Introduction
Acoustic covers have become increasingly popular over the years for their stripped-down, raw, and intimate sound. By removing the heavy production and instrumentation of the original, acoustic covers spotlight the vocals and songwriting craft. The simpler arrangements let the lyrics and melodies shine through in a refreshing way.
In this ultimate playlist, we’ve curated some of the best acoustic covers of popular songs from 2023 and beyond. You’ll hear incredible new takes on recent chart-toppers, acoustic spins on iconic hits from the 90s, soothing covers perfect for relaxation, and more. Whether you’re a fan of pop, rock, rap, or country, there’s an acoustic cover that will appeal to you here.
Press play below to discover renewed beauty in some of your favorite songs. The talented artists featured on this playlist have translated these hits into moving acoustic renditions that deserve to be heard. Get ready to experience these pop songs as you’ve never heard them before!
Best Acoustic Covers of 2023 (So Far)
The year 2023 is still young, but some remarkable acoustic covers have already emerged in these early months. Here are a few of the top acoustic renditions making waves so far this year:
"Anti-Hero" by Taylor Swift (Cover by Ingrid Andress)
Country artist Ingrid Andress delivers a stripped-down take on Taylor Swift’s vulnerable "Anti-Hero." Trading the pop production for simple acoustic guitar, Andress highlights the introspective lyrics and brings a folksy warmth to Swift’s examination of her own flaws and insecurities.
"As It Was" by Harry Styles (Cover by Boyce Avenue)
YouTube cover specialists Boyce Avenue transform Harry Styles’ upbeat synth-pop hit into a melancholy acoustic ballad. Removing the breezy ’80s sonic touches, their version reveals the wistful nostalgia and emotional depth at the core of "As It Was."
"About Damn Time" by Lizzo (Cover by dodie)
Indie pop artist dodie puts a charming folk spin on Lizzo’s high-energy "About Damn Time." Trading the bold brassiness for gentle ukulele and understated vocals, dodie playfully brings out the song’s messages of self-love and freedom.
These recent covers showcase the timeless appeal of acoustic reimaginings, breathing fresh stylistic life into even the most ubiquitous chart hits. As 2023 continues, we can expect many more fantastic acoustic versions of today’s popular songs.
Acoustic Hits from 2022
2022 produced several major pop hits that have now been covered acoustically, stripping the songs down to their core elements.
One of the biggest acoustic covers from 2022 was [insert song name and artist]. The original was an uptempo dance track, but [insert acoustic cover artist name] slowed it down into a melancholy acoustic ballad. Just [acoustic artist] on vocals and guitar, this version spotlights the bittersweet lyrics and showcases [original artist]‘s songwriting.
Another acoustic standout was [song name] by [original artist], covered by [acoustic artist]. Where the original was lushly produced, [acoustic artist] pares it down to simple guitar fingerpicking and soulful vocals. This arrangement emphasizes the raw emotion in [original artist]‘s writing.
[Song name] by [original artist] got a creative spin from [acoustic artist], transforming the pop anthem into a folksy campfire tune. With just acoustic guitar and harmonica, this cover focuses attention on the inspirational message at the heart of the track.
[Original artist]‘s dancefloor smash [song name] became an acoustic lullaby in the hands of [acoustic artist]. Their version turns the high-energy original into something gentle and peaceful. The acoustic treatment unveils the vulnerability hidden beneath the party atmosphere of the hit song.
Finally, [original artist]‘s[song name] was covered by YouTube musician [acoustic artist] in a stunning one-take video. Just them and their acoustic guitar, playing on a beach at sunset. The simple performance allows [song name]‘s sparkling melody and romantic lyrics to truly shine.
Acoustic Covers of 2020s Pop Songs
The early 2020s produced numerous upbeat pop hits that dominated the charts and airwaves. While originally released as highly produced, electronic dance tracks, many of these recent pop smashes have since been covered acoustically by various artists. Stripping away the production elements allows the raw songwriting craft to shine through.
One great example is Maggie Rose’s folky acoustic take on Dua Lipa’s disco-pop hit "Levitating." Rose transforms the dancefloor anthem into a more melancholy reflection on a turbulent relationship. Her stripped-down version highlights the vulnerability in the lyrics.
Similarly, singer-songwriter dodie put an acoustic spin on Olivia Rodrigo’s 2021 chart-topper "drivers license." Dodie’s gentle guitar arrangement unpacks the tearjerker ballad even further, amplifying the heartbreak and emotion.
Other acoustic pop standouts include:
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Anson Seabra’s haunting acoustic rendition of The Weeknd’s "Blinding Lights"
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Maisie Peters’ cozy campfire version of "Watermelon Sugar" by Harry Styles
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Haley Reinhart’s jazzy acoustic cover of Billie Eilish’s "when the party’s over"
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Boyce Avenue’s melancholy unplugged take on "Before You Go" by Lewis Capaldi
Each of these acoustic covers unearths new dimensions within familiar pop songs when presented in a stripped-down style. The vocals and lyrics are able to connect on a deeper level without the high-gloss production of the original versions.
Acoustic Covers of 90s Hits
The 1990s produced some of the most iconic pop songs that still resonate with music fans today. Hearing stripped-down acoustic versions of these nostalgic 90s hits allows listeners to re-experience them in a fresh way. The raw, earnest covers spotlight the compelling melodies and lyrics that made these songs unforgettable in the first place.
One of the most creative 90s acoustic covers is Obadiah Parker’s folk version of Outkast’s "Hey Ya." Parker slows down the originally frenetic track into a melancholy acoustic ballad, accentuating the lyrics about a relationship on the rocks. His indie take on this hip-hop classic went viral, amassing over 100 million views on YouTube.
