PolkaKing
Walter "Lil Wally" Jagiello, known to some as "The Polka King." Reuters

For better or worse, homespun song covers are a staple on the YouTube playlist, with endless examples of seemingly incongruous musical stylings melded to varying success. The form was championed most recently at Dr. Ben Carson’s presidential announcement, which featured a gospel choir’s rendition of Eminem’s "Lose Yourself."

Most of the time, popular covers stand as a testament to the transmutability of good songwriting. (Who can forget the a capella cover of Fergie’s "Glamorous" on "Gossip Girl," even eight years later?) At their best, they become something else entirely -- witness the polka covers we’ve listed for you below. You’re welcome, in advance:

1. “Shake It Off”

2. “My Heart Will Go On”

3. “Smells Like Teen Spirit”

4. “Hot N Cold”

5. “Highway to Hell”