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What if the best songs you’ve never heard are hiding on the flip side of your favorite records? For decades, B-sides have been the secret playgrounds of legendary musicians—tracks that didn’t get the spotlight but often left a lasting impression on die-hard fans. Some of these songs are so good, they spark fierce debates and passionate love from listeners who cherish the thrill of discovering a “hidden treasure.” Let’s crack open the vault and take a journey through twelve of the most iconic, underrated, and downright unforgettable B-sides in music history.
The Beatles – “Rain”
When you think of The Beatles, you probably picture screaming fans and chart-topping singles. But “Rain,” the moody B-side to “Paperback Writer,” has quietly become one of their most beloved tracks. It’s packed with psychedelic swirls, trippy backward vocals, and Ringo Starr’s drumming—so wild and creative, it’s still jaw-dropping today. Many fans swear it’s the best thing The Beatles ever recorded, pointing to its deep groove and hypnotic lyrics. Listening to “Rain” feels like stepping into a dream, where everything is just a little bit upside down. It’s the sound of the band pushing boundaries right before your ears. The song’s experimental spirit captures the magic of the mid-60s, showing just how fearless The Beatles really were. Even decades later, “Rain” feels fresh, risky, and impossible to ignore.
Queen – “I’m In Love With My Car”
Can a song about a car be more thrilling than the world’s most famous rock opera? For many Queen fans, Roger Taylor’s “I’m In Love With My Car” is exactly that. It’s the revved-up, roaring B-side to “Bohemian Rhapsody,” powered by Taylor’s gritty vocals and infectious energy. The track oozes theatrics, with every note sounding like it should be blaring from the speakers of a muscle car on an open road. Some listeners even prefer it to the legendary A-side, drawn in by its rebellious spirit and rock-and-roll swagger. “I’m In Love With My Car” isn’t just a quirky ode—it’s a full-throttle celebration of obsession, speed, and the freedom of the highway. It captures Queen’s knack for mixing drama and tongue-in-cheek fun, and it leaves you grinning every time.
David Bowie – “Velvet Goldmine”
If you want pure, unfiltered glam rock, “Velvet Goldmine” is a goldmine indeed. Tucked away as the B-side to a reissue of “Space Oddity,” this track sees David Bowie in full Ziggy Stardust mode—sleazy, flamboyant, and completely irresistible. It’s a glitter-drenched anthem that sizzles with Bowie’s signature swagger and wit. The song’s lyrics flirt with danger and decadence, painting a decadent portrait of 1970s nightlife. Despite being hidden on a re-release, “Velvet Goldmine” has built a cult following, with fans loving its unapologetic style and infectious groove. It’s the sound of an artist unafraid to push buttons and break rules, and it stands as a testament to Bowie’s genius for reinvention. Every listen is a dive into a world where the party never ends.
Oasis – “Acquiesce”
Some songs are just too anthemic to stay in the shadows. “Acquiesce,” the B-side to Oasis’s “Some Might Say,” is a case in point. It’s a fan favorite for good reason—Liam and Noel Gallagher share fierce, passionate vocals, creating a tidal wave of sound that could fill stadiums. The lyrics are raw and honest, capturing the spirit of brotherhood and survival in a tough world. Many listeners argue that “Acquiesce” is stronger than most of Oasis’s singles, and it’s often the highlight at their concerts. The song’s soaring chorus and gritty guitar riffs deliver everything you want from a Britpop classic. It’s proof that sometimes the B-side is where bands stash their most heartfelt, unfiltered work. There’s a magic in “Acquiesce” that keeps people coming back, singing along, and remembering why they fell for Oasis in the first place.
The Smiths – “Half a Person”
Leave it to The Smiths to turn loneliness into something beautiful. “Half a Person,” buried on the back of “Shoplifters of the World Unite,” is a masterclass in heartache and longing. Morrissey’s lyrics are at their most vulnerable, telling a story of unrequited love and searching for belonging. Johnny Marr’s guitar work shimmers, providing the perfect backdrop for this bittersweet tale. Fans often call it one of The Smiths’ most moving songs, thanks to its honest emotion and melodic grace. It’s the kind of track that makes you pause and really listen—wondering if you’ve ever felt quite the same way. There’s a timelessness to “Half a Person” that makes it feel as fresh now as it did in the 1980s. The song’s gentle sadness is strangely comforting, like an old friend who understands.
