Why weren’t these classic songs released as singles?

20 November 2021, 14:31

Sometimes the genius is hidden in the grooves of your favorite LP … Here is a list of the best songs that have never had a single release….

1. The Smiths – Cemetery Doors

   One of the best songs to feature on the classic 1986 album The Queen Is Dead, this tragicomic tale of Morrissey’s childhood pastime hanging out in graveyards has never been released as a single.

2. Stone roses – It’s the only one

   A huge track from the Roses debut album, and accompanying music for Manchester United. Strictly an album track, however.

3. David Bowie – Oh! You pretty things

   A highlight of Bowie’s 1971 Hunky Dory album, former Herman’s Hermits frontman Peter Noone had already scored a hit with the song in the summer of 1971, so Bowie didn’t try to compete.

4. New Command – Your Silent Face

   Always a highlight live, this elegant Kraftwerk-influenced ballad launches the second side of Manchester band’s second album, Power, Corruption And Lies.

5. Nirvana – About a girl

   This classic Kurt Cobain song was included on the group’s debut album Bleach in 1989, but rose to prominence after its inclusion on the Special Album and MTV Unplugged Album.

6. Led Zeppelin – Stairway to Heaven

   Led Zep was so famous in the 1970s that they didn’t need to release any singles, so their most whimsical song was an album-only delight.

7. The Rolling Stones – Gimme Shelter

   This huge track from the Stones opened their brilliant album Let It Bleed, but was never released as a UK single in the 60s.

8. Pixies – Where is my mind

   Made famous by its inclusion in the movie Fight Club, this indie classic launched side 2 of the Boston band’s Surfer Rosa album in 1988.

9. The Beatles – Here Is The Sun

   The Fabs released a double A-side of the Abbey Road album – Come Together and Something – but George Harrison’s beautiful song was strictly for LP fans.