12 Classic Albums That Almost Never Got Released
These 12 albums faced serious obstacles that almost prevented their release, including record label interference, personal struggles, and creative conflicts.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 4 min read
Many of the most celebrated albums in music history came close to being shelved or canceled. Internal band issues, pressure from labels, and creative uncertainty nearly stopped them from reaching the public. Despite the setbacks, they were eventually released and went on to become defining works.
1. Fleetwood Mac – Rumours
Warner Bros. Records on Wikimedia Commons
The band members were going through divorces and breakups during the recording of Rumours. This led to a tense and emotionally charged atmosphere in the studio. The personal conflicts caused delays and raised concerns about whether the album could be completed. Despite everything, the band finished the record, which became a major critical and commercial success.
2. Nirvana – Nevermind
Vdrouot on Wikimedia Commons
Before Nevermind, Nirvana had been dropped by their previous label and were still relatively unknown. Even after signing with DGC Records, the team was unsure if the album had strong commercial potential. The band also faced pressure to polish their sound, which they initially resisted. The album eventually sold millions and brought alternative rock into the mainstream.
3. Bruce Springsteen – Born to Run
Craig ONeal on Wikimedia Commons
Springsteen spent over a year obsessing over the production of Born to Run, often re-recording songs multiple times. The label grew impatient due to the rising costs and delays. Springsteen feared the album might be his last chance to succeed. Its eventual release earned him widespread acclaim and marked a turning point in his career.
4. The Beatles – Let It Be
United Press International on Wikimedia Commons
The recording sessions for Let It Be were filled with disagreements, with several members frustrated by the direction of the project. Tensions were so high that at one point, George Harrison temporarily left the band. The original recordings were shelved for over a year. The album was finally completed with a new mix and released after the band had unofficially split.
5. Prince – 1999
Levi Seacer on Wikimedia Commons
Prince delivered a double album that his label was hesitant to approve, fearing it was too long and experimental for radio. Executives worried the record would not appeal to a wide audience. Prince insisted on maintaining control over the final cut. The album went on to receive critical praise and expanded his mainstream reach.
6. Bob Dylan – Blood on the Tracks
Xavier Badosa on Wikimedia Commons
Dylan recorded the initial version of the album in New York but became dissatisfied with the sound. He chose to re-record several songs in Minneapolis with different musicians. This decision caused confusion at Columbia Records, which had already prepared for a release. After the revisions, the album was released and later recognized as one of his best works.
7. The Rolling Stones – Exile on Main St.
Raph_PH on Wikimedia Commons
The album was recorded in a rented house in France while the band dealt with tax issues and drug problems. The recording environment was disorganized and lacked basic studio conditions. Some band members were often absent from sessions. Despite the chaos, the album was finished and is now considered a classic.
8. Marvin Gaye – What’s Going On
Los Angeles Times on Wikimedia Commons
Motown executives initially rejected the album, believing its political content would hurt sales. Marvin Gaye refused to release any new music unless the album was accepted. He fought for creative control and stood by the material. Once released, the album was praised for its depth and is now seen as a landmark in soul music.
9. Radiohead – OK Computer
Samuel Wiki on Wikimedia Commons
Radiohead made a deliberate shift in sound, moving away from traditional guitar rock. Their label was unsure about the commercial potential of the new material. The recording process was difficult and filled with uncertainty. The album’s success helped redefine alternative music in the late 1990s.
10. Lauryn Hill – The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill
Lisa Liang on Wikimedia Commons
Lauryn Hill faced multiple challenges during the recording, including legal disputes over songwriting credits. She chose to work outside the traditional studio system, which raised concerns from her label. The album was delayed and its production was heavily scrutinized. It was eventually released to critical acclaim and won multiple Grammy Awards.
11. Pink Floyd – The Wall
Capitol Records on Wikimedia Commons
The album was created during a time of growing division within the band. Roger Waters took control of the concept and clashed with other members. Some questioned whether the group could complete the project. The album was finished and became one of Pink Floyd’s most recognized releases.
12. Kanye West – My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy
Jason Persse on Wikimedia Commons
After a period of public criticism, Kanye isolated himself in Hawaii to work on the album. He invited dozens of artists and producers to contribute, creating a complex and demanding production process. The label was unsure if the project would resonate after his controversies. The album was released in 2010 and received strong critical acclaim.