15 Hit Songs That Were Almost Given to Another Artist

Ever wonder how close some of your favorite tracks came to being sung by someone completely different? These stories reveal the twists of fate behind massive hits. Let’s jump into the surprises.

“Umbrella” by Rihanna

“Umbrella” skyrocketed Rihanna to new heights in 2007, but it was first offered to Britney Spears.[1][2] Spears passed because her album was already packed. Thankfully, Rihanna seized the chance, turning it into a defining anthem.

“Happy” by Pharrell Williams

Pharrell’s infectious “Happy” lit up 2014, yet it started out for CeeLo Green.[1][3] Green recorded a version, but his label shelved it. Pharrell then made it his own for Despicable Me 2, and it dominated charts worldwide.

“All About That Bass” by Meghan Trainor

Meghan Trainor’s breakout smash “All About That Bass” got sent to Beyoncé and Adele first.[1][2] Neither took it on, leaving Trainor to record her quirky take. That decision launched her career into the stratosphere.

“Telephone” by Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga’s high-energy “Telephone” with Beyoncé was originally pitched to Britney Spears.[1][2] Spears opted out, and Gaga turned it into a club staple. A Spears demo even floats around online, but Gaga owned it completely.

“…Baby One More Time” by Britney Spears

Britney Spears’ signature “…Baby One More Time” went to TLC before her.[1][2] They nixed it for not matching their style, then Robyn passed too. Spears made it an instant pop classic.

“Love Yourself” by Justin Bieber

Ed Sheeran penned “Love Yourself” for his own album, but handed it to Justin Bieber.[1][2] Sheeran felt it didn’t fit Divide, and Bieber turned it into a slow-burn hit. Sheeran later joked it worked out perfectly.

“Let’s Get Loud” by Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez’s party starter “Let’s Get Loud” was meant for Gloria Estefan.[1] Estefan co-wrote it but passed, thinking it too similar to her sound. Lopez ignited dance floors with it instead.

“S.O.S.” by Rihanna

Rihanna’s “S.O.S.” was crafted for Christina Milian originally.[1] Milian skipped it, paving the way for Rihanna’s chart-topping success. The track sampled plenty of classics and hooked everyone.

“Since U Been Gone” by Kelly Clarkson

Kelly Clarkson’s powerhouse “Since U Been Gone” bounced from Pink to Hilary Duff.[1][2] Pink didn’t vibe with it, Duff couldn’t hit the notes, so Clarkson crushed it. That became her breakthrough pop moment.

“Breakaway” by Kelly Clarkson

Avril Lavigne wrote and demoed “Breakaway” before giving it to Kelly Clarkson.[1][2] Lavigne ditched it from her album, and Clarkson soared with it. It marked her shift beyond Idol fame.

“Don’t Cha” by The Pussycat Dolls

The Pussycat Dolls’ cheeky “Don’t Cha” was offered to Paris Hilton first.[1][2] Hilton heard an early version and passed. The Dolls made it a seductive smash hit.

“Closer” by The Chainsmokers ft. Halsey

The Chainsmokers’ “Closer” demo went to Camila Cabello before Halsey.[1][2] Cabello was tied to Fifth Harmony and turned it down. Halsey jumped in, creating a massive summer anthem.

“Irreplaceable” by Beyoncé

Ne-Yo wrote “Irreplaceable” thinking of himself, but gifted it to Beyoncé.[1][2] His demo leaked, yet Beyoncé flipped it into an empowerment staple. Ne-Yo admitted some regret later.

“Pretty Hurts” by Beyoncé

Sia’s “Pretty Hurts” ping-ponged from Katy Perry to Rihanna before Beyoncé.[1][2] Perry ghosted it, Rihanna stalled, so Beyoncé claimed it. The song struck deep on beauty standards.

“Bye Bye Bye” by NSYNC

NSYNC’s “Bye Bye Bye” was first shopped to British boy band Five.[1][2] Five dismissed it harshly, letting NSYNC grab the iconic track. It defined their boy band era perfectly.