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“Billie Jean” – Michael Jackson
Few people realize just how close “Billie Jean” came to being left off Michael Jackson’s iconic album, Thriller. Producer Quincy Jones, a legend in his own right, simply wasn’t convinced by the song at first. He thought the bassline lacked punch, and the track itself was far too long to be a hit. Michael, however, had an unshakable belief in “Billie Jean” and pushed back at every turn. He even argued over the smallest details, including the signature drum beat and vocal layering. Eventually, Jackson’s persistence won out, and the song made the cut. “Billie Jean” went on to top the Billboard Hot 100 for seven weeks straight and became a defining track of the 1980s. It remains a symbol of artistic conviction and the power of fighting for your vision, even when the experts doubt you.
“…Baby One More Time” – Britney Spears
The world almost never heard Britney Spears sing the unforgettable line, “Hit me baby one more time.” Incredibly, the song was first pitched to TLC, who turned it down, claiming it was “too pop” for their style. After a few other rejections, it landed in the hands of a then-unknown Britney Spears. She recorded the song with a fierce determination, sensing it could change her life. The single was released in 1998 and exploded onto the charts, selling over 10 million copies in the U.S. alone. The music video, featuring Spears in a schoolgirl outfit, became an instant pop culture touchstone. This twist of fate not only launched Britney’s career but also changed the sound of late-’90s pop forever.
“Sweet Child O’ Mine” – Guns N’ Roses
It’s almost laughable now to think that “Sweet Child O’ Mine” was nearly scrapped. Slash, the band’s legendary guitarist, once described the iconic opening riff as sounding like a “circus melody.” The rest of Guns N’ Roses weren’t sure the track fit their gritty, hard rock persona. Despite these doubts, the band decided to include it on their debut album, Appetite for Destruction, almost as an afterthought. To everyone’s surprise, it shot to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1988. The song’s heartfelt lyrics, inspired by Axl Rose’s then-girlfriend, and its soaring guitar solo have ensured its lasting popularity. Today, it’s hard to imagine rock history without this anthem, proving even doubtful beginnings can lead to legendary endings.
“Royals” – Lorde
Before Lorde became a household name, she and producer Joel Little uploaded “Royals” to SoundCloud as a kind of experiment. They never expected the sleepy, minimalist pop track to gather much attention. But word spread quickly on the internet, and the song started racking up plays. This organic rise caught the eye of major labels, leading to Lorde’s first record deal. “Royals” climbed to the top of charts in over 10 countries and won the Grammy for Song of the Year in 2014. It also changed the landscape of pop music, offering a stark contrast to the materialistic themes dominating the airwaves. Lorde’s story is proof that sometimes, taking a risk and giving away your work can lead to the biggest rewards.
“Rolling in the Deep” – Adele
When Adele first recorded “Rolling in the Deep,” she wasn’t sure where it fit in her musical journey. Coming off her more acoustic, soulful debut, the powerful, gospel-infused track felt like a huge leap. For a while, she hesitated to include it on her second album, worried it might alienate her fans. But encouragement from her producer, Paul Epworth, convinced her to take the plunge. The result was nothing short of spectacular: the song topped the charts in 24 countries and won multiple Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year. “Rolling in the Deep” became Adele’s signature anthem and a rallying cry for anyone who’s ever faced heartbreak. Its success showed that sometimes, the boldest risks reap the greatest rewards.
“Lose Yourself” – Eminem
Eminem’s “Lose Yourself” almost slipped through the cracks during the chaos of filming 8 Mile. The song was written and recorded in frantic breaks between takes, with Eminem scribbling lyrics on scrap paper and recording rough demos in a trailer. It was nearly forgotten in the post-production shuffle and was only added to the soundtrack at the last possible moment. When released, “Lose Yourself” became one of the most successful rap songs ever, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for 12 weeks and winning the Oscar for Best Original Song—making Eminem the first hip-hop artist to win this award. Its intense, motivational message has inspired athletes, artists, and fans around the world, proving that sometimes genius happens in the most chaotic moments.
“Born to Run” – Bruce Springsteen
Springsteen’s perfectionism nearly doomed “Born to Run” before the world ever heard its anthemic chorus. He obsessed over every detail, spending months in the studio trying to capture the sound in his head. The recording process was so grueling that the band and producers considered scrapping the final mix altogether. Springsteen himself was plagued by self-doubt, worried that the song would never meet his grand ambitions. But persistence paid off, and the single was released in 1975. It became a breakout hit, earning critical acclaim and cementing Springsteen’s reputation as “The Boss.” Its themes of youth, escape, and hope still resonate with listeners, making “Born to Run” a timeless rock classic.
“Hey Ya!” – Outkast
When Outkast first played “Hey Ya!” for executives at their label, the response was lukewarm at best. The song defied easy categorization, blending funk, rock, hip-hop, and pop, and it didn’t have a conventional chorus. Early market testing even suggested it would flop. Despite these doubts, Outkast stuck to their guns, convinced the track had something special. Upon release, “Hey Ya!” became a phenomenon, spending nine weeks atop the Billboard Hot 100 and earning a reputation as one of the most inventive songs of the 2000s. Its quirky lyrics and infectious rhythm made it a staple at parties, weddings, and sports arenas, proving the public’s taste can’t always be predicted by focus groups.
“Smells Like Teen Spirit” – Nirvana
Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” almost didn’t make it onto their breakthrough album, Nevermind. Record executives were pushing for more accessible, radio-friendly tracks and doubted the rough, grunge-infused sound of “Teen Spirit.” Kurt Cobain and his bandmates weren’t convinced, either, worrying the song might be too raw for mainstream audiences. Against all odds, the track was included, and when MTV picked up the music video, it exploded in popularity. The song reached number six on the Billboard Hot 100 and became the defining anthem of Generation X. It’s now considered one of the most influential songs in music history, a reminder that authenticity can topple industry expectations.
“Bohemian Rhapsody” – Queen
“Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen was nearly left in the vault because EMI executives were convinced no radio station would play a six-minute song. The band faced an uphill battle, with industry insiders insisting the track was too long, too weird, and too complex for mainstream listeners. It took the efforts of DJ Kenny Everett, who played the song repeatedly on his radio show, to create a groundswell of public demand. The hype forced EMI’s hand, and the single was released in 1975. It dominated the UK charts for nine straight weeks and has since become one of the most celebrated and recognizable songs ever recorded. Its operatic structure, multiple genres, and emotional intensity helped redefine what a pop song could be.
End.
Besides founding Festivaltopia, Luca is the co founder of trib, an art and fashion collectiv you find on several regional events and online. Also he is part of the management board at HORiZONTE, a group travel provider in Germany.
