3 Supergroup Songs That Became Super Hits

Supergroups are designed for very particular reasons. However, none of those reasons and their potential success are guaranteed. As a matter of fact, there have been a few supergroups that have flopped and failed. On the contrary, there have been several that have soared into success rather seamlessly. A major marker of that is by garnering a hit song.

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The music industry has seen its fair share of supergroups. However, there are only a handful that have truly stood the test of time, and they’ve achieved that feat by writing and releasing a hit song. That being so, here are three supergroups that made super hits.

“Highwayman” by The Highwaymen

What kind of list would this be if The Highwaymen weren’t included? After all, they are surely the most notable and successful country music supergroup of all time, and that is partially thanks to their 1985 single, “Highwayman.”

Following its release, “Highwayman” peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart during its 20-week run. When the year concluded, it ranked at the fifth most played country song of 1985. However, is this a surprise? Willie, Waylon, Johnny, and Kris would probably say “no.”

“Handle With Care” by The Traveling Wilburys

This second selection also might be low-hanging fruit, but hey, it’s a sound selection thanks to the Traveling Wilburys massive success. The Wilburys scored massive success before they even released a song, as the legendary company spoke for the band before their music spoke for them. Though, at the end of the line, the music did speak for them.

In 1988, the group released their monstrous single, “Handle With Care.” After its release, the single peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Album Rock Tracks chart and at No. 21 on the UK Singles Chart. Additionally, it was also a top five hit in Australia and New Zealand.

“Sunshine of Your Love” by Cream

Other than CSNY, Cream was the most iconic rock supergroup of the ’60s. That being so, the song they have to partially thank for that status is their 1967 hit single, “Sunshine of Your Love.” Released on the album, Disraeli Gears, “Sunshine of Your Love,” is Cream’s biggest hit of all time.

After the song was released in 1967, the single peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and spent a total of 26 weeks on the chart. Furthermore, it acquired a gold certification, peaked at No. 25 on the UK Official Singles chart, and received an induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Photo by Rob Verhorst/Redferns

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