I could have approached this topic by choosing songs based on their commercial success, their record sales, or their chart positions. However, I feel strongly that this takes away from the personal connection we make with music and, therefore, the very essence of what music is all about.
For these reasons, I have decided to make this my selection of what I believe to be the best songs of all time. However, like all art forms, I expect all of your lists to be significantly different.
Although I have a reasonably eclectic taste, you can expect to hear a lot of Rock, Blues, and Pop, together with a smattering of Jazz and Country. I hope there are a few songs that would have made your cut, and I hope you like some of my choices. So, let’s get to it and take a look at the first song on my list…
Top 501 Best Songs Of All Time
1
The Long and Winding Road by The Beatles
I suspect that a lot of the lists of best songs of all time would contain at least one song from The Beatles, if not more.
After all, The Beatles were one of if not the most influential bands of all time. Also, they were the most commercially successful. They sold a mind-boggling 600 million albums.
Furthermore, they were also responsible for changing the way music was made. They pioneered so many new ways of thinking, both in terms of music and societal attitudes. This was a band that ushered in a new era and, with it, some remarkable songs.
Let’s first take a look at an absolute classic…
“I Want to Hold Your Hand”, was released in 1963 and was their best-selling single. However, it’s not even close to being my favorite. It’s far too upbeat and has far too much of a teenage feel to it for my liking. I prefer their slower and less pop-orientated music.
My favorite two Beatles songs are “Hey Jude” and “The Long and Winding Road”. But, out of these two, there’s no doubt that “The Long and Winding Road” is, in my opinion, by far the better.
So, why is that?
It’s because of the beautiful way the lyrics deal with the passage of life and the choices we make. It deals with feelings of love, of a higher being, and of the often unattainable things we most desire. There are many layers to this rather sad song that describe the struggles of our emotions perfectly.
The song was released as a single off the album, Let it Be, in 1970. It sold over a million copies and reached #1 in the US. It’s a long way from being their best-selling song, but I still believe it’s their best work.
2
November Rain by Guns N’ Roses
I think the best of their music came from Use Your Illusion 1 released on September 17th, 1991, and Use Your Illusion 2, which was released on the same day. Clever!
“November Rain” was the 10th track off Use Your Illusion 1. But, although this is my number one choice, “Civil War” or “Estranged” from Use Your Illusion 2 could easily have made the top spot.
All of the tracks share the same piercing vocals courtesy of the amazing Axl Rose. Together, of course, with beautifully crafted and memorable solos from Slash. This Los Angeles band from the 80s was truly exceptional.
What do I particularly like about the song?
The unhurried way it develops. It starts with a long keyboard and string intro with Axl playing the piano. For these of you that don’t know, Axl Rose was a classically trained pianist. Impressive.
Just under a minute into the song, and the vocals kick in. The vocals and music are slow and restrained and provide a perfect platform for increasing intensity as the song develops. This showcases perfectly what I believe to be Slash’s best-ever solo towards the end.
It’s a beautifully crafted song that eloquently expresses feelings of love and rejection. These emotions are projected not only through the lyrics but through the music too. The true mark of a great song everyone knows.
On a personal note…
I was lucky enough to see Guns N’ Roses on their Use Your Illusion tour at Gateshead Stadium on June 16th, 1992. I can tell you that the performance of this song was every bit as epic as the studio version.
And, in all honesty, it was better. So, I’d urge you to take listen to any of Guns N’ Roses’ live music. It’s likely to be some of the best live music you are going to hear.
3
Stayin’ Alive by The Bee Gees
With over one hundred million sales to their name, these three guys are one of the biggest bands of all time. But, more than that, they were also prolific songwriters and wrote a large body of highly successful music for other artists.
The best examples of their songwriting prowess included “Grease” which was sung by Frankie Valli in 1978, and “More Than a Woman” sung by Tavares in 1977.
The Bee Gees was made of three brothers – Barry, Maurice, and Robin. They were born in the north of England but emigrated at a young age to Queensland, on the east coast of Australia.
They’re best known for their amazing harmonies…
Barry sang in a high falsetto, Robin with beautiful vibrato, and Maurice acted as a bridge between them. Singing in harmony was something they did and practiced since they were kids, and oh boy, were they good at it.
