It doesn’t always turn out so well when a band switches things up. Mess with the equation too much, and you’ll have fans running for the exits. Sometimes, however — whether it’s for the sake of keeping egos in check or otherwise — a band member who doesn’t normally sing lead will step up to the mic and magic’ll happen.
Therefore, we bring you 13 Great Songs Sung by Non-Lead Singers. Here’s to you, second bananas! Who says the frontmen should have all the glory?
13. The Supremes — “Buttered Popcorn”
This early Supremes single from 1961 features Florence Ballard on lead vocals, and the innuendo-laced track is not unlike buttered popcorn — salty, fluffy, and oh so good. Motown president Berry Gordy’s subsequent decision to let Diana Ross take over as lead singer destroyed Ballard, and she passed away at age 32. Rest in peace, Flo.
12. R.E.M. — “Superman”
Bassist Mike Mills took over singing duties on this cover of The Clique’s 1969 B-side. Lyrics like “You don’t really love that guy you make it with, now do you/I know you don’t love that guy cause I can see right through you” make this required listening for anyone who needs a little psyching up before going after that guy or gal they’ve been pining over.