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Welcome back to "Mike's Favorite Things," where today we’re rocking through another playlist of cover songs that just might outshine their originals. After my first post, the feedback was incredible, and many of you pointed out some fantastic tracks I missed. So, here's a sequel to that hit list, diving into more cover songs that have made their mark in music history.  1. "Walk This Way" - Aerosmith / Run DMC Feat. Aerosmith This groundbreaking collaboration between Aerosmith and Run DMC revived Aerosmith's classic, blending rock and hip-hop in a way that was unheard of in 1986. The fusion not only brought "Walk This Way" back into the limelight but also helped it soar higher on the charts than its original release. It's a quintessential example of how crossing genre boundaries can create a seminal moment in music history. I remember watching RUN DMC and The Beastie Boys live in Detroit as a teen, and that energy still resonates with me today. Big props to Rick Rubin for his vision on this one...without him, neither Aerosmith or Run DMC would have seen the vision! And let's be honest, those ADIDAS in the video were awesome. 2. "Jolene" - Dolly Parton / Beyoncé Dolly Parton’s "Jolene" has been covered by many, but Beyoncé’s rendition adds a layer of soul and depth that reflects her personal touch. Performing with the kind of emotion that hints at deeper personal stories, Beyoncé turns "Jolene" into a powerful narrative about love and vulnerability. While the White Stripes gave the song a raw rock twist, Beyoncé brought it back to its roots with a soulful twist. Maybe I can soon be counted as part of her "Bey Hive". 3. "Hard to Handle" - Otis Redding / The Black Crowes Otis Redding originally sang "Hard to Handle" with a classic soul vibe that made it a hit. However, when The Black Crowes covered it in 1990, they injected a raw, gritty rock energy that completely transformed the song. Chris Robinson's distinctive voice and the band’s dynamic performance arguably elevated the track beyond its original incarnation, making it a staple on rock radio and a highlight of their debut album. While the Otis Redding version is very good and a classic, The Black Crowes killed it here...almost to the point where this is the only version worthy of my playlist. 4. "Hallelujah" - Leonard Cohen / Jeff Buckley Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah" was beautiful in its original form and largely ignored...but it gained iconic status through Jeff Buckley's haunting rendition. Buckley’s version, released posthumously, transformed the song into a poignant, emotional experience that many find more compelling than Cohen's. It’s a masterpiece of vocal delivery and arrangement that resonates with listeners on a deeply personal level, becoming a cultural phenomenon in its own right. Guys like John Legend hail this as his favorite...and it is a shame that Buckley was not able to grace us with his talent any longer. 5. "Stairway to Heaven" - Led Zeppelin / Heart (and others) Heart's tribute to Led Zeppelin during the 2012 Kennedy Center Honors brought the house down. Ann and Nancy Wilson, accompanied by a full choir and orchestra, delivered a powerful rendition of "Stairway to Heaven" that even had Robert Plant teary-eyed. Their performance is remembered not just for its emotional depth but also for its flawless musical execution, making it one of the most respected covers ever performed. This version gets me emotional while listening, and in my opinion, is better than the original...and that's tough. There is a lot of star power on that stage PS: you can find the song without the video on your favorite music streaming service so you can put this on your playlist. 6. "You Should Be Dancing" - Bee Gees / Foo Fighters (as The Dee Gees) Foo Fighters, under the pseudonym The Dee Gees, brought a rock flair to the disco classic "You Should Be Dancing". Dave Grohl's infectious enthusiasm and the band's energetic performance infused the song with a new vibe that complements the original's danceable beats. This cover is a testament to the Foo Fighters' versatility and ability to cross genres effortlessly. There is a reason that Grohl may be the coolest guy on planet earth I played this for some friends recently, and was told that I am crazy for liking this. I don't speak with those people anymore. 7. "I Will Survive" - Gloria Gaynor / Cake Cake's rendition of "I Will Survive" turns the disco anthem into a gritty, alternative rock track. While it’s Gloria Gaynor’s least favorite version, due to its altered lyrics (swearing), Cake's cover has found its own audience who appreciate its boldness and stylistic twist. It’s defiant, it’s raw, and it completely reimagines the disco classic into something that's unmistakably Cake. If you haven't listened to Cake, then do yourself a favor and pull up a couple of their tracks on Spotify or Apple Music. And if you notice at 2:19 in Cake's version, you will see something else that is my favorite thing... More Honorable Mentions...
