The Serendipity of a Hit: Vanessa Williams and the Song That Could’ve Been Someone Else’s
There’s something almost poetic about the way hit songs find their way into the world. Take Vanessa Williams’ ‘Save the Best for Last,’ a ballad that became her career-defining moment. What’s fascinating—and often overlooked—is that this song was almost someone else’s. Bette Midler passed. Barbra Streisand passed. And Williams? She was the third choice. Personally, I think this detail alone is a masterclass in the unpredictability of the music industry. It’s not just about talent; it’s about timing, intuition, and a dash of serendipity.
The Third Time’s the Charm
What makes this particularly fascinating is how Williams’ version of the song became a cultural touchstone. Spending five weeks at No. 1 on the Hot 100, it wasn’t just a hit—it was a phenomenon. But if you take a step back and think about it, the song’s success wasn’t guaranteed. Midler and Streisand are legends in their own right, yet they didn’t see the potential in it. This raises a deeper question: What do artists hear in a song that others don’t? In my opinion, Williams brought a vulnerability and warmth to ‘Save the Best for Last’ that resonated with listeners in a way that might not have happened with another voice.
The Song That Got Away
One thing that immediately stands out is Williams’ revelation about Amy Grant’s ‘Baby Baby.’ She wished she’d had the chance to record it, but it was never offered to her. This is a reminder of how small oversights can shape careers. What many people don’t realize is that the music industry is as much about connections and timing as it is about talent. Williams’ story highlights the ‘what ifs’ that lurk behind every hit—the songs that could’ve been, the paths not taken.
Beyond the Ballad
While ‘Save the Best for Last’ is Williams’ signature hit, her career is far more multifaceted than many give her credit for. From ‘Colors of the Wind’ to her roles in Desperate Housewives and Ugly Betty, she’s proven herself as both a musician and an actress. What this really suggests is that Williams’ success isn’t just about one song—it’s about her ability to adapt, evolve, and remain relevant across decades. From my perspective, this is what makes her story so compelling.
The Broader Lesson
If you think about it, Williams’ journey is a metaphor for the creative process itself. Not every opportunity is a slam dunk, and sometimes the most iconic moments come from second chances or third tries. What’s especially interesting is how this narrative connects to a larger trend in the entertainment industry: the idea that success is often built on rejection, resilience, and a willingness to take risks.
Final Thoughts
As I reflect on Williams’ story, I’m struck by how much of her success feels like a happy accident—but also how much of it was earned through her talent and tenacity. ‘Save the Best for Last’ could’ve been someone else’s song, but it became hers because she brought something unique to it. And that, I think, is the real takeaway: in a world where opportunities are often fleeting, it’s the artists who seize them—and make them their own—who leave a lasting legacy.
