Music nourishes the spirit, and everyone has unique preferences. Crafting a list of superior songs can be complex as it varies from person to person. Nonetheless, below are the 50 tracks widely recognized as the finest.
#50. Gimme Shelter By The Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones are a classic, and no one makes music better than them. Did you know that “Gimme Shelter” was written within twenty minutes by Keith Richards? Yes, it only took twenty minutes to write, and yet this song was a hit everywhere.
“Gimme Shelter” was kept as an opening track for their album “Let it Bleed.” It has been a part of all the live gigs that the band has performed ever since then. When The Rolling Stones were on their 50th-anniversary tour, they sang “Gimme Shelter” with three other amazing singers: Florence Welch, Mary J. Blige, and Lady Gaga.
#49. One By U2
In 1991, U2 released an album that was known as “Achtung Baby.” The 3rd track on this album was “One,” and it was another rendition of their previously recorded song “Mysterious Ways.”
During the making of Mysterious Ways, Edge suggested two types of lyrics. Bono liked these lyrics so much that he decided to make two different types of songs out of them. That is how “Mysterious Ways” and “One” came to be known.
You might have heard “One” being played at many weddings. However, that is not what the band wants since the lyrics have another meaning that is not appropriate for weddings.
#48. No Woman, No Cry By Bob Marley
Bob Marley is a legend, and people remember his songs to this date. He changed the music landscape, and one of his best songs was “No Woman, No Cry.” However, the best version of this song is not the album version recorded in the studio.
Rather, the superior version is the live rendition presented by Bob Marley at the Lyceum Theatre in 1975. This song had a life-altering impact on Bob Marley and simultaneously transformed the lives of his followers. It’s among his most frequently listened-to tunes.
#47. You’ve Lost That Lovin Feeling By The Righteous Brothers
You’ve Lost That Lovin Feeling was a significant hit in the 60s. The Righteous Brothers released the song in 1964, and it was one of the top songs in the United Kingdom and the United States. Ever since then, the song has had many covers by a variety of artists.
However, no cover will ever get close to the original. The Righteous Brothers made a masterpiece that people still listen to. If you haven’t heard this song yet, then you should. It will become your favorite as well in no time.
This song perfectly showcases The Righteous Brothers’ impeccable talent.
#46. Sympathy For The Devil By The Rolling Stones
Surely, any list would be deemed incomplete without mentioning the iconic music of The Rolling Stones. They revolutionized the music industry, and their memorable tracks remain popular to this day. Their music has stirred up debate repeatedly, and this track wasn’t exempted from it either.
After “Sympathy For The Devil” released, many religious institutions and groups believed that The Rolling Stones were worshippers of Satan. Mick Jagger cleared up this scandal and told everyone that this song was inspired by some of the French literature he had read.
Mick Jagger took some lines from the literature and turned it into a song. It was a hit with a spark of controversy, but what Rolling Stone song isn’t controversial?
#45. River Deep By Mountain High By Ike And Tina Turner
If you haven’t heard this song already, then you need to give it a listen now. It comes at Number 33 out of the Rolling Stones Top 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. The producer of the show, Phil Spector, ensured that everything is perfect during the recording.
He pushed them to perform until every vocal, note, and melody was flawless. This dedication was reflected in the outcome, as the song became a major sensation in the 60s. For Tina Turner, it was a remarkable journey.
Turner recalls belting out the song until it was flawless, meanwhile she was soaked in perspiration.
#44. November Rain By Guns And Roses
Guns and Roses are perhaps the greatest rock band of all time. Their videos, guitar solos, and everything else is just perfection. November Rain was one of Guns and Roses’ biggest hits that featured the most extended guitar solo you will hear.
Nonetheless, the effort pays off as no one can outshine Slash in playing the guitar. Originally, the song stretched to twenty-five minutes, but it was cut to just 9 minutes. The music video for this song has garnered over a billion views on YouTube.
Why don’t you broaden your musical tastes and give November Rain a listen during November? You won’t regret it.
#43. I Walk The Line By Johnny Cash
The brilliant Johnny Cash started working on this song when he was stationed in Germany in the Air Force. However, he didn’t release the music at that time. After a few years, he finally decided to record this masterpiece.
