Who Sang the Song “Hurricane”? Verified Versions and Common Covers

Introduction to “Hurricane” Songs and Attribution

The question “who sang the song Hurricane” is more complex than it appears because multiple well-known songs share that title. This overview clarifies which artist is associated with each prominent version, focusing on verified original recordings and notable cover artists. When people ask about the singer, they are often referencing Bob Dylan’s 1974 track from Planet Waves, Leonard Cohen’s 1992 song from The Future, or later mainstream hits such as Bridgit Mendler’s 2013 pop-rock version and NF’s 2021 track from Hope. Below, each significant “Hurricane” is profiled to reduce confusion and provide clear, sourced details.

Why Multiple Songs Cause Confusion

Because the title “Hurricane” is common across genres and decades, listeners sometimes conflate distinct songs. Search queries and setlist sites often show several artists attached to similar titles, especially when one version becomes a standard and is widely covered. Adding to the complexity, some artists reference hurricanes thematically without naming the storm itself. Clarifying each songwriter and primary performer helps audiences identify exactly which track they are seeking.

Bob Dylan — “Hurricane” (1974)

Bob Dylan recorded “Hurricane” for the 1974 album Planet Waves, co-writing it with Jacques Levy. The song tells the story of boxer Rubin Carter, whose conviction for murder was later overturned. Dylan’s authoritative vocal and the track’s driving rhythm made it a standout in his catalog and a staple of classic rock radio. Live performances frequently appear in Dylan setlists, and the song remains one of the most recognized tracks titled “Hurricane.”

Key Details for Dylan’s Version

Leonard Cohen — “Hurricane” (1992)

Leonard Cohen’s “Hurricane,” appearing on 1992’s The Future, reflects on social unrest and personal turmoil. Though less narrative-driven than Dylan’s version, Cohen’s baritone and poetic phrasing give the song a distinct gravitas. It is frequently listed among his most introspective tracks and is sometimes performed in concerts, though it does not carry the same chart prominence as his earlier hits. The song’s bleak imagery and sparse arrangement underline its thematic weight.

Key Details for Cohen’s Version

Bridgit Mendler — “Hurricane” (2013)

Actress and singer Bridgit Mendler released “Hurricane” as the lead single from her 2013 album Hello My Name Is.... The pop-rock track features upbeat production and playful lyrics about a relationship that feels chaotic yet exciting. Mendler co-wrote the song with Emanuel Kiriakou and Evan “Kidd” Bogart, and it received substantial airplay on teen-oriented radio and video platforms. This version is among the most-streamed non-classical recordings titled “Hurricane” in streaming-era data.

Key Details for Mendler’s Version

NF — “Hurricane” (2021)

Rapper NF included “Hurricane” on his 2021 album Hope, marking a more aggressive, hip-hop-oriented sound compared to earlier inspirational tracks. The song addresses emotional turbulence and personal conflict, with NF delivering rapid verses over a heavy beat. Production credits typically include NF, Tommee Profitt, and various collaborators. The track broadened the song’s reach to NF’s substantial streaming audience and introduced the title to younger listeners who may be unfamiliar with Dylan or Cohen.

Key Details for NF’s Version

Other Notable Artists and Covers

Several additional musicians have recorded tracks called “Hurricane,” including folk and rock artists who use the title to convey urgency or upheaval. Many regional and independent acts have adopted the same name for songs or album tracks, leading to occasional confusion in playlists and search results. Live cover bands may perform one of the above versions under the assumption that the audience wants that particular song. When in doubt, specifying the artist—such as “Bob Dylan Hurricane” or “Leonard Cohen Hurricane”—yields more precise results.

How to Identify the Version You Mean

To pinpoint which “Hurricane” you are looking for, consider era, genre, and context:

• Classic rock or 1970s folk rock: likely Bob Dylan
• Poetic, baritone delivery from the early 1990s: likely Leonard Cohen
• Upbeat pop-rock from the 2010s featuring a female vocalist: likely Bridgit Mendler
• Aggressive hip-hop from the 2020s: likely NF
• Performance in a theatrical or dramatic setting: check the production’s music supervisor for the specific licensing source

Checking album details, release years, and artist names on official platforms will confirm the correct track and prevent misidentification. Streaming services often include multiple versions in “Hurricane” playlists; reviewing track metadata ensures you select the intended recording.

Common Misconceptions and Clarifications

Some assume “Hurricane” is a single, universally recognized song, but the title spans several decades and genres. Others may believe only one version achieved chart success; in reality, each artist’s rendition found success within its target audience and format. Additionally, covers by smaller artists are often labeled as original compositions in informal settings, which can propagate confusion. Relying on official credits and verified discographies prevents these misunderstandings.