Remixes: real music or a cheap way to get attention?

Are artists that do remixes producing "real music" or are they just taking someone else's work and using it to get fame for themselves?
Do you consider a good remix on the same level as a good original song?
Is there value in a remix even if it's not as good as the original?

My opinion for those that care.

 Spoiler

Imo, a well made remix has value on its own and can be better than the original if the artist behind it puts real effort in it.
It can serve as well as a sign of appreciation or a tribute to the work of the original artist.
However, most of the remixes I see have a way of butchering the original song to make it more suitable for the general public: eliminating most of the lyrics and simply repeating the chorus, removing complicated guitar progressions in favor of looping electronic beats, reviving old songs with only enough to hit the nostalgia radar... It's saddening.