The Beatles wrote such fantastic songs that the music’s enjoyable to hear even when the Beatles aren’t playing it. Here are five full albums, each one dedicated to songs from the Beatles’ timeless catalogue, each by some amazing artists in their own right.
Note: there are no Beatles cover bands on this list. Beatles cover bands are just sad – and my apologies if you’re in one.
1. Ray Charles Sings the Beatles
Ray Charles doing The Beatles. 'Nuff said.
2. Chet Atkins Picks On The Beatles
Always able to make one guitar sound like many, in 1967 the king of country finger style was nominated for a Grammy in the best instrumental record category for this album.
3. Stax Does the Beatles
This album features covers by Otis Redding, Booker T & the MG’s, Isaac Hayes (check out his 11-minute version of Something) and more, recorded between 1966 and 1972 and compiled by Stax Records.
4. The Beatles Greatest Hits Played by Santo & Johnny
The virtuosos of the pedal steel guitar, best known for Sleep Walk, give the Liverpudlians a real Hawaiian feel.
5. Moog Plays the Beatles, Marty Gold
This is the craziest album on the list. Released in 1969, the sticker on the cover says it all: “Startling Sound Excitement! The Moog synthesizer, plus the Beatles greatest hits!”