1. Ain’t No Mountain High Enough (1967) – Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell
This 1960s classic is still played occasionally today, usually accompanied by chorus of girls singing at the top of their lungs. Seriously though, this single hit the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart when Diana Ross recorded her version, and she received a Grammy nomination.
2. Tears Dry On Their Own (2006) – Amy Winehouse
Award-winning music icon Amy Winehouse derived her inspiration only from the best. She used a sample from “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” for this track from her sophomore album “Back to Black.” Winehouse composed her own melody and lyrics to overlay the arrangement for a familiar, but unique tune.
3. Lovesong (1989) – The Cure
This song might just be the difference between a college senior and freshman. The senior will most likely have been alive in 1989, and probably knows who The Cure, including their most popular songs. The freshman may only recognize this song from the “50 First Dates” soundtrack in 2004. Actually, the band 311 covered “Lovesong” for the CD, also including it on their greatest hits album.
4. Lovesong (2011) – Adele
The soft guitar opening this song quickly transports the listener to the world of Adele, forgetting where the song even originated. Her voice brings a sensual, yet authentic quality to the lyrics. The Cure and Adele might be opposites, but both artists know how to produce a hit.
5. Take Me Home, Country Roads (1971) – John Denver
This mix of folk, rock and country is not just an anthem to those who call West Virginia home. Even fans of professional soccer teams, like Manchester United and Colorado Rapids, sing altered versions of this 1970s song to fit there own team characteristics. John Denver’s song even appeals to audiences across different decades.
6. Country Roads (Pretty Lights Remix) [2011] – John Denver
Fans of country and electronic music don’t always get along, but this remix will defy those boundaries. The song will most likely be stuck in your head for days, and the signature Pretty Lights blend is smoother than usual. This take on John Denver’s signature song is a perfect mix of past and present music styles.
7. Higher Love (1986) – Steve Winwood
Another No. 1 song from the Billboard Hot 100 list proves it can stand the test of time. Listen to this hit from Steve Winwood, and immediately the drums and pop beat scream 1980s. Even if you weren’t alive in the 80s, you still might feel the urge to start dancing and singing. You’ve been warned.
8. Higher Love (2011) – James Vincent McMorrow
Ready for a completely opposite version of this song? James Vincent McMorrow’s falsetto voice dances over nothing but the sound of the piano. The combination is as dreamy as it is brilliant. If you can play something acoustically and it still sounds great, it’s a superb song.
