The 20 Most Underrated Tracks on Every Critically Acclaimed Album

Radiohead – OK Computer: “Let Down”

When people talk about Radiohead’s “OK Computer,” they usually rush to mention “Paranoid Android” or “Karma Police.” But “Let Down” is the track that quietly hits the hardest. Its layers of sound, from the chiming guitars to Thom Yorke’s aching voice, create a feeling of floating in space—lonely, but beautiful. The lyrics speak to the disconnection so many of us feel in a world that moves too fast. Despite its emotional intensity and the fact that fans voted it into the top 10 Radiohead songs in a 2022 Rolling Stone poll, it rarely gets the spotlight. If you’ve ever felt invisible in a crowd, this song is for you. The haunting melody lingers long after the last note fades, proving that sometimes the most powerful songs aren’t the loudest.

Kanye West – My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy: “Blame Game”

Everyone knows the bombastic singles from this album, but “Blame Game” is where Kanye exposes his heart. The track, with its gentle, repetitive piano and John Legend’s soulful voice, is a slow-burning confession about the pain of failed love. It’s both funny and gut-wrenching—Kanye’s storytelling mixes heartbreak with biting humor. While songs like “Power” and “Runaway” get all the attention, “Blame Game” tells a quieter, more vulnerable story. Pitchfork’s fan survey found this track to be a favorite, hinting at its hidden influence. The song’s emotional honesty and experimental sound make it stand out, even if it rarely gets the credit it deserves.

Kendrick Lamar – To Pimp a Butterfly: “Momma”

Buried among the explosive hits on Kendrick’s magnum opus, “Momma” is a song of reflection and return. Kendrick raps about success, identity, and the journey back to his roots, all over a swirling, jazzy beat. It’s the kind of track you don’t notice at first, but it rewards careful listening. Critics often highlight its complex layers and the way Kendrick lays his soul bare, yet it’s rarely mentioned in the same breath as “Alright.” Billboard recently pointed out a growing appreciation for “Momma,” especially among fans looking for deeper meaning. It’s a reminder that some of the best stories need time to reveal themselves.

Fleetwood Mac – Rumours: “I Don’t Want to Know”

Fleetwood Mac’s “Rumours” is packed with hits, but “I Don’t Want to Know” is the secret engine that keeps the album moving. The song’s harmonies are tight and infectious, with a driving rhythm that makes you want to tap your feet. Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks trade vocals in a way that sounds both joyful and bittersweet. Despite its upbeat sound, the lyrics are about trying to move past pain—a theme that runs throughout the album. NME’s retrospective review calls this track an “unsung hero,” and it’s easy to see why. It might not dominate playlists, but it’s essential to the album’s emotional balance.

Nirvana – Nevermind: “Lounge Act”

“Lounge Act” is the kind of Nirvana song that sneaks up on you. It doesn’t have the instant recognition of “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” but its raw energy is undeniable. Kurt Cobain’s vocals are both fierce and vulnerable, set against a bassline that pulses with urgency. The lyrics are tangled and anxious, capturing the feeling of being trapped by your own doubts. Consequence of Sound recently noted that “Lounge Act” is finding new fans among Gen Z listeners, which is proof of its timelessness. It’s a reminder that even on an album full of hits, there’s still gold waiting to be found.

Prince – Purple Rain: “Computer Blue”

“Computer Blue” is one of Prince’s most daring experiments—a wild ride through guitar solos, funky synths, and shifting moods. While everyone remembers the soaring ballads like “Purple Rain” or the pop hooks of “When Doves Cry,” this track is pure unfiltered creativity. It’s structured more like a suite than a song, with different sections flowing into each other. Variety recently highlighted “Computer Blue” as key to understanding Prince’s evolution as an artist. The song’s raw intensity and futuristic sound make it stand out, even if it’s often overlooked by casual listeners.

The Beatles – Revolver: “She Said She Said”

“She Said She Said” is a psychedelic gem that captures The Beatles at their most adventurous. The song’s shifting time signatures and surreal lyrics make it feel like a dream you can’t quite shake. While tracks like “Eleanor Rigby” get all the accolades, this one shows just how far the band was willing to push the envelope. Ultimate Classic Rock’s poll found it to be a hidden favorite among diehard fans. Its wild energy and cryptic storytelling are classic Lennon, and it’s a must for anyone who thinks they know everything about The Beatles’ catalog.

Frank Ocean – Blonde: “White Ferrari”

“White Ferrari” is the quiet heart of Frank Ocean’s “Blonde.” The production is sparse—just gentle guitar, soft synths, and Frank’s intimate vocals. The lyrics are poetic, touching on love, loss, and longing in a way that feels both specific and universal. While “Nights” often steals the show, “White Ferrari” is the track that grows deeper with every listen. The Fader recently singled it out as one of Ocean’s finest works. Its subtlety is its strength, making it the kind of song that can break your heart and heal it in the same breath.

David Bowie – The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust: “Soul Love”

“Soul Love” is the Bowie song that slips quietly between the album’s anthems. Its gentle saxophone lines and romantic lyrics showcase Bowie’s softer side, a contrast to the glam rock of “Starman.” The song explores different kinds of love—romantic, spiritual, universal—without ever feeling preachy. Rolling Stone’s retrospective notes its importance to the album’s overall narrative. It’s a track that asks you to slow down and listen, revealing new layers with each play. In a world obsessed with hits, “Soul Love” is a much-needed deep cut.

