Back in Time Today
Even the most celebrated rock legends are not immune to missteps in their illustrious careers. While they have gifted us with timeless classics, some tracks have left fans scratching their heads.
In this blog post, we explore 12 songs that even iconic musicians would probably like to forget. These tracks stand out not just for their famous creators, but for the unforgettable cringe they inspire.
1. “What’s the New Mary Jane” – The Beatles
In the avant-garde chaos of “What’s the New Mary Jane,” The Beatles ventured into a cacophony of sounds that resembled a chaotic jam session rather than a coherent song. This experimental track, filled with random noises and an erratic melody, leaves listeners puzzled and slightly overwhelmed.
Despite the band’s legendary status, this song feels more like a confusing art project than something that belongs in their remarkable catalog. The dissonance and lack of structure highlight how even the Fab Four could occasionally miss the mark. Listening to it might make you question what they were thinking.
2. “I Was Made for Lovin’ You” – KISS
KISS took a sharp turn into disco with “I Was Made for Lovin’ You,” causing bewilderment among rock purists. The song is an unusual blend of their signature rock sound with the infectious beat of disco, resulting in a track that feels oddly out of place.
This unexpected genre fusion left many fans feeling alienated and confused, as it strayed far from the raw energy and edge KISS was known for. While undeniably catchy, its departure from their typical style marked a perplexing chapter in their musical journey.
3. “Emotional Rescue” – The Rolling Stones
With “Emotional Rescue,” The Rolling Stones introduced fans to a high-pitched falsetto Mick Jagger. This funky track, steeped in the sounds of the early 80s, was a surprise to many who adored their grittier, blues-infused rock.
The song’s playful yet unusual vocal delivery, paired with its dance-floor vibe, might have felt like a fun experiment. However, it didn’t quite resonate with long-time listeners who preferred their classic hits. The experimental nature of “Emotional Rescue” highlights how even legends can stumble into unexpected territory.
4. “Dancing in the Street” – David Bowie & Mick Jagger
The collaboration between David Bowie and Mick Jagger on “Dancing in the Street” was meant to be iconic but instead came off as painfully campy. This cover of the classic track felt more like a novelty act than a musical masterpiece.
Their over-the-top performance, complete with flamboyant outfits and exaggerated dance moves, made the song memorable for all the wrong reasons. It has since become a symbol of 80s excess and awkward collaborations, proving that even rock royalty can produce something cringe-worthy.
5. “The Elder” Album – KISS
KISS’s “The Elder” was a concept album that perplexed fans and critics alike. The track “Odyssey” stands out as a particularly baffling piece. Straying from their usual glam-rock flair, this ambitious project aimed for a narrative depth that many found impenetrable.
The album’s blend of orchestration and storytelling felt incongruent with the band’s image, leaving listeners scratching their heads. Despite its boldness, “The Elder” remains a curious example of how ambition can sometimes lead to unexpected and puzzling outcomes.
6. “Mr. Moonlight” – The Beatles
The Beatles’ cover of “Mr. Moonlight” is often criticized for its over-the-top vocals and sterile arrangement. Known for their innovative sound, this track falls short, feeling more like a forced effort than a genuine artistic expression.
While The Beatles are celebrated for their harmonious melodies and lyrical depth, this particular cover seems to lack the magic that defines much of their work. The awkwardness of “Mr. Moonlight” serves as a reminder that even legends can deliver a less-than-stellar performance.
7. “We Built This City” – Starship
“We Built This City” by Starship is a track that, while catchy, is widely panned by critics and listeners alike. Its synthetic sound and repetitive chorus gave it a commercial appeal that felt disconnected from its rock roots.
The song’s overproduction and lack of genuine rock essence left many fans yearning for the raw, authentic vibe of Jefferson Airplane. Despite its chart success, “We Built This City” is often cited as one of the worst songs, exemplifying how even established bands can create divisive tracks.
8. “Shiny Happy People” – R.E.M.
R.E.M.’s “Shiny Happy People” is a divisive track that leans heavily into a peppy, almost absurd level of cheerfulness. This departure from their typically introspective style left some fans perplexed.
While the song’s upbeat nature and catchy hook make it memorable, its overly bright demeanor and simplistic lyrics contrast sharply with the band’s usual depth. For many, it represents a moment where R.E.M. ventured into a territory that didn’t quite fit their established identity.
9. “Muskrat Love” – Captain & Tennille
“Muskrat Love” by Captain & Tennille is a love song about muskrats—a concept that sounds as peculiar as it is. This cover, with its whimsical and slightly surreal theme, left audiences amused yet confounded.
Despite the duo’s charming delivery, the novelty of the subject matter overshadowed the musicality, making it a curious addition to their discography. It’s a reminder that even the most endearing artists can create tracks that baffle more than they enchant.
10. “My Ding-a-Ling” – Chuck Berry
“My Ding-a-Ling” by Chuck Berry stands out as a novelty hit that seems incongruent with his legendary status. Known for his rock and roll innovation, this light-hearted track focuses on playful, double-entendre lyrics.
While it brought commercial success, it felt beneath the brilliance typically associated with Berry’s music. The song’s cheeky nature and catchy chorus made it a crowd-pleaser, yet it remains a curious detour in the career of a rock icon like Chuck Berry.
11. “Changes” – Yes
“Changes” by Yes emerged during a period when the band leaned into a synth-pop sound, diverging from their progressive rock roots. This track, with its glossy production and pop sensibilities, felt like a departure from the complex compositions fans cherished.
The synth-heavy approach combined with an accessible melody marked a shift that didn’t resonate with everyone. As a result, “Changes” stands as a testament to how shifts in musical direction can lead even the most accomplished bands into polarizing territory.
12. “Party” – Queen
“Party” from Queen’s “Hot Space” album is often considered one of their less inspired tracks. Known for their theatrical flair and musical innovation, this song felt like a misstep, lacking the usual Queen magic.
With its simplistic rhythm and lack of memorable hooks, “Party” didn’t seem to capture the imagination or energy typically associated with Queen’s work. It’s a reminder that even musical giants like Queen can occasionally release tracks that don’t quite hit the high notes fans expect.