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“Heroes” by David Bowie – The Anthem That Almost Was
When you think of anthems, it’s hard not to imagine a stadium singing in unison, fists in the air. David Bowie’s “Heroes” certainly has that energy. Released in 1977, the song was inspired by Bowie’s sightings of lovers kissing by the Berlin Wall. According to Rolling Stone, “Heroes” has been used at countless historical moments, including the fall of the Berlin Wall itself. Strangely, despite its power and presence, it never topped charts or became the official anthem for any cause or event. The song’s soaring chorus and hope-filled lyrics make it a natural rallying cry, but it always hovered just outside the mainstream’s spotlight. In 2024, Spotify reports show “Heroes” is streamed millions of times a year, proving it still resonates. Yet, somehow, it remains more of a cult favorite than a universal anthem. Imagine if nations or causes had officially adopted “Heroes”—the world might just sing together a little louder.
“Maps” by Yeah Yeah Yeahs – The Heartbreak Anthem That Slipped Away
“Maps” by Yeah Yeah Yeahs, released in 2003, is one of those songs that grabs your emotions and doesn’t let go. The raw vulnerability in Karen O’s voice is unforgettable, especially with the repeated line “They don’t love you like I love you.” According to Pitchfork’s 2022 retrospective, “Maps” influenced an entire wave of indie rock, but it never became the go-to breakup anthem for a generation like “Someone Like You” by Adele. In live shows, crowds chant the chorus as if it were already a classic anthem. Billboard noted that “Maps” has been covered by dozens of artists, yet it still gets overshadowed. Its simple, honest message about love and loss could have united millions, but instead, it lives in the shadows of more commercial hits. There’s something tragically beautiful about a song that nearly, but never quite, becomes the anthem it deserves to be.
“All the Young Dudes” by Mott the Hoople – The Youth Anthem That Got Lost
Penned by David Bowie, “All the Young Dudes” is bursting with youthful energy and rebellion. Released in 1972, it was intended as an anthem for the lost and wandering youth of its era. According to The Guardian, the song became a symbol of glam rock but never reached mainstream anthem status like “We Will Rock You.” Despite being recognized as one of the best songs of the 1970s, it’s often overlooked in stadiums and political rallies. In 2023, BBC Music listeners ranked it as a top “should-have-been” anthem. The chorus, with its call to arms for a new generation, still feels relevant in today’s world of protests and social change. Yet, it’s rarely heard outside classic rock playlists or nostalgic radio hours. It’s a song that could unite generations, but most people only know it as a deep cut.
“Dog Days Are Over” by Florence + The Machine – The Celebration Song That Deserved More
Florence + The Machine’s “Dog Days Are Over” exploded onto the scene in 2008, bringing with it a rush of hope and catharsis. The song has been used in countless movie trailers and TV finales, but it’s never become an official anthem for any major event or movement. According to Rolling Stone’s 2024 streaming charts, it remains one of the band’s most played songs. The driving beat and euphoric chorus make it perfect for graduation ceremonies, sports victories, or even political rallies. Yet, when big moments come, organizers tend to choose safer, older tracks. In interviews, Florence Welch herself has expressed surprise at the song’s staying power. The world seems ready for a new anthem of joy—maybe it’s time “Dog Days Are Over” finally takes its place.
“Man in the Mirror” by Michael Jackson – The Change Anthem That Never Was
“Man in the Mirror” is perhaps Michael Jackson’s most introspective track, released in 1988. The song’s message about self-reflection and changing the world from within should have made it an anthem for social movements everywhere. According to Nielsen Music, it remains one of Jackson’s best-selling singles, but it’s rarely used at protests or marches. USA Today reported in 2023 that the song experienced a streaming boost during times of social unrest, proving its enduring relevance. The uplifting gospel choir and powerful lyrics have inspired millions, but it never quite reached anthem status like “Imagine” by John Lennon. The world keeps returning to it in times of crisis, but “Man in the Mirror” is still waiting for its true moment in the spotlight.
“I Will Wait” by Mumford & Sons – The Hopeful Anthem That Missed Its Moment
Mumford & Sons’ “I Will Wait” was everywhere in 2012, with its banjo-driven energy and foot-stomping rhythm. Despite its popularity, it never became the anthem for resilience and patience that it could have been. According to the Official Charts Company, the song peaked at number 12 in the UK and number 12 on the US Billboard Hot 100, but it never dominated the airwaves like other anthems of the decade. Its lyrics about loyalty and endurance are especially relevant in a world recovering from a pandemic and facing uncertainty. The song is a staple at music festivals, where crowds sing every word, but it’s still not the universal anthem that its message warrants. “I Will Wait” remains a song people love personally, but not collectively.
“Freedom! ’90” by George Michael – The Liberation Anthem That Stayed Underground
George Michael’s “Freedom! ’90” is a song that pulses with a sense of liberation and self-expression. Released in 1990, it became a symbol for LGBTQ+ pride and personal freedom, but it never achieved the widespread anthem status of “Born This Way” or “I Will Survive.” According to Billboard’s 2024 Pride Month playlist, “Freedom! ’90” is still a favorite at parades and parties. However, outside those circles, its impact is often underestimated. The song’s music video, featuring supermodels lip-syncing the lyrics, is iconic, but the track itself doesn’t get the anthem love it deserves. Michael’s call for authenticity and breaking free from expectations could have united far more people, if only the world had been ready to listen.