After Johnny Cash recorded the song, he realized that the tape was damaged. Of course, this was just a minor setback as he embraced the tape’s unique sound and released it anyway.
People that heard this song were extremely impressed, and it went on to be Number 1 on the Billboard Charts. Cash believed in himself and didn’t let a damaged tape stop him.
#42. Help By The Beatles
The Beatles are widely celebrated to this day because they transformed what music meant to people. The song “Help” was released in the 60s when everyone was listening to The Beatles.
However, this song was made for a movie, and John Lennon didn’t realize this song’s depths when he wrote it. He later understood that his emotions and troubling times inspired him to write this song.
Naturally, this song, just like every other Beatles song, also garnered immense popularity and was loved by many.
#41. People Get Ready By The Impressions
People Get Ready is what The Impressions is known for, and that’s how people remember them. It was the official song for the Civil Rights Movement, and it reached Number 3 on Billboard during that time.
The song was penned by Curtis Mayfield, whose motivation originated from religious teachings. The church was his muse, resulting in this hit song that quickly gained immense popularity. Following its release, The Impressions garnered widespread acclaim, leading them to be known by many.
If you haven’t listened to this song already, then listen now and be inspired.
#40. Layla By Derek And The Dominos
If you’re familiar with the renowned Persian story of Layla and Majnun, you’d understand the inspiration behind this song. Layla has been acclaimed as one of the greatest rock songs in history. It’s a timeless classic that is widely recognized.
Eric Clapton wrote Layla, and he took some inspiration from his love life as well. He was in love with his friend’s wife, and eventually, he married her. They were happily married for almost ten years.
Contrary to the tragic story of Layla and Majnun, Clapton and his lover successfully resolved their issues and joyfully tied the knot. Indeed, not every love story concludes with heartbreak.
#39. It’s My Life By Bon Jovi
It’s My Life is perhaps the most played song by Bon Jovi. It was a big hit, and fans went crazy when the track released. It came out twenty years ago, and ever since then, the song has been played on a variety of occasions.
This was performed during the closing ceremony of the 2002 Winter Olympics, at the beginning of the 2002 NFL season, during the New Jersey Devils’ Stanley Cup victory in 2003, and on many other occasions.
The song reached Number 1 in many countries worldwide, such as Belgium, Austria, Switzerland, and Italy. It was one of the greatest songs by Bon Jovi next to “Livin On A Prayer.”
#38. Let It Be The Beatles
On this list, you’ll find a number of songs by The Beatles, which is fitting considering they’re one of the best bands in history. The song “Let it Be” was the final single they put out prior to their decision to split up.
Paul McCartney drew inspiration for the song from a dream he experienced amidst a difficult period in his life. In the dream, he received advice from his mother, which became the core inspiration for the song’s creation.
The most challenging circumstances are often the source of the greatest creativity, and this is exactly the case in this situation.
#37. Stand By Me By Ben E. King
The song Stand By Me boasts a captivating backstory. It originated as a gospel hymn penned in 1905 by Charles Albert Tindley, a church minister from Philadelphia. Subsequently, numerous singers and bands have utilized it to produce their own cover versions.
The Staple Singers’ performance of the song was the most renowned, and that’s the version King wanted to interpret. Thus, he proposed the idea of recording this song to his group, The Drifters. However, they turned down his proposal, leading to King’s departure from the band.
Eventually, he laid down this track, which quickly rose to prominence. It was the 20th century’s fourth most frequently broadcasted song on American television and radio.
#36. The Times They Are A-Changing By Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan’s most influential and well-known song has been this even though it didn’t reach any chart in the U.S. However, in the U.K it reached Number 9. The song was part of his 1964 and perhaps the only song that gained such wide recognition internationally.
Many other artists have also covered this masterpiece, such as Bruce Springsteen, Nina Simone, the Beach Boys, and Simon and Garfunkel. The charts don’t accurately reflect the recognition this song gained in no time.
This is the melody that cemented Bob Dylan’s legacy and allowed others to recall him.
#35. Baba O’Riley – The Who
The song’s name may be odd, but only because it is inspired by the spiritual master named Meher Baba. The inspiration has also been taken from a composer Terry Riley, hence the name Baba O’Riley. The fantastic track was released in 197 and instantly became a hit.
