Smash Mouth are a rock band from San Jose, California, that formed in 1994. They rose to fame when their hit single “All Star,” achieved double-platinum status.
Known for their energetic live performances and captivating music, they have released multiple albums throughout their career, including Fush Yu Mang (1997), Astro Lounge (1999), Smash Mouth (2001), Get the Picture? (2003), and Magic (2012), and a live album Playlist: The Very Best of Smash Mouth (2016).
They’ve also had songs featured in hit movies such as Shrek, Scream 3, and Half Baked and even have their own cookbook and hot sauce line.
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But who are Smash mouth, and what are the Top 10 Smash Mouth Songs?
The band’s original lineup consisted of lead vocalist Steve Harwell, guitarist Greg Camp, bassist Paul De Lisle, and drummer Kevin Coleman. Paul De Lisle is the only original member still in the band.
The current lineup still features Paul De Lisle on bass, who is joined by Michael Klooster on keyboards, Randy Cooke on drums, Sean Hurwitz on guitar, and their newest member Zach Goode on vocals in 2023, he was formally the singer in Ghoulspoon, Divided By Zero, as well as The Secret Seven. Throughout the band’s career, they have had several line-up changes, including a multitude of drummers.
As well as their excellent original songs, they are also well known for performing some unusual covers in innovative ways; examples include Don’t You (Forget About Me) by Simple Minds, Never Gonna Give You Up by Rick Astley, Can’t Get Enough Of You Baby by ? and the Mysterians, and Getting Better by The Beatles. There are a few others, but we’ll get to them soon enough.
Now that you know a little bit about the history of the band, let’s turn up the volume and check out the best 10 songs recorded by Smash Mouth!
Top 10 Smash Mouth Songs
10 “Hot”
Delivering a unique message about living in the moment and embracing fun, this tune quickly became a hit, reaching the top 5 of the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks charts. An interesting fact about the song is that it prominently features a talkbox which gives the guitar a vocal-like sound and makes it stand out. It was also famously used on You Give Love A Bad Name by Bon Jovi, Rocky Mountain Way by Joe Walsh, and The Zoo by The Scorpions.
This technique adds to the fun and lively atmosphere of the tune, along with the horns and an energetic bassline. By blending genres like funk and rock, they create a masterpiece. Even though it was released more than two decades ago, it still holds its place as an instant mood booster in live shows.
9 “Magic”
An exceptional and unique composition that radiates cheer and inspires listeners to take advantage of the present and delight in entertainment. The tune boasts a catchy refrain, energetic guitar licks, and a prominent horn section, making it a stand-out track on the band’s fifth album of the same name, Magic.
Despite not making it on the charts when it was released as a single in 2012, the song became an instant hit among concert-goers. The band was motivated to write a song that embodied the lively and thrilling spirit of summertime, and they succeeded.
This melodic tune is the perfect anthem for any occasion, whether it be a warm summer evening or a gathering with friends, it is sure to elevate the atmosphere and make it even more enjoyable.
8 “Flo”
Released in 1997 on their debut album Fush Yu Mang, it’s a little bit of a change of pace from their other hits. Combining gleeful bass lines with a more relaxed feel, its groovy sound was well received by audiences.
This work is a representation of the band’s growth and experimentation with their sound and style. And it showcases their versatility as a band and their willingness to take creative risks.
The song is a joyful embodiment of their signature summery sound. It perfectly captures the carefree and relaxed atmosphere of the season. It’s a fantastic song for summer parties and gatherings.
7 “Holiday in My Head”
This song featured in their album Astro Lounge which was released in 1999 and was an instant success, propelling the album to become one of the band’s most iconic. A masterpiece of upbeat rhythm, poetic lyrics, and seamless melody that truly showcases the band’s musical brilliance.
The catchy guitar riff that runs throughout the song adds an extra layer of excellence and hooks the listener from the start. It’s easy to see why it’s considered one of Smash Mouth’s most popular tracks.
An instant hit, with its lively and energetic nature, which helped it to become one of the band’s most recognized and beloved tracks. It’s an anthem for the ages and a perfect representation of the band’s unique sound and style.
6 “Can’t Get Enough of You Baby”
Inspired by classic old-school rock, and rhythm and blues, this track features a guitar part that would not be out of place on any classic rock songs. The drums at to the groove and provide a driving beat that will keep the listener moving.
