On her self-titled debut album from 1960, Miriam Makeba sings a striking version of House of the Rising Sun. 

Long before The Animals turned the song into a worldwide hit four years later, Makeba transforms the traditional piece into a calm, focused narrative. Her voice is at the center, clear and warm, supported by a restrained accompaniment.

Makeba, already living in exile at the time, became the first global voice of African music. This cover shows how timeless and universal the song can be when it’s given space. No drama, no pathos, just presence and depth.

An early, often overlooked cover. And for that very reason, pure CoverLove.