10 Rock Songs That Became Timeless Despite Flopping at First

Some of the most iconic rock songs didn’t achieve immediate success upon their release. Over time, however, these tracks found their audience and solidified their place in music history. Here are ten rock songs that started as commercial disappointments but eventually became classics.​

1. “Rock Around the Clock” – Bill Haley & His Comets (1954)

Initially released as a B-side, “Rock Around the Clock” didn’t gain much attention. It wasn’t until the song was featured in the 1955 film Blackboard Jungle that it skyrocketed in popularity, reaching number one on the Billboard charts and becoming a defining track of the rock and roll era. ​

2. “Pet Sounds” – The Beach Boys (1966)

While not a single song, the Pet Sounds album initially confused fans expecting the band’s earlier surf rock style. Its experimental nature led to modest sales. Over time, however, it’s been recognized as one of the most influential albums in rock history, inspiring countless artists. ​

3. “Highway to Hell” – AC/DC (1979)

Despite its now-iconic status, “Highway to Hell” didn’t make a significant impact on U.S. charts upon release. The song’s enduring popularity grew over time, becoming a staple in rock playlists and solidifying AC/DC’s legacy. ​

4. “Sweetheart of the Rodeo” – The Byrds (1968)

This album marked a departure from The Byrds’ earlier sound, incorporating country influences. Initial reactions were lukewarm, and it didn’t achieve significant commercial success. Today, it’s hailed as a pioneering work in the country-rock genre. ​

5. “The Kinks Are The Village Green Preservation Society” – The Kinks (1968)

Upon release, this album failed to chart and sold poorly. Its themes of nostalgia and English culture didn’t resonate widely at the time. In later years, it’s been celebrated for its songwriting and is considered one of The Kinks’ masterpieces. ​

6. “What I Like About You” – The Romantics (1980)

This upbeat track only reached number 49 on the Billboard Hot 100 upon release. However, its catchy chorus and energetic vibe led to its resurgence in popularity through commercials and movies, making it a recognizable anthem. ​

7. “Welcome to the Jungle” – Guns N’ Roses (1987)

Initially, this song didn’t chart well in the U.S. or U.K. As the band’s fame grew, the track gained traction, eventually becoming one of their signature songs and a defining rock anthem of the late ’80s. ​

8. “The Whole of the Moon” – The Waterboys (1985)

Upon its initial release, the song had modest chart success. A re-release in 1991 saw it climb to number three in the U.K., and it has since become one of the band’s most beloved tracks. ​

9. “Kiss You All Over” – Exile (1978)

Before this hit, Exile struggled with chart success. “Kiss You All Over” initially faced challenges gaining popularity but eventually reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100, marking a turning point for the band. ​

10. “Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me)” – Steve Harley & Cockney Rebel (1975)

After internal band conflicts and lineup changes, this song was released and didn’t make an immediate impact. Over time, it gained recognition and is now considered a classic of the glam rock era. ​