20 Years Later, 'Jagged Little Pill' Continues To Inspire Artists With These Killer Covers
Alanis Morrissette's iconic album Jagged Little Pill has hit 20 years old—can you believe it? The LP is one of the most influential alternative rock albums of all time and is a staple for the post-grunge movement that dominated the mid to late '90s. JLP took home four Grammy Awards in 1996, including Album of the Year. (Alanis was the youngest person to receive the award at 21, until Taylor Swift surpassed her in 2010 when she won for Fearless at age 20.)
While the album's gritty rock sound isn't as popular as it was in the '90s, the album remains a favorite for many artists to cover. Even Beyoncé has gotten in on the action. Check out these nine covers that prove Jagged Little Pill's impact is still alive and well.
Britney Spears, "You Oughta Know"
"YOK" was a part of BritBrit's setlist during her 2009 tour The Circus Starring Britney Spears. The track is certainly a departure from Britney's specialty brand of kitschy robo-pop, which is why it's so thrilling to hear her sing it. She's never sounded more raw and vocally poignant.
Christina Perri, "Hand in My Pocket"
The "Jar of Hearts" singer takes the edge off the original "Hand in My Pocket" with this breezy acoustic cover. Christina's Norah Jones-esque voice gives the trademark Alanis tune a welcomed smoothness.
Kat Robichaud, "You Oughta Know"
The Voice season five contestant and fan favorite proves imitation is the sincerest form of flattery with this homage to "YOK."
Glee cast, "You Learn"
In an episode from the show's sixth season, some of the veteran cast members sing an interesting mash-up of "You Learn" and Carole King's "You've Got a Friend." There's something quite relaxing about the sing-songy and subtle approach Lea Michele and the gang took with this one.
Matthew Mayfield, "You Oughta Know"
The Alabama native flips "YOK" on its head by delivering this slowed-down and haunting rendition. Matthew's soulful voice gives the coffee house vibe of the cover endless energy.
Four Year Strong, "Ironic"
The pop punk band plays with the original dramatic chorus of "Ironic" by taking it even higher — a faster tempo, more screaming, and dizzying instrumentals. It will definitely take you back to the punk/emo days of the mid-'00s.
Beyoncé, "You Oughta Know"
After performing her hit "If I Were a Boy" during this 2011 Glastonbury performance, Bey surprised audiences by going straight into a cover of "YOK." B's rock arrangement remains true to the original song, but her performance style gives it an added oomph.
Taylor Swift, "You Learn"
Swift included "You Learn" in a 2011 live medley that also featured Justin Bieber's "Baby," Tai Bachman's "She's So High," and her own "You Belong With Me." It's an endearing listen, and we wish TayTay would've recorded it professionally.
Crystal Bowersox, "You Oughta Know"
The American Idol season nine runner-up actually shared the stage with Alanis to sing "YOK," and the synergy is palpable. Crystal delivers a perfect mix of homage and originality in the performance.