Songs That Waited Years for Stardom Revealed!

Long-Lost Hits Finally Find Their Fame

Some songs just don’t get the love they deserve right away. It turns out, even some of the biggest hits we know and love today had to wait years to become popular. WatchMojo’s latest video counts down the top 10 songs that took a long time to climb the charts and win over the public. These are the tunes that proved patience truly pays off in the music world.

From Muted Start to Chart-Topper

At number 10, we have Aerosmith’s classic rock anthem, “Dream On.” When it first came out in 1973, it only reached number 53 on the Billboard charts. The band decided to give it another shot, re-releasing the song in late 1975. This time, it soared all the way to number six. Now, it’s a must-play on classic rock stations.

Next, at number nine, is Hall & Oates’ “She’s Gone.” Released in 1973, it only managed to hit number 60. The duo wasn’t quite a household name yet. However, after they moved to a new label, they re-released the song in 1976. It jumped to number seven in the US and even hit number 42 in the UK, marking their first UK chart appearance.

The Proclaimers’ “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” landed at number eight. While a hit in their home country, it struggled in America after its 1988 release. That all changed in 1993 when the song was featured in the movie *Benny & Joon*. Suddenly, it became a massive hit, reaching number three on the Billboard charts and becoming an unforgettable anthem.

Covers, Re-recordings, and Movie Magic

UB40’s reggae take on “Red Red Wine” is at number seven. The Neil Diamond song was a UK number one for UB40 in 1983 but barely cracked the top 30 in the US. Their performance at Nelson Mandela’s 70th birthday concert in 1988 changed everything, pushing a re-released version to number one on the US Billboard Hot 100.

Whitesnake’s “Here I Go Again” grabbed the number six spot. The band was so sure about this song that they re-recorded it in 1987, years after its initial 1982 release flopped. The updated, arena-rock version became their signature song and their only number one hit.

At number five is The Waterboys’ “The Whole of the Moon.” Its initial release in 1985 only reached number 26. The band knew it was special, though. When they re-released it in 1991, they were more established, and the song finally connected with a wider audience, hitting number three in the UK.

Unexpected Journeys to the Top

Aerosmith makes a second appearance at number four with “Walk This Way.” The song didn’t make much noise on its first release. After a second release in 1976, it reached number 10. But its biggest moment came in 1986 with the groundbreaking hip-hop collaboration with Run-DMC, making it an international smash and reaching number four.

Nick Drake’s haunting “Pink Moon” is at number three. Sadly, Drake passed away before his music gained widespread recognition. His work was mostly loved by fellow musicians. The title track from his final album found a new audience in 1999 thanks to a Volkswagen commercial, cementing his legacy as a folk legend.

Leonard Cohen’s masterpiece “Hallelujah” comes in at number two. Released in 1984, it failed to make a significant impact. It was Jeff Buckley’s emotional cover version, inspired by John Cale’s earlier rendition, that introduced the song to the masses, turning it into one of the most covered songs ever.

Elton John’s “Tiny Dancer” Finally Shines

Taking the top spot at number one is Elton John’s beloved “Tiny Dancer.” Released in 1971 and as a single in 1972, it was a slow burn. It gained popularity through college radio and became a fan favorite. The song finally achieved major mainstream success after being featured in the 2000 film *Almost Famous*. It was certified platinum in 2019, proving that some songs are worth the wait.

Source: Top 10 Songs That Took YEARS to Become Popular (YouTube)