The Best and Worst of Glee

Glee, which aired from 2009-2015, covered hundreds of songs. Throughout 6 seasons, many covers became just as iconic, if not more iconic, than the original songs. Some covers, of course, fell short as the cast was not able to match every artist’s unique touch. Although controversial, some Glee covers are better than the original songs. Here are our opinions on covers that are better, equally as good, and worse than the original:

Better than the original

Rumour Has It / Someone Like You - The Treble Tones

Originally sung by Adele

The emotion in this performance is absolutely unmatched. Amber Riley and Naya Rivera complement each other exceptionally well in this mashup. This mashup is used to cover a very serious topic of being betrayed and outed, which enhances the emotion of the two.

Somewhere Only We Know - Blaine Anderson

Originally sung by Keane

Darren Criss’ emotional performance of this song really brings it to another level. The original version is missing some of the strength that can only be achieved by Criss’ voice. His loveable character and the heartwarming story being told really helps bring this cover to another level.

Equally as good

My Man - Rachel Berry

Originally sung by Barbra Streisand

To say Lea Michelle’s cover of “My Man” is better than Barbra Streisand’s version would be an insult. However, Michelle’s powerful vocals and tear-jerking performance allow this cover to be considered iconic. Both Michelle and Streisand add their own unique style to the song making both versions equally as great!

Valerie - Santana Lopez

Originally sung by Amy Winehouse

This performance is so electrifying. Naya Rivera adds her own unique touch to this cover making it exciting to listen to. It is one of Glee’s most well-known covers, and deservedly so. However, Amy Winehouse’s original is iconic. Both songs are equally sensational!

Worse than the original

Live While Weʼre Young - Glee Cast

Originally sung by One Direction

The Glee Cast’s attempt to present themselves as a boy band, unfortunately, failed in this cover. The performance sounds cheesy, and they tried too hard to match One Direction’s sound instead of making it their own. Many pop songs covered in Glee are incredible, but this one missed the mark.

Mean - Puck and Coach Beiste

Originally sung by Taylor Swift

Although the original is great, Mark Salling and Dot-Marie Jone’s voices don’t work well together for this song. There were defnitely better choices for this scene.