This harmonized singing was very much their trademark sound…
Not only could they sing well together, but they also wrote amazingly catchy tunes. This was best demonstrated in the 1977 soundtrack album, “Saturday Night Fever”. It was made into a movie of the same title and released in the same year, starring the enigmatic, John Travolta.
“Stayin’ Alive” was taken from the album and was also released in 1977. It went on to reach #1 in the US and sold close to two million copies worldwide. The soundtrack sold a staggering 16 million copies. “Stayin’ Alive” is pure and unadulterated disco, like the rest of the album.
Staying alive…
Although many might claim to be the Kings or Queens of disco, I don’t doubt that it should be The Bee Gees wearing this particular crown. Sorry to Donna Summer, Chic, Gloria Gaynor, or Earth Wind and Fire!
The fact is that in the 70s, The Bee Gees were the sound of disco, and I will love them for it forevermore.
4
Boogie Wonderland by Earth Wind and Fire
Let’s keep the disco groove running and take a look at this high-energy song from an equally high-energy band.
Earth Wind and Fire were formed in 1969 and, incredibly, are still playing today. There are currently ten band members with over twenty past members who have moved on. Maurice White, the band’s founder, is amongst the past members.
Undoubtedly, “Boogie Wonderland” contains a huge element of disco. However, there are also strong elements of Funk as well as smatterings of R&B, Soul, and Pop.
Why do I love this song so much?
…and why did it make it to my best songs of all time list? Because of its infectious beat and high-energy feel. Additionally, just take a look at the live video because, my oh my, it’s fun with a capital ‘F.’
The harmonies are amazing and fit perfectly around the main pulsating beat of the drums and bass. This is cleverly intertwined with intense piano sections that feel experimental and way ahead of their time.
Furthermore, the keyboard playing feels like it would be equally at home in a piece of House music from the 90s. Remarkable, given that “Boogie Wonderland” was released in 1979 of their ninth album, I Am.
Simply great…
A lot of the music on this list contains complicated lyrics full of metaphors that are open to a wide range of interpretations. “Boogie Wonderland” is quite honestly about as far away from this as you can get.
It’s a pure out-and-out dance song. Simply designed to get you on your feet and let yourself go. It’s there to make you feel good and give yourself up to the moment. And it’s the perfect song to remind us all that music can be fun.
5
In The Ghetto by Elvis Presley
Depending on your sources, Elvis was the most successful solo artist of all time. The beauty of his voice is beyond question.
Additionally, his ability to effortlessly move between a rich baritone and clear tenor was remarkable. This was someone with not only an incredible vocal talent but also with soul running through his veins.
And, that soul shined bright…
The genres he’s best known for include R&B, Rock, Gospel, Blues, Pop, and Country. He was comfortable with any of these styles or with any kind of combination. “In the Ghetto” is a good example of this mix as it beautifully combines Gospel, Country, and Pop.
It was released in 1969 as part of the album, From Elvis in Memphis. Although it didn’t reach #1 in either the US or the UK, it still achieved top status in several countries around the world. It also became a frequent inclusion in his live performances.
Making a statement…
Tackling the story of poverty growing up in the ghettos of America, it hit a strong chord, and this was undoubtedly a huge part of its success. It became his 15th best-selling record.
The top spot went to “It’s Now or Never” released in November of 1960. The runner-up spot went to “Jailhouse Rock” released in January 1958.
People can relate…
I can’t identify with the tough life of being brought up in poverty. However, the song still evokes strong feelings about the struggles we go through in life and the impact of the choices we make along the way.
The clever writing is a testament to the fact that so many of us, so far removed from this kind of life, can still so readily identify with it. Full credit and kudos to the writer Mac Davis.
6
It’s a Man’s Man’s World by James Brown
Let’s now move from The King of Rock to The Godfather of Soul. James Brown was born in 1933. He had a career lasting over 50 years as a singer, dancer, and musician. He regularly performed R&B and funk numbers, but he’s best known for his Soul songs and performances.
