Pronunciation: [bˈiːsˈa͡ɪd] (IPA) 
The word "bside" is a slang term for the lesser-known or less popular side of a vinyl record, opposite the "aside". Its spelling may seem irregular, but it stems from the abbreviation of "B-side". The IPA phonetic transcription of "bside" would be /'bi: saɪd/, with the stressed syllable being the first one. The letter "b" represents the initial letter of "B-side", while the "s" is the second letter of this abbreviation.
B-side is a term primarily used in the music industry to refer to the flip side or reverse side of a vinyl record single. In the past, vinyl records were typically released as 7-inch singles, where each side contained a different song. The A-side was the main or lead track that the record label intended to be the focus, often the one the artist and label believed to be the most commercially appealing. On the other hand, the B-side usually featured a lesser-known or less promoted song.
Over time, the term "B-side" has come to represent not only the physical side of a vinyl but also the song itself. B-sides often explored different styles, experimental sounds, or were tracks that didn't make it onto an artist's album for various reasons. Many musicians and music enthusiasts have found hidden treasures and underrated gems among B-sides.
With the advent of digital and streaming services, B-sides have evolved beyond their physical limitations. The term is now occasionally used to describe additional tracks, remixes, or previously unreleased songs that accompany a single or album release. B-sides provide an opportunity for artists to showcase their versatility and creativity beyond their well-known hits.
In a broader sense, "bside" can also be used metaphorically to describe something that is less well-known, often overshadowed or overlooked by something more prominent or popular. It can refer to a secondary aspect or alternative perspective that may be equally valuable or interesting, but tends to receive less attention.
The word "B-side" originated in the context of vinyl records. It refers to the flip side of a vinyl record, where the less known or popular song was often placed. The term was popularized in the mid-20th century when vinyl records were the dominant format for music. The "B" in "B-side" was used to classify the less important or secondary track on the record, as the "A-side" typically featured the main or hit single. Over time, "B-side" has also been used metaphorically to refer to something less prominent or significant in various contexts beyond music.