The song has garnered much recognition throughout the years and continues to be pertinent in our current era. Some time ago, Roger Daltrey discussed this song, cautioning everyone about the excessive use of social media.
Pete Townshend made a masterpiece, and if you haven’t heard it, you are missing out on great music.
#34. Be My Baby By The Ronettes
If you have seen the opening of the 1987 movie, Dirty Dancing then you know this track. It also played in the opening credits of Mean Streets, a ’73 production by Martin Scorsese. This song gained so much popularity that Dick Clark declared it “the record of the century.”
Phil Spector was the producer of the track, and he is well-known for his innovative methods that revolutionize music. He was the one who shaped the song into what it ultimately became, marking his inaugural collaboration with The Ronettes.
Ultimately, everything turned out well as this song rose to immense fame.
#33. Born To Run By Bruce Springsteen
Bruce Springsteen is an iconic figure, revered by numerous fans globally. Nonetheless, this particular song represented his most audacious attempt that resulted in triumph. It carved its path into the top 20 singles on the U.S charts.
Before long, this tune began resonating in every corner and rose to fame across numerous states. It became such a big hit in Philadelphia that several daily radio broadcasts included it in their playlist. Without this song, their day would just seem incomplete.
The impact Bruce Springsteen had on individuals was truly extraordinary.
#32. Behind Blue Eyes By The Who
Pete Townshend of The Who always tried to resist temptation. That is what the song is all about. He got married in ’68, and during the ’70s, a groupie started tempting him. However, he didn’t give in and went back to his hotel room.
Upon his arrival, he composed a prayer that eventually formed the lyrics of his subsequent song. Townshend consistently aimed to conduct himself properly throughout tours to avoid becoming just another pampered rockstar.
He managed to stay composed even when his admirers started to flirt with him. The song that honors those moments is one of his biggest successes.
#31. La Bamba By Ritchie Valens
La Bamba is the only song in another language that made it to Rolling Stones Top 500 list. It is the song that defined the 80s and the rock’n’roll era at that time. It made it to Number 49 in the U.K charts and Number 22 in the U.S charts.
However, Valens made other songs too that gained even more popularity than La Bamba. If you want to listen to an excellent rock’n’roll song, this should be on the top of your list. No one does it better than Ritchie Valens.
#30. Can’t Help Falling In Love By Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley is unparalleled when it comes to performing love songs. The song achieved the top spot on the U.K charts and the second spot on the U.S charts. The intriguing fact, though, is that this song was not originally intended for a romantic interest.
Elvis serenaded his grandmother with this song on her special day. He presented her with a music box that unleashed the melody of this song the moment she uncovered it, with Elvis harmonizing alongside. This particular tune often marked the conclusion of his concerts due to its high demand.
Numerous individuals have performed this song over time, yet nobody does it quite as superbly as Elvis Presley.
#29. Rock Around The Clock By Bill Haley And The Comets
Rock Around The Clock was the beginning of the rock and roll era. At that time, no one was familiar with this genre, and when the band presented this in front of a record company, they couldn’t describe the genre. However, once it was released, people loved it.
The tune even ascended to be the signature tune for the television program, Happy Days. In the United Kingdom, it topped the charts as the best-selling single in the 50s. It bagged the number 1 spot on the charts in both the U.K and the U.S.
#28. Break On Through By The Doors
Even though this song didn’t do too well on the charts, it was still well-received by the public. It’s what The Doors are known and loved for. According to Jim Morrison, he wrote this song when he was in Venice’s canals.
Their initial release swiftly captured the hearts of listeners. Notably, this melody made its way to popular media like Forrest Gump and The Simpsons. Even though it didn’t top the charts, it gathered adoration, making it worth your time for a listen.
#27. Here Comes The Sun By The Beatles
The majority of The Beatles’ songs were penned by John Lennon or Paul McCartney. That said, this exceptional piece was created by George Harrison. If you’re a genuine Beatles enthusiast, there’s no doubt you also adore this song.
Harrison not only delivered the lead vocals for this song but also played the acoustic guitar. This song was entirely his masterpiece, earning him immense adoration from his fans.
