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15 B-sides that should have been hits


A vintage vinyl record of Band on the Run by Paul McCartney and Wings
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Signed, Sealed and Delivered is the 12th studio album by American recording artist Stevie Wonder at the flea market.

“Don’t Wonder Why”

Tucked into Signed, Sealed And Delivered, this B-side showcases Stevie’s emotional depth in a way that’s often missed. It’s tender, soulful, and feels like a secret meant to be shared.

Overshadowed by chart-toppers like “Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours),” this track delivers quiet magic. It’s the kind of song that makes fans ask: Why wasn’t this a hit?

Picture of The Beatles

“I Saw Her Standing There”

Though I Want To Hold Your Hand was The Beatles’ breakthrough in America, the B-side I Saw Her Standing There truly rocked. Paul McCartney’s energetic vocals and catchy riff make it a timeless tune.

This song showcases early Beatles magic and deserved more spotlight. It’s a perfect example of a B-side that could have been an A-side hit.

Led Zeppelin

“Hey Hey What Can I Do”

This bluesy gem rode shotgun to Immigrant Song, but it had the soul to stand on its own. Raw, heartfelt, and unforgettable, it’s classic Zeppelin with a twist.

As their only non-album B-side, it’s wrapped in mystery and fan obsession. One listen, and you can’t help but ask, why wasn’t this given the A-side throne?

Elton John performing on stage.

“Harmony”

The B-side to Bennie & The Jets, Elton’s Harmony flips the script with a tender, underappreciated ballad. It trades glam for grace, revealing a softer, more introspective side.

This track doesn’t just show off his range, it deepens it. A true hidden gem, “Harmony” is cherished by fans and absolutely worthy of A-side glory.

Bruce Springsteen during a show

“Pink Cadillac”

Dancing In The Dark lit up the charts, but “Pink Cadillac” had that gritty, revved-up energy fans crave from Springsteen. Its rockabilly swagger felt more like Bruce in his element.

Catchy, bold, and bursting with personality, this B-side had enough fuel to lead the pack. Honestly, it didn’t just match the A-side, it might’ve left it in the dust.

Prince in concert at the Sziget festival.

“How Come U Don’t Call Me Anymore”

Tucked behind the synth-heavy 1999, this B-side strips everything down to soul and raw emotion. Prince’s vocals ache with longing, showing a side of him that’s hauntingly real.

It may have been released as an afterthought, but fans knew better. This gem proves his brilliance wasn’t limited to chart-toppers, it lived in the shadows, too.

viersen germany  july 9 2020 closeup of fleetwood mac

“Silver Springs”

Left off Rumours and demoted to B-side status, Silver Springs carries heartbreak in every note. Stevie Nicks delivers it with aching honesty, making it one of the band’s most emotional performances.

Its haunting lyrics and slow-burning intensity have only grown more powerful over time. This isn’t just a B-side, it’s a missed opportunity for a true classic to shine.

london uk  august 27 2024 oasis band cds oasis

“Talk Tonight”

Released quietly as a B-side, Talk Tonight struck a deep chord with fans. Its stripped-down sound and emotional weight showed a rare, vulnerable side of Oasis.

This wasn’t just another track; it was a glimpse into something more honest and raw. With its gentle pull and lyrical beauty, it easily earned its place among the band’s finest moments.

Detail of the cover of Jim Morrison's book

“Roadhouse Blues”

As the B-side to You Make Me Real, Roadhouse Blues roared with grit and swagger. It’s unfiltered blues-rock vibe captured everything wild and electric about The Doors.

It may not have led the single, but it left a lasting mark. Today, it’s a rock radio essential, proof that some B-sides don’t just survive, they dominate.

a portrait shot of singer songwriter pianist legend billy joel

“I’ll Cry Instead”

Paired with An Innocent Man, this upbeat B-side delivers sharp storytelling and a melody that sticks. Joel’s charm and musical wit are on full display from start to finish.

Yet somehow, it stayed in the shadows. With its undeniable appeal, this track could’ve easily held its own as a chart-worthy single.

A vintage vinyl record of Band on the Run by Paul McCartney and Wings

“Nineteen Hundred And Eighty Five”

It starts like a slow burn, then explodes into pure McCartney madness, grand, theatrical, and totally addictive. As a B-side to Band On The Run, this track had no business playing second fiddle.

Its cinematic build and thunderous finish scream A-side material. Honestly, if this didn’t make the spotlight, what chance did the others even have?

tom waits

“O’l 55”

Tom Waits wrote it, but the Eagles made it soar. O’l 55 was buried behind Best Of My Love, yet it’s got all the ingredients of a front-page hit, lush harmonies, smooth vibes, and emotional depth.

How this mellow masterpiece got second billing is beyond us. It’s the kind of B-side that humbles the A-side it followed.

rio de janeiro june 3 2006singer morrissey from the band

“That’s Entertainment”

Leave it to Morrissey to turn a Jam classic into a moody masterpiece. His take on That’s Entertainment didn’t just elevate a B-side; it practically carried the entire single on its back.

His signature gloom wrapped around biting lyrics gave the track new teeth. Honestly, this cover had more presence than most originals. A hidden gem with real swagger.

noel gallagher

“Revolution Song”

Left off Chasing Yesterday, this track has haunted fans ever since, and not in a bad way. With its soaring melody and bold lyrics, Revolution Song feels like a lost anthem.

How did this not make the album cut? It’s the kind of B-side that screams single material. Gallagher shelved a hit, and we’re still not over it.

Ryan Evan " Van " McCann leads Catfish and the Bottlemen

“Asa”

Released as the flip side to Rango, Asa delivers a jolt of energy and killer hooks, but for some reason, it was left off the debut album. Really?

It’s the kind of track that leaves fans wondering what the label was thinking. Gritty, memorable, and wildly underrated, “Asa” deserved far more than B-side status.

These moving songs honor the brave, listen to the heartfelt tributes that still echo today.

los angeles  feb 10 boz scaggs at the

“We’re All Alone”

Meant to play backup to “It’s Over,” this soulful stunner ended up stealing the show. “We’re All Alone” glides with warmth and emotional depth that lingers long after the final note.

The public knew it before the label did, this B-side outshined its lead single with ease. Proof that sometimes the flip side holds all the magic.

Country fresh and playlist ready, these 11 new tracks are turning heads this week!

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