“Creep” is the song that made Radiohead. It didn’t happen overnight, as it went only to #78 in the UK when it was originally released. But it soon became a hit in other countries – including the US, where it is still their biggest hit – and was re-released in the UK, this time going to #7. There are still people out there who think Radiohead are the “Creep” band.
There have been a lot of acoustic covers of “Creep,” especially lately. In June 2020 alone there have been at least three prominent covers. Whether it’s the pandemic, or whether it’s because “Creep” is really a ballad, it’s become a staple.
Hildegard von Blingin’ seeks to change that. A “bardcore” artist who has sprung up on YouTube just recently, she covers pop hits of the last few decades as Medieval music. (The name is a reference to Saint Hildegard of Bingen, often recognized as the first major composer of European music.)
The gimmick works as the Medieval “Creep” is ethereal in ways most traditional acoustic performances aren’t. But the cliche of performing “Creep” acoustically is further undercut by the change in lyrics, using archaic English words instead of “you.” It’s fun, amusing, and kind of addictive.
This is right in the sweet spot of “gimmick cover that should be annoying but is so well executed that it is legitimately excellent.” Honestly, all of the songs on her channel (there are only like 5 as of this writing) are pretty great, but her version of Pumped Up Kicks is just phenomenal.