7 Classic Rock Songs That Were Released as a Joke But Became Hits

In the world of classic rock, some songs that started as jokes or lighthearted experiments unexpectedly climbed the charts and became enduring hits. Here are seven notable examples:

1. “Werewolves of London” by Warren Zevon

Co-written with LeRoy Marinell and Waddy Wachtel, “Werewolves of London” began as a playful idea inspired by Phil Everly’s suggestion. The trio completed the song in about 15 minutes, crafting humorous lyrics about a fashionable werewolf prowling London. Despite its whimsical origin, the song became Zevon’s most successful single, reaching No. 21 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1978.

2. “Beth” by KISS

Initially penned as “Beck” by Peter Criss and Stan Penridge during their time in the band Chelsea, the song was a lighthearted take on bandmate Mike Brand’s wife, Becky, who frequently called during rehearsals. Renamed “Beth,” the ballad became a surprise hit for KISS, reaching No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1976 and showcasing a softer side of the band.

3. “Cum On Feel the Noize” by Quiet Riot

Originally a 1973 hit by Slade, Quiet Riot covered “Cum On Feel the Noize” in 1983. Intending to mock the song, they aimed for a subpar recording to avoid its release. However, the rendition turned out well and became a major hit, reaching No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and propelling their album “Metal Health” to No. 1.

4. “Mull of Kintyre” by Paul McCartney and Wings

Paul McCartney wrote “Mull of Kintyre” as a tribute to his Scottish farm, High Park. Crafted in a Scottish folk style with Denny Laine, the song featured bagpipes from the Campbeltown Pipe Band. Despite initial skepticism, it topped the UK charts in 1977, becoming McCartney’s first post-Beatles No. 1 single there.

5. “The Cover of Rolling Stone” by Dr. Hook & the Medicine Show

Written by Shel Silverstein, this song humorously laments the band’s lack of fame and desire to be featured on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine. Intended as satire, it reached No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1973. Ironically, the band later appeared on the magazine’s cover, fulfilling the song’s mock aspiration.

6. “No-No Song” by Ringo Starr

Ringo Starr’s “No-No Song” humorously recounts encounters with individuals offering him various substances, which he declines. Despite its lighthearted approach to a serious topic, the 1974 song became a hit, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and marking Starr’s seventh and final top 10 hit in the U.S.

7. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana

Although not a classic rock song, “Smells Like Teen Spirit” was created by Nirvana as a lighthearted attempt to write a pop song in the style of the Pixies. Kurt Cobain considered it a joke at first, but the 1991 track became an anthem of the grunge movement, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying Nirvana’s place in music history.