Why Hit Songs Were Initially Rejected by Musicians and Their Impact

In the world of music, sometimes the most successful songs are initially met with skepticism or even outright rejection. This article delves into a few notable examples of hit songs that were initially dismissed by their artists but ultimately became cultural phenomena. Explore the stories behind Rihanna featuring Jay-Z, Nirvana, Smoky on the Water, Green Day, and how these songs shaped their artists' careers and popular culture.

Rihanna Featuring Jay-Z: "Holy Grail"

One of the most celebrated examples is "Holy Grail", featuring Rihanna and Jay-Z. According to various reports, this song was initially met with reservations due to its unconventional sound and its departure from the typical pop sound of the time. Both Rihanna and Jay-Z were uncertain about whether the song would be commercially viable. However, the song went on to become a massive hit, solidifying Rihanna's status as a pop superstar and earning critical acclaim.

Nirvana: "Smells Like Teen Spirit"

Another iconic example is "Smells Like Teen Spirit" by Nirvana. Kurt Cobain, the band's frontman, was apprehensive about the song's potential success and the mainstream attention it might attract, fearing it could undermine the band's authenticity. Despite these concerns, the song became an anthem for a generation, propelling Nirvana into the spotlight and defining the grunge era of the early 1990s.

Deep Purple: "Smoke on the Water"

The story behind Deep Purple's "Smoke on the Water" is another fascinating case. Originally known as "The Forbidden Riff," the song was initially seen as filler by the band. It was actually "When a Blind Man Cries" that they thought was the single, and "Smoke on the Water" was to be dropped and replaced. However, the band eventually released "When a Blind Man Cries" and "SoTW" (acronym for "Smoke on the Water") as the A-side and B-side, respectively. It wasn't until an American DJ did a radio edit that the song became a hit, proving that sometimes the greatest songs can emerge from unassuming beginnings.

Green Day: "Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)"

Green Day's "Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)" from their album Nimrod is another intriguing example. Billie Joe Armstrong, the lead singer, did not originally believe the song was suitable for their band. He even faced great anxiety when he initially performed it live, having to consume several beers before going on stage. Armstrong later admitted, "I thought it was a powerful song and it made me cry and all that. … But because it was such a vulnerable song to put that song out and it was like which way will it end up going." The song ultimately changed the way people perceived Green Day, moving them from their reputation as one-note power-chord thrashers to a more authentic and eclectic pop-punk band. It also influenced Green Day's creative trajectory, encouraging them to explore new styles.

The stories of these songs and others above illustrate how sometimes the most impactful music is not the result of an artist's initial intent. These examples highlight the transformative power of music and the importance of taking risks in the creative process. Whether it's a song that initially faced skepticism or was rejected by the artists, they often end up leaving a lasting mark on the music industry and becoming cherished cultural treasures.