James Brown sold an impressive 50 million records. Equally impressive, he also had seventeen #1 hits. Some of his best-known songs include “Pappa’s Got a Brand New Bag”, “Get Up I Feel Like A Sex Machine”, and “Living in America”.
However, “It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World” is, I believe, the best of anything he either wrote or recorded.
Here’s why…
The song was released in April 1966 and achieved #1 in the US. It subsequently became a mainstay in James Brown’s live shows. In my opinion, his live performances were something not to be missed. The best live version of the song is from his Live at Montreux 1981 concert.
“It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World” was co-written by Betty Jean Newsome. Although equal credits were given by both artists, Newsome claimed to have been the sole writer. She also claimed to have not been paid the royalties she was owed, which resulted in a court case.
Telling it like it is…
The song has a slow tempo making it ideal for embellishments on live versions. The theme deals with the nature of men and women and their roles in life. It concludes that, although it might indeed be a Man’s World, that comes with a price. And, without a woman’s influence, it might not be worth the sacrifice.
Not only does the song make my list of the top fifteen best songs ever, but it also made #123 in Rolling Stone’s top 500 best songs of all time. James Brown sadly died in 2006.
7
I’d Rather Go Blind by Eta James
Although Aretha Franklin is generally more highly regarded as a Soul, R&B, Jazz, and Gospel singer, I believe Eta James had a superior voice. And, without a doubt, was a better performer. What’s more, I also think she wrote the best song of the two, “I’d Rather Go Blind”.
So, why is this, and why do I love this song so much?
The song was recorded and released in 1967. Eta heard the original shape of the song from her friend Ellington Jordan after a prison visit. Subsequently, she set about completing it with Jordan.
However, although her then-partner Bill Foster is credited with co-writing the song, it’s believed this was purely for tax reasons.
“I’d Rather Go Blind” is filled full of emotion, both lyrically and musically. It’s a slow, sad song with sparse accompaniment from keyboards, drums, guitar, and horns.
In its original version…
It lasted for under three minutes. However, live performances often stretched this out to over eight minutes. The best live recorded performance was in 1975 at Montreux.
The song has a powerful message about life and direction. As well as the choices we make in our lives. A common theme in so many of the very best songs.
“I’d Rather Go Blind” was all the more personal to Eta James. At the time of the recording, she was going through personal difficulties with her partner, as well as a torrid time from her addiction to Heroin.
It’s a much-covered song…
And was most famously covered by Sydney Youngblood in 1990. However, I think a better cover was the joint efforts from Jo Bonamassa and Beth Hart that were featured on their 2011 album, Don’t Explain. An even better cover was the live Jo Bonamassa and Beth Hart version in Amsterdam.
8
Transmission by Joy Division
There’s a very good chance that the majority of you are now staring blankly at your screens and scratching your heads. I doubt you’ve heard of either the song or the band. Never mind the genius of their frontman and lyricist, Ian Curtis.
And that’s OK…
This is a little-known group outside of the UK, which is very likely why they’ve been lost to so many music lovers around the world.
They were formed in 1976 in Salford, in the north of England, during the height of the Punk explosion. However, despite their initial frenetic playing and tempo, they quickly developed as a Post-Punk band.
Two of the band’s greatest assets were Peter Hook’s legendary bass playing and Ian Curtiss’s unbelievable live performances and poetic writing. The gritty lyrics and simple yet hard musical delivery quickly won over audiences and subsequently brought them critical acclaim.
Despite the kudos…
…and recognition from fellow musicians, they never achieved much commercial success. During the entirety of their short career, they only sold 600,000 albums.
The most successful was their debut album, Unknown Pleasures, which sold a very modest 135,000 copies. It was from this debut album that their first single, “Transmission”, was taken.
Like many of their songs, the single has a feeling of darkness, turmoil, and emotional challenge. It has an urgency but, at the same time, an out-of-worldly feel and sparseness to it. Another example of this can be found in their most recognizable song, “She’s Lost Control”.
Underrated greatness…
It’s hard to truly appreciate the brilliance and uniqueness of their talent without hearing them live. Unfortunately, there’s very little original footage of these live performances. Although, the movie “Control” gives an accurate insight into what they were all about.
