Joan Jett is a celebrated name in the realm of rock music, known for her tough and talented persona. With her commanding voice and aggressive delivery, Jett has made a mark in the industry and has a reputation for putting her own stamp on cover songs. Her distinctive style and sound allow her to infuse new life into each song she covers, making it uniquely her own.
Crimson and Clover
The female lead singer, accompanied by her band the Blackhearts, transforms a song by Tommy James & the Shondells into a fierce rock anthem, infused with punk rock elements. Despite maintaining the original’s rhythmic swaying pace, the band intensifies the track with aggressive guitar riffs and a powerful conclusion.
Fun, Fun, Fun
Joan Jett’s version of The Beach Boys’ iconic track “I Can’t Help Myself” deviates from the band’s original surf-rock aesthetic, introducing a barroom blues vibe. Jett’s gritty vocals bring a fresh level of intensity to the formerly smooth and sunny melody.
Have You Ever Seen the Rain
While maintaining the essence of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s original song, “Have You Ever Seen the Rain,” Joan Jett adds her own spin to the classic rock tune with her distinct vocal style, creating a new texture to the familiar sound.
I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll
Joan Jett’s hit song “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” was originally performed by the Arrows, but it was Jett’s cover of the song with the Blackhearts that made it a huge success. Jett’s version of the song, which had a cleaner and sharper sound than the original, quickly climbed the charts and became a chart-topping hit.
Smells Like Teen Spirit
In 2014, at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony, Joan Jett took to the stage with Dave Grohl, Krist Novoselic, and Pat Smear to perform Nirvana’s iconic ’90s hit “Smells Like Teen Spirit”. Jett’s electrifying performance exuded a sense of unshakable confidence and immense power.
Real Wild Child
Joan Jett amps up the energy on her cover of Iggy Pop’s hit song “Real Wild Child,” infusing it with even more power and intensity than the original. With a racing rock sound from start to finish, Jett’s version turns the ’80s synth bop into a wild and frenzied rock anthem.
Love Stinks
The somber tune of “Love Stinks” is transformed when Joan Jett takes the stage. Jett’s unique style gives the J. Geils Band classic a new level of conviction, emphasizing the truth of the lyrics – that when love goes wrong, it really hurts.
Tush
Jett’s version of Z.Z. Top’s “Tush” maintains the song’s fiery country-rock energy, but it is her deep, smoky, and gritty voice that provides a unique touch to the track.
Rebel, Rebel
Covering a David Bowie classic is a challenging task, but Joan Jett’s version of “Rebel, Rebel” is impressive and worthy of attention.
Dirty Deeds
With her commanding vocals and aggressive guitar riffs, Joan Jett elevates AC/DC’s classic hit “Dirty Deeds” to an even higher level of energy and intensity. Her rock-steady cover is a worthy competitor to the thunderous original.