Joe Cocker, the legendary British rock and blues singer, left an indelible mark on the music world with his powerful, raspy voice and soulful interpretations of both original and cover songs. Over his decades-long career, Cocker produced numerous hits that not only topped the charts but also defined an era. His music resonated with audiences across the globe, blending raw emotion with impeccable musicality. Here, we look back at some of Joe Cocker’s greatest hits, songs that have stood the test of time and continue to evoke strong emotions in listeners.
"With a Little Help from My Friends" (1968)
Perhaps Cocker’s most iconic song, "With a Little Help from My Friends," was a cover of the Beatles' track from Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. Cocker transformed the light-hearted original into a soul-stirring anthem of camaraderie and support. His version, with its powerful vocals and bluesy arrangement, was a stark contrast to the original, showcasing Cocker’s ability to reinterpret a song in his own unique style. The track became an instant hit, reaching the top of the UK Singles Chart and cementing Cocker's place in rock history. His performance of this song at Woodstock in 1969 is still remembered as one of the festival's most electrifying moments.
"You Are So Beautiful" (1974)
Another of Cocker’s timeless classics, "You Are So Beautiful," is a simple yet profoundly moving ballad. Written by Billy Preston and Bruce Fisher, the song became one of Cocker’s signature tracks. His delivery of the song is filled with vulnerability and raw emotion, making it one of the most heartfelt love songs ever recorded. The song’s minimalist arrangement, featuring just a piano and strings, allowed Cocker’s voice to take center stage. It reached number five on the Billboard Hot 100 and has since been covered by numerous artists, but none have matched the intensity of Cocker’s original rendition.
"Feelin' Alright" (1969)
Originally written by Dave Mason of Traffic, "Feelin' Alright" was given new life by Cocker. His version of the song, with its infectious rhythm and dynamic vocals, turned it into an anthem of optimism and resilience. The song’s catchy groove and Cocker’s passionate delivery made it a staple of his live performances. While the original version by Traffic had a more subdued feel, Cocker’s take on the song was bold and energetic, and it became a hit in both the US and the UK. The song’s enduring popularity has made it a classic rock staple.
"Up Where We Belong" (1982)
A significant milestone in Cocker’s career was his duet with Jennifer Warnes on "Up Where We Belong," the theme song for the movie An Officer and a Gentleman. The song, written by Jack Nitzsche, Buffy Sainte-Marie, and Will Jennings, was a departure from Cocker’s usual style, incorporating more of a pop sound. However, his powerful vocals, combined with Warnes’ harmonies, created a song that resonated with audiences worldwide. "Up Where We Belong" topped the Billboard Hot 100 and won the Academy Award for Best Original Song. It also earned Cocker a Grammy Award, bringing him mainstream success in the 1980s.
"The Letter" (1970)
Cocker’s cover of "The Letter," originally by The Box Tops, was another standout hit in his career. His version of the song, backed by the Mad Dogs & Englishmen band, was a rollicking, high-energy take on the 1967 classic. Cocker’s gritty vocals, combined with Leon Russell’s arrangement, gave the song a new edge that distinguished it from the original. "The Letter" became a hit on both sides of the Atlantic and was a highlight of Cocker’s live shows during the early 1970s.
"Delta Lady" (1969)
Written by Leon Russell, "Delta Lady" was a hit for Cocker and is another song that defined his early career. The track is a perfect example of the collaboration between Cocker and Russell, who was instrumental in shaping the sound of Cocker’s music during this period. "Delta Lady" features Cocker’s signature vocal style—raw, passionate, and deeply soulful—set against a backdrop of vibrant, bluesy instrumentation. The song became a hit in the UK and remains one of Cocker’s most beloved tracks.
"Unchain My Heart" (1987)
Cocker’s 1987 cover of "Unchain My Heart," originally recorded by Ray Charles, was another major hit in his career. The song showcased Cocker’s ability to take a classic and make it his own, infusing it with his unique vocal style. The track, with its driving rhythm and bluesy vibe, became a hit on the US charts and is still a favorite among Cocker’s fans. His rendition of "Unchain My Heart" earned him a Grammy nomination and further solidified his status as one of the great interpreters of American soul and R&B music.
"Cry Me a River" (1970)
"Cry Me a River," a jazz standard made famous by Julie London, was given a powerful makeover by Cocker in 1970. His version, included in the Mad Dogs & Englishmen live album, is a fiery, blues-infused rendition that showcases his ability to bring new life to classic songs. Cocker’s intense vocal delivery, combined with the raw energy of the live performance, made this version of "Cry Me a River" one of his most memorable tracks.
"She Came In Through the Bathroom Window" (1969)
Another Beatles cover that Joe Cocker made his own was "She Came In Through the Bathroom Window." Included on the Abbey Road album, the original song was part of the iconic medley that closed the album’s second side. Cocker’s version, which featured on his Joe Cocker! album, was a more upbeat and soulful take on the song. His rendition became a hit, particularly in the United States, where it received significant airplay and solidified Cocker’s reputation as one of the best interpreters of other artists' songs.
These songs are just a glimpse into Joe Cocker’s vast and varied catalog. Throughout his career, Cocker had the remarkable ability to take a song and transform it, imbuing it with his unique vocal style and emotional depth. His greatest hits are not just a collection of popular tracks but a reflection of an era when music was a powerful means of expression and connection. Joe Cocker’s legacy as one of the most soulful and passionate singers of his time continues to inspire and move listeners today.