Thanks for joining me on this sequel journey through cover tracks that have captivated audiences and sometimes even surpassed the originals in popularity or impact. Do you agree with these picks? Got more covers that deserve recognition? Let’s keep the debate lively and the music playing. Drop your thoughts below, share your favorites, and as always, stay tuned for more of Mike's favorite things in music and beyond!
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 1. CCR Rocks. 2. See the bubble at the top? That's delamination! Welcome back to "Mike's Favorite Things," where today I'm diving into the world of automotive DIY fixes. If you own a Chrysler vehicle from 2017 onwards, you might be familiar with a frustrating issue: the delamination of the media screen. This not only affects the aesthetics of your car's interior but can lead to some truly hair-raising malfunctions. Today, I'll share how I tackled this common problem without shelling out a hefty sum at the dealership. The Problem: Screen Delamination Chaos In my case, it was my son's 2018 Jeep Compass that started showing a small bubble at the bottom right corner of the screen. What started as a minor annoyance quickly escalated. The bubble spread, and soon the touch functions went haywire—changing radio stations randomly, triggering unwanted navigation, and muting calls during conversations. Dealership quotes for a full replacement? A whopping $1400. Ouch. The DIY Solution: Courage and a Little Internet Help Refusing to fork over that kind of cash without a fight, I turned to the internet for answers and stumbled upon a potential DIY fix that seemed a bit risky but worth a try. Inspired by a helpful video from Claremont Classic Garage, I decided to roll up my sleeves and give it a go. The Youtube video is below.... Tools and Materials Needed:
Step-by-Step Guide (Watch the video):
The result? A fully functional media screen at a fraction of the cost. The total for parts came to just about $34, a far cry from the $1400 quoted by the dealership. It took me about 2 hours and a lot of patience. Getting the existing glue off was a little bit of a hassle, but with the goo gone and isopropyl alcohol, it came off eventually. I also used a lot of cotton swabs and cotton balls. Conclusion: DIY Triumph This project was a perfect blend of necessity and challenge, turning a frustrating defect into a satisfying afternoon project. Not only did I save money, but I also gained a deeper understanding of how things work behind the dashboard. For anyone facing similar issues with their vehicle's electronics, consider looking up some tutorials and assessing if a DIY fix is feasible for you. Sometimes, the solution is just a YouTube video away. Stay tuned to "Mike's Favorite Things" for more tips on navigating the quirks of technology, both in your home and your vehicle. And remember, when it comes to car repairs, a little DIY can go a long way!  Welcome back to "Mike's Favorite Things," where today we're strumming through a playlist that's sure to spark debate. Music is a personal journey, and cover songs often walk a fine line between flop and phenomenal. So here I am, armed with nothing but my passion for tunes, diving into my top 5 cover songs. Some may say my tastes are eclectic, and they're not wrong! From Sinatra's classics to the rock vibes of Gary Clark Jr., here's a tour through cover tracks that have not only done justice to the originals but sometimes, just sometimes, might have edged them out. 1. "My Way" by Frank Sinatra / "A Mi Manera" by Gipsy Kings Starting strong with "My Way," a song that's practically an anthem for doing life on your terms. Frank Sinatra’s 1969 rendition is iconic, embodying the spirit of self-assured swagger. Then enter the Gipsy Kings with "A Mi Manera," adding a flamenco flair that transforms this classic. The passion in their interpretation is palpable—even if, like me, you don't speak Spanish, you feel every word. First heard this song in 2023, and said to myself..."I know this song, but why" Took me a bit to figure it out. 2. "American Girl" by Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers / Dierks Bentley Tom Petty's "American Girl" is a rock staple, a song that's as American as apple pie. It's my favorite Petty track, thanks to its unforgettable riff and its appearance in 'Silence of the Lambs.' Fast forward to 2024, and here comes Dierks Bentley with his country rendition. It’s fresh, it’s heartfelt, and it resonates with Petty’s southern roots, giving it a new lease on life in bars across Nashville. I look forward to hearing all the covers on the Petty Country album coming out in a couple of months...An while my frined Carol R isn't going to be happy about the inclusion on this list, i think it is worthy. 