The Most Covered Songs in History: Debates and Highlights

When it comes to determining the most covered song in history, the answer varies widely depending on the source and criteria used. This article delves into these debates and presents some of the most famous covers and their origins.

What is the Most Covered Song in History?

Many sources claim that Yesterday by the Beatles is the most covered song of all time, with over 2000 known recorded versions. However, other sources, such as the Guinness Book of World Records, suggest that the aria Summertime from George Gershwin's opera Porgy and Bess has more than 67,000 covers. Porgy and Bess was first performed in 1935, predating the Beatles' iconic song by decades, making it a strong contender for the title.

Summertime: The Most Covered Aria

The aria Summertime has been recorded more than 25,000 times, according to various sources. It was composed in 1934 by George Gershwin, with lyrics by Dubose Heyward. The song has inspired countless cover versions across different genres and eras, each adding its unique flavor and interpretation.

The original recording of Summertime was done by Abbie Mitchell in 1935, and since then, numerous artists have covered it. Some notable versions include:

Janis Joplin: Her rendition of the song was widely acclaimed, with her powerful voice and emotive performance. Billy Stewart: As a personal favorite, his cover showcases the gospel roots of the song, giving it a soulful twist.

The Most Covered Rock Song: Louie Louie

In the realm of rock music, the most covered song is Louie Louie. This RB classic by The Kingsmen has been performed by numerous artists, with many versions circulating in both the charts and underground culture. The sheer number of covers of this song is a testament to its enduring popularity and cultural influence.

Other Notable Covers: Happy Birthday

While not necessarily the most covered song of all time, the birthday anthem Happy Birthday has been performed and recorded countless times. Additionally, other songs like Yesterday and popular stage productions have numerous covers, as shown in the Wikipedia articles on these topics.

It's Sunny by Bobby Hebb

Although it may not be the most covered song, the song It's a Sunny Day by Bobby Hebb is in the top ranks of frequently performed music. The song has been played on the air for at least 6 million times, according to BMI. This song's popularity underscores the enduring power of a catchy, uplifting melody.

Conclusion: The Debate Continues

The question of which song is the most covered in history is a subject of ongoing debate. With different sources reporting varying numbers, the true answer remains elusive. However, Summertime from Porgy and Bess is a strong contender, having been recorded more than 67,000 times and inspiring numerous memorable performances.

While precise statistics are disputed, the sheer number of covers is a testament to the universal appeal and timeless quality of these songs. Whether it's a heartfelt version of Summertime or a sizzling rendition of Louie Louie, each cover adds its unique flavor, making the debate all the more interesting and engaging.