I realize this comment will highlight the generational and musical gaps between the author and myself, but here's my list of good covers:

1) Cryin' by Don MacLean. Far better than Roy Orbison's thumpy original.

2) I Only Have Eyes For You by Art Garfunkel. Much better than the do-woppy version by the Flamingos.

3) Make The World Go Away by Elvis Presley. This is very much a matter of taste. Some will prefer Eddy Arnold's more sedate version, but I like what Elvis did with the song.

4) Eleanor Rigby by Ray Charles. This is a Lennon-McCartney song (although written mostly by McCartney). Ray Charles does a remarkable job with it.

5) Don't Think Twice, It's Alright by Peter, Paul, & Mary. A great song by Bob Dylan. PP&M do a masterful job with it.

6) From Here To Eternity by Engelbert Humperdinck. Originally recorded by Frank Sinatra. Humperdinck's version has a much better arrangement and is far more suited to the singer's style.

7) That Lucky Old Sun by Ray Charles. Frankie Laine originally recorded this song. Ray Charles' version is far more soulful, as one might expect from the man who invented soul music.

8) The Impossible Dream by Lena Martell. This song has been recorded by scores of artists. Martell's version is the best I've heard.

I know: I'm old. :>)