Hit Songs: 20 Tracks Artists Almost Didn't Release

It's crazy to think that some of the most iconic songs almost didn't make the cut, right? We're diving into 20 hit songs that artists almost left off their albums. Can you imagine a world without these bangers? Let's get into it!

1. "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey

Journey's anthem, "Don't Stop Believin'," almost didn't make it onto the Escape album, which is wild considering it's now their signature song. Guys, can you imagine a world without this song? Originally, some members of the band felt it wasn't strong enough. Crazy, right? The song's structure, with its delayed chorus, was a point of contention. Some thought it took too long to get to the hook, and they worried it wouldn't grab listeners immediately. But thankfully, the band stuck to their guns (or rather, their instruments), and kept it on the album.

What's even more fascinating is how the song gained a second life decades after its release. Its inclusion in the final scene of The Sopranos catapulted it back into the spotlight, introducing it to a whole new generation. And then, of course, there's its undeniable karaoke appeal. I mean, who hasn't belted out "Just a small-town girl" at the top of their lungs? The song’s message of hope and perseverance resonates with so many people. The lyrics paint a picture of everyday people chasing their dreams in a big city, a theme that’s both universal and timeless. The song’s ability to connect with listeners on such a deep level is a major part of its enduring appeal. Think about the opening piano riff – it’s instantly recognizable, isn't it? That iconic intro sets the stage for the whole song, creating a sense of anticipation and excitement. The build-up to the chorus is masterful, drawing you in and making you want to sing along at the top of your lungs. The way Steve Perry's vocals soar during the chorus is just legendary.

And let's not forget the countless covers and parodies that "Don't Stop Believin'" has spawned. It's been featured in movies, TV shows, commercials – you name it. It's become a cultural touchstone, a song that transcends generations and genres. So, next time you hear "Don't Stop Believin'," remember that it almost didn't exist. It's a testament to the power of believing in your work, even when others have doubts. This song’s journey from almost being cut to becoming a global anthem is a story worth celebrating, and it's a reminder that sometimes, the songs we least expect can become the biggest hits of all time. It’s a true underdog story in the world of music, and it’s a story that continues to inspire.

2. "Hallelujah" by Leonard Cohen

Next up, we have Leonard Cohen's masterpiece, "Hallelujah." This song, now considered a classic, was initially overlooked. It almost didn't make it onto Cohen's Various Positions album. Can you believe that? The label didn't think it was strong enough, guys! The song was actually rejected by Columbia Records, Cohen's label at the time, for its initial album release in the United States. They just didn't hear the magic in it. It's pretty wild to think that a song so beloved could be met with such indifference initially. Cohen himself is known for his meticulous songwriting process, often spending months, even years, crafting his lyrics. “Hallelujah” is a prime example of this dedication, with Cohen reportedly writing dozens of verses before settling on the final version. The song’s complex structure and multiple interpretations are part of its allure. It’s not a simple, straightforward song; it's a song that invites reflection and introspection.

It wasn't until other artists, like John Cale and Jeff Buckley, covered it that "Hallelujah" started to gain traction. Buckley's version, in particular, is what catapulted the song to international fame. His emotional delivery and haunting vocals gave the song a new dimension, resonating with listeners on a deeply personal level. It’s amazing how a cover version can completely transform a song’s trajectory, isn't it? “Hallelujah” is a song that’s been used in countless movies, TV shows, and even at memorial services. Its versatility is remarkable; it can be both a celebration of life and a lament for loss. The song's power lies in its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions, connecting with people in moments of joy and sorrow. It's a testament to Cohen's genius that the song can be interpreted in so many different ways. The lyrics are rich with biblical allusions and metaphors, adding layers of meaning to the song. Each verse tells a story, and each story contributes to the song's overall message of love, loss, and redemption.

"Hallelujah's" journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the unpredictable nature of the music industry. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most beautiful songs take time to find their audience. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless quality. It’s a song that will likely be listened to and appreciated for generations to come. So, next time you hear "Hallelujah," remember the long and winding road it took to become the iconic song it is today. It's a story of resilience, artistic integrity, and the power of a great song to transcend its initial reception.

3. "Wonderwall" by Oasis

Oasis's Britpop anthem, "Wonderwall," almost didn't make the final cut for (What's the Story) Morning Glory? Noel Gallagher, the band's songwriter, wasn't initially convinced it fit the album's overall vibe. Can you imagine?! This song is like, the definition of 90s Britpop, right? Gallagher considered it a filler track. Crazy, I know. He had other songs he thought were stronger contenders, and "Wonderwall" was almost relegated to a B-side. The song’s simplicity might have been a factor in Gallagher’s initial hesitation. It’s a relatively straightforward song, musically speaking, with a simple chord progression and a catchy melody. But it’s precisely this simplicity that makes it so accessible and memorable. The lyrics, while open to interpretation, resonate with a wide audience, speaking to themes of hope, love, and longing.

