Musical notation design for television set background (1946/1954) by Richard GreenoughOriginal Source: Alexandra Palace Television Society
Some of the greatest songwriters in the history of pop music have been women. But, owing to music industry stereotypes, we don't always realise the genius behind the hit is female. With this in mind, here are six huge hits that were originally penned by women.
By David McgoughLIFE Photo Collection
'Imagine' - Yoko Ono
Although originally credited solely to John Lennon, before he died he revealed that much of song's lyrics and content came from his wife Yoko Ono. In 2017, Ono was finally officially recognized as a writer and given credit by the National Music Publishers Association.
LIFE Photo Collection
I Don't Want to Miss a Thing - Diane Warren
Well known within the industry as a hitmaker but with little public recognition, Diane Warren has written smashes for artists such as Beyonce and Lady Gaga. But perhaps her biggest success was this huge ballad, performed by Aerosmith, and featuring in the movie Armageddon.
The Drifters (1956) by Atlantic ArchivesItalian American Museum of Los Angeles
Up on the Roof - Carole King
Made famous by all male vocal group The Drifters, this ode to urban hideaways was actually written by Carole King. Although King would later become a star in her own right, she and writing partner Gerry Goffin wrote scores of hits for other artists throughout the 1960s.
LIFE Photo Collection
I Will Always Love You - Dolly Parton
Although an internationally huge hit for Houston, the song wasn't penned by her. It was in fact written and recorded originally by Dolly Parton in 1973. However, it became Houston's signature tune, topping the charts around the world.
Led Zeppelin (2001) by Steve HarradineCentro Cultural Banco do Brasil Rio de Janeiro
When the Levee Breaks - Memphis Minnie
70s hard rock legends Led Zeppelin were no strangers to repurposing old blues songs and turning things up to 11. But their 1971 classic from their IV album 'When the Levee Breaks' had been written by Memphis Minnie way back in the 1920s about the 1927 Great Mississippi Flood.
LIFE Photo Collection
You've Got a Friend - Carole King
Yet another major hit that came from the pen of Carole King. She had recorded the song herself but it was the cover by her friend James Taylor that really struck a chord with the listening public. It was one of dozens of King's songs that would become huge hits for other artists.
A Collection of Vinyl Records (2019)Original Source: merchbar
Get to know more women behind the music
If you want more stories about women finally getting the credit they deserve, you can find them here.
