bowie’s artistic genius shines through in his cover of I Can’t Explain, a track included in his “Pin Ups” album—a dedicated tribute to the transformative sounds of the 1960s. Bowie, known for his boundary-pushing creativity and extraordinary vocal range, affixed a glam rock allure to the song, infusing it with elements that highlight his distinctive musical style. His version pays homage to The Who’s original ambience while simultaneously transforming it into a piece that aligns with Bowie’s unique artistic vision. With a fresh style that introduces glam rock elements and sophisticated production, Bowie’s cover exemplifies his capability as both a visionary artist and a fan of his musical contemporaries.
Through these various covers, the multifaceted legacy of The Who shines brightly, demonstrating the band’s vast influence across diverse musical genres. As each of these artists applies their unique stylistic signatures to the band’s celebrated tracks, they not only honor the enduring contributions of The Who but also introduce these classics to new audiences. The fusion of fresh interpretations and the foundational components of The Who’s music exhibits an ongoing reverence for the originality and innovation rooted in their songs. In doing so, these covers perpetuate the legacy of The Who, ensuring their music remains both influential and relevant across generations.