“Bitter Sweet Symphony” by The Verve – The Life Anthem That Got Overlooked
In 1997, The Verve released “Bitter Sweet Symphony,” a song brimming with existential longing and orchestral grandeur. It’s been used in everything from commercials to graduation ceremonies, yet it never became the defining anthem of a generation. According to Spotify’s 2024 stats, it remains one of the most streamed songs from the ‘90s, but it’s rarely chosen as the official soundtrack to big moments. The song’s legal battles over sample rights may have overshadowed its emotional impact, as reported by BBC News. Despite these setbacks, “Bitter Sweet Symphony” still brings people together in quiet moments of reflection, even if it never got its stadium moment. Its message about life’s struggles and hopes should have made it a universal rallying cry.
“Wake Up” by Arcade Fire – The Awakening Anthem That Stayed Indie
Arcade Fire’s “Wake Up” is a song that practically demands you to join in, with its soaring chorus and urgent lyrics. Released in 2004, it quickly became a staple at festivals and sports events, but it never broke into the mainstream as an official anthem. According to The New York Times, “Wake Up” was used during U2’s world tour and in the trailer for “Where the Wild Things Are,” yet it remains more of an indie darling than a universal anthem. Its message about youth and the necessity to face reality is as timely now as ever. Fans continue to push for its recognition, but the song remains on the fringes, beloved by those who know it and invisible to those who don’t. It’s a rallying cry that’s waiting for the world to catch up.
“Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield – The Empowerment Anthem That’s Still Waiting
Natasha Bedingfield’s “Unwritten,” released in 2004, is all about possibility and starting fresh. Its uplifting chorus—“The rest is still unwritten”—is tailor-made for moments of change and new beginnings. According to ASCAP, the song has been used in over 50 films and TV shows, often during scenes of transformation or triumph. Despite its popularity, “Unwritten” is rarely played at large-scale events like graduations or political rallies. In 2023, TikTok trends briefly brought the song back, but it still hasn’t achieved the anthem status of “Roar” by Katy Perry. Its message of self-empowerment and hope feels especially necessary in a world facing so much uncertainty.
“Run the World (Girls)” by Beyoncé – The Feminist Anthem That Should Be Bigger
Beyoncé’s “Run the World (Girls),” released in 2011, is a call to arms for women everywhere. While it’s played at some women’s marches and empowerment events, it hasn’t reached the level of ubiquity as “Respect” by Aretha Franklin or “I’m Every Woman” by Chaka Khan. According to IFPI’s 2024 Global Music Report, Beyoncé remains one of the most influential artists, yet this particular song hasn’t become the go-to anthem for women’s empowerment worldwide. The track’s ferocious beat and commanding lyrics make it perfect for rallying crowds, but sometimes it’s overlooked for older, more established songs. In a world where gender equality is still a battle, “Run the World (Girls)” deserves to be blasting from every loudspeaker.
“Youth” by Daughter – The Quiet Anthem for a Lost Generation
“Youth” by Daughter, released in 2013, quietly captures the anxieties and hopes of a generation coming of age in uncertain times. The song has become a favorite on streaming platforms, with over 300 million plays on Spotify as of 2024. Its haunting melody and poetic lyrics have made it an unofficial anthem for those grappling with mental health, uncertainty, and heartbreak, as reported by NME. Despite this, it’s rarely played at public events or used as an official anthem for mental health awareness. Its quiet strength and honest vulnerability could unite millions, but for now, it remains a hidden treasure for those who need it most.
“Shake It Out” by Florence + The Machine – The Comeback Anthem the World Overlooked
“Shake It Out” is another Florence + The Machine track that seems tailor-made for big moments. Released in 2011, the song is about letting go of the past and embracing a brighter future. According to Apple Music’s 2025 stats, “Shake It Out” is one of the most streamed comeback songs, but it’s still rarely chosen as a graduation or New Year’s Eve anthem. In interviews, Florence Welch has said the song was inspired by her own struggles with regret and self-doubt. Despite its powerful message, it’s often overshadowed by more commercial tracks. This song’s cathartic chorus could have helped countless people celebrate new beginnings together, but it’s still waiting for its moment in the sun.
“Gooey” by Glass Animals – The Feel-Good Anthem That Remains Niche
“Gooey” by Glass Animals, released in 2014, is a song that oozes warmth and good vibes. Its playful lyrics and hypnotic rhythm make it a favorite at summer parties, yet it’s never broken out as a true anthem. According to Spotify’s 2024 Wrapped report, “Gooey” remains one of the band’s most beloved tracks, especially among Gen Z listeners. Despite this, it rarely gets played on mainstream radio or at big public celebrations. The song’s unique sound and joyful energy could easily unite people in moments of happiness, but for now, it remains a hidden gem for those in the know.
“Chasing Cars” by Snow Patrol – The Love Anthem That Almost Made It
“Chasing Cars,” released in 2006, is often cited in polls as one of the greatest love songs of all time. According to the Official Charts Company, it was the most played song of the 21st century on UK radio as of 2023. Despite this, it’s rarely used as the official anthem at weddings, proposals, or public displays of affection. The song’s simple, heartfelt lyrics and soaring melody have touched millions, but it’s often edged out by more obvious choices like “All of Me” by John Legend. “Chasing Cars” remains a personal favorite for many, but it never fully became the collective anthem it was destined to be.
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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.
