Bette Midler, TLC, and the very best cover songs by women we love

By Laura kadner

October 27, 2014

By Laura kadner

October 27, 2014

So Bette Midler just got cooler, if that’s even possible. We all know she’s an award-winning singer and actress who’s appeared in some of our all-time fave movies like Hocus Pocus and The First Wives Club. But what you might not know, is that she’s also a fan of one of the girl groups of the ’90s: TLC. Indeed, Ms. Midler is covering one of their greatest hits on her newest album. So if you love Bette Midler AND TLC’s hit song “Waterfalls”—this one’s for you.

Midler does TLC proud with her cover of their iconic song, and her new CD, It’s the Girls! includes 15 cover songs of famous girl groups. Bette skips the rap portion of the TLC classic, which I think we can all agree is for the best. With Bette Midler’s love of girl power, what better time to celebrate some of our favorite songs covered by female artists?

1. She & Him—”You Really Got a Hold on Me”

No one better to kick off this cover-fest than Ms. Deschanel herself. This live version of She & Him’s performance of Smokey Robinson’s classic is simply charming.

2. Whitney Houston – “I Will Always Love You”

For most of my life, I didn’t even know this was a cover of the original by Dolly Parton. Both versions are spectacular in their own way and there’s nothing better than one awesome lady singing another awesome lady’s awesome song.

3. Ellie Goulding – “Your Song”

You either love this song because of Elton John or because of the rendition in Moulin Rouge. This cover brings a little something new and special to the mix.

4. Linda Ronstadt – “Blue Bayou”

Linda covers Roy Orbison’s “Blue Bayou” and totally kills it. Do yourself a favor and take a listen. If not to Linda, track down the cover sung by Norah Jones and M. Ward, which is also great.

6. Natalie Imbruglia – “Torn”

Prepared to have your mind blown because this is actually a cover. The original was performed by Ednaswap and you should definitely take a listen!

7. Daughter – “Get Lucky”

Gettin‘ more modern with Daughter’s moody rendition of Daft Punk’s “Get Lucky.” It brings a bit more intrigue and mystery to the originally upbeat tune.

8. Marina and the Diamonds – “Boyfriend”

Sorry, Bieber, but I think Marina’s got you beat at your own game.

9. Cat Power – “Sea of Love”

Leave it to Cat Power to take this little baby from its 1950s origins performed by Phil Phillips and give it a sultry twist. Just try not to be moved by this song–we dare you!

10. The Fugees – “Killing Me Softly”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hPuS9Y8czFM

Say what you will about Lauryn Hill, but the woman’s got talent. She brings new life to this song made famous by Roberta Flack. Check out this extra-special live version where Lauryn and Roberta sing side-by-side.

11. Adele – “Make You Feel My Love”