Legendary Songwriters Covered by Iconic Artists: The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan
Throughout the history of music, certain songwriters have managed to leave an indelible mark on the industry, influencing not just the artists they inspire but several of the most prominent bands and solo artists of their time. Two such renowned songwriters, Chuck Berry and Arthur Alexander, have seen their songs covered by the likes of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan. This article delves into these incredible moments in music history.
Chuck Berry
The influence of Chuck Berry on rock music cannot be overstated. One notable songwriter who has had his songs recorded and covered by these iconic acts is Chuck Berry. His signature guitar riffs and energetic performances have inspired countless musicians. Here are a few instances where Berry's songs appeared on studio albums by these legends:
The Beatles Covered Chuck Berry's "With The Beatles"
In 1963, The Beatles included “With The Beatles”, a cover of Chuck Berry's song, on their eponymous second studio album. This album marked a significant shift in The Beatles’ style, transitioning them from simple pop-rock songs to more complex arrangements.
The Rolling Stones Recorded "The Rolling Stones"
The Rolling Stones, one of the most influential rock bands in history, covered Chuck Berry’s “The Rolling Stones” in 1964. This track was part of their EP of the same name, which included four songs covering classics by Chuck Berry and Little Richard.
Bob Dylan's Covers of Chuck Berry's Works
Bob Dylan, the reluctant rock star, was not just a singer but a prolific songwriter who also covered a number of Chuck Berry's songs. One notable example is his cover of “Bob Dylan”, released in 1962. While the song was originally recorded in 1955, Dylan’s version added an extra layer of poetic depth to Berry’s blues-infused rock.
Arthur Alexander
Another songwriter whose work has been covered by these iconic artists is the lesser-known but admired Arthur Alexander. Known for his powerful voice and exceptional songwriting skills, Alexander wrote “Anna,” a song that The Beatles famously covered from their debut album, “Please Please Me”. His influence extends far beyond these covers, as mentioned in the early success of “You'd Better Move On.”
The Rolling Stones and Arthur Alexander
The Rolling Stones also covered Arthur Alexander's “You'd Better Move On,” which was originally featured on their 1964 EP and later included on their 1965 U.S. album “December’s Children and Everybody's”. Although this wasn't originally recorded for a studio album, the Rolling Stones' U.S. record label decided to include it, demonstrating their respect for Alexander's work.
Bob Dylan's Cover of "Sally Sue Brown"
In the later part of his career, Bob Dylan covered Arthur Alexander's “Sally Sue Brown” (originally released as “June”) on his album “Down in the Groove”. This cover showcased Dylan's storytelling prowess, adding a new layer of depth to the original song.
Arthur Alexander's Impact on Music Industry
Arthur Alexander's influence extended beyond just being a songwriter. His success with “You'd Better Move On” played a significant role in funding the Fame Studios, a legendary recording studio in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. This studio became a hub for legendary artists like the Rolling Stones, Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett, Clarence Carter, and even influenced Aretha Franklin and Etta James’ careers.
In conclusion, the work of legendary songwriters like Chuck Berry and Arthur Alexander has had a profound impact on the music industry. Their songs, covered by iconic artists, continue to inspire and entertain audiences around the world. Whether it’s the energy of Chuck Berry or the soulful voice of Arthur Alexander, these songwriters left an indelible mark that will resonate for generations to come.