3. "Come Together" by The Beatles / Gary Clark Jr. The Beatles might just be the Mount Olympus of music, and "Come Together" is a testament to their enduring genius. Yet, Gary Clark Jr. took this classic and infused it with a gritty blues twist that it feels tailor-made for. His version is a robust reimagination that pays homage yet stands boldly as its own. It’s bluesy, it’s brazen, and it’s utterly brilliant. I have since downloaded some other Gary Clark Jr songs, and this guy is really great. 4. "Smooth Criminal" by Michael Jackson / Alien Ant Farm Michael Jackson's "Smooth Criminal" is sleek, it's catchy, and it's Michael at his best. Then came Alien Ant Farm, turning this pop masterpiece into a rock sensation. Their rendition is unexpected, a little irreverent, and a lot of fun. It’s one of those covers that you didn’t know you needed until you heard it, and then it’s on repeat. Couldn't tell you another song by these fellas, but this one is an instant classic. And the fact that AAF leaned into it...well, that's a great homage. 5. "Baby I Love Your Way" by Peter Frampton - "Free Bird" by Lynyrd Skynyrd / Will to Power This medley by Will to Power is a bold mashup of two monumental songs. Frampton's soft rock ballad meets Skynyrd’s guitar-heavy anthem in a blend that could have gone horribly wrong but instead landed just right in 1988. It’s a cover that captures the essence of both originals while creating something uniquely memorable. Honorable Mentions
Not all great covers could make the top five, but they deserve a shoutout:
 Welcome back to the zesty corner of "Mike's Favorite Things," where today, we're taking a detour to explore a culinary adventure—my journey into the art of pickle-making. Most of you have seen my schpiel. Between closing deals and strategizing sales, I've been mastering the craft of pickling, much to the delight (and sometimes dismay) of my family. The Pickle Divide Now, before we get into the brine of it all, let's address the dill in the room: My wife and sons are on a different pickle page than I am. They yearn for the sour embrace of a full sour pickle, while my palate dances to the tune of the "New Dill" and "Half Sour" pickles reminiscent of a Jewish deli. But fear not, for I am on a quest to bridge this pickle preference divide. Until then, let's relish (pun intended) the recipe that's been tickling my taste buds and perhaps yours too. If you let these pickles marinate they will become full sour...so fear not. Mike's (Not So Secret Anymore) Pickle Recipe Inspired by various internet finds and flavored by my penchant for a garlic-packed crunch, this recipe is for those who dare to walk the garlic-dill path less traveled. Here's what you'll need for two quarts of these crunchy delights: Ingredients:
The Waiting Game My advice is to make a bunch of jars and taste them as the weeks go by. you will figure out which ones you like best. I recommend hiding them in your basement fridge to resist temptation. And trust me, the wait is worth it.
Final Thoughts While my household may still be divided on the perfect pickle spectrum, my pickle-making escapade has brought joy, laughter, and a whole lot of garlic into our lives. Whether you're a pickle aficionado or a curious newcomer, I invite you to try this recipe and share your results. I embarked on a mission to uncover the champion of Philly Cheesesteaks. The contenders? The legendary Pat's King of Steaks, the sequel-worthy Geno's Steaks, and the underdog that could, Dalessandro's Steaks and Hoagies. Fueled by my love for all things cheesy and a little nudge from some fervent keyboard warriors (shoutout to Scott, Erik, Jeff, Brian, and our local vegetarian mohel, Craig), I set out to judge these titans not just by their taste but by the experience they offer. Buckle up, folks; it's going to be a greasy ride. The Geno's / Pat's story is quite a rivalry here, similar to the Lafayette v American Coney rivalry in Detroit...Except nobody i know would be caught dead at American Coney. More on how Philadelphians embrace this at the end. The Cheesesteak Chronicles Begin Pat's King of Steaks Our tale starts at Pat's King of Steaks, where Jodi confidently proclaimed Pat's as "the original and the best." The encounter was promising, the Whiz was overflowing, and the vibe was... messy, to put it lightly. Halfway through the hoagie, with Whiz on my hands and probably my face, I realized this was only the beginning of my cheesy quest. So what did I think? Before opening the sandwich, I noticed that it was messy...the Whiz was all over the wrapper...it soaked through all the way, and I was in need of napkins. lots of napkins. The Whiz was on top of the meat, and I was tempted to eat it with a fork and knife...I thought better of it, since I know I would get dirty looks. It tasted pretty good....Only ate half of it, as I was still going to be eating the Geno's Hoagie. Geno's Steaks Next stop, Geno's Steaks. With its cleaner packaging and a less messy presentation, Geno's offered a sequel experience that was good but not quite the OG. The Whiz, sneakily