3 Phenomenal Folk Covers of Classic Rock Songs

Great lyrics are great lyrics, it doesn’t matter what genre of music you put them in. As long as they are true, poetically sound, and rhythmically catchy, great lyrics are going to shine no matter what instruments are being played. Even when you are talking about the sonically contrasting genres of folk and classic rock.

The lyrics in a great folk song and a great classic rock son often tread in similar waters. However, sonically speaking, they differ in stark contrast. Regardless, and as stated previously, good poetry and lyrics can reside in any casing, and these three folk covers of classic rock songs prove that true.

“Dead Flowers” by Townes Van Zandt

Townes Van Zandt is one of the greatest songwriters of all time, though, every once in a while he strayed away from his own lyrics and covered somebody else’s song. That being so, Van Zandt covered the Rolling Stones’ 1971 hit, “Dead Flowers” on their album Sticky Fingers.

When Van Zandt sings this song you would think he wrote it. The themes and how they are articulated perfectly match the metaphysical ambiance Van Zandt so often depicts. Frankly, if you’re a Van Zandt fan, it can be a bit distressing when you realize he isn’t the song’s original author.

“Atlantic City” by The Band

Many people of the younger generation often see the song “Atlantic City” belonging to The Band. However, as most of the old-heads know, it doesn’t, as it belongs to the best songwriter in true classic rock history, Bruce Springsteen. Thanks to the song being a ballad, it fits seamlessly into the genre of folk.

Given this seamless fit, The Band scored hoards of success with the single. Following its 1993 release, the single didn’t chart for the band. However, as the years passed, “Atlantic City” has solidified itself as one of the folk band’s biggest all-time hits.

“Let It Be” by Joan Baez

Joan Baez’s folk cover of The Beatles generational hit, “Let It Be,” is completely original. Other than the lyrics and the melody, there is no part of the song that mimics The Beatles’ original version. Released in 1971, Baez’ cover is a refreshing folk re-imagining of the epically emotional song.

This song will never be mistaken as someone else’s nor will any Beatles song. However, Baez’s cover and the arrangements accompanying it bolster the song’s lyrics to the utmost degree. This is partially attributed to the fact that you’re not getting lost in Paul McCartney’s melodic voice. Nonetheless, you should certainly give it a listen.

Photo by David Redfern/Redferns