6 Incredible Elvis Covers

Today marks the 40th anniversary of the death of Elvis Presley. It’s hard to fathom that the King has been gone for 40 years (or has he?!?), especially when you consider how his influence continues to leave its mark on popular music. Instead of trying to create a list of the best Elvis songs, we wanted to look at his continued influence so we’ve picked 6 incredible Elvis covers to help celebrate the King’s enduring legacy. All of the songs on this list were released after August 16, 1977.

James Brown – Love Me Tender

The Godfather of Soul gave a beautiful tribute to the King roughly one year after his death. They were two of the biggest stars in music and had been friends for about 10 years, bonding over their love of gospel music. Both Elvis and JB were members of the first class of inductees into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986

Fine Young Cannibals – Suspicious Minds

One of two distinctly ’80s songs on our list, Fine Young Cannibals version of “Suspicious Minds” is a JACK Up The ’80s staple. Dwight Yoakam also did a pretty great version.

Tom Petty – Wooden Heart

Tom Petty grew up as a huge Elvis Presley fan and credits meeting the King when he was 11 as the moment that got him hooked on Rock ‘n Roll. His cover of the lesser known “Wooden Heart” is a song from the first Elvis album Petty ever owned, the soundtrack to G.I. Blues.

Pet Shop Boys – Always On My Mind

The second ’80s song on this list is one of the most popular Elvis covers ever, with the Pet Shop Boys putting their distinctive touch on the classic and re-imagining it for the ’80s. The song was originally performed by PSB for a television special marking the 10th anniversary of Elvis’ death and was so well received that the band decided to record and release a proper studio version. Willie Nelson’s version is incredible too.

Beck – Can’t Help Falling in Love

The newest cover song on this list is from Beck, who tackles the beautiful “Can’t Help Falling In Love”. For anyone who only knows Beck from “Loser” and “Where It’s At”, this wonderful cover will give you a new appreciation for his vocal talents.

ZZ Top – Viva Las Vegas

Recorded as one of two new songs for their 1992 Greatest Hits, ZZ Top pays tribute to Elvis in classic ZZ Top fashion. The song peaked at 16 on the Modern Rock charts and is a staple on any Elvis cover song playlist.

Honourable Mention: Queen’s live performance of “Jailhouse Rock”, Andrea Bocelli’s live version of “I Can’t Help Falling in Love” and The Cramps “Heartbreak Hotel”.

Let us know your favourite Elvis cover and why.