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Hidden Origins Of Famous Songs You Thought Were Originals

Published:

by Hally Trujillo

hidden-origins-of-famous-songs-you-thought-were-originals

Ever heard a song and thought it was an original hit, only to find out later it was a cover? Many famous songs have hidden origins that surprise even the biggest music fans. From rock anthems to pop classics, some of the most beloved tracks started as lesser-known tunes. "I Will Always Love You" by Whitney Houston, for example, was originally sung by Dolly Parton. Even "Twist and Shout" by The Beatles was first performed by The Isley Brothers. These hidden gems often bring a new appreciation for the music we love. Ready to learn more about the hidden origins of your favorite songs? Let's dive in!

Hidden Origins of Famous Songs You Thought Were Originals

Ever heard a song and thought it was an original masterpiece? Many famous tracks actually have surprising origins. Let's dive into some well-known songs that are, in fact, covers or heavily inspired by earlier works.

1. "I Will Always Love You" by Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston's powerful ballad from "The Bodyguard" soundtrack is a classic. However, its roots trace back to a country legend.

  1. Dolly Parton – Originally written and recorded by Dolly Parton in 1973, this song was a farewell to her business partner and mentor, Porter Wagoner. Dolly's version topped the country charts twice, once in 1974 and again in 1982.

2. "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" by Cyndi Lauper

Cyndi Lauper's anthem for fun-loving girls everywhere wasn't the first version of this catchy tune.

  1. Robert Hazard – Written and recorded by Robert Hazard in 1979, the original version had a more rock vibe and was sung from a male perspective. Cyndi Lauper transformed it into a feminist anthem in 1983.

3. "Tainted Love" by Soft Cell

Soft Cell's synth-pop hit from the '80s has a much older origin.

  1. Gloria Jones – The song was first recorded by Gloria Jones in 1965 as a soul track. It didn't gain much attention until Soft Cell's 1981 cover, which became a massive hit worldwide.

4. "Respect" by Aretha Franklin

Aretha Franklin's demand for respect became an anthem for the civil rights and feminist movements, but it wasn't her song originally.

  1. Otis Redding – Otis Redding wrote and recorded "Respect" in 1965. While his version was a plea from a desperate man, Aretha's 1967 rendition turned it into a powerful declaration of independence and self-worth.

5. "Hound Dog" by Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley's rock 'n' roll classic "Hound Dog" wasn't the first version of this song.

  1. Big Mama Thornton – The song was originally recorded by Big Mama Thornton in 1952. Her bluesy rendition was a hit on the R&B charts, but it was Elvis's 1956 rock version that skyrocketed to fame.

6. "Twist and Shout" by The Beatles

The Beatles made "Twist and Shout" famous, but they weren't the first to record it.

  1. The Isley Brothers – The song was first recorded by The Top Notes in 1961, but it was The Isley Brothers' 1962 version that caught The Beatles' attention. Their 1963 cover became one of their most iconic performances.

7. "I Love Rock 'n' Roll" by Joan Jett & the Blackhearts

Joan Jett's gritty rock anthem has a surprising origin.

  1. The Arrows – The song was originally recorded by The Arrows in 1975. Joan Jett heard it while touring in England and decided to cover it in 1981, creating a timeless rock classic.

8. "Nothing Compares 2 U" by Sinéad O'Connor

Sinéad O'Connor's haunting ballad was actually penned by a musical genius.

  1. Prince – Prince wrote and recorded the song in 1984 for one of his side projects, The Family. Sinéad O'Connor's 1990 cover brought the song to international fame, showcasing its emotional depth.

9. "Blinded by the Light" by Manfred Mann's Earth Band

Manfred Mann's Earth Band turned this song into a hit, but its origins lie with a rock legend.

  1. Bruce Springsteen – Bruce Springsteen wrote and recorded "Blinded by the Light" in 1973. While his version didn't chart, Manfred Mann's 1976 cover became a number one hit.

10. "Hallelujah" by Jeff Buckley

Jeff Buckley's haunting rendition of "Hallelujah" is often considered the definitive version, but it wasn't the original.

  1. Leonard Cohen – Leonard Cohen wrote and recorded "Hallelujah" in 1984. While his version was more understated, Jeff Buckley's 1994 cover brought out the song's emotional intensity, making it a modern classic.

Surprising Truths Behind Popular Hits

Many famous songs have hidden origins. Some of your favorite tracks are actually covers or samples of older tunes. This doesn't make them any less enjoyable. It adds a layer of history and depth to the music. Knowing the background can change how you hear a song. It can also introduce you to new artists and genres you might not have explored otherwise. Next time you listen to a hit, think about where it might have come from. You might be surprised by its roots. Music is a rich tapestry, woven from many threads. Each song has a story, and sometimes that story goes back further than you think. Keep an open mind and enjoy the journey through music's past and present.