Some songs are simply untouchable. They exist in a realm of sonic perfection, defying attempts at replication, no matter how skilled the musician. It’s not necessarily about technical difficulty – though that often plays a role – but rather a confluence of factors: a singular vocal performance, innovative instrumentation, and an overall vibe that proves elusive to capture. As we approach Valentine’s Day , a look at some of rock’s most notoriously difficult songs to cover reveals why certain tracks remain firmly in the realm of the original artist.
The challenge of covering isn’t merely about hitting the right notes. It’s about recreating the *feeling* of a song, the intangible quality that connects with listeners on a deeper level. Many artists have taken on these iconic tracks, and while some attempts are admirable, they often fall short of the original’s magic. As one observer noted, covers aren’t necessarily *bad*; they simply highlight the near-impossibility of truly replicating these masterpieces.
“Army Of Me” by Björk (1995)
Björk’s 1995 industrial rock anthem, “Army Of Me,” stands as a prime example of a song that resists easy imitation. The core of the difficulty lies in Björk’s utterly unique vocal style. Her range, phrasing, and emotional delivery are instantly recognizable and incredibly difficult to emulate. But the challenge extends beyond vocals. The song’s sound design is equally crucial, creating a powerful and unsettling atmosphere. Replicating that sonic landscape – the heavy bass, the driving percussion, the layered textures – would require not just a talented band, but a deep understanding of Björk’s artistic vision.
The song, from her album Post, isn’t just a collection of notes and rhythms; it’s a statement. It’s a visceral experience. To cover it effectively would require a performer capable of channeling that same raw energy and emotional intensity, a task that seems almost insurmountable.
“White Rabbit” by Jefferson Airplane (1967)
Jefferson Airplane’s 1967 psychedelic masterpiece, “White Rabbit,” presents a different set of challenges. While the melody is relatively straightforward, and the song notably lacks a traditional chorus, the true difficulty lies in capturing the essence of Grace Slick’s vocal performance and the song’s overall psychedelic atmosphere. Slick’s voice is distinctive – powerful, yet ethereal – and demands a singer with a similar range and control.
Beyond the vocals, “White Rabbit” is deeply rooted in its analog, psychedelic sound. The song’s swirling instrumentation and dreamlike quality are products of its time and recording techniques. A modern-day band attempting a cover might struggle to avoid a “clean” and polished sound, losing the original’s raw, hallucinatory edge. However, the metal band Sanctuary did manage a decent rendition back in 1988, demonstrating that a successful cover is possible, though still a significant undertaking.
“Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen (1975)
Perhaps the most frequently cited example of an “uncoverable” song is Queen’s 1975 epic, “Bohemian Rhapsody.” The song’s complexity is legendary, seamlessly blending operatic vocals, hard rock, and balladry into a six-minute tour de force. The question of how to replicate Freddie Mercury’s vocal performance alone is daunting. His range, power, and emotional nuance are unparalleled.
But the challenges don’t stop there. “Bohemian Rhapsody” is renowned for its intricate vocal harmonies, Brian May’s iconic guitar solo, and its overall theatricality. To faithfully recreate the song would require a band with exceptional musicianship, vocal prowess, and a willingness to embrace the song’s inherent drama. Numerous artists have attempted covers, but none have truly captured the magic of the original. And perhaps that’s as it should be. Some songs are simply untouchable, existing as singular artistic achievements.
The difficulty in covering these songs isn’t a reflection of a lack of talent in other musicians. Rather, it’s a testament to the unique brilliance of the original artists and the specific alchemy that came together to create these iconic tracks. These songs aren’t just songs; they’re cultural touchstones, frozen moments in time that continue to resonate with listeners decades after their release. They represent a level of artistry that is, for all intents and purposes, impossible to replicate perfectly.
