The five best covers of John Lennon’s Beatles songs
John Lennon’s contributions to The Beatles’ catalog were groundbreaking and influential. His distinctive voice, introspective lyrics, and avant-garde approach to music reshaped popular culture. Many artists have since covered Lennon’s Beatles songs, adding their unique interpretations and perspectives. Here are five of the best covers of his Beatles songs, showcasing the lasting legacy of his work.
### 1. **”Imagine” by A Perfect Circle (2004)**
Although not a Beatles song per se, “Imagine” is one of Lennon’s most iconic solo works, and its roots in his vision for peace and unity are undeniable. A Perfect Circle’s cover of “Imagine” is hauntingly beautiful and dramatically different from the original. The band, led by Maynard James Keenan, transforms the anthem of peace into a haunting, atmospheric rendition. The minimalistic piano and sparse instrumentation create a somber atmosphere, with Keenan’s evocative vocals adding a layer of emotional intensity. It is a departure from the original, but it captures the essence of the song’s message in a fresh and poignant way.
### 2. **”Come Together” by Aerosmith (1978)**
Aerosmith’s cover of “Come Together” is perhaps one of the most well-known and successful renditions of a Beatles song. Released as part of the soundtrack to the film *Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band*, Aerosmith’s version brings a hard rock edge to Lennon’s original. With Steven Tyler’s gritty vocals and the band’s signature bluesy instrumentation, Aerosmith takes the groovy, funky rhythm of “Come Together” and injects it with raw energy. The cover was well-received by fans of both The Beatles and Aerosmith, and it has remained a staple in the band’s live performances. Aerosmith’s interpretation is both faithful to the spirit of the original and a bold reinterpretation, showcasing the flexibility of Lennon’s songwriting.
### 3. **”Across the Universe” by Fiona Apple (1997)**
Fiona Apple’s version of “Across the Universe” is a masterful reimagining of one of Lennon’s most poetic compositions. Apple’s cover, released on the *Pleasantville* movie soundtrack, strips the song down to its bare essence with minimalistic piano and her haunting, emotional vocals. The stripped-back arrangement allows Apple’s voice to take center stage, and her delicate, almost ethereal delivery brings a new layer of vulnerability to the song. While Lennon’s original “Across the Universe” was a dreamy and philosophical meditation on the cosmos, Apple’s rendition is deeply personal, with her performance conveying a sense of fragility and introspection. The cover is tender yet powerful, adding a fresh emotional depth to the classic track.
### 4. **”Strawberry Fields Forever” by Ben Harper (2004)**
Ben Harper’s cover of “Strawberry Fields Forever” is a soulful, stripped-down take on one of Lennon’s most intricate and psychedelic songs. Harper, known for his fusion of folk, rock, and blues, brings his signature style to the song, infusing it with a mellow, reflective quality. His acoustic guitar, combined with his heartfelt vocals, gives the song a new sense of warmth and intimacy. Harper’s version emphasizes the song’s contemplative lyrics, highlighting its themes of nostalgia and longing, while his laid-back interpretation evokes a sense of personal introspection. The cover shows the timeless nature of Lennon’s work and how it can transcend genres, remaining relevant and moving in a modern context.
### 5. **”Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown)” by The Django Django (2012)**
The Django Django’s cover of “Norwegian Wood” from their self-titled debut album is a unique and experimental take on one of Lennon’s earliest and most beloved Beatles compositions. The original version, with its sitar-infused sound and reflective lyrics, was revolutionary for its time. The Django Django version keeps the song’s essence but transforms it with their signature style—psychedelic, electronic, and a little quirky. The upbeat rhythm, pulsating bassline, and electronic effects give the song a modern, indie-pop feel while still honoring the original’s melancholic tone. The band’s innovative approach shows how Lennon’s songwriting remains an enduring source of inspiration for contemporary artists looking to push boundaries while maintaining respect for the source material.
### Conclusion
John Lennon’s songs with The Beatles are some of the most covered in popular music history, and these five renditions represent the diversity and innovation of artists interpreting his work. Whether through a haunting, introspective cover like Fiona Apple’s “Across the Universe,” or a high-energy rock version like Aerosmith’s “Come Together,” these artists demonstrate the universality of Lennon’s music. His songs continue to inspire new generations of musicians, and these covers prove that Lennon’s legacy remains as powerful as ever.