Luckily, cooler heads prevailed, and "Wonderwall" made the album. It went on to become one of their biggest hits, cementing their place in rock history. It's now a staple at karaoke nights and indie discos worldwide. The song's success is a testament to its universal appeal. It’s a song that people connect with on a personal level, regardless of their background or musical taste. The way Liam Gallagher sings the lyrics, with his signature sneering delivery, adds to the song’s charm. There’s a vulnerability beneath the swagger that makes the song even more compelling. And let's not forget the iconic music video, with its quirky visuals and dreamy atmosphere. The video perfectly captures the song’s mood, adding another layer to its appeal. "Wonderwall" is a song that’s been covered by countless artists, from Ryan Adams to Cat Power. Each cover brings a new perspective to the song, highlighting its versatility and enduring quality. The song’s legacy extends beyond its commercial success. It’s a song that’s become part of the cultural fabric, a symbol of a specific time and place in music history. It’s a song that evokes memories and emotions for millions of people around the world.

So, the next time you hear “Wonderwall,” remember that it almost didn’t happen. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the songs that seem the simplest can have the biggest impact. This song serves as an anthem for a generation, a timeless classic that continues to inspire and move listeners. The fact that it almost didn't make the cut is a fascinating footnote in the song's history, adding to its mystique and appeal.

4. "Creep" by Radiohead

Radiohead's "Creep," their breakout hit, was almost left off their debut album, Pablo Honey. The band initially felt it was too straightforward and didn't represent their artistic vision. Guys, can you believe it? This is like, the quintessential angsty 90s anthem! They thought it was too mainstream, too simple compared to their other work. It’s ironic, isn’t it, that the song they almost discarded became their most recognizable and commercially successful track? The band’s reluctance to embrace “Creep” is understandable in some ways. They were a band with serious artistic ambitions, and “Creep,” with its simple structure and emotionally raw lyrics, didn’t necessarily align with their vision for their future sound. They were worried about being pigeonholed as a one-hit wonder, defined by a song they didn't fully believe in.

But, thankfully, it made the cut. "Creep" resonated with outsiders and misfits everywhere. Its raw emotion and vulnerability struck a chord with listeners, making it an anthem for a generation. The song’s lyrics, which express feelings of alienation and inadequacy, are what made it so relatable to so many people. It’s a song about feeling like you don’t belong, a feeling that many people experience at some point in their lives. Thom Yorke’s vocals, filled with both anger and vulnerability, perfectly capture the song’s emotional core. The song’s iconic guitar riff, with its sudden bursts of distortion, is instantly recognizable. It adds to the song’s intensity and emotional impact, making it a truly unforgettable musical moment.

Despite its success, "Creep" has had a complicated relationship with Radiohead. They famously grew tired of playing it live, feeling that it overshadowed their other work. But, in recent years, they've started to embrace it again, recognizing its importance in their history. The song’s legacy is undeniable. It’s a song that’s been covered by countless artists, from Prince to The Pretenders. Each cover brings a new interpretation to the song, highlighting its enduring power and versatility. "Creep" is a song that continues to resonate with listeners, decades after its release. Its message of alienation and self-doubt remains relevant, making it a timeless anthem for anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider. So, next time you hear "Creep," remember the band that almost didn’t want it. It’s a story of artistic growth, the challenges of fame, and the enduring power of a song that speaks to the human experience.

5. "Smells Like Teen Spirit" by Nirvana

Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit," the song that launched grunge into the mainstream, almost didn't make it onto Nevermind. Kurt Cobain, the band's frontman, initially thought it was too pop. I know, right? The song that defined a generation almost didn't exist! He worried it sounded too much like The Pixies, a band he admired, but didn’t want to directly emulate. Cobain was famously self-critical, and he often doubted his own work. He had a complex relationship with fame, and he was wary of writing songs that were too overtly commercial. The band initially struggled to perfect the song's arrangement. They experimented with different tempos and rhythms, trying to find the right balance between aggression and melody. It wasn’t until they slowed the song down and emphasized the heavy guitar riff that it started to take shape.

Can you imagine a world without this song? "Smells Like Teen Spirit" became an instant classic, a rallying cry for a generation of disaffected youth. Its raw energy and angst-ridden lyrics captured the zeitgeist of the early 90s. The song’s impact on popular culture is undeniable. It ushered in a new era of alternative rock, paving the way for countless other bands. The song’s music video, with its chaotic mosh pit and rebellious energy, perfectly captured the spirit of the song. It became an MTV staple, further solidifying the song’s place in pop culture history. The lyrics, while often interpreted as a commentary on teenage angst and rebellion, are actually quite ambiguous. Cobain himself admitted that he wasn’t entirely sure what the song was about, which adds to its mystique and enduring appeal.

Despite its success, "Smells Like Teen Spirit" weighed heavily on Cobain. He felt pressured to replicate its success, and he struggled with the attention it brought him. But the song's legacy is undeniable. It remains one of the most iconic and influential songs of all time. "Smells Like Teen Spirit" is a song that continues to resonate with listeners, decades after its release. Its raw energy and emotional intensity are timeless, making it a classic for generations to come. So, next time you hear “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” remember the song that almost never was. It’s a story of artistic genius, the complexities of fame, and the enduring power of a song to change the world.

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This is just the tip of the iceberg, guys! There are so many other songs that almost didn't make it. It just goes to show you how subjective music is and how much luck plays a role in what becomes a hit. What are some other songs you're surprised almost didn't make the cut? Let me know in the comments!