Hard to Handle

One of my favorite examples of covering a song by transforming it into another genre of music is "Hard to Handle," originally by Otis Redding and later re-invented by the Black Crowes. Take a listen below (flash required).

Otis Redding:


the Black Crowes:



The Crowes did the time old formula to transform any song written a few decades or more ago:

1. Make it more electric
2. Add more production tracks; make the sound richer
3. Sing in a style that is rock
4. Add your own flair to it

And, given the talent of the Black Crowes and the energy they bring to all their songs, their cover of "Hard to Handle" proved to be a true rocker. The band had successfully managed to transform an old blues song into a southern rock classic. Good stuff.