Some songs become so famous that they are remembered for years, playing on radios and being sung by people everywhere. These well-known songs often inspire other musicians to create new versions, covers, or even completely new songs. Among these new creations, there are special tracks called sequel songs. These are songs made as direct responses or follow-ups to the famous ones, adding more to the original stories or giving a new point of view.
Sequel songs are like musical conversations between different artists and eras. They are unique because they connect with the original hits and add something new and interesting. These songs show how musicians can inspire each other and create something special together. By listening to these sequel songs, we can see how different artists communicate through their music, even if they lived in different times.
In this article, we will explore eleven interesting sequel songs that you might not have heard of before. Each of these songs is a response to a popular hit, giving a new twist to the original track. For example, Dodie Stevens’ song “Yes, I’m Lonesome Tonight” responds to Elvis Presley’s “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” and Esther Phillips’ song “When a Woman Loves a Man” continues the story of “When a Man Loves a Woman.”
Let’s now learn about and listen to these musical novelties from the past. These sequel songs show how the original hits have inspired new creations, and will give you a fresh way to appreciate your favorite classics.
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1. Yes, I’m Lonesome Tonight by Dodie Stevens – Are You Lonesome Tonight?
Year: 1960 | Album: Yes, I’m Lonesome Tonight (1960)
Dodie Stevens’ “Yes, I’m Lonesome Tonight” is a heartfelt reply to Elvis Presley’s famous song “Are You Lonesome Tonight?”. Released in 1960, this sequel song captures the same mood and sentiment of the original, but from a female perspective. Stevens’ sweet and sorrowful voice adds a new dimension to the story, making listeners feel the deep sense of longing and loneliness. It’s fascinating to see how this song continues the conversation started by Elvis, showing the emotional connection that music can create across different artists and times.
2. (I’m A) Stand By My Woman Man by Ronnie Milsap – Stand by Your Man
Year: 1976 | Album: 20/20 Vision
Ronnie Milsap’s 1976 hit “(I’m A) Stand By My Woman Man”, which serves as a direct response to Tammy Wynette’s iconic 1968 song “Stand By Your Man.” This is an example of an answer song, where a different artist responds to the central message of the original track. Wynette’s song, a defining statement of loyalty and traditional values, resonated deeply with its audience. Inspired by its message, Milsap crafted “Stand By My Woman Man” to offer his perspective, flipping the narrative to showcase devotion and support from the male viewpoint. This answer song not only enriches the original message but also exemplifies the dynamic storytelling nature of country music
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3. Bear Cat by Rufus Thomas – Hound Dog
Year: 1953 | Album: Bear Cat (Single Release)
Rufus Thomas’ “Bear Cat” is a lively and playful answer to the famous “Hound Dog” originally recorded by Big Mama Thornton and later popularized by Elvis Presley. Released in 1953, “Bear Cat” mirrors the rhythm and style of “Hound Dog,” but flips the perspective to a male point of view. Rufus Thomas’ energetic performance and clever lyrics make this song a fun and engaging sequel, adding to the musical conversation and showcasing the creativity of early rhythm and blues artists.
4. Sorry Daddy by The Sweethearts – Daddy’s Home
Year: 1961 | Sorry Daddy (Single Release)
“Sorry Daddy” by The Sweethearts is a poignant response to “Daddy’s Home.” Released in 1961, this song tells a story of regret and longing from the perspective of a daughter who feels sorry for causing her father pain. There is also a prequel to both songs titled “A Thousand Miles Away”, which tells of his father’s trip before meeting his daughter.
5. Papa Wants the Best for You by Danny Aiello – Papa Don’t Preach
Year: 1986 | Video
Danny Aiello’s “Papa Wants the Best for You” is a heartfelt response to Madonna’s hit “Papa Don’t Preach.” Released in 1986, this sequel song offers a father’s perspective, expressing love and concern for his daughter while trying to understand her decisions. Aiello’s sincere and emotional performance adds a touching dimension to the original story, making it clear that a father’s love and worry are universal themes that resonate deeply with listeners.
6. Not Just Tomorrow But Always by Bertell Dache – Will You Love Me Tomorrow
Year: 1961 | Album: Not Just Tomorrow But Always (1961)
Bertell Dache’s “Not Just Tomorrow But Always” is a touching sequel to “Will You Love Me Tomorrow” by The Shirelles. Released in 1961, this song continues the conversation about love and commitment, expressing a desire for enduring love. Dache’s smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics resonate with anyone who has ever wondered about the future of their relationship, making it a beautiful follow-up to the original hit.
7. He’ll Have to Go by Jeanne Black – He’ll Have to Stay
Year: 1960 | Album: He’ll Have to Go (Single Release)
Jeanne Black’s “He’ll Have to Go” is a soulful sequel to Jim Reeves’ “He’ll Have to Stay.” Released in 1960, this song offers a woman’s perspective on the situation, continuing the story with grace and emotion. Black’s powerful vocals and the song’s poignant lyrics make it a memorable follow-up, highlighting the complexities of love and relationships.
8. I’ll Be There by Damita Jo – Stand by Me
Year: 1961 | Album: I’ll Be There (Single Release)
Damita Jo’s “I’ll Be There” is a beautiful reply to Ben E. King’s timeless hit “Stand by Me.” Released in 1961, this sequel song captures the spirit of the original while adding its own unique touch. Listeners, such as I was, will immediately be pulled in by its familiar melody. I can almost picture myself in front of TV while the opening scenes of the movie Stand by Me opens. A veritable treat for fans of novelty music. Or if you relish the film, as I did, this song will surely come as a pleasant surprise.
9. The Girl from New York City by The Beach Boys – The Boy from New York City
Year: 1965 | Album: Summer Days (and Summer Nights!!)
The Beach Boys’ “The Girl from New York City” is a fun and lively sequel to The Ad Libs’ hit “The Boy from New York City.” Released in 1965, this song offers a new perspective on the original, celebrating the charm and allure of a New York City girl. With their signature harmonies and upbeat style, The Beach Boys create a catchy and enjoyable follow-up that complements the original perfectly.
10. When a Woman Loves a Man by Esther Phillips – When a Man Loves a Woman
Year: 1966 | Album: When a Woman Loves a Man (Single Release)
Esther Phillips’ “When a Woman Loves a Man” is a soulful and powerful sequel to Percy Sledge’s classic “When a Man Loves a Woman.” Released in 1966, this song explores the same deep emotions and themes of love and devotion, but from a woman’s perspective. Phillips’ rich and expressive voice brings a new depth to the story, making this sequel song a worthy companion to the original.
11. I’ve Got Sand in My Shoes – Under the Boardwalk
Year: 1960 | Album: I’ve Got Sand in My Shoes (1964)
Building on the success of The Drifters’ classic original, “I’ve Got Sand in My Shoes” was released as a follow-up in 1964. Included on the B-side of the single, it continues the story by revealing what happens after the lovers’ memorable stroll. The song gained popularity in its own right, reaching #33 on the Billboard 100.
12. Long as the Rose Is Red by Florraine Darlin – Roses Are Red
Year: 1962 | Album: Long as the Rose is Red (1962)
“Long as the Rose Is Red” is an often overlooked sequel to the 1962 hit “Roses Are Red (My Love).” Sung by Florraine Darlin, this follow-up was released the same year on the album *Long as the Rose is Red*. The song continues the theme of love and devotion, reassuring listeners that love endures “as long as the rose is red.” It didn’t reach the same level of fame as its predecessor, but Darlin’s tender delivery and the lush orchestration make this track a hidden gem, especially for fans of early ’60s romantic ballads.
