10 Unknown Songs by Famous Artists

They all showed early signs of big talent.

Ariana Grande

The pop songstress of today recorded this gem at 14.  We think it contains some serious sexual innuendo.

Track:  Higher 

Year: 2008/09

Drake  

At the age of nineteen, Wheelchair Jimmy recorded this soulful track with Paula Patton’s ex.  

If he considers this his start at the bottom, we have a long ways to go.

Track:  Teach You A Lesson

Mixtape:  Comeback Season

Year: 2006

Childish Gambino

2010’s The Great Gambino produced hits like “Freaks and Geeks” and “Do Ya Like”, but do you recall Donald’s track with Swedish vocalist Beldina Malaika?

Track:  Not Going Back feat. Beldina Malaika

Album:  The Great Gambino

Year: 2010

JoJo 

The former teen queen paid homage to Jill Scott with a jazzy spin on “Too Little Too Late.”

Adele 

The British neo-soul pop sensation added some serious pipes to The Strokes’ Last Night.

Nelly and Christina Aguilera

Originally meant for Nelly and Britney Spears, the “Hit Me Baby One More Time” songstress lacked an “urban” enough voice. 

In a heartbeat, producers called on Christina Aguilera, who unsurprisingly delivered.

Track:  Tilt Ya Head Back

Album: Sweat

Year: 2004

Leighton Meester

A few months prior “Good Girls Gone Bad”,  the former Gossip Girl star lends her pipes to Awesome New Republic on “Birthday.”

Track:  Birthday

Year: 2009

Max Schneider

The YouTube sensation writes, composes and produces his own music.  To promote his EP,  he charms an Emma Watson lookalike in the video for “You Don’t Know Me.”

Track: You Don’t Know Me

EP:  First Encounters

Year:  2010

Christina Aguilera

Undoubtedly skilled at her craft, Aguilera is often criticized for over-singing.  In this cover of Nina Simone’s ballad “I Love You Porgy”, she displays effortless vocal control.

Nicki Minaj

Our beloved Southside Jamaica queen freestyles on the streets of NY.

Track: Dirty Money

Year: circa 2008

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