How Some Songs Marked Humanity

Music has always been a part of human life, expressing emotions, cultures and times. And over the years, some songs have stood out, earning a special place in people's memories and becoming immortalized as hits. 

However, the process of transforming a song into a success is the result of a series of factors: artistic innovation, the social context and, of course, the cultural impact it causes. 

Thus, in this sense, these hymns, which span generations, often hide fascinating and profound stories, which help to explain how and why they became so remarkable.

Therefore, in this article, we will explore the stories behind some of the biggest hits in music, learning about the context in which they were released and the impact they had on society.

The Cultural Context of Greatest Hits

For a song to become a global hit, the cultural context plays a fundamental role. Thus, many of the most iconic songs emerged at intense historical moments, when social and political changes were at their peak.

These hits often reflect the anxieties, dreams and transformations of the time in which they were composed, becoming symbols of resistance, unity or simply celebration.

Imagine – John Lennon, and Like a Rolling Stone – Bob Dylan

In the 60s and 70s, for example, the world was going through a cultural and social revolution, with the hippie movement and the fight for civil rights. 

So, it was in this scenario that songs like “Imagine”, by John Lennon, and “Like a Rolling Stone”, by Bob Dylan, emerged, transmitting messages of peace, equality and questioning norms. 

Like a Player and Billie Jean

In the 1980s, the impact of MTV was another significant cultural factor. Artists such as Madonna and Michael Jackson became musical icons, elevating the music video to an art form. 

Songs like “Like a Prayer” and “Billie Jean” explored social issues and brought to light cultural issues that many preferred to ignore. The presence of these artists on television created a new connection with the public.

Smells Like Teen Spirit

Likewise, in the 90s, grunge brought to the surface the discontent and rebellion of young people, personified by the raw and authentic voice of Kurt Cobain and Nirvana.

“Smells Like Teen Spirit” became the anthem of a generation disillusioned with superficiality and convention, offering an escape for the youth of the time. 

Stories Behind Iconic Songs

Some songs are not just compositions, but also true narratives, with stories that shaped their meaning and impact. 

And, often, these successes were created in the midst of unusual situations, personal conflicts or even unexpected inspirations.

“Bohemian Rhapsody” – Queen

Released in 1975, “Bohemian Rhapsody” is a song that broke all the standards of the time. The song masterfully blends elements of opera and rock, becoming one of the most daring and iconic compositions in history. 

Freddie Mercury, the main composer, was looking for a way to innovate, and the band went for this unusual structure that even dispensed with a chorus. 

“Imagine” – John Lennon

In 1971, John Lennon released “Imagine,” a song that became an anthem of peace and hope. Inspired by ideals of equality and pacifism, Lennon composed the song in a moment of personal and social reflection. 

The lyrics speak of a world without divisions and conflicts, an idealistic vision that has won over millions of people around the world.

“Billie Jean” – Michael Jackson

“Billie Jean” was released in 1983 and quickly became one of Michael Jackson’s most famous tracks. 

The song addresses the theme of fame and intrigue, and many believe it was inspired by the artist's personal experiences with obsessed fans. 

“Smells Like Teen Spirit” – Nirvana

Released in 1991, “Smells Like Teen Spirit” is considered the anthem of the grunge movement and Generation X. Kurt Cobain expressed discontent with society, and his music represented the anguish and rebellion of young people. 

The success was so impactful that it catapulted Nirvana to stardom, transforming them into one of the most influential names in rock.

“Like a Prayer” – Madonna

Madonna shocked the world with “Like a Prayer” in 1989. The music video caused controversy. And why? Many people interpreted the mix of religious symbolism and sensual themes as blasphemy. 

In the clip, Madonna is portrayed in a church, praying in front of religious images, and in scenes where she appears dancing in front of burning crosses, as well as kissing the feet of a statue of a saint that comes to life.

Curiosities and Surprising Facts

In the process of creating, releasing and achieving success of these songs, there were some surprising facts and curiosities that many people don't know. Check them out: 

Production and Recording: 

Behind the scenes of these songs, we find fascinating stories. Queen, for example, recorded “Bohemian Rhapsody” in multiple sessions, using layers of vocals that gave the song its orchestral sound. 

Furthermore, contributing even further to the controversy, in “Like a Prayer”, Madonna worked with a gospel choir.

Reactions from the Public and Critics: 

When they were first released, these songs were not always well received. “Billie Jean” and “Imagine,” for example, received intense reactions, reflecting how music can provoke feelings and questions.

Cultural Impact and Legacy: 

These hits have outlived their time and become part of pop culture. “Imagine” is often played at peace events, while “Bohemian Rhapsody” has been reworked for film. 

How These Hits Influence Today's Music

The greatest hits of the past continue to influence today’s music by inspiring new generations in style, production and themes. In this sense, Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” and Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody”, for example, motivate current artists to innovate in their own creations, exploring bold sound combinations and visual narrative constructions.

These songs also influence the concept of “visual albums” and the focus on music videos. Artists like Beyoncé and The Weeknd invest in music videos that complement their work, reflecting the legacy left by past productions.

Furthermore, hits like John Lennon’s “Imagine” open up space for music to be used as a platform for social debate. Technical innovation is also a point of connection. Many artists today reinterpret classic sounds with modern technologies, creating arrangements that maintain the essence of the past while sounding fresh. 

In this way, these hits continue to impact and shape today's music, showing the power of classics to transform and inspire.

Why Are Some Songs Timeless?

Some songs become timeless because they manage to capture universal and timeless feelings in people. They speak of deep emotions, such as love, pain, freedom and hope, themes that resonate regardless of time or culture.

In this way, when a song touches on issues that everyone can understand and feel, it becomes part of the collective human experience. 

Bring something innovative

Furthermore, these songs often challenge conventions and bring something new to the music scene. Or, in other words, songs that dare and experiment with something out of the ordinary often leave a mark, influencing artists and styles that come after them.

Performance and the charisma of artists

Another essential factor is the performance and charisma of the artists. Songs like Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” and Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” would not be the same without the singer’s powerful performances. 

Adaptability

Finally, timeless songs remain relevant because they adapt to new contexts. They are reinterpreted in films, series, campaigns and even in historical moments, gaining new meanings. 

Without a doubt, the ability to adapt and reinterpret is what truly makes a song eternal. And, so you can listen to them, click on the link below and discover an app that can help you with this!