Since that time, numerous individuals have sought comfort in this melody. It delivers optimism during challenging periods and offers a calming solace unparalleled by anything else. If you’re grappling with difficult circumstances, experience this song to boost your spirits.
#26. Rebel Rebel By David Bowie
The song is dedicated to all the mavericks and free thinkers who aren’t scared to challenge the system and defy conventions. It stands as David Bowie’s most renditioned track and achieved the rank of Number 5 on the U.K charts.
The song is about a boy who goes against his parents by wearing women’s makeup and clothes. Ever since then, it has become the most played anthem by glam rockers.
Bowie enjoyed various other successes, but this particular one held a personal chord as it was released three years after he publicly announced his sexuality.
#25. You Really Got Me By The Kinks
The track reached its highest at number 7 on the U.S charts and topped the U.K charts at number 1. Ray Davies was inspired to pen the words to this song when he observed a group of girls dancing enthusiastically at a nightclub. The sight of their lively dancing inspired him, prompting him to compose a song about it.
The song became such a hit that Van Halen even did a cover version of it. Its release was meant to captivate audiences, a goal it accomplished excellently. The unforgettable guitar riff is indeed the song’s most standout feature.
#24. Purple Haze By The Jimi Hendrix Experience
The song “Purple Haze,” authored and vocalized by Jimi Hendrix, is 17th on the Top 500 list of Rolling Stones. This track was unveiled in 1967. This composition is synonymous with Jimi Hendrix, as anyone who is familiar with him will instantly recognize it.
During its time, the song didn’t do too well in terms of charts in the United States, but Number 3 in the U.K. Hendrix claimed that this song was inspired by a dream he had.
In this vision, he found himself strolling beneath the ocean. It was an intense dream, yet he was rescued by Jesus. This is essentially the theme of the song.
#23. London Calling By The Clash
The Clash is well-renowned for their punk rock tunes and their rebellious stance against the system. Their song, London Calling, portrays a dystopian view of the various ways the world could potentially meet its end. This song claimed the title of the finest song of the 80s according to Rolling Stone Magazine.
This song indeed encapsulates the raw and bleak essence of punk rock, serving as a genuine representation of the genre. Several artists have attempted to recreate it, but none have matched the power and authenticity of the original track.
#22. What A Wonderful World By Louis Armstrong
You can’t know Louis Armstrong until you have heard this song. It is his most famous song and was loved by the people when it released in 68. However, it didn’t gain much fame in America.
In 1988, two decades later, the song finally received the recognition it deserved in the United States. This happened due to its inclusion in the film Good Morning, Vietnam, which features Robin Williams.
Following this, the song at last reached Number 32 on the U.S. charts. This song was adored by Tony Bennett and he subsequently did multiple renditions of it.
#21. A Change Is Gonna Come By Sam Cooke
The song “A Change Is Gonna Come” was penned in dedication to the Civil Rights Movement and swiftly became the movement’s battle cry after its release. The inspiration behind the song stemmed from actual incidents. At one point, Cooke and his companions were refused accommodation at a motel due to their black ethnicity, following which they were apprehended by law enforcement.
Unfortunately, the song released right after Cooke’s death, but it is an excellent tribute to him and his legacy. Even his death was controversial, but this song is his legacy that will live on forever in people’s hearts.
#20. The Sound Of Silence By Simon And Garfunkel
Although the song is profoundly straightforward, it has evolved into one of the most aesthetically pleasing songs. It took Paul Simon over half a year to pen the words to this melody. The theme revolves around the absence of dialogue among individuals.
The song reached the top spot on the U.K chart and was among the top 10 tracks in several other nations, including Japan, Australia, the Netherlands, Austria, among others. Additionally, it has been featured in numerous movies and television series such as The Simpsons, Old School, The Graduate, and much more.
#19. A Day In The Life By The Beatles
Acclaimed Music has distinguished this song as the most acclaimed in popular music history. It showcased one of the most noteworthy accomplishments of The Beatles and justifiably so. Ultimately, a sizable 41-member orchestra was featured in this song.
It is also one of The Beatles’ rare songs that don’t include the title in the lyrics. You will not hear the words “a day in the life” in the song. Once you listen to it, you will fall in love with it instantly as the music is beautiful.
