The Best Like A Version Covers
Triple J’s Like A Version is a celebration of creativity, giving artists the chance to reimagine familiar songs in their own unique style. Over the years, it’s produced some truly unforgettable performances. These are the covers that, for me, best capture the spirit of what Like A Version is all about.
Top 10
Oct 31, 2024
Triple J’s Like A Version has become a staple for music fans, offering a space where artists step outside their comfort zones to put their own spin on someone else’s track. It's always fascinating to hear how a song can be reimagined, sometimes revealing a completely new side to it. With so many memorable performances over the years, narrowing it down is no easy feat — but these are the covers I find myself returning to time and time again.
1. Childish Gambino – So Into You (Tamia cover)
Donald Glover stripped things right back for this sultry, heartfelt take on Tamia's 1998 R&B classic. His smooth, vulnerable delivery is spellbinding, breathing a fresh tenderness into the track. It's a masterclass in minimalism, proving less can be more.
2. DMA's – Believe (Cher cover)
The DMAs took Cher's towering pop anthem and reworked it into a wistful indie ballad. Their acoustic guitars and frontman Tommy O'Dell's raw vocals give it a completely different emotional weight — it's both familiar and startlingly fresh.
3. Royel Otis – Murder on the Dancefloor (Sophie Ellis-Bextor cover)
Royel Otis gave Sophie Ellis-Bextor's disco staple a dreamy indie makeover. With jangly guitars and lush harmonies, the duo reimagined the dancefloor hit as something breezy and nostalgic. It's impossible not to smile while listening.
4. Little Simz – Feel Good Inc (Gorillaz cover)
Little Simz brought her signature poise and energy to this Gorillaz classic. Her crisp delivery and the live band's slick, funky arrangement turned the track into a fresh, genre-blurring masterpiece. It's a reminder of why she's one of the most exciting artists in the game.
5. AURORA – Teardrop (Massive Attack cover)
Norwegian singer AURORA lent her ethereal voice to this haunting Massive Attack hit, and the result was pure magic. Her delicate, otherworldly tone brings a new fragility to the song, making it a spine-tingling listen.
6. Denzel Curry – Bulls on Parade (Rage Against the Machine cover)
Denzel Curry didn't just cover Rage Against the Machine — he embodied them. His ferocious energy and impassioned delivery turned this protest anthem into an explosive performance that felt as urgent and raw as the original.
7. HAIM – That Don't Impress Me Much (Shania Twain cover)
HAIM's playful spin on Shania Twain's iconic track is pure fun. With tight harmonies and a laid-back groove, they somehow make it tongue-in-cheek and genuinely cool. It's a reminder of their effortless charm and musicianship.
8. Triple One – Time After Time (Cyndi Lauper cover)
Sydney's Triple One flipped this '80s classic on its head, blending rap and rock elements into an emotionally charged rendition. It's gritty, unexpected, and a testament to their ability to push boundaries while staying true to the spirit of the original.
9. Confidence Man – Heaven (DJ Sammy cover)
Confidence Man took DJ Sammy's early 2000s club anthem and turned it into an indie-disco fever dream. With pulsating synths and their signature cheeky energy, this cover is just as euphoric as the original — but in a whole new way.
10. The Wiggles – Elephant (Tame Impala cover)
Yes, those Wiggles. The children's entertainers surprised everyone with this funky, faithful take on Tame Impala's psych-rock anthem. Their cover is packed with joy and musicianship, reminding us why they've been loved across generations.