Introducing a new regular feature for the Coverville website, “Who Did It Better?”, where the Coverville community gets to weigh in on those most controversial of topics: who did the better cover of a song. Today brings back one of the earliest discussions from the first few months of Coverville, the Cale vs. Buckley “Hallelujah” battle.
Putting aside what might be your favorite version of the song (the Cohen original, the Willie Nelson or k. d. lang versions, or even the Anthony Michael Hall take), which of the following two versions do you think nailed that secret chord?
I must be the only person alive who hates this song in every incarnation
MrCris: I have to agree, it has probably been over done…. I do, however, love the imagery in the lyrics!
Heard this song more than enough. I prefer the Me First and the Gimee Gimees version (if there is one) 🙂
Jeff Buckleys live version is goose-bump material (IMHO)
Ok…after starting this off on such a negative vibe I had to go back with an open mind and listen to the various versions. (actually got suckered into it by hearing the Cohen version while watching Watchmen)
After further review I'll have to go with John Cale of the above choices.
I like both versions, and the Rufus Wainwright version done for the Shrek soundtrack. That said, you should check out the a cappella one done by the Freshman Fifteen on their album Game Time.
I just want to thanks that the vote compares covers not cover to orignal.
I just saw Bon Jovi last week and Jon did a fantastic version. Look it up!