#18. My Generation By The Who
Pete Townshend wrote the song for the rebellious British youth at the time. These were known as “mods.” It expressed the younger generation’s feeling as the older people didn’t understand their generation.
This song, later covered by Green Day and Iron Maiden due to its immense popularity post-release, was not allowed airtime by the BBC for fear of causing offense.
If you also feel like the older generation doesn’t get you, this song is for you. So, give it a listen now, and you will fall in love with it.
#17. Light My Fire By The Doors
“Light My Fire” ranked first in the U.S and seventh in the U.K charts. This distinct song elevated The Doors’ career remarkably and revolutionized their status.
However, Jim Morrison didn’t like it that the band came to be known for this song. The song gained so much fame that they were invited to perform on The Ed Sullivan Show.
The song is a treat to the ears, and if you haven’t listened to it yet, then you are missing out on some of the best music ever.
#16. What’d I Say By Ray Charles
What’d I Say’s music was inspired by the church music that Ray Charles grew up with. It went to become one of the most famous songs. The popularity was so massive that he started closing each gig with this song.
Ray Charles made this song in haste at a club’s stage. The people loved it so much that the club’s owners were at his feet to tell them the title so that they could buy the record.
Upon witnessing such a response, Charles realized he must commit this song to record. Once it was recorded and released, the song gained fame and is now one of his most iconic tracks.
#15. Paint It Black By The Rolling Stones
The song charted Number 1 in both the U.K and the U.S. The song is about a depressed person who wants to turn everything black to match the way he feels. The song gained so much popularity that it even featured on the closing credits of The Devil’s Advocate.
Apart from that, many other movies have featured this song from time to time. When asked what inspired this song, Mick Jagger said that it isn’t an original thought as many people have written about it.
#14. Respect By Aretha Franklin
The song charted Number 1 in the U.S and Number 10 in the U.K. It was initially written and recorded by Otis Redding in 1965. However, it didn’t do so well at that time.
Two years later, Aretha Franklin turned Respect into her anthem for female empowerment. It then became one of her most famous and signature songs that she is known for. Even Otis Redding said that it had become her song now, and he doesn’t own it anymore.
#13. All Along The Watchtower By The Jimi Hendrix Experience
Bob Dylan was the original composer and recorder of the song in 1967. Nevertheless, its popularity skyrocketed thanks to Jimi Hendrix even though numerous other artists also covered it. It ranked 20th on the U.S charts and 5th on the U.K charts.
This song, hailed as the greatest cover song ever, was featured in The Simpsons and Forrest Gump. Among Jimi Hendrix’s numerous hit tracks, this was one standout.
#12. What’s Going On By Marvin Gaye
Drawing inspiration from instances of police brutality in California, the song managed to reach the Number 2 spot on the U.S charts. Initially dismissed, it later rose to fame, becoming one of the most recognized songs from Motown.
Nevertheless, this tune addresses numerous concerns, including poverty and environmental issues among others. This marked the first instance in which Gaye conveyed social topics through his music, something he had not previously done.
#11. Stairway To Heaven By Led Zeppelin
If you haven’t heard Led Zeppelin by now, then you are not listening to the right kind of music. It is the most famous rock song ever to release, and unfortunately, it did not make it to the charts because it was never released to the public as a single.
However, this didn’t stop the band from getting famous. It was the most requested song on radio stations in the 70s as people wanted to listen to more of Zeppelin.
#10. Like A Rolling Stone By Bob Dylan
This track remarkably hit Number 2 in the U.S charts while securing Number 4 in the U.K listings. Considered the greatest ever by Rolling Stone magazine, the song became an instant sensation upon its release. This incredible composition has been covered by numerous artists, from Green Day to Jimi Hendrix, underlining its immense popularity and influence.
Many books and documentaries have featured this song. If you are interested in learning more about Bob Dylan and his musical journey, this song is highly recommended for you to listen to.
#9. God Only Knows By The Beach Boys
This song, one of the band’s most successful hits, was penned by Brian Wilson and Tony Asher in a quick 45 minutes. Though it may not have made it onto the charts, it captured the hearts of many, earning its reputation as one of their most significant hits.
