The acoustic guitar is an awesomely unique instrument. There aren’t many other non-electric, music-producing tools out there that are as versatile or as functional as the acoustic guitar. Sure, it’s simply a stringed instrument with a hollow body, but there’s much more to it than that. You can tune it up, tune it down, capo it, slap it, pop it, frail it, thump it, bend it, shake it–whatever, and the sound will always be different. And we haven’t even mentioned the influence of the shape, the wood, the design, the strings, or, of course, the guitarist.
There are many examples of the acoustic guitar‘s dexterity (and of acoustic guitar players’ ingenuity), but some of the most fun illustrations are acoustic guitar covers, more specifically those that exemplify how the acoustic guitar can be used to play music that’s “not supposed” to be played on the guitar. A few of the cover videos below feature songs that have guitar parts in the original, but most do not, and they are all awesomely unique in one way or another. This list is intended for entertainment purposes only, and we think you’ll really enjoy each performance. So, without further ado, here are 7 Awesomely Unique Acoustic Guitar Covers, listed in no particular order (please share your favorites in the comments!):
7. Emily Elbert – “Thriller” (Michael Jackson)
Young girl with a lot of talent performing an all-time pop hit.
6. Jorge & Alexa Narvaez – “Home” (Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros)
This one gets extra points for cuteness and smile-inducement.
5. Newton Faulkner – “Teardrop” (Massive Attack)
A trip-hop classic performed by one very skilled man.
4. The Pete Box – “Where Is My Mind” (The Pixies)
Excellent use of the loop pedal and quality multi-tasking.
3. Obadiah Parker – Hey Ya (Outkast)
One of the biggest hip-hop hits of the 2000s sounds better this way.
2. Antoine Dufour – “Hide and Seek” (Imogen Heap)
Extremely precise, delicate rendition of a beautiful song.
1. Don Ross – “Crazy” (Gnarls Barkley)
Amazing skill plus a great song equals an awesomely unique cover!
Is your favorite acoustic guitar cover not on the list? Please share it in the comments below!