

Everybody seems to love "Paper Planes" by M.I.A., with the exception of David Letterman, whose producers apparently censored the song by silencing its gunshot samples.

Last year, I called it "the best use of a Clash sample I've ever heard." In 2008, Thom Yorke played it on the BBC and many artists have found it necessary to bust out some impressive cover versions and remixes, some of were collected in the remix album pictured to the right. (I'm from Barcelona even used the same name for one of their songs, as if some of the song's powerful mojo might rub off on them as a result.)

Here's a shortlist of some of the best/most interesting takes on M.I.A.'s iconic "Paper Planes."

First, Panda Riot's live cover version shifts the song into indie/shoegaze mode:

Built to Spill takes it in a more wistful direction:

Lil' Wayne covered the song with new lyrics:

The Beastie Boys' AdRock remixed it in a reggae style:

Bun B and Rich Boy added beats and rhymes:

Then there's the obligatory 50 Cent remix:

These dudes do a "college a capella group serenades a campfire" sort of version:

Anagha is destined for stardom:

Censor that!

See Also: