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The 1978 song Bob Seger called “the dumbest thing I ever did”
Bob Seger, one of America's leading heartland rock songwriters, has admitted that failing to claim a songwriting credit on his 1978 hit "Old Time Rock and Roll" was the biggest mistake of his career. Although the track is officially credited to George Jackson and Thomas E Jones III, Seger has said he rewrote virtually all of the verses at Muscle Shoals studio before recording it, yet chose not to seek recognition or royalties at the time.
The song was only a modest chart success on release, reaching number 28 in the US singles chart, but it went on to become one of Seger's most enduring and widely used tracks, featuring repeatedly in films, television and advertising. Seger later recalled telling his manager "nah, nobody's gonna like it" when urged to pursue credit, a decision he has since called "the dumbest thing I ever did", saying he simply wanted to finish the record.
In short
- Seger says skipping a credit on "Old Time Rock and Roll" was his biggest mistake
- He rewrote most of the lyrics but wasn't officially credited as writer
- The song later became a cultural staple despite only reaching number 28 in 1978
Explained simply
Bob Seger is an American rock singer and songwriter whose music often draws on everyday life and working-class themes. “Old Time Rock and Roll” was recorded in 1978, with the official songwriting credit going to George Jackson and Thomas E Jones III.
Songwriting credits identify who wrote a song and can affect who receives royalties when it is played, sold or licensed. The track became much more widely used in films, television and adverts over time, making the question of who wrote it significant to Seger’s career and earnings.