Nirvana – “Even in His Youth”
Anger, pain, and raw emotion—Nirvana’s “Even in His Youth” is a punch to the gut. Released as the B-side to “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” this song strips back any polish and dives headfirst into the darker side of grunge. Kurt Cobain’s voice is full of rage and vulnerability, painting a picture of someone haunted by the past. The guitars are loud and messy, just the way Nirvana fans like it. Even though it never became a hit, “Even in His Youth” is beloved for its honesty and intensity. It’s the sound of a band unafraid to show their scars, and it gives a deeper look into what made Nirvana so powerful. Listening to this track feels like stumbling across a diary entry—raw, real, and unforgettable.
Radiohead – “Talk Show Host”
Radiohead has always been masters of mood, but “Talk Show Host,” the B-side to “Street Spirit (Fade Out),” takes atmosphere to another level. This track is dark, mysterious, and strangely hypnotic, building a world of its own in just a few minutes. The song’s haunting guitar lines and Thom Yorke’s eerie vocals create a sense of unease that lingers long after the music stops. “Talk Show Host” found a second life when it appeared on the soundtrack for Romeo + Juliet, introducing a whole new audience to its shadowy magic. Fans love its cinematic feel and the way it seems to float outside of time. It’s a hidden gem that shows how Radiohead can make even their lesser-known songs feel monumental. There’s something about it that just sticks with you—like a half-remembered dream.
Prince – “Erotic City”
Funky, wild, and impossible to resist—Prince’s “Erotic City” is the ultimate party track. Tucked away as the B-side to “Let’s Go Crazy,” it quickly became a favorite in clubs and on dance floors everywhere. The groove is infectious, the lyrics are cheeky, and Prince’s performance is electric. It’s a song that demands you move, with a beat so tight you can’t help but get swept up in it. Despite its B-side status, “Erotic City” has become legendary, proving that Prince’s genius couldn’t be contained by one side of a single. Every listen feels like a celebration, full of energy and joy. The track’s boldness and sense of fun make it a timeless favorite, always ready to turn any night into an event.
U2 – “The Sweetest Thing”
Not every B-side stays in the shadows forever. U2’s “The Sweetest Thing,” originally hidden behind “Where the Streets Have No Name,” was so beloved by fans that it eventually got released as a single. The song is a heartfelt apology wrapped in a catchy melody, showing a softer, more playful side of the band. Bono’s vocals are full of warmth and sincerity, making it easy to see why listeners connected with it. The tune’s simple, sing-along chorus makes it an instant earworm. “The Sweetest Thing” feels like a love letter—sweet, honest, and impossible to forget. Its journey from B-side to chart success proves that sometimes, good music just can’t be kept secret for long.
Blur – “Young and Lovely”
There’s a bittersweet beauty to Blur’s “Young and Lovely,” the B-side to “Chemical World.” It’s a song about youth, nostalgia, and the fleeting nature of happiness. The melody is gentle and wistful, with Damon Albarn’s vocals painting vivid pictures of days gone by. Fans often cite it as one of Blur’s finest moments, despite its B-side status. There’s something universal in its longing, the way it captures both joy and sadness in a single breath. The arrangement is lush, wrapping you up in a wave of sound that feels both comforting and a little bit sad. “Young and Lovely” is a reminder that sometimes, the things we treasure most are the ones that slip quietly by. It’s a hidden gem that lingers long after the music fades.
Depeche Mode – “Dangerous”
Dark, sultry, and full of tension—Depeche Mode’s “Dangerous” is a B-side that deserves the spotlight. Released with “Personal Jesus,” this track oozes atmosphere, with layers of synths and a pulsing beat that draws you in. The vocals are seductive, hinting at secrets and desire. Fans love its moody energy and the way it captures everything that makes Depeche Mode unique. There’s a sense of danger and allure that makes it impossible to ignore. Despite being overshadowed by its A-side, “Dangerous” stands out as a masterclass in electronic music. It’s the kind of song you want to play late at night, when the world feels a little mysterious. Every listen reveals something new, making it endlessly intriguing.
The Rolling Stones – “Child of the Moon”
Psychedelic, mystical, and a little bit eerie—“Child of the Moon” shows a side of The Rolling Stones you might not expect. As the B-side to “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” it explores new territory, blending trippy sounds with haunting melodies. The lyrics are cryptic, hinting at otherworldly experiences and hidden truths. Fans are drawn to its mysterious vibe, which stands in stark contrast to the band’s more famous rock ‘n’ roll hits. The track’s unique soundscape makes it a standout in the Stones’ catalog, proving that they were never afraid to experiment. “Child of the Moon” is like a secret passageway into a different world—a place where anything feels possible, and the ordinary becomes extraordinary. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most magical songs are the ones hiding just out of sight.
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.
