3 Legendary Artists Who Were Rejected by Record Labels—and How They Changed the Course of Music History

Rejection—if you or someone you know has a passion for the arts you are familiar with the word and the feelings it encompasses. It is an inevitable truth for anyone pursuing an artistic endeavor. It doesn’t play favorites nor come around at favorable times. Rather, it sneaks up on one and wreaks havoc where havoc is not due. Given its uncontrollable nature, even the most successful of musicians have experienced it. However, you know what they say, “when one door closes, another one opens.”

This saying couldn’t be more applicable to some artists, as after numerous record companies passed on them they finally got their break. Perseverance, consistency, and a sense of hope are seemingly what landed these musicians success after many trials and tribulations. Here are three artists who were rejected by record labels before their big break.

1. The Beatles

Yes, the most famous and arguably influential band of all time was denied by Decca Records in 1962. After their manager, Brian Epstein got them an audition with the label, Decca Records executive, Dick Rowe stated, “Guitar groups are on their way out, Mr. Epstein,” per Epstein’s autobiography. I’m sure looking back at it Rowe viewed this as one of the largest fumbles of his career. However, both Rowe and The Beatles would go onto have storied journeys.

Following their rejection, The Beatles would go on to sign with German label, Polydor Records. Although, after less than a year with the label, the super-group then signed with longtime partner, EMI. The contract with EMI lasted nine years and spanned over the majority of The Beatles career.

2. U2

RSO Records, known for signing Eric Clapton, Cream, and The Bee Gees, passed on the spry Irish band in the late ’70s. Not much is documented on the relationship between U2 and RSO, except the rejection letter the band received. “We have listened with careful consideration, but feel it is not suitable for us at present,” wrote RSO executive, Alexander Sinclair.

Despite this one rejection, U2 signed with Island Records in 1980. The band and the label would go on to publish The Joshua Tree, Sunday Bloody Sunday, and With Or Without You. U2 obviously became a huge success, but so did Island Records, as they are still a powerhouse record label in today’s music industry.

3. Madonna

Prior to becoming a pop sensation of the late ’80s, Madonna lived in New York City while trying to get her big break. She was finally able to get a meeting with Millennium Records, however, was denied. Millennium President, Jimmy Lenner wrote in a rejection letter to Madonna, “The direction is a good one, in my opinion. The only thing missing from this project is material.”

Needless to say, but Madonna did just fine for herself. After her rejection from Millennium, she signed with Sire Records in 1983. Madonna and Sire released Madonna, Like a Virgin, and True Blue. Seymour Stein can be thanked for taking the leap of faith on the young artist, and it is a decision that changed the trajectory for both Madonna and Sire Records.

Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images