Maybe it’s already been pointed out that virtually all of the jazz recorded in the 50s, 60s , 70s, and on up to today in many cases, are covers.
I like Melody Gardot because much of her body of work is original. But she’s also done some great covers.
Mingus wrote a lot of stuff, as did Dizzy Gillespie, but both also gave us great reinterpretations of the compositions of others.
Where would Jack Wilkins or David Hazeltine fit in if it weren’t for covers.
Right now I’m listening to Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong. All covers. All setting a wonderful mood here in my listening room.
One other thought. During COVID, Chrissie Hynde put together a GREAT album of Bob Dylan covers. The album is Standing in the Doorway.
More great Bob Dylan (and other) covers from the early Byrds albums.
Every performer brings their own touch, and great music often shines through different great musicians. Nearly all classical orchestral music is covers spanning literally hundreds of years.
Three cheers for timeless music that refreshes us through the lips and hands of so many gifted artists.