Oct. 11, 1971, is a day that will be forever marked in music history, for on that day, John Lennon released “Imagine.” This song has now gone on to become one of the most performed songs of the 20th century. Upon the song being released, it went to the top of the charts in the United States and United Kingdom. Since 1971, the song has taken on a life of its own and has been performed during many different historical moments.
"Imagine" has become so powerful and inspirational that it is often covered by many artists across the world. It takes on a life of its own in the hands of different artists but the message behind the song always stays the same. Eddie Vedder recently made headlines when he covered “Imagine” saying that it was “one of the most powerful songs ever written.” Vedder performed it live during a concert after making several statements about the current conflict in Israel.
Image courtesy of Thornton/Alequin/INFphoto.com
TheCelebrityCafe.com is counting down the top ten covers of “Imagine.” From Stevie Wonder to Lady Gaga, performing this song is an honor and takes an incredible level of talent. Did your favorite cover of “Imagine” not make the list? Comment and add your favorite.
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10. Emeli Sande
Emeli Sande brought a unique and soulful feel to this classic song. The result was powerful and has became an instant fan favorite.
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9. Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder is a musical legend in his own right so when fans were able to hear Wonder perform this classic song, the result was magical.
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8. Cher Lloyd
X Factor contestant Cher Lloyd took on Lennon’s “Imagine” and impressed fans watching the reality competition with her performance of the single.
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7. Queen
Rock ‘n’ roll legends Queen performed “Imagine” at a show back in 2005. Queen infused their own classic sound in the track but was able to keep the emotion behind it with every note.
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6. A Perfect Circle
Heavy rock ‘n’ roll group A Perfect Circle didn’t seem like a natural fit to cover “Imagine” but the result has gone in rock ‘n’ roll history and is a fan favorite because of the passion and soul behind the performance.
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5. Eva Cassidy
Eva Cassidy performed one of the most well known covers of “Imagine” and is often remembered for this incredible musical performance.
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4. Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga put aside her usual over the top theatrics in order to perform a stripped down version of “Imagine.” Fans went crazy for the cover online and it has million of views to date.
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3. Avril Lavigne
Avril Lavigne is known for her pop-punk sound but was able to channel the heart and power that is behind “Imagine” in her own unique cover of the John Lennon classic.
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2. Eddie Vedder/Pearl Jam
Eddie Vedder and the members of Pearl Jam have made many comments regarding war throughout their career and they recently covered “Imagine” and explained that he thinks this is one of the most powerful songs ever written, which is why he doesn’t perform it but in light of the events taking place in Israel, he felt it was needed.
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1. Neil Young
Neil Young performed “Imagine” during the America: A Tribute to Heroes which aired after the events of September 11, 2001. At this moment in America’s history, this was truly a powerful and moving moment for all who were listening to this cover.