7 'Glee' Songs That Improve on the Original

By
FOX

Story-wise, Glee has been all over the map throughout the last three seasons -- characters are built up only to be knocked down ... and in some case, inexplicably discarded. But the one constant (some may call it the one saving grace) has been the show's ability to consistently churn out chart-topping covers of classic and contemporary tunes.

And while many tracks hit #1 on the iTunes chart, not all of them improve upon the original. But every so often, New Directions nails a performance so completely, it eclipses the original.

I've scoured through my iPod and discovered 7 straight covers (no mash-ups allowed!) that soared over their precursor!

I Love You Like A Love Song
Originally Performed By:Selena Gomez and The Scene
Performed on Glee By:Naya Rivera
Why It's Better: Simply put, Naya's vocal range outpaces Selena's, resulting in a perkier pop song.

Teenage Dream
Originally Performed By: Katy Perry
Performed on Glee By:Darren Criss
Why It's Better: The acapella arrangement was an exciting addition to this popular jam.

We Are Young
Originally Performed By:Fun.
Performed on Glee By:Whole Cast
Why It's Better: The message brought to life in the song is better realized by an ensemble than a singular singer.

Bust Your Windows
Originally Performed By:Jazmine Sullivan
Performed on Glee By:Amber Riley
Why It's Better: Amber's ridonk vocal range means she's more capable of fully realizing the anger, aggression and infectious energy implied by the lyrics.

Toxic
Originally Performed By:Britney Spears
Performed on Glee By:Whole Cast
Why It's Better: The moody reworking on Brit's pop masterpiece brings a whole new vibe to the song, allowing strippers to take the tempo down a notch without losing any of the inherent sexiness.

When I Get You Alone
Originally Performed By:Robin Thicke
Performed on Glee By:Darren Criss
Why It's Better: Darren's juicy vocals trump the nasally delivery Robin served up in 2002.

Jar of Hearts
Originally Performed By:Christina Perri
Performed on Glee By:Lea Michele
Why It's Better: No tea, no shade -- Lea is a phenomenal singer, Christina is a phenomenal songwriter and dancer.