Four Classic Rock Anthems That Soared in Popularity Years After Release

The label 'classic' is often used liberally in the realm of rock music, a genre that still has ground to cover to match the enduring legacy of genre giants like classical, blues, folk, or jazz. Despite this, some rock songs have achieved a remarkable feat by becoming more beloved now than they were during their initial release, many decades ago. Rock icons such as The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Led Zeppelin continue to resonate with audiences, a testament to their timeless appeal.

1. Queen's Late Bloomer: 'Don't Stop Me Now'

When Queen's 'Don't Stop Me Now' was released in 1978, few would have bet it would outshine anthems like 'We Will Rock You'. Barely making a splash, it peaked at number 86 on Billboard's Hot 100. Fast forward, and the tune now outperforms many of Queen's hits on streaming platforms like Spotify. Popular culture eventually embraced the song through its inclusion in films and ads, as well as the 'Bohemian Rhapsody' movie soundtrack.

2. Journey’s Underdog Hit: 'Don't Stop Believin’'

Journey's 'Don't Stop Believin’' was a solid hit back in 1981, but not the band's most impactful at the time. Decades later, thanks to its memorable play in the finale of 'The Sopranos', the song gained a new lease on life, skyrocketing in popularity and streaming numbers, leaving other Journey hits far behind.

3. Lynyrd Skynyrd's Sleeper Success: 'Simple Man'

Never released as a single, 'Simple Man' was initially overshadowed by hits like 'Free Bird'. Yet, in the age of digital music consumption, it has achieved an impressive cult following, bolstered by appearances in film and television, including 'The Sopranos' and 'Almost Famous'. Its resurgence was confirmed when it charted on Billboard's Digital Song Sales and Hot Rock & Alternative Songs charts in the 2020s.

4. Styx's Stealthy Climb: ‘Renegade’

'Renegade' was only a modest success for Styx when it appeared on their 1978 album. With time, however, it has become a fan favorite, amassing a staggering number of streams. The song’s use in various forms of media has contributed to its enduring legacy well beyond its original release period.

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