A guide to choosing the right songs for your cover band

by | Nov 29, 2022 | All About Music | 0 comments

What songs should a cover band play?

A cover band is a band that performs mostly or exclusively cover songs.

While some bands focus on specific genres, others play a wide range of music from different artists and eras.

When choosing songs for your cover band, it’s important to consider the audience you’ll be playing for. If you’re booking shows at clubs and bars, you’ll want to choose songs that are popular and well-known by the general public. On the other hand, if you’re hired to play at private parties or corporate events, you can be a little more selective in your song choices. It’s also important to consider the musical style of your band when choosing covers. If you’re a party rock band, for example, you might want to focus on danceable pop hits from the 1980s and 1990s.

So how do you choose the perfect tunes for your band? Here are a few tips:

1. Know your audience.

Are you playing for wedding receptions or corporate events? Do you want to be a party rock band or a more laid-back acoustic group? Your choice of songs should reflect the type of crowd you’re playing for.

2. Keep it current.

No one wants to hear covers of dated hits from 20 years ago. focus on recent chart toppers and hits that are still getting radio play. This will ensure that your set list is relevant and engaging.

3. Think outside the box.

In addition to well-known hits, consider adding in some deeper cuts or obscure tracks that will surprise and delight your listeners. This can help you stand out from other cover bands in your area.

4. Don’t forget the classics.

While it’s important to stay current, there are certain timeless tracks that every cover band should know how to play. “Sweet Home Alabama,” “Brown Eyed Girl,” and “Wagon Wheel” are just a few examples.

5. Have fun with it!

Ultimately, the best way to choose songs for your cover band is to go with what YOU enjoy playing. If you love what you’re doing, it will show in your performance and everyone else will have a good time too.

So put together a set list that makes YOU happy and watch as the crowds flock to see YOUR band.

No matter what type of event you’re playing or what genre of music your band specializes in, there are certain cover songs that every cover band should know.

Here are 13 essential covers for any good cover band:

  • “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey – This classic rock anthem is a must for any cover band. It always gets the crowd singing along.
  • “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd – Another classic rock staple, this song is perfect for getting people on their feet and dancing.
  • “I Love Rock ‘n Roll” by Joan Jett – A true classic, this song never gets old. It’s perfect for making people smile and sing along.
  • “Pour Some Sugar On Me” by Def Leppard – This 80’s hair metal hit is sure to get the crowd pumped up and ready to party.
  • “We’re Not Gonna Take It” by Twisted Sister – This 1984 anthem is perfect for those who like to headbang and sing at the top of their lungs.
  • “The Middle” by Jimmy Eat World – Released in 2001, this pop-punk tune is still popular today and always gets stuck in people’s heads.
  • “Basket Case” by Green Day – Another 90’s favorite, this one is perfect for those who want to relive their teenage angst.
  • “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” by Whitney Houston – This feel-good 80’s tune is perfect for getting people out of their seats and onto the dance floor.
  • “Can’t Feel My Face” by The Weeknd – One of the most popular songs from recent years, this one always gets everyone singing along.
  • “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson feat Bruno Mars – This catchy tune from 2014 has everyone doing the Carlton dance!
  • “Shut Up And Dance” by Walk The Moon – An instant classic when it was released in 2014, this song always gets people moving.
  • “All About That Bass” by Meghan Trainor – One of the biggest hits of recent years, this song is perfect for getting people singing and clapping along.
  • “Crazy Little Thing Called Love Song by Queen- A modern classic, this song never fails to get even the shyest person out on the dance floor shaking what they’ve got!

Book Spire cover band for your next event.