The music industry is full of examples of songs that started slow but eventually became huge hits, known as sleeper hits. Some iconic rock songs, like Whitesnake's "Here I Go Again" and Elton John's "Tiny Dancer," initially had modest success but later soared in popularity. Kate Bush's "Running Up That Hill" and David Bowie's "Space Oddity" also experienced a resurgence in recent years, showcasing the enduring appeal of these timeless tracks. Other notable examples include Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers' "American Girl" and Metallica's "Master of Puppets," proving that success in music can sometimes be a gradual process.
Source: https://ultimateclassicrock.com/sleeper-hit-rock-songs/