Mixed into nearly every set at a live show is a song from your favorite band that was written and originally performed by another artist or band. The concept of the cover certainly isn't a new idea. But with swirling debates on copyright issues and the desire for artists to protect their property and creations, it is anticipatory as to when the argument over cover songs might ensue (and surprising it has not already come up). This is one area, where in many cases, another band or artist covering a song is almost looked at as a salute or show of appreciation. Until someone is tagged for infringement, I will wait for the conversation to be sparked by a legal expert much wiser than me. And for now, I will simply enjoy listening to multiple translations of musical ideas.

One of the most memorable, not to be mistaken with best, covers I have heard live was by Homegrown when they opened up for MxPx and The Get Up Kids at a show that now seems like lifetimes ago. Homegrown opened the show with a cover of Barbie Girl. I truly did find it to be annoying, yet entertaining. MxPx has done its share of covers and even released a full album, appropriately titled: On the Cover. Not to be outdone, a band that nearly everyone is familiar with - Me First and the Gimme Gimmes - decided to base its entire act on playing other artists music. So, leaving them out of the conversation (because frankly, Me First would ultimately dominate the dialogue), I have gathered a short list of some of my favorite covers heard live. There is definitely a much longer list of all-time favorite covers stashed away somewhere in my collection. But based on only live performances I have witnessed, here are some of my favorites.











Like A Prayer by H2O (Disregard the actual video. This is the only copy I could find).


*One of my favorites, which I could not find a copy online that would do it justice, is Come On Eileen by The City On Film.



What are some of your favorites?