The Rules for Battle: Each week, we pit versions of the same song by two different artists in a head-to-head death match for musical supremacy. (Sometimes it will be the original recording vs. a cover version; other times it will be two different covers.) Then it's up to you to decide: Listen to and vote on which version you think should emerge victorious and which should be sent packing. May the best band win!



The Song: 'Don't Stop the Music'

The Contestants: Rihanna vs. The Bird and the Bee

In This Corner -- Rihanna: The Bajan beauty burst onto the pop scene in 2005 with 'Pon de Replay' and has shown no sign of "stopping the music" (ha!) by delivering a bevy of hits -- 'S.O.S.,' Umbrella' and 'Disturbia.' But this one may top 'em all with a slick sampling of Michael Jackson's 'Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'.'

Rihanna, 'Don't Stop the Music'

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In This Corner -- The Bird and the Bee: The Los Angelean indie quirkster duo -- beloved for their 2006 cute 'n profane 'F---ing Boyfriend' -- present us with their deliciously languid and spacious take on Rihanna's original, with sumptuous harmonies and a trip-hop feel. Palatable pop for the cool kids, y'all.

The Bird and the Bee, 'Don't Stop the Music'