Why do artists cover other people's music?

I feel that artists cover other people's music because they believe that this will gain them the same success as the original song did. There have been successful cover songs over the years, with the most recent the release of the X Factor winner Alexandra Burke's version of "Hallelujah". This song was originally sang by Leonard Cohen, however has also had successful covers by Jeff Buckley, Rufus Wainwright and Allison Crowe. This was a huge success for Alexandra Burke, making her single the fastest-selling single by a female solo artist (although this was probably fuelled further by the hype of the X Factor!). Despite this, artists will often get critised for not using their own material but is this really a worry to them when recording a cover song brings them money, fame and success?!

Does British Music Still Matter?

On a personal level the music i prefer to listen to is very American. My favourite band are Lifehouse, who are an American Rock Band. From seeing people's faces when i speak of them, i can tell that they are not very well known here! Despite this, i do feel that British Music does still matter. I feel it is difficult for British Artists to become accepted in America, and it seems currently the easiest way to break into America is to befriend a certain Mr Cowell!

Also from reading Simon Frith's article, it is apparent that British music from the 60's and 70's is still strongly influencial today, with the likes of The Beatles still being played and listened currently in society.

Often American artists will come to Britain to promote their music which highlights that they respect the British and want to gain status in Britain. Although American music is dominant, and it probably will always be this way, i feel that British music still has an significant impact in society.

Lifehouse - Broken