Ian Curtis was plagued with medical problems, including depression and epilepsy. And, on occasions, he had epileptic fits whilst on stage. Sadly, on the 18th of May 1982, Curtis succumbed to his personal demons and took his own life at just 23 years of age. A tragic loss to music and those around him.
9
Kashmir by Led Zeppelin
There’s no doubt that these super-talented musicians were some of the best to ever come together in a band. As individuals, they were ridiculously gifted. But, as a combined force, their music was close to being unparalleled.
They were formed in 1968 and were made up of John Bonham, John Paul Jones, Jimmy Page, and Robert Plant. They went on to be one of the most successful bands of all time.
In their relatively short career, they sold over 300 million records and have had numerous #1 hits and music accolades.
A couple of their songs stand out for me…
These are “Going to California”, which was taken off Led Zeppelin IV. Plus, “Kashmir”, taken from their fifth studio album, Physical Graffiti, was released in 1975. Of the two songs, it’s the latter that’s my favorite.
It was written whilst the band was touring in Africa. Specifically in Southern Morocco. The song is not about a specific place, and contrary to what most people think, has nothing to do with Kashmir. Surprisingly, given their interest in the East and Eastern religions.
The song is about a journey…
That can be taken as either physical or metaphorical. This is a rich subject for musicians. It’s also something I have a fascination for, which is plain to see in my best songs of all time selection.
“Kashmir” is dramatic and filled with tension which is wound and released brilliantly. The song showcases Robert Plant’s vocal ability beautifully. Plus, it’s backed by a pulsating hard beat from John Bonham in one of his best-ever drumming performances. And that’s truly saying something.
Like much of their music…
This unapologetic Rock song is also accompanied by heavy and, at times, menacing guitar riffs from Jimmy Page. Additionally, John Paul Jones adds an extra dimension with his sublime keyboard playing and eastern-style musical runs.
The only thing that the song doesn’t include is a Jimmy Page solo. However, the whole song is so beautifully constructed that it doesn’t need one. Huge kudos to the band for realizing it. Make no mistake; this is an epic song.
10
Crazy Train by Ozzy Osbourne
It’s time to get heavy now. And, what better way than with the father of Heavy Metal and the self-proclaimed Prince of Darkness, the crazy Ozzy Osbourne?
I could have picked one of a dozen other of Ozzy’s songs, and many of these could also have been from his days in Black Sabbath. So, why this song, amongst such a huge body of work?
Here’s why…
The reason is that, being released in 1980, this was his first ever single as a solo artist. Trying to break out from the shadows of the Black Sabbath had to be a daunting task. But my goodness, what a statement the song made.
Not only was it his first ever solo single, but it also came from his debut album, Blizzard of Ozz, which was also released in the same year. Blizzard of Ozz went on to sell five million copies and counting. It also contains another highly successful single, namely “Mr. Crowley”.
Back to “Crazy Train”…
The song is a commentary about the tensions between the East and the West in the period frequently referred to as The Cold War. It deals with the real possibility of the planet’s total annihilation and the feelings of fear at the time.
Like the rest of the album, the song blends Heavy Metal and Rock with amazing musicality backing Ozzy’s insanely powerful and unique voice. Additionally, it showcased to the world, for the very first time, the incredible talent of lead guitarist Randy Rhoads.
So, just how good was Randy Rhoads?
I rate him as being comfortably one of the top ten best Rock guitarists of all time. He was honestly that good. What he brought to Ozzy’s band and to “Crazy Train” was a high level of musicality courtesy of his beautiful runs and solos.
Rhoads was about much more than fast playing and hard riffs. Consequently, his playing gave the song a whole new dimension and depth.
Sadly, Randy Rhoads died tragically, at just 25 years of age, in a plane accident whilst they were touring. His contribution to music and Heavy Metal will never be forgotten. Just listen to “Crazy Train” and see if you don’t think it’s one of the greatest songs ever.
11
The Trooper by Iron Maiden
“The Trooper” seems to be a perfect follow-on from the previous song. The single came from the band’s fourth album, Piece of Mind, which was released in 1983.
The album was pivotal in the band’s progression as it was the first to feature their new drummer, Nicko McBrain. His addition brought a whole new dynamism to the band and was in no small part instrumental in their path towards super band status.
