The Byrds: “So You Want to Be a Rock ‘n’ Roll Star”

Posted: June 12, 2026 in THE CLASH of Cover Tunes
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Tune du Jour: “So You Want to Be a Rock ‘n’ Roll Star” – The Byrds
THE CLASH of Cover Tunes: Patti Smith vs. The Move vs. Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers
VOTE, COMMENT, then DO SOMETHING NICE FOR YOURSELF

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The Original

The Byrds:

THE CLASH of Cover Tunes

Patti Smith vs. The Move vs. Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers
Patti Smith:
The Move:
Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers:

SPACE

Oh the disharmony! Much like Harlan County there are no neutrals here. It is your solemn responsibility to decide which cover song prevails. In other words … Which Side Are You On!??!

   

Disclaimer: Votes cast from Florida may or may not be counted.

 

Comments
  1. Kerry Black's avatar Kerry Black says:

    Good versions by all.

    The Move clip doesn’t provide the best sound quality.

    Tom Petty and band are great at covering Byrds and McGuinn, and they win again today.

  2. Luckyhawai's avatar Luckyhawai says:

    damn!

    gonna make me between Patti amd Petty… so thats how it is?

    was leaning towards Petty because of the Rickenbacher intro, and the cover was flawless, but thought Patti’s version was a lot more interesting

    didnt quite get The Move

  3. RDubbs's avatar RDubbs says:

    Patti Smith … iconic cover … beautifully performed … what more can you say?

    The Move’s psychedelic delivery is exceptional. Wonderfully performed … and live at that!

    McGuinn had much admiration for Petty as evidenced by his inviting Petty & The Heartbreakers to open for The Byrds way back in 1976! In regards to Petty’s superlative cover of So You Want to be a Rock ‘n’ Roll Star, McGuinn stated it “helped revive the song for a new generation.”

    Not withstanding McGuinn’s vote (and Mike Campbell’s wonderful guitarwork) … I went with Patti on this one …

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