This song was a commercial hit, reaching number 5 on Billboard’s Modern Rock Tracks chart, which was a sign of how well the song connected with the audience. It was included in their debut album Fush Yu Mang which was released in 1997.
The album was a success and helped to establish the band’s place in the music scene. With this song, the band was able to showcase their ability to create unforgettable tracks that appeal to a wide audience.
5 “Why Can’t We Be Friends?”
Next, on my rundown of the Top 10 Smash Mouth Songs, this was a cover of a song originally performed by War in 1975 and has become a live staple for the band. The message of unity and understanding in the song’s lyrics resonates with audiences.
It was included in the band’s album All Star: The Smash Hits (2005), which features several of their most well-known covers. The song has also been featured in several films, including Wild Things, and various TV shows, showcasing the song’s enduring popularity.
The song’s message is particularly relevant today, encouraging the idea of coming together despite differences and finding common ground. The band’s version gave a new interpretation to the tune, ensuring that it is still well-known and loved by many.
4 “I’m a Believer”
Moving on to another cover version, “I’m a Believer,” originally recorded by The Monkees in 1967 and written by Neil Diamond.
This version of the song was included in the first Shrek motion picture, which helped make it one of the band’s most acclaimed tracks. The inclusion of the song in the film helped to introduce the band to a fresh audience and solidified their place in the music industry.
The cover version won a BMI award in 2009 after achieving over 2 million airplays. This showcases its enduring popularity and the impact it had on listeners. The song is a timeless classic, and Smash Mouth’s rendition gave it a new lease of life, ensuring that it will always be cherished by fans and non-fans alike.
3 “Walking on the Sun”
Originally released as the band’s debut single in 1997. The song talks about how societal expectations can be overwhelming and put pressure on individuals. It features a catchy guitar riff and a memorable chorus.
The lyrics of the song were inspired by the unrealistic expectations placed on them by their record label. It put Smash Mouth on the map and made them one of the iconic bands of the 90s. The song has a timeless quality that makes it feel just as fresh as the day it was released.
It reached number one on Billboard’s Modern Rock Tracks chart and has also been featured in several films and TV shows, such as Can’t Hardly Wait and The Secret Life of Walter Mitty.
2 “Then the Morning Comes”
This is a fantastic positive anthem from the band that encourages overcoming adversity. It features an uplifting tempo and a memorable chorus that makes it a fan favorite.
It was included in the album Astro Lounge and reached number 33 on the Modern Rock Tracks chart. This song was written by the band while on tour, reflecting their shared desire to keep a positive outlook.
With relatable and inspiring lyrics, encouraging the audience to strive for positivity in the face of adversity. It showcases the band’s ability to write uplifting tracks that can connect with the audience. All this makes it one of the most uplifting Smash Mouth songs ever.
1 “All Star”
This masterpiece was released in 1999; it’s the most iconic and well-known Smash Mouth song. The song was featured on the soundtrack of the blockbuster animated film Shrek, which helped to propel the band to fame in the early 2000s.
It’s known for its creative up-tempo rhythm, and the combination of guitar, drums, and saxophone generate an unforgettable melody. The song was a massive commercial success, achieving double-platinum status and reached number four on Billboard Hot 100. This easily makes it the most popular Smash Mouth song ever.
It was used in several films and TV shows as well as in Shrek; these included How I Met Your Mother and The Ellen Show. The song was awarded a BMI award for reaching over 2 million airplays in 2009, a sign of how enduring and popular the song became.
Need a few more Song recommendations?
Then check out our thoughts on the Best Songs About Friendship, the Best Songs about Fighting, the Best Songs About Clouds, the Best Songs About Not Giving Up, the Best Songs About Heroes, the Best Songs About Change, and the Best Songs About Hope for more superb song selections.
And you’ll need a way to listen to these songs in all their magnificence. So, check out our comprehensive reviews of the Best Sound Quality Earbuds, the Best Noise Isolating Earbuds, the Best Bass Earbuds, the Best Headphones for Music, the Best Headphones with Volume Control, or the Best Headphones For Rock & Metal Music you can buy in 2023.
Top 10 Smash Mouth Songs
Smash Mouth’s catalog is filled with unforgettable hit songs that not only appeal to the band’s fans but also to people from all walks of life. Their relatable lyrics, catchy instrumentation, and brilliant delivery make each track a standout.
Their songs have become a staple in popular culture and continue to be loved by audiences worldwide. Smash Mouth’s music is energetic and has been getting people on their feet for decades.
Happy listening!
