Music

Best B-sides from iconic bands

Explore a curated selection of the finest B-sides and deep cuts from iconic bands across rock, pop, and other genres. Discover hidden gems and non-album tracks that have become fan favorites and cult classics. This list celebrates the creativity beyond singles, highlighting tracks often just as good, or even better, than their more well-known counterparts. Dive into the world of underrated songs from your favorite artists and find your next musical treasure.

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  1. 1

    Rain (1966)

    185 Global Votes
    • Peaked at No. 23 on US charts

      (+1)

    Considered a psychedelic piece ahead of its time, 'Rain' demonstrates The Beatles' constant experimentation and their ability to create masterpieces even on B-sides. Its innovative sound and Lennon's vocals keep it an influential and highly valued song.

  2. 2

    Child of the Moon (1968)

    103 Global Votes
    • Psychedelic sound

      (+4)

    It represents The Rolling Stones' foray into 60s psychedelia, offering a different sonic experience from their best-known hits and being highly appreciated by connoisseurs. It is a psychedelic and atmospheric piece that shows a more experimental side of the band.

  3. 3

    Hey, Hey, What Can I Do (1970)

    77 Global Votes
    • Rare B-side

      (+3)

    Despite its B-side status, it became a classic rock radio and fan favorite, demonstrating that even Led Zeppelin's 'leftovers' were of exceptional quality. It's the only song not included on a studio album that the band released before their breakup.

  4. 4

    Sweetest Thing (1987)

    55 Global Votes
    • Considered a fan favorite B-side

      (+2)

    The song was so well received that years later it was re-recorded and released as a lead single, demonstrating its intrinsic appeal and quality. Bono wrote it as an apology to his wife for forgetting her birthday.

  5. 5

    Total Eclipse (1982)

    48 Global Votes
    • Considered a great song

      (+3)

    Although it was not included in the original edition of the album 'The Number of the Beast', its historical relevance and quality make it a prominent B-side in Iron Maiden's discography. It was one of the songs that introduced Bruce Dickinson as the band's vocalist.

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  7. 6

    Velvet Goldmine (1975)

    2 Global Votes
    • Established itself as a notable track

      (+4)

    It has become a cult favorite and gave its name to a film. It is a testament to Bowie's audacity and artistic vision, even in his less promoted tracks, being a glamorous and daring song.

  8. 7

    Acquiesce (1995)

    0 Global Votes
    • Features Liam & Noel trading off vocals

      (+4)

    It is an anthem for many Oasis fans and is often considered one of their best songs, on par with their biggest hits. Its energy and the vocal dynamic between the Gallagher brothers make it an essential piece in Britpop history.

  9. 8

    I'm In Love With My Car (1975)

    0 Global Votes
    • Roger Taylor's famous B-side

      (+3)

    Roger Taylor's insistence that it be the B-side to a single as important as 'Bohemian Rhapsody' highlights its quality. It's a powerful rock song that showcases Queen's musical diversity and the contribution of all its members.

  10. 9

    Yellow Ledbetter (1992)

    0 Global Votes
    • One of the most popular and well-known b-sides in rock history

      (+2)

    It became a hit on alternative rock radio and one of Pearl Jam's most iconic songs, often performed live. Its melancholic atmosphere and passionate performance make it endure.

  11. 10

    Silver Springs (1976)

    0 Global Votes
    • Written by Stevie Nicks

      (+4)

    It's a B-side that, according to many critics and fans, should never have been one. Its emotional depth and Stevie Nicks' vocal performance have made it one of the band's most beloved songs, earning a Grammy years after its initial release.

  12. 11

    The Butterfly Collector (1979)

    0 Global Votes
    • Arguably the finest B-side in the Jam singles canon

      (+2)

    It showcases Paul Weller's lyrical skill and wit, offering a raw and poetic perspective that distinguishes it as a valuable B-side. It's a brilliant and bitter critique of groupie culture, written by Paul Weller.

  13. 12

    Raw Ramp (1971)

    0 Global Votes
    • A great tune

      (+4)

    It encapsulates the essence of T. Rex's glam rock, with its catchy rhythm and cheeky attitude, making it a B-side that invites repeated listens. It's an explosion of glam rock with Marc Bolan's unmistakable style.

  14. 13

    Erotic City (1984)

    0 Global Votes
    • Considered the king of any B-side ever produced

      (+2)

    It demonstrates Prince's mastery of funk and his willingness to push boundaries, even on a B-side, making it an iconic piece of his catalog. It's a funky and provocative song that was censored on many radio stations.

  15. 14

    How Soon Is Now? (1984)

    0 Global Votes

    Its distinctive Johnny Marr guitar work and Morrissey's melancholic vocals made it an instant classic, often considered one of the band's best songs, despite its origin as a B-side.

  16. 15

    Hairdresser On Fire (1988)

    0 Global Votes
    • Features an erotic fascination with hairdresser's power

      (+3)

    It's one of Morrissey's most witty and beloved lyrics, showcasing his unique lyrical style and ability to create memorable songs outside of main albums. It was the B-side to Morrissey's first solo single, 'Suedehead'.

  17. 16

    My City Was Gone (1982)

    0 Global Votes
    • Originally appeared as a B-side

      (+1)

    The song is a melancholic lament about loss and change, and its instrumental use became well-known as the intro theme for a conservative radio show, giving it a lasting presence in popular culture.

  18. 17

    Atlantis (1968)

    0 Global Votes
    • Reached No. 7 on US charts

      (+1)

    Its mystical narrative and catchy melody have kept it relevant, serving as an example of how cinema can give B-sides a second life. It was a popular B-side that gained even more recognition for its use in the film 'Goodfellas'.