Classic Rock Songs That’s More Popular Now Compared To Their Original Release Date

Rock music often throws around the term “classic,” especially when talking about revered bands like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Led Zeppelin. While these iconic rock songs have stood the test of time, there are lesser-known tracks from classic rock artists that have found newfound popularity in the present era.

Here are four classic rock songs that are far more popular today than when they were initially released, along with the stories behind their unexpected resurgence:

1. Queen – “Don’t Stop Me Now”
Originally released as the second single from the 1978 album Jazz, “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen spent a mere four weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 86. However, its popularity soared after being featured in the 2004 movie Shaun of the Dead. From there, the song found its way into various media, including ads and TV shows like Glee. Its inclusion in the soundtrack of the Bohemian Rhapsody biopic further boosted its popularity, making it one of Queen’s most-streamed songs on Spotify.

2. Journey – “Don’t Stop Believin'”
Despite reaching No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 upon its 1981 release, “Don’t Stop Believin'” was overshadowed by other singles from the Escape album. Its resurgence came in 2007 when it was featured in the final scene of The Sopranos’ finale. Since then, the song has become Journey’s most popular track on both Spotify and YouTube, gaining over 1.7 million downloads on the former.

3. Lynyrd Skynyrd – “Simple Man”
Initially not released as a single, “Simple Man” from Lynyrd Skynyrd’s 1973 debut album gained popularity in the digital era. While not reaching the heights of “Sweet Home Alabama,” the song has more than 10 times the streams of other Top 40 hits on Spotify. Its appearances in The Sopranos, Almost Famous, and a cover on American Idol in 2023 contributed to its Billboard chart entries in 2021.

4. Styx – “Renegade”
Despite being the third single from Styx’s 1978 album Pieces of Eight, “Renegade” has become the band’s Spotify champion. While not as culturally referenced as some other Styx songs, it peaked at No. 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has amassed over 170 million downloads. Its use in various media, including Billy Madison and Grand Theft Auto IV: The Lost and Damned, has contributed to its lasting popularity.