The album sold well in the US, the UK, and around the world. To date, it’s sold over 12 million copies and is their second best-selling album. It’s only beaten by their third album released in 1982, The Number of the Beast, which has currently sold close to nine million copies.
Iron Maiden’s best selling single and deservedly so…
It deals with the topic of war, in particular, the Crimean War and, more specifically, two battles, including the Charge of the Light Brigade. It deals with the emotions and thoughts from the perspective of a soldier and is loosely based on Lord Tennyson’s poem of the same title.
The single, like pretty much every Iron Maiden song, has a high tempo with thumping drums and bass lines. It’s fast and hard and is backed up by incredible guitar playing and solos and unforgettable harmonized riffs from guitarists Adrian Smith and Dan Murray.
12
Little Wing by Jimi Hendrix
Jimi Hendrix is regarded by many as being the greatest guitarist of all time. It’s hard to argue against. It’s also hard to pick just one of his songs to feature in my best songs of all time list.
However, after some quiet reflection, “Little Wing” I feel deserves the number one slot. But, before we take a closer look at this beautiful song, let’s first pay homage to Jimi’s remarkable talent.
Born in 1942, Jimi Hendrix crafted his skills in several bands throughout the late 50s and early 60s in the US. However, despite his undoubted ability, it wasn’t until he was brought to the UK by an English promoter that he hit mainstream success.
Whilst in the UK…
Jimi further developed his now legendary Psychedelic sound that became synonymous with the Psychedelic Rock genre. Jimi and his band, The Jimi Hendrix Experience, went on to release three hugely successful and critically acclaimed albums.
The first of these was, Are You Experienced, which was released in 1966. The second was released in 1967 and called Axis: Bold as Love. It was from this album that the song we’re now going to take a look at, “Little Wing” was released.
So, what makes this song so special?
The original song, at just under two and a half minutes long, is one of the most beautiful mixtures of Psychedelic Rock and Rhythm and Blues. The vocals and solo are slow and restrained compared to much of his other music, such as “Voodoo Child” and “All Along the Watchtower”.
I fully understand why “All Along the Watchtower” was not only his most successful single but also a fan favorite. However, I feel there is such a beauty and fragility to “Little Wing” that it, therefore, gets my nod for the top spot.
13
Life Without You by Stevie Ray Vaughan
I don’t say this lightly, but I honestly believe Stevie Ray Vaughan was the greatest guitar player of all time. I love Jimi Hendrix, but just about anything that Jimi played was played better by Stevie.
You don’t believe me?
Okay. Take a listen to Stevie’s version of “Voodoo Child” and “Little Wing”. When you’re finished shouting at the screen, tell me if Stevie’s or Jimi’s original version was better. I’m positive that Stevie plays it better. The precision, interpretation, and feel of the song are perceptively better.
There’s no doubt whatsoever that SRV was nothing short of a guitar virtuoso. Rick Beato said so; therefore, it must be true.
However, he was much more than that…
SRV was also a prolific songwriter and had amazing Blues voices. Furthermore, his voice was so good that he could easily have performed in any major band, providing vocal duties only.
This skill, as both a guitar player and vocalist, is clear to hear in “Life Without You”. The song was taken from the 1985 album, Soul to Soul, and is the final track on the B-side.
To many of you…
It might be seen as an unusual choice for my favorite SRV song. After all, it was never released as a single. Plus, there are so many other obvious choices. Such as “Little Wing”, “Voodoo Child”, or “Texas Flood”.
All of these were more popular after all. Despite this, I think “Life Without You” has something very special over all of these songs.
As you’d expect…
It contains flawless guitar playing with amazing control and expression. It also features, in my opinion, the best vocal performance of any of his songs. Additionally, I think it’s lyrically his best song too.
The song’s poignant message is to treat people well and appreciate the people you love who are around you. It’s a song dedicated to the loss of his longtime friend, Charley Wirz. The impact on Stevie was huge, and it’s there for all to see in the moving song.
