The Cowboy Junkies' "Sweet Jane" is one of those rare covers that didn't just honor the original—it redefined it. Released on their 1988 breakout album, The Trinity Session , this version turned Lou Reed's proto-punk anthem into a haunting, slow-burn masterpiece .
The highest praise for this cover came from the songwriter himself. Lou Reed famously called the Cowboy Junkies' version “the best and most authentic version I have ever heard” . He was so moved by their interpretation that he reportedly began performing their slower arrangement in his own concerts. Cowboy Junkies - Sweet Jane (Official Video)