8 Great Songs Buried in Terrible Albums

When diving into the discographies of classic rock bands, you’ll often find those albums that didn’t quite hit the mark. Maybe they were rushed, maybe the band was going through a creative drought, or perhaps they were trying something new that didn’t pan out. However, within these overlooked or poorly reviewed albums, there are hidden gems. Songs that stand out, showcasing the band’s true potential, even when the rest of the album doesn’t shine. Here’s a list of eight great classic rock songs that found their way onto otherwise disappointing albums.

Led Zeppelin – “Carouselambra” from ‘In Through the Out Door’

While ‘In Through the Out Door’ tends to be one of Led Zeppelin’s less celebrated albums, it’s the home of “Carouselambra,” a song that displays the band’s willingness to experiment. Stretching over ten minutes, the track is an odyssey that melds progressive rock with Led Zeppelin’s signature sound. Page’s guitar work, Jones’ keyboard skills, and Plant’s unmistakable vocals all come together in a way that reminds fans why this band was ahead of its time. This song is a hidden reminder of Led Zeppelin’s adventurous spirit, proving that even on their weaker albums, they were capable of brilliance.

The Rolling Stones – “Memory Motel” from ‘Black and Blue’

The ‘Black and Blue’ album has often been overlooked in The Rolling Stones’ vast catalog, criticized for its inconsistency and lack of direction. Yet, “Memory Motel” stands out as a poignant, reflective ballad that diverges from the expected Rolling Stones sound. With both Mick Jagger and Keith Richards sharing lead vocals, the song offers a rare emotional depth that is not commonly found in their other work. The narrative storytelling and soulful piano accompaniment make “Memory Motel” a track that resonates with listeners, showcasing The Rolling Stones’ ability to create timeless music, regardless of an album’s overall reception.

Pink Floyd – “Wot’s… Uh the Deal” from ‘Obscured by Clouds’

Before the monumental success of ‘The Dark Side of the Moon,’ Pink Floyd released ‘Obscured by Clouds,’ an album often overshadowed by its successors. Within this overlooked album lies “Wot’s… Uh the Deal,” a song that captures Pink Floyd’s knack for creating atmospheric and introspective tracks. The gentle acoustic guitar, combined with Wright’s soothing keyboard and Waters’ thoughtful lyrics, invites listeners into a moment of contemplation. This song is a glimpse into the band’s evolving sound, a precursor to the iconic albums that would follow.

The Beatles – “Hey Bulldog” from ‘Yellow Submarine’

‘Yellow Submarine’ is frequently seen as a lesser entry in The Beatles’ discography, mainly due to its soundtrack nature and the inclusion of previously released songs. However, “Hey Bulldog” emerges as a vigorously infectious track amid the album’s diverse soundscape. It’s one of the band’s heavier offerings, featuring a driven piano riff and a playful yet powerful vocal performance. The song encapsulates the band’s experimental phase, blending rock and psychedelia with a sense of fun and creativity. “Hey Bulldog” serves as a reminder of The Beatles’ unparalleled ability to craft memorable music in any context.

Fleetwood Mac – “Silver Springs” from ‘Rumours’ re-issue

Originally intended for the ‘Rumours’ album but left off due to space constraints, “Silver Springs” found its way back to the public when the album was re-issued. This ballad, written by Stevie Nicks about her relationship with Lindsey Buckingham, is a powerful expression of love and loss. Nicks’ emotive vocal performance, coupled with the band’s cohesive instrumentation, makes “Silver Springs” a standout track. It’s a testament to the personal turmoil and artistic genius that fueled one of the best-selling albums of all time.

David Bowie – “Sweet Thing/Candidate/Sweet Thing (Reprise)” from ‘Diamond Dogs’

While ‘Diamond Dogs’ can be a polarizing album among David Bowie fans, the “Sweet Thing/Candidate/Sweet Thing (Reprise)” medley is often hailed as one of his finest moments. This trio of songs offers a theatrical and dystopian vision that Bowie executes with his trademark flair. The arrangement shifts seamlessly from sultry saxophones to driving rock guitars, all while Bowie’s vocals range from tender whispers to powerful crescendos. This medley exemplifies Bowie’s ability to create a vivid world within his music, one that’s as compelling as it is complex.

The Who – “The Naked Eye” from ‘Odds & Sods’

‘Odds & Sods’ was a compilation of unreleased tracks and outtakes, and as such, it lacked the cohesion of The Who’s more deliberate albums. However, “The Naked Eye” stands out as a powerful rock anthem that captures the band’s raw energy and musicianship. The song’s introspective lyrics, combined with Townshend’s dynamic guitar work and Daltrey’s passionate vocals, make it a highlight of The Who’s rich catalog. It’s a song that showcases the band’s ability to connect with listeners on a deep level, bridging personal introspection and rock ‘n’ roll prowess.

Elton John – “Amoreena” from ‘Tumbleweed Connection’

Though ‘Tumbleweed Connection’ is not typically ranked among Elton John’s most unsuccessful albums, it does represent a period of experimentation in his career. Within this context, “Amoreena” shines as a lively and engaging track that highlights John’s skill as a composer and pianist. Bernie Taupin’s vivid lyrics paint a vivid picture that complements the song’s upbeat melody. “Amoreena” stands as a bright spot in Elton John’s journey through different musical landscapes, proving his ability to craft hits across a variety of styles.