Music history is filled with incredible stories of songs that almost went to a completely different artist. Imagine a world where Elvis didn’t sing “Hound Dog” or Whitney Houston didn’t belt out “I Will Always Love You.” From last-minute swaps to surprising handoffs, here are 10 iconic songs that were originally written for or given to someone else.
1. “Nothing Compares 2 U” – Sinead O’Connor
Prince wrote “Nothing Compares 2 U” in the mid-‘80s for his side project, The Family. While their version went largely unnoticed, Sinead O’Connor’s haunting rendition in 1990 became a global hit, turning the song into a modern classic.
2. “I Will Always Love You” – Whitney Houston
Dolly Parton wrote this heartfelt ballad in 1973, but it became Whitney Houston’s signature song in 1992. Parton originally intended it as a farewell to her business partner, Porter Wagoner, before it was reimagined for The Bodyguard soundtrack.
3. “Umbrella” – Rihanna
“Umbrella” was originally written for Britney Spears, but her team passed on it. Rihanna’s powerhouse delivery turned it into a career-defining smash in 2007, cementing her status as a global pop icon.
4. “Yesterday” – The Beatles
Paul McCartney famously wrote “Yesterday” in a dream, but he initially considered giving it to another artist. At one point, it was almost recorded by Marianne Faithfull before The Beatles decided to keep it.
5. “Manic Monday” – The Bangles
Prince strikes again! He wrote “Manic Monday” under the pseudonym Christopher and originally intended it for his side project Apollonia 6. Instead, he gifted it to The Bangles, and it became one of their biggest hits.
6. “We Found Love” – Rihanna
Calvin Harris wrote this EDM anthem and initially planned to release it with Leona Lewis. However, Rihanna got her hands on it, and the song became a global phenomenon, dominating charts worldwide in 2011.
7. “You’re My Best Friend” – Queen
John Deacon wrote this heartfelt track for his wife, but Freddie Mercury’s emotional delivery brought it to life. While not technically intended for another artist, the song’s personal roots make it feel like a gift given to listeners.
8. “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” – Simple Minds
Written by Keith Forsey and Steve Schiff, this iconic Breakfast Club anthem was originally offered to Billy Idol and Bryan Ferry, who both turned it down. Simple Minds reluctantly agreed to record it, and it became their biggest hit.
9. “Rock Your Body” – Justin Timberlake
Before Justified launched Justin Timberlake’s solo career, “Rock Your Body” was intended for Michael Jackson’s Invincible album. Timberlake’s slick vocals made it a standout track, proving it was a perfect fit for him.
10. “Happy” – Pharrell Williams
Pharrell originally wrote “Happy” for CeeLo Green, but it ended up being his own signature hit. While CeeLo recorded a version, his team passed on releasing it, leaving Pharrell to turn it into a worldwide sensation.
