Classic Songwriters Who Gave Away Their Hits: A Drawing-Board of Collaborative Genius

Throughout the history of rock and pop music, there have been iconic songwriters who, besides their own hits, generously gave away their songs to other artists. These collaborations often resulted in memorable hits, showcasing the collaborative spirit that has been a hallmark of the music industry. In this article, we will explore the fascinating stories behind some of these song exchanges, including the renowned songwriters such as Bob Dylan, the Beatles, and Joan Baez.

Bob Dylan: A Versatile_contributor

Bob Dylan is not only a celebrated rock and pop star with a prolific songwriting career but also a generous collaborator who wrote numerous songs for other artists. Before populating the charts with his own masterpieces, the likes of 'Tears of Rage' and 'Love Is Just a Four-Letter Word,' Dylan shared his talents with several notable luminaries in the industry.

Below are some of the songs he wrote and gifted away:

Tears of Rage Love Is Just a Four-Letter Word The Walls of Redwing Walkin’ Down the Line As Long as the Grass Does Grow (for Johnny Cash)

The Beatles: The Beatles Gave Away More Than Just Money

Once upon a time, The Beatles were not only changing the face of rock music but also giving away their songs to other artists. In fact, such generosity sometimes came at a pseudonym. Some of the most notable songs given away by the Beatles include:

World Without Love (originally for Peter Gordon)

I Wanna be Your Man (originally for the Rolling Stones)

A comprehensive list of songs given away by The Beatles, recorded in 1994 and curated by the CuCullinn Organization at Rice University, sheds light on this unique aspect of the band's legacy:

Ill Be On My Way - Billy J. Kramer the Dakotas (April 26, 1963) Bad To Me - Billy J. Kramer the Dakotas (July 26, 1963) Tip Of My Tongue - Tommy Quickly (July 30, 1963) Hello Little Girl - The Fourmost (August 30, 1963) Love Of The Loved - Cilla Black (September 27, 1963) Ill Keep You Satisfied - Billy J. Kramer the Dakotas (November 11, 1963) Im In Love - The Fourmost (November 15, 1963) World Without Love - Peter Gordon (February 28, 1964) Like Dreamers Do - The Applejacks (May 5, 1964) One And One Is Two - The Strangers (May 8, 1964) Nobody I Know - Peter Gordon (May 27, 1964) From A Window - Billy J. Kramer the Dakotas (July 17, 1964) Its For You - Cilla Black (July 31, 1964) I Dont Want To See You Again - Peter Gordon (September 11, 1964) That Means A Lot - P.J. Proby (September 17, 1965) Youve Got To Hide Your Love Away - The Silkie (September 20, 1964) Woman - Peter Gordon (February 11, 1966) Got To Get You Into My Life - Cliff Bennett and the Rebels (August 5, 1966) Theme From The Family Way - George Martin Orchestra (December 23, 1966) Catcall - Chris Barber Band (October 20, 1967) Step Inside Love - Cilla Black (March 8, 1968) Thingumybob - John Fosters and Sons Ltd. Black Dyke Mills Band (September 6, 1968) Badge - Cream (February 5, 1969) Sour Milk Sea - Jackie Lomax (March 21, 1969) Goodbye - Mary Hopkin (March 28, 1969) Penina - Carlos Mendes (July 18, 1969) Come And Get It - Badfinger (December 5, 1969)

Joan Baez: A Folk Sensation’s Collaborations

In a field dominated by folk legends, Joan Baez stands as a prominent figure. Her contributions to the music scene, both as a vocalist and a song collector, have influenced numerous writers and artists. Baez is known for her hit songs, such as 'Tears of Rage,' which she covered, but she also received and sang many songs composed by others.

Baez’s repertoire includes:

Tears of Rage Love Is Just a Four-Letter Word The Walls of Redwing Walkin’ Down the Line As Long as the Grass Does Grow by Johnny Cash Dire Lie by The Secret Sisters Go Away Little Boy by Lone Justice Nobody Except You by Jack Savoretti This Wheels on Fire by The Band Wagon Wheel by Old Crow Medicine Show Waiting for the Morning Light by Gene Simmons Coming from the Heart by The Searchers

Concluding Thoughts

The curiosity and creativity behind these song exchanges highlight the collaborative spirit that has been embedded in the music industry. Artists sharing their compositions with others has not only enriched the diversity of the music landscape but has also sparked numerous iconic songs. These collaborations stand as a testament to the generosity, talent, and friendship that defined the music of the 20th century.

For music enthusiasts, these stories not only serve as fascinating anecdotes but also provide a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of the music industry. Whether you are a DIY singer-songwriter or a seasoned music producer, the story of songs given away offers a valuable lesson in the art of collaboration and the importance of generosity within the music community.