19 Famous Songs That Almost Didn’t Happen
Some of the biggest hits almost never made it to the public. From last-minute changes to near rejections, these songs were close calls. Here are 19 tracks that almost didn’t get released.
1. “Bohemian Rhapsody” – Queen
Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” was initially seen as too long and unconventional for radio play. Clocking in at six minutes, it defied the standard radio format. Fortunately, the band insisted on its release, resulting in one of the most iconic songs in rock history.
2. “Like a Rolling Stone” – Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan’s “Like a Rolling Stone” changed the landscape of music, but its six-minute length made Columbia Records hesitant to release it. The risk paid off, as it became one of Dylan’s most celebrated tracks.
3. “I Want to Hold Your Hand” – The Beatles
The Beatles’ “I Want to Hold Your Hand” was nearly passed over in favor of “She Loves You” for release in the US. However, its eventual release marked the beginning of Beatlemania in America.
4. “All I Want for Christmas Is You” – Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” almost didn’t happen. Carey initially wasn’t keen on making a holiday album, thinking it was too early in her career. However, the song turned out to be a massive success and a perennial holiday favorite.
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5. “Billie Jean” – Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” faced resistance from his producer, who thought it wasn’t strong enough to be included on “Thriller.” Jackson insisted, and the song became one of his most iconic hits.
6. “Sweet Child o’ Mine” – Guns N’ Roses
Guns N’ Roses’ “Sweet Child o’ Mine” started as a simple string-skipping exercise by guitarist Slash. The band didn’t take it seriously at first, but with some development, it turned into a rock anthem.
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7. “What’s Going On” – Marvin Gaye
Marvin Gaye faced opposition from Motown Records when he wanted to release “What’s Going On.” The label thought it was too political for Gaye’s style, but he persisted, resulting in a groundbreaking song in his career.
8. “Stairway to Heaven” – Led Zeppelin
“Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin, often hailed as one of the greatest rock songs of all time, was never released as a single. Despite this, it became one of the most popular and influential songs in rock music.
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9. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” – Nirvana
“Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana almost didn’t make it onto their album “Nevermind.” The band wasn’t confident about the song’s potential, but it eventually became a defining anthem of the ’90s grunge movement.
10. “I Will Always Love You” – Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston’s version of “I Will Always Love You” was almost cut from “The Bodyguard” soundtrack. Kevin Costner, who starred in the film, suggested the song, and Houston’s rendition became one of the best-selling singles of all time.
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11. “London Calling” – The Clash
The Clash’s “London Calling” was initially seen as too politically charged and not commercially viable. However, its release marked a significant moment in punk rock, capturing the zeitgeist of the era.
12. “Purple Rain” – Prince
Prince’s “Purple Rain” almost got scrapped because it sounded too similar to Journey’s “Faithfully.” After a conversation between Prince and Journey’s keyboardist, the song was released and became a huge hit.
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13. “Hotel California” – The Eagles
The Eagles’ “Hotel California” faced doubts from the band’s label due to its lengthy runtime and unconventional lyrics. Nevertheless, it turned out to be one of their most enduring and beloved songs.
14. “Imagine” – John Lennon
John Lennon’s “Imagine” was almost shelved due to its overtly political and utopian lyrics. Its eventual release provided the world with one of the most powerful and enduring songs for peace.
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15. “Bridge Over Troubled Water” – Simon & Garfunkel
Paul Simon was initially hesitant to release “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” He feared it was too different from Simon & Garfunkel’s usual sound. Art Garfunkel’s convincing led to its recording, and it became one of their signature songs.
16. “Respect” – Aretha Franklin
Aretha Franklin’s rendition of “Respect,” originally by Otis Redding, was initially seen as too bold a cover. Franklin transformed it into a powerful anthem for women’s empowerment and civil rights.
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17. “Born to Run” – Bruce Springsteen
Bruce Springsteen’s “Born to Run” faced a lot of pressure, as it was seen as his last chance to break into mainstream success. The song not only achieved this but also became an anthem for generations.
18. “Lose Yourself” – Eminem
Eminem’s “Lose Yourself,” from the soundtrack of “8 Mile,” was almost left out due to concerns over its aggressive tone. The song went on to win an Academy Award and became one of Eminem’s most iconic tracks.
20 Music Collaborations That Broke the Internet
Music collaborations often bring together artists from different genres and styles, creating tracks that blow fans away. Some of these pairings are so unexpected or monumental that they dominate charts, spark endless conversations, and set streaming records. Here are 20 music collaborations that truly broke the internet and left fans talking.
20 Music Collaborations That Broke the Internet
19 A-List Celebrities Who Had Ordinary Jobs Before Fame
Before they were famous, many A-list celebrities worked regular jobs just like the rest of us. From flipping burgers to dressing up as a chicken, these stars had humble beginnings that helped shape their work ethic and character. Here’s a look at 19 celebrities who held ordinary jobs before becoming household names.
19 A-List Celebrities Who Had Ordinary Jobs Before Fame
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