Predicting musical hits is not a precise science. In the wild world of rock music, some of the most iconic rock anthems tracks, including various rock anthems, weren’t originally expected to make waves.

These rock anthems defied expectations, broke industry norms, and ultimately became timeless classics that continue to resonate with generations of music lovers.

Check out the chart-toppers below that were not supposed to be hits but amazed audiences.

Many of these classic rock anthems songs have become synonymous with the genre, embodying the spirit of rebellion and celebration.

Rock Anthems that were most popular

• “Space Oddity” – David Bowie
• “In the Air Tonight” – Phil Collins
• “Yesterday” – The Beatles
• “Bohemian Rhapsody” – Queen
• “River of Dreams” – Billy Joel
• “Dancing Queen” – ABBA
• Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit
• Punk rock

“Space Oddity” – David Bowie

These rock anthems have influenced countless artists, shaping the sound and direction of rock music.

Released in 1969 during the peak of the space race, the song was created as a novelty track.

However, its haunting story and innovative sound grabbed the public interest – particularly when it coincided with the Apollo 11 moon landing.

What was a possible niche musical experiment grew into a global phenomenon marking an era of musical storytelling.

Many fans consider this track to be one of the definitive rock anthems of its time.

This song has inspired numerous covers and remains a staple among popular rock anthems.

“In the Air Tonight” – Phil Collins

While “In the Air Tonight” has become a classic, it wasn’t initially intended as a single. Written during Collins divorce, this moody atmospheric track was extremely personal and unusual for the moment.

Its sparse instrumentation and that classic drum break more than halfway through the song made it not fit the pop formula. It had been released in 1981 but considered experimental and too dark for mainstream radio.

Its significance in the realm of rock anthems cannot be overstated, as it showcases the evolution of the genre.

However, its haunting melody and pounding drum solo kept fans listening, landing it #2 in the UK and #19 in the US Billboard Hot 100.

Bohemian Rhapsody is often cited as one of the greatest rock anthems of all time, blending various musical styles.

Many fans regard this track as a quintessential rock anthem, celebrating its bold and unique approach.

“Yesterday” – The Beatles

Joel’s work on this track has cemented it as a beloved rock anthem in music history.

Truth be told, this lasting ballad was nearly dropped from the “Help!” album. Paul McCartney composed the melody in a dream and believed he’d adapted somebody else’s song.

The other Beatles were initially less enthusiastic about the track, believing its string arrangement was far removed from their rock n’ roll sound. Released as a single in the US (against the band’s wishes) it hit #1 and has become the most covered song in popular music history.

The transformation of the track into a massive hit showcases the unpredictability of rock anthems.

“Bohemian Rhapsody” – Queen

Queen had confidence in this unorthodox tract however, had to demand its release. The initial success of Bohemian Rhapsody puzzled radio executive and radio stations found it too long and unusual for airplay.

However, audiences were taken by its unprecedented musical complexity and intricate operatic structure propelling the track into an international smash. Once again proving that musical innovation is able to conquer commercial expectations.

“River of Dreams” – Billy Joel

By 1993, Billy Joel was working hard on classical work and didn’t intend to release much more pop music. “River of Dreams” came to him in a dream, and he considered it too simplistic.

Joel’s producer got him to record it even though Joel himself believed it might be best left to an album track.

Its appealing gospel-inspired melody and religious messages won listeners over, reaching #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was his last Top 10 hit.

“Dancing Queen” – ABBA

Although ABBA was noted for creating formally exact pop hits, “Dancing Queen” was initially designed as a ballet-inspired instrumental called “Boogaloo.” The band considered it single material until their manager heard them working on it and demanded they develop it further.

Even then, they had been uncertain about its disco influence, as they preferred their Europop style. It was released in 1976 and is their only US # 1 hit.

Rock Anthems That Surprised Us

Punk rock also had unexpected mainstream successes. Interestingly, the more polished, radio friendly track from a band known for raw, rebellious music was the Clash’s “Rock the Casbah.”

The song was an international hit as 1980s music videos, although initially skepticism amongst hardcore punk fans was initially expressed.

Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit

An additional instance of a surprise breakthrough. Kurt Cobain wrote the song allegedly fast, not knowing its impact. The track became a surprise generational anthem, recording the disaffected youth of early 1990s youth and introducing alternative rock to mainstream consciousness.

Final words

These musical surprises remind us that at times art is better developed by creators following their instincts as opposed to formulas.

Born from fantasies, jokes or private catharsis, these songs demonstrate that hits can spring from anywhere and reach audiences in ways their creators never imagined.