Top 5 Stevie Wonder Cover Songs (Minus One) I Like Better than the Original

Generally, cover songs are never as good as the originals. And when we’re talking about a musical genius like Stevie Wonder that should always be true. But here are a few covers of Stevie Wonder songs that I think one-up the original.

    The Covers

  1. Gangsta’s Paradise by Coolio - not exactly a cover, I know. I think Coolio does a better job realizing Wonder’s vision on this.
  2. Lately by Jodeci - Didn’t know this was a cover. The original is too fast; this live version carries more emotion.
  3. They Won’t Go When I Go by George Michael - He really just nails this. Do people know what a soulful singer he is?
  4. Higher Ground by Red Hot Chili Peppers - There’s more power and urgency here.
    The Originals by Stevie Wonder

  1. Pastime Paradise
  2. Lately
  3. They Won’t Go When I Go
  4. Higher Ground

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  • 3 Responses to “ Top 5 Stevie Wonder Cover Songs (Minus One) I Like Better than the Original”

    1. nate says:

      It’s a distant 5th, but when you’re in a loungy mood, Mel Torme covered Superstition. The horns are nice.

      If you have iTunes, this link will take you to it.

      http://snipurl.com/24z25

      Also, is your list in order? I’d move 3 and 4 up to 1 and 2 respectively.

    2. jose says:

      Much props to the Velvet Fog, but I can’t imagine liking anyone’s version of Superstition over Stevie Wonder’s.

      The list is in reverse order, saving the best for last. It is confusing, isn’t it?

    3. nate says:

      ooh. Right, I forgot it was “covers that are better than the original”. I certainly like the original Superstition better!
      Regarding the ordering….I see why you would list in that way….take a cue from David Letterman…..just number them in descending order ending with #1 favorite cover….etc.

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