Additionally, the Postmodern Jukebox YouTube channel has gained popularity for their vintage-style covers of modern songs. Their jazz-inflected acoustic rendition of Nirvana’s grunge anthem "Smells Like Teen Spirit" transforms the angsty original into a sultry 1940s tune reminiscent of Cab Calloway. The retro treatment gives new perspective to the rebellious lyrics.
No 90s acoustic cover playlist would be complete without Edwin McCain’s Top 40 acoustic pop ballad "I’ll Be" from 1998. However, YouTube singer Madilyn Bailey created a haunting minor-key version that amplifies the vulnerability and longing in the lyrics. Her minimalist cover accentuates the raw emotions.
Similarly, YouTube musician Peter Hollens recorded a stripped-down vocal-and-guitar take on The Barenaked Ladies’ novelty hit "One Week." By removing the rapid-fire wordplay and focusing just on the evocative chorus, Hollens uncovered an uplifting acoustic folk song. The simple arrangement makes the clever lyrics resonate in a deeper way.
Finally, Scottish singer Sandi Thom landed a UK #1 hit in 2006 with her emotional acoustic cover of The Shamen’s 1990 rave anthem "Ebeneezer Goode." Removing the electronic dance beats allowed the thoughtful lyrics questioning societal perceptions to shine through in a powerful way. Thom’s version likely resonated with ’90s kids reflecting on their youth.
Chill Acoustic Covers for Relaxation
Acoustic covers can provide a soothing, mellow listening experience perfect for unwinding and relaxation. If you’re looking to chill out, here are some of the most peaceful acoustic renditions to add to your playlist:
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"Adore You" (Harry Styles) covered by Boyce Avenue – This emotional acoustic ballad version brings out the vulnerability in Harry Styles’ lyrics. Boyce Avenue’s fingerpicked guitar and stripped back arrangement creates a delicate, soothing mood.
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"Blinding Lights" (The Weeknd) covered by James TW – James TW transforms The Weeknd’s synth-pop hit into a hazy, blissed-out acoustic track with his raspy, ethereal vocals and floating guitar melodies. Pure chillout bliss.
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"Levitating" (Dua Lipa) covered by Madilyn Bailey – Madilyn Bailey’s breathy vocals and gentle ukulele chords give Dua Lipa’s disco hit a breezy, tropical makeover. Her version is perfect for imagining yourself on a beach at sunset.
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"Drivers License" (Olivia Rodrigo) covered by Haley Reinhart – Reinhart’s emotional acoustic rendition strips away the drama to reveal the melancholy heart of this ballad. Her jazz-inflected vocals add smoky ambience.
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"Blinding Lights" (The Weeknd) covered by Chloe Adams – The soft fingerpicked guitar and Adams’ sweet, delicate vocals turn The Weeknd’s song into a lullaby-like reverie. Let this version wash over you and drift away.
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"Watermelon Sugar" (Harry Styles) covered by Jacob Whitesides – Whitesides reimagines this summery pop hit as a breezy campfire singalong, with rolling guitar picking and carefree harmonies. Perfect for swaying along to.
Spotify Playlist: Must-Hear Acoustic Covers
Take a musical journey through the decades with this carefully curated Spotify playlist of essential acoustic covers. Featuring stripped-down renditions of hits from the 1950s to today, this collection has something for every music lover.
Press play below to listen to beloved songs transformed into raw and intimate acoustic versions that highlight the songwriting craft. You’ll hear fresh takes on pop smashes, rock anthems, R&B classics, rap chart-toppers and more. From The Beatles to Beyonce, Nirvana to Nicki Minaj, the variety is sure to keep you engaged.
Whether you want to relax, sing along or appreciate the nuances in these acoustic covers, this playlist has you covered. Follow it now so you can access this diverse musical exploration anytime. The simple guitar and vocal arrangements will make you hear these familiar tunes in a whole new way.
Honorable Mentions
There are so many amazing acoustic covers out there that it was tough to narrow it down to just the ones featured in this playlist. Here are a few more that are definitely worth a listen:
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The Lumineers’ haunting acoustic take on Bon Iver’s "Holocene" transforms the indie folk original into something darker and more brooding.
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Kina Grannis puts a sweet folky spin on Avicii’s EDM hit "Wake Me Up" with just her voice and guitar.
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John Mayer’s live acoustic version of "Daughters" ditches the studio production for a more raw, earnest delivery.
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Ed Sheeran reinventing Britney Spears’ "…Baby One More Time" as a melancholy acoustic ballad is a creative stroke of genius.
What are some of your favorite acoustic covers that we didn’t include here? Share your top picks in the comments! There are always more amazing stripped down renditions to discover.
Conclusion
Acoustic covers have an enduring and timeless appeal due to their stripped-down arrangements that highlight exceptional vocals and songwriting craft. This curated playlist demonstrates the breadth of creative acoustic renditions that breathe new life into familiar hits. The acoustic format provides a more raw, intimate listening experience that unveils hidden depths and nuances within the lyrics and melodies. After listening to these acoustic reimaginings, you’ll never hear the original versions quite the same way again.
Hopefully this playlist has prompted you to explore more within the acoustic covers genre. There is a vast world of talent to discover on YouTube, Spotify and beyond. Subscribe to artists you love to stay updated on new releases. Follow acoustic curation accounts on social media for a never-ending source of recommendations. Share your own favorite acoustic covers and let new listeners experience the magic. Acoustic music has a timeless, soothing quality – may these covers continue inspiring new creations for years to come.