hidden under the meat, left me contemplating life's tough questions—like why sequels rarely outshine the original and whether it's blasphemous to eat a cheesesteak with a fork and knife. Case in point, BTTF is Pat's, and BTTF2 is Geno's...On it's own, BTTF2 could be good...but it isn't the original. So after only going to Pat's and Geno's, I was told I made a Mistake...er MISTEAK. SO the next day, I hauled butt to Dalessandro's to try their Hoagie. Dalessandro's Steaks and Hoagies: Enter Dalessandro's: The Game Changer Dalessandro's, a name that wasn't on my original itinerary but came highly recommended by a choir of cheesesteak aficionados. The scene was set: a nondescript wrapper, a line out the door, and the promise of the best cheesesteak in Philly. Dalessandro's didn't just meet the hype; it turned it into a culinary symphony. With the perfect meat-to-onion ratio, seasoned to perfection, and the Whiz gloriously reigning atop, it was clear—I had found my winner. Again, the line was long...and while there were a couple of competitors on the same city block, none of them were busy. While in line, I met a group of students who traveled here from India, led by Rohiashwa Chatterjee (Connect with him on Linkedin). These gentlemen were quick to give me their review, and they loved their hoagies. They just had a 3 week stay in East Lansing at Michigan State University and their next stop is Miami...They wanted advice on what to do down there...so if you have any ideas, connect with him on Linkedin, and let him know. Cheesesteak Revelations
Final Thoughts The Philly Cheesesteak showdown was more than just a taste test; it was a dive into the heart of Philly's culinary scene, where the love for cheesesteaks unites tourists and invites debate among aficionados. While Dalessandro's emerged as the undeniable champion in my book, each contender brought something unique to the table, much like the vibrant city they call home. So, whether you're a Pat's purist, a Geno's advocate, or a Dalessandro's devotee, one thing is for sure—the quest for the perfect Philly Cheesesteak is a delicious journey worth taking. And remember, no matter where you go, always opt for the Whiz on top  The Lazy Man's Composter This is the tumbling composter I am buying...
In the latest leafy chapter of "Mike's Favorite Things," I ventured into the great outdoors (the class was indoors) to Bowers Farm in Bloomfield Hills. Known for its sprawling 93 acres of pastoral beauty and its commitment to cultivating community and fostering environmental stewardship, this little slice of heaven offered me a crash course in Gardening and Soil Health that promised to turn even the most time-strapped hot sauce aficionado (yours truly) into a composting convert. The Unlikely Gardener Let's be real: my green thumb is as developed as my patience for slow internet—practically non-existent. My hot peppers, the backbone of my world-renowned hot sauce, pretty much grow out of sheer will (and perhaps a bit of fear). But, as they say, even old dogs (or their caffeine-fueled owners) can learn new tricks. Michigan, my beloved state, apparently doubles as a dumping ground for other states' trash, thanks to our bargain-basement landfill rates. If that's not a wake-up call to start saving our scraps and giving back to the earth, I don't know what is. Time to ring up Big Gretch and get this sorted, but first, I had some learning to do. Intro to Gardening and Soil Health: The Class Nestled next to acres of vibrant vegetable production and curated horticultural gardens, Bowers Farm provided the perfect backdrop for a novice composter like me to dive headfirst into the world of sustainable gardening. The class was a hands-on exploration of small-scale gardening and the superhero of soil health: compost. Key Takeaways:
What began as a quest to understand the basics of composting turned into a profound appreciation for the cycles that sustain us. Bowers Farm, with its commitment to education and community engagement, proved to be the perfect teacher. And let's not forget the allure of Springtime at the Farm classes, Diverse Learners Day, and the "Hold Your Horses" program. Each offering is a testament to the farm's dedication to inclusive, hands-on learning experiences that celebrate the seasons and the joy of discovery. The Verdict As I left Bowers Farm, my head buzzing with newfound knowledge and my heart full of appreciation for the natural world, I realized that composting isn't just about waste management. It's a commitment to a healthier planet, a way to reconnect with the cycles of nature, and, let's be honest, a fantastic excuse to get a little dirty. So here's to Bowers Farm for not only educating this hot sauce-making, marathon-running enthusiast but also for inspiring a deeper connection to the earth beneath our feet. As for my composting journey? Let's just say, the "lazy method" has a new, eager disciple. |