A fitting tribute to his friend…
It’s slower than many of his songs and reflects the serious and painful nature of the emotions behind it. The guitar riffs are less aggressive than most of his music and almost delicate in places. The guitar solo at the end, though brilliant, also feels constrained, whilst containing a mix of sorrow and loss.
To write a song like this about someone you love is no easy thing.
SRV tragically died in a helicopter crash in 1990. I hope Charley and Stevie are now up there together, having a laugh, playing some music, and enjoying a beer.
14
Time (The Revelator) by Gillian Welsh
I’ll start by just saying that, frankly, I think some of her music is a bit crap. Now, in fairness, I’m not a big fan of Bluegrass, and some of her Country and Folk songs are just a bit too Country and Folk, if you know what I mean. However, if you like those three genres, unlike me, you’ll probably like pretty much all of her music.
When you take out the twangy banjos and the barn dancing, and slow things down a little, she truly hits the spot. This is where I think “Time (The Revelator)” is fire. It’s a great combination of the very best of the best of Country and Folk, which results in a dazzling piece of Americana.
The revelations of time…
Gillian Welsh plays together with Dave Rawlings. They have released nine albums together. “Time (The Revelator)” was released from her 2001 Grammy-nominated album, also called Time (The Revelator).
Not only was this a hugely acclaimed piece of work, but it also went on to sell over two million copies worldwide.
“Time (The Revelator)” has a beautiful and soulful, but at the same time, somewhat dark feel to it. Although the lyrics are far from clear, she appears to be recounting the struggle of her own life and emotions. It’s most probably a song about her feeling like an outsider before becoming famous and a yearning for past life and a return to her roots.
You don’t have to like Country music to enjoy this song…
The song is delivered with straightforward simplicity and easy chord progressions. Interspersed with this economic delivery are the beautiful vocal harmonies from David Rawlings.
Additionally, he provides a stunning solo on his 1935 Epiphone Olympic. The Epiphone Olympic has a gorgeous, sweet vintage tone that cuts through the recording and demands attention.
Rawlings plays with his unmistakable style, which has not only made his recordings popular but the Epiphone Olympic too. So much so that it’s now difficult to find one of these guitars for any less than a wallet-busting price.
15
We Have All the Time in the World by Louis Armstrong
I’ve saved this till last because this, in my opinion, is more than just one of the best songs ever. This is the best song of all time.
So, why do I hold this song in such high regard?
First, there’s his voice. Louis Armstrong has a rich and instantly recognizable baritone voice. It’s far from smooth or silky. Yet, the rough and gravelly tone is what made it so distinctive and so compelling to listen to.
He wasn’t primarily a vocalist and was better known as a jazz trumpeter; he could also pay the cornet. However, he was still confident in his singing abilities, and rightly so. As a result, he is remembered as much for his voice as for his trumpet playing.
A little-known fact…
During the 1930s, whilst performing on the steamboats, he damaged his voice due to the cold. Consequently, he had corrective surgery on his vocal cords, which was ineffective, and left him with the tone we have come to know and love.
His best-selling record was “Hello Dolly” which was released in 1964. Possibly his best-known record is the much-covered “What a Wonderful World”. However, “We Have All the Time in the World”, released in 1969, I honestly believe is his best work.
And, I’m not the only one…
It was composed by the brilliant John Barry, and the lyrics were courtesy of Hal David. The song was written for the James Bond movie, “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”. A movie I can still remember seeing to this day.
The song’s title echoes the final words of James Bond, played at the time by the brilliant Sean Connery, as he’s driving into the distance with his newly married wife. Sadly, these are the last words he says to her before her untimely death.
Interestingly, these same words, no doubt a nod to the 1969 movie masterpiece, are uttered by James Bond, this time played by Daniel Craig, in the awful PC-correct movie, “No Time to Die”.
Back to the song…
“We Have All the Time in the World” is primarily about the intrinsic value of life over all things. It’s about the power of love, and it’s a message that’s delivered perfectly. No surprise then that this is the third most popular song played at weddings.
Unfortunately, I never got the memo because I fancy having it played at my funeral. A reminder for everyone about what’s important in life. I also fancy having “Celebration” by Kool and the Gang played for a bit of a laugh. No doubt my sons will rule that out as being inappropriate. Shame.