OutKast – Aquemini: “SpottieOttieDopaliscious”

“SpottieOttieDopaliscious” is a song that can’t be pinned down—it’s part spoken word, part funk, part Southern storytelling. Instead of a traditional structure, it unfolds like a vivid dream, with horns blaring and tales of late-night adventures. While “Rosa Parks” and “Da Art of Storytellin’” get the most streams, this track is the soul of “Aquemini.” Complex’s survey found it’s quickly becoming a fan favorite thanks to its bold style. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most memorable tracks are the ones that break all the rules.

Joni Mitchell – Blue: “This Flight Tonight”

“This Flight Tonight” is energetic and restless, a stark contrast to the mournful ballads that define much of “Blue.” Joni’s guitar playing is sharp and driving, propelling the song forward as she sings about regret and longing from the window seat of an airplane. The sense of motion in the music matches the emotional turbulence in the lyrics. Despite being covered by artists like Nazareth, Joni’s original remains the definitive version. Critics have often called it an overlooked highlight, adding a sense of urgency and dynamism to the album’s quieter moments.

Pink Floyd – The Dark Side of the Moon: “Any Colour You Like”

“Any Colour You Like” is an instrumental journey that showcases Pink Floyd’s mastery of atmosphere and texture. While tracks like “Money” or “Time” are staples of classic rock radio, this song floats above the fray, inviting listeners to get lost in its hypnotic grooves. Its use of synthesizers and echoing guitar lines was groundbreaking at the time, pushing the boundaries of what rock music could be. Fans and critics alike have praised it for its dreamlike quality, serving as a bridge between the album’s heavier moments. It’s a reminder that sometimes, words aren’t necessary to make a statement.

Björk – Homogenic: “Unravel”

“Unravel” is a delicate, ghostly song that often gets overlooked on Björk’s “Homogenic.” The arrangement is sparse, with swirling electronics and Björk’s voice sounding both fragile and powerful. The lyrics describe a relationship coming undone, using the metaphor of threads slowly loosening—a simple image that hits hard. Despite its understated nature, “Unravel” has been cited by artists like Thom Yorke as one of their favorite Björk tracks. It’s a song that sneaks up on you, revealing its emotional power in gentle waves.

Amy Winehouse – Back to Black: “Some Unholy War”

“Some Unholy War” is a slow-burning, gospel-tinged standout on Amy Winehouse’s iconic album. While classics like “Rehab” and “Back to Black” dominate conversations, this track is a showcase for Amy’s smoky vocals and storytelling. The song’s lyrics are raw and personal, touching on loyalty, sacrifice, and heartbreak. Its understated arrangement lets Amy’s voice shine, and critics often point to it as a hidden gem. Fans who dig deeper into the album often find themselves returning to this emotional centerpiece.

Sufjan Stevens – Illinois: “The Seer’s Tower”

“The Seer’s Tower” is a chilling, spiritual track that stands apart from the grand theatrics of the rest of “Illinois.” The arrangement is minimal, with haunting piano and Sufjan’s gentle voice floating above. The lyrics are full of biblical imagery and existential longing, creating an atmosphere that is both peaceful and unsettling. Fans and critics have praised its emotional depth, calling it one of the most moving moments on the album. It’s a quiet song, but it leaves a lasting impression.

LCD Soundsystem – Sound of Silver: “Someone Great”

“Someone Great” is quietly powerful, with a pulsing beat and lyrics about loss and longing that feel universal. James Murphy’s voice is half-sung, half-spoken, lending the song an intimacy that’s rare in dance music. While “All My Friends” is the big crowd-pleaser, “Someone Great” is the song that gets under your skin. Critics have called it one of LCD’s best, and fans often cite it as a personal favorite. Its ability to make you dance and cry at the same time is what makes it truly special.

Beyoncé – Lemonade: “Love Drought”

“Love Drought” is dreamlike and emotionally layered, offering a breath of calm in the middle of Beyoncé’s fiery “Lemonade.” The song’s lush production and gentle vocals stand in contrast to the album’s anthems like “Formation.” Its lyrics are about hope and healing, using water as a metaphor for renewal. Fans and critics alike have praised its vulnerability, and Pitchfork noted its growing influence in Beyoncé’s live shows and fan discussions. It’s a track that rewards repeat listens, revealing new details each time.

Marvin Gaye – What’s Going On: “Right On”

“Right On” is a jazzy, introspective break in Marvin Gaye’s classic album. While the title track and “Mercy Mercy Me” are staples of soul music, “Right On” flows with a relaxed groove and socially conscious lyrics. The song’s arrangement is open and airy, allowing Marvin’s vocals and message to shine. Critics have pointed out its importance in the album’s concept, providing a thoughtful pause amid the heavier songs. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the quiet moments are the ones that linger.

The Smiths – The Queen Is Dead: “I Know It’s Over”

“I Know It’s Over” is a masterclass in melancholy. Morrissey’s vocals are aching and dramatic, set against Johnny Marr’s lush guitar work. The lyrics are poetic and brutally honest, capturing the feeling of heartbreak in vivid detail. While the album’s upbeat tracks get most of the attention, this song is often cited by fans as the emotional centerpiece. Critics have praised its intensity and vulnerability, calling it one of The Smiths’ finest moments. It’s the kind of song that makes you feel less alone in your sadness.

Taylor Swift – Folklore: “Peace”

“Peace” is one of the most intimate tracks on Taylor Swift’s “Folklore.” Its stripped-down arrangement—the soft guitar, Taylor’s almost-whispered vocals—creates a sense of closeness, like she’s singing just to you. The lyrics grapple with the idea that love can’t protect you from the chaos of the world, a theme that feels especially relevant today. While “Exile” and “Cardigan” dominate discussions, “Peace” is quietly becoming a fan favorite for its honesty and vulnerability. Critics have pointed out its understated brilliance, and fans often describe it as the track that lingers longest in their hearts.