4 Times an Artist Felt Jilted After Someone Else Covered Their Song, Even if It Was a Hit
The article highlights four artists who felt overshadowed, uncomfortable or frustrated when others covered their songs, despite some versions becoming major hits. The examples show how successful reinterpretations can bring recognition to a song while leaving its original performer or writer feeling neglected.
– Big Mama Thornton resented Elvis Presley’s success with “Hound Dog”, believing she received insufficient credit.
– Irma Thomas felt The Rolling Stones’ “Time Is On My Side” overshadowed her recording and damaged her career during the British Invasion.
– George Harrison disliked Frank Sinatra’s version of “Something”, partly because Sinatra’s style differed from the sound Harrison had imagined.
– Trent Reznor initially found Johnny Cash’s rendition of “Hurt” invasive, but later viewed it as an empathetic artistic interpretation.
- Successful covers can still make original artists feel overlooked.
- Big Mama Thornton and Irma Thomas felt commercially overshadowed.
- Trent Reznor eventually embraced Johnny Cash’s interpretation of “Hurt”.