16
Imagine by John Lennon
17
I Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston
18
Sweet Child o’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses
19
My Heart Will Go On by Celine Dion
20
Livin’ on a Prayer by Bon Jovi
21
Billie Jean by Michael Jackson
22
Wonderwall by Oasis
23
Creep by Radiohead
24
I Want to Hold Your Hand by The Beatles
25
Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond
26
Time After Time by Cyndi Lauper
27
Good Vibrations by The Beach Boys
28
Respect by Aretha Franklin
29
Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd
30
Rockin’ in the Free World by Neil Young
31
Bridge Over Troubled Water by Simon & Garfunkel
32
What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong
33
Walk on the Wild Side by Lou Reed
34
Nothing Compares 2 U by Sinead O’Connor
35
Free Bird by Lynyrd Skynyrd
36
Like a Prayer by Madonna
37
Under Pressure by Queen & David Bowie
38
Ironic by Alanis Morissette
39
You Are the Sunshine of My Life by Stevie Wonder
40
Visions of Johanna by Bob Dylan
41
Unchained Melody by The Righteous Brothers
42
Losing You by Solange
43
Hysteria by Def Leppard
44
Bitch Don’t Kill My Vibe by Kendrick Lamar
45
Reckoner by Radiohead
46
God’s Plan by Drake
47
Juice by Lizzo
48
A Change Is Gonna Come by Sam Cooke
49
The Times They Are A-Changin’ by Bob Dylan
50
Paint It Black by The Rolling Stones
More Best Songs Of All Time
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- Like a Rolling Stone by Bob Dylan
- Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin
- Hotel California by Eagles
- Purple Haze by Jimi Hendrix
- Smells Like Teen Spirit by Nirvana
- Hallelujah by Jeff Buckley
- Hey Jude by The Beatles
- Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen
- What’s Going On by Marvin Gaye
- Dancing Queen by ABBA
- Born to Run by Bruce Springsteen
- The Weight by The Band
- Heroes by David Bowie
- Changes by Tupac Shakur
- Sunday Bloody Sunday by U2
- Losing My Religion by R.E.M.
- Yesterday by The Beatles
- Landslide by Fleetwood Mac
- Waterfalls by TLC
- Toxic by Britney Spears
- Come Together by The Beatles
- Born in the U.S.A. by Bruce Springsteen
- November Rain by Guns N’ Roses
- Enter Sandman by Metallica
- All I Want by Joni Mitchell
- Nuthin’ But a ‘G’ Thang by Dr. Dre feat. Snoop Dogg
- Natural Woman by Aretha Franklin
- My Generation by The Who
- (Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay by Otis Redding
- Tiny Dancer by Elton John
- With or Without You by U2
- Dancing in the Dark by Bruce Springsteen
- Crazy by Gnarls Barkley
- Smooth by Santana featuring Rob Thomas
- Let It Be by The Beatles
- I Got You (I Feel Good) by James Brown
- Sympathy for the Devil by The Rolling Stones
- Livin’ on a Prayer by Bon Jovi
- Heart of Gold by Neil Young
- Kiss by Prince
- Blackbird by The Beatles
- Rapper’s Delight by The Sugarhill Gang
- Tangled Up in Blue by Bob Dylan
- American Girl by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
- Piano Man by Billy Joel
- Thunder Road by Bruce Springsteen
- Ain’t No Sunshine by Bill Withers
- Bittersweet Symphony by The Verve
- Every Breath You Take by The Police
- In My Life by The Beatles
- Maggie May by Rod Stewart
- Gimme Shelter by The Rolling Stones
- My Girl by The Temptations
- A Hard Day’s Night by The Beatles
- Everybody Hurts by R.E.M.
