Early demos of 6 classic songs you HAVE to listen to
When we listen to our favourite songs, it’s easy to forget just how much work went into them. What sounds so effortless to us may have taken months and hundreds of takes to get right, and usually, the polished final result is definitely worth it.
But we’ve tracked down some early demos of six of our favourite songs, and we have to say, some of them could’ve been released straight away and we would have loved them just the same.
1. “Beat It” by Michael Jackson
Before it was the rock anthem we all know and love, MJ recorded an acapella version of “Beat It”, and listening to it will give you chills. What a voice!
2. “Down Under” by Men at Work
Think of “Down Under”, slow it down, add even more of a reggae vibe, and you’ve got this ultra-relaxed, Dire Straits-esque demo.
3. “Ziggy Stardust” by David Bowie
This is David Bowie at his best – just an acoustic guitar and those incredible pipes.
4. “Money” by Pink Floyd
It’s one of the most iconic song intros ever, but before it became such a classic, it was an amateur recording by Roger Waters in his garden shed.
5. “My Generation” by The Who
Listening to this crude first recording, it’s easy to see why The Who had such a profound impact on rock ‘n’ roll.
6. “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac
Thought you couldn’t love this classic song any more? Listen to this demo – somehow, it’s even more dreamy and enchanting than the final release.
Tell us in the comments below, what did you think of these demos? Which did you think were even better than their final versions?