Ah, the ol’ classics, never out of style. We love the originals, but there’s something special about hearing new life breathed into our favorites. With that, here are seven Sofar artists who’ve brought their own sound to some iconic hits.
1. Nana – A Case Of You (Joni Mitchell cover) | Sofar Leiden
This one’s of Joni Mitchell’s most gut-wrenching songs from her infamous album Blue. Covering it can be a tall order, but Nana keeps it simple with this tender performance, giving the song ample room to breathe while the rest of us tear up.
2. Laurin Talese – Cry Me A River (Cover) | Sofar Paris
Just a few notes in, Laurin Talese decides to start over, to make this Julie London cover exactly what she’s envisioning. And that second approach? An a cappella show stopper.
3. Sebastian Schub – Toxic | Sofar London
At the heart of the Britney Spears 2003 pop hit “Toxic” lives a sultry folk song, and Sebastian Schub found it. You’ll be gripped by this acoustic solo take.
4. TheEastLight – We Will Rock You (Queen Cover) | Sofar Seoul
TheEastLight handles this two-minute iconic Queen classic with ease, leaning into the big rock-force ending.
5. Harp Bazaar – On The Sunny Side Of The Street | Sofar London
The only thing more delightful than the sunny side of the street is finding a harp melody over there. Harp Bazaar bring their quartet classical-meets-swing magic to this beloved Louis Armstrong song.
6. PopGoji – I Wish | Sofar Portland, OR
The Portland-based dance band PopGoji brings Brazilian polyrhythms to the Stevie Wonder hit “I Wish” and the joy coming from the band is palpable in their smiles, and their samba moves.
7. Johari Noelle – Valerie (Cover) | Sofar Chicago
Most of us know this classic from The Zutons as an Amy Winehouse cover, but Johari Noelle brings her own laid back spin to it. The band keeps things mellow, letting Johari’s voice shine right through.
Words by Sofar Editorial Team
Photo credit: PopGoji performing Sofar Portland, image via YouTube