Paul McCartney himself has expressed that this is one of his all-time favorite songs. If you’ve not listened to other tracks by The Beach Boys, you’re definitely missing out. Give it a listen at this moment and you’ll understand what we mean.
#8. Blowin In The Wind By Bob Dylan
If you haven’t realized already, you need to know that Bob Dylan transformed the world of music, and that is why we have included many of his songs on the list. He claims he wrote this song in 10 minutes, and it became one of the anthems for the Civil Rights Movement.
It didn’t make it to the charts because of its protest nature, but the people widely knew it. Listening to Bob Dylan would be incomplete without listening to this hit.
#7. I Want To Hold Your Hand By The Beatles
The track rose to the top of the charts in both the U.K. and U.S., which is no surprise considering it’s a song by The Beatles. It marked the band’s breakthrough into the American market, as they had previously only been noted for their popularity in the U.K.
This tune significantly altered their trajectory, gaining the attention of every media house across the United States who spoke highly of this marvelous group. To truly comprehend their rise to fame, it is fundamental to give this song a listen.
#6. Johnny B. Goode By Chuck Berry
The track serves as a tribute to his personal journey. Coming from modest beginnings, Chuck Berry’s skill propelled him to his rightful place. This was his initial success in rock and roll, propelling him to the height of fame.
The song has been widely covered and featured in several films since its release. Additionally, it was recognized and included in the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999.
#5. Imagine By John Lennon
Imagine, penned by the iconic John Lennon, was his greatest solo hit that set unprecedented records in its time. The song paints a vibrant image of global peace, envisioning a world without divisions. Lennon acknowledged his wife, Yoko Ono, for her contribution to this influential track. Released in the US in 1971, Imagine continues to be one of the most performed songs and is a common feature at significant events globally. This attests to the enduring appeal of this exquisite piece of art, which was welcomed into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999. According to Rolling Stones, it ranks among the top three best songs in history.
#4. Hey Jude By The Beatles
“Hey Jude”, a classic hit penned by Paul McCartney of the renowned Beatles, marked a pivotal moment in the pop-rock music genre when it was released in 1968. This seminal tune, which became famed for being the lengthiest track to conquer the charts at that time, was recognized among the top 10 greatest songs ever by Billboard magazine. The context for this masterpiece was the breakup of John Lennon and his spouse, with the song being crafted by Paul to console their child, Julian, through this tough period. The song stormed global charts and instantly became a sensational hit in the same year.
#3. I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction By The Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones is deemed as a legendary band in the music sphere and is often acclaimed as one of the all-time greatest bands. Their 1965 hit single, ‘(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction’, accounts for a chunk of this recognition and was embraced by countless rock music enthusiasts. In 1998, the track was deservedly inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. It dominated the charts globally and was amongst the most played songs of that year. The song was the brainchild of Keith Richards and Mick Jagger, and its phenomenal success forever imprinted the Rolling Stones in the annals of music history.
#2. Yesterday By The Beatles
The Guinness World Records states that the song with the highest number of recorded covers, surpassing 1500 by 1986, is a track by The Beatles. This song, launched in the UK in August 1965 and in the U.S. a month later, is a testament to Paul McCartney’s remarkable craftsmanship, earning praise from critics and music followers alike. McCartney himself disclosed that the melody for this song came to him in a dream, and he hastily played it on his piano upon waking to ensure he wouldn’t forget it. This Beatles classic, “Yesterday,” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame 32 years after its debut.
#1. Good Vibrations By The Beach Boys
Our top pick is Good Vibrations, a masterpiece by the American band, Beach Boys, which was released in 1966. Shortly after its release, the song climbed to the top of the charts in both the US and UK, securing its place among the most memorable compositions of all time. Straddling the genres of rock and pop, it was met with rave reviews from critics while earning wide acclaim across the music industry. This iconic track, the product of Brian Wilson’s genius, required 17 recording sessions to complete, making it the priciest song to produce during that period. The recurring theme of vibrations in the song stemmed from a concept shared by Brian’s mother, which initially unnerved him due to the notion of invisible feelings. Little did anyone foresee this concept forming the backbone of one of the most celebrated songs in history.