- Yesterday Once More by The Carpenters
- What’s Going On by Marvin Gaye
- Uptown Funk by Mark Ronson featuring Bruno Mars
- Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd
- Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey
- Layla by Derek and the Dominos
- The Times They Are A-Changin’ by Bob Dylan
- Bennie and the Jets by Elton John
- Stand By Me by Ben E. King
- California Love by Tupac ft. Dr. Dre
- Satisfaction by The Rolling Stones
- God Save the Queen by Sex Pistols
- Walk This Way by Run-DMC ft. Aerosmith
- Take on Me by A-ha
- Smooth by Santana ft. Rob Thomas
- Free Fallin’ by Tom Petty
- The Way You Make Me Feel by Michael Jackson
- Killing Me Softly With His Song by Roberta Flack
- Thriller by Michael Jackson
- Rolling in the Deep by Adele
- No Woman, No Cry by Bob Marley
- Tears in Heaven by Eric Clapton
- Thunderstruck by AC/DC
- I’m Still Standing by Elton John
- Born in the USA by Bruce Springsteen
- The Message by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five
- Boys Don’t Cry by The Cure
- Strange Fruit by Billie Holiday
- No Diggity by Blackstreet ft. Dr. Dre
- The Lonesome Death of Hattie Carroll by Bob Dylan
- Kashmir by Led Zeppelin
- The Wanderer by Dion
- Georgia On My Mind by Ray Charles
- Roxanne by The Police
- Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey
- I Say A Little Prayer by Aretha Franklin
- Whipping Post by The Allman Brothers Band
- Just Like Heaven by The Cure
- No Woman, No Cry by Bob Marley & The Wailers
- Waterloo Sunset by The Kinks
- Heart of Glass by Blondie
- California Dreamin’ by The Mamas & The Papas
- American Pie by Don McLean
- Rocket Man by Elton John
- London Calling by The Clash
- Everybody’s Talkin’ by Harry Nilsson
- Black Hole Sun by Soundgarden
- Lola by The Kinks
- Go Your Own Way by Fleetwood Mac
- Suspicious Minds by Elvis Presley
- I Heard It Through The Grapevine by Marvin Gaye
- I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor
- Be My Baby by The Ronettes
- Helpless by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
- Comfortably Numb by Pink Floyd
- Where Did You Sleep Last Night? by Lead Belly
- Dream On by Aerosmith
- Hurt by Johnny Cash
- Shake It Off by Taylor Swift
- Come As You Are by Nirvana
- Sultans of Swing by Dire Straits
- Where Is My Mind? by Pixies
- Crazy in Love by Beyoncé feat. Jay-Z
- I’m Not Afraid by Eminem
- Crazy Train by Ozzy Osbourne
- Give It Away by Red Hot Chili Peppers
- Take Me Out by Franz Ferdinand
- Push It by Salt-N-Pepa
- Sledgehammer by Peter Gabriel
- Love Shack by The B-52’s
- These Boots Are Made for Walkin’ by Nancy Sinatra
- Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag by James Brown
- Heart-Shaped Box by Nirvana
- Runaway by Del Shannon
- Bad Moon Rising by Creedence Clearwater Revival
- You Give Love a Bad Name by Bon Jovi
- The Boys Are Back in Town by Thin Lizzy
- Moondance by Van Morrison
- Everyday People by Sly & The Family Stone
- Living on a Prayer by Bon Jovi
- Rebel Yell by Billy Idol
- All I Have to Do Is Dream by The Everly Brothers
- Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic by The Police
- Somebody to Love by Queen
- The Joker by Steve Miller Band
- Radar Love by Golden Earring
- Just the Way You Are by Billy Joel
- Killing in the Name by Rage Against the Machine
- Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) by Eurythmics
- Every Rose Has Its Thorn by Poison
- Kiss Me by Sixpence None The Richer
- Walking on Sunshine by Katrina and the Waves
- Invisible Touch by Genesis
- Mama Said Knock You Out by LL Cool J
- 1999 by Prince
- The Boys of Summer by Don Henley
Want to Find More Amazing Music?
Well, then take a look at our detailed articles on the Best Songs of the 2000s, the Best 2000s Rap Songs, the Best 2000’s Dance Songs, the Best Sing-Along Songs of All Times, and the Best Spanish Songs of All Time for more incredible song selections.
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Best Songs Of All Time – Final Thoughts
So, there you have it. I hope you enjoyed my selection. I’m sure that most of them will be familiar. However, I bet there’s also one or two that are new to you. If that’s the case, take a listen and see what you think. Maybe you’ll get to like them as much as I do.
Until next time, happy listening.