‘I Will Survive’ – Gloria Gaynor
Gaynor’s professional life was on the decline in 1979. Donna Summer had displaced her as the leading disco diva, and Gaynor, who was 32 at the time, had recently lost her mother and had experienced spinal surgery. She brought extra attitude when she belted out “I Will Survive.” The song was originally a B side, but it became a smash after it was played at discos by enterprising DJs.
‘I Love Rock ‘N Roll’ – Joan Jett And The Blackhearts
Jett’s demo tape for “I Love Rock ‘N Roll” was rejected by 23 record labels as she attempted to launch a solo career following her time with the Runaways. Tiny Boardwalk Records finally took notice, but she had to pay $2,500 for the radio rights to the song. The song is now valued at approximately $20 million.