50. “Gimme Shelter” – The Rolling Stones (1969)
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Marked by the Vietnam War and civil unrest, “Gimme Shelter” became known for its dark tone and powerful vocals, especially from Merry Clayton, conveying a sense of desperation and a cry for peace amidst the chaos. It highlights the proximity of violence and the hope for love as a remedy, capturing the era’s complexity with its haunting lyrics and compelling composition, making it more than just music but a profound emotional experience.
49. “Sultans of Swing” – Dire Straits (1978)
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The fun, upbeat “Sultans of Swing” stands as a quintessential example of Dire Straits’ distinctive sound and lead guitarist and singer Mark Knopfler’s storytelling ability. The song emerged from Knopfler’s observations of a jazz band playing in a nearly empty pub, with lyrics that vividly capture the scene and the musicians’ passion despite the lack of recognition. Its laid-back rhythm, combined with Knopfler’s unique guitar style and narrative lyricism, not only defined Dire Straits’ musical identity but also became an enduring classic in rock history, celebrating the unsung heroes of music.
48. “Fortunate Son” – Creedence Clearwater Revival (1969)
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The de-facto anti-war song. Released in 1969, “Fortunate Son” is a catchy protest song against the Vietnam War and the political and social elite of the time. It critiques the disparity in who was sent to fight in the war — highlighting how the wealthy and influential could avoid the draft. The song became an anthem for the anti-war movement, resonating with its powerful message of inequality and the frustrations of the working class. Its raw energy and straightforward lyrics encapsulate the era’s tensions and have cemented its place in rock history.
47. “Carry On Wayward Son” – Kansas (1976)
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Prior to the release of “Carry On Wayward Son,” the band Kansas was well-known, but had yet to produce a hit single that could make them stand out from the rest. Released in 1976, their fortunes change with “Carry On Wayward Son.” This song quickly became a classic rock anthem recognized for its powerful guitar riffs and intricate harmonies — offering a message of hope and perseverance, advising the “wayward son” to carry on despite life’s challenges. It has become an enduring hit, showcasing the band’s musical talent and emotional depth, and remains a favorite for both its memorable melody and the uplifting message it conveys to listeners.
46. “Money” – Pink Floyd (1973)
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Perhaps it was hypocritical for Pink Floyd to release a song describing all the bad things about money when they had so much themselves. In reality, the band probably had much less money prior to this release. The legendary 1973 album The Dark Side of the Moon, starts with the distinctive sound of cash registers and coins clinking, setting the theme for the song’s critique of greed and consumerism. Its unique time signature contributes to its standout sound in rock music. The lyrics, delivered with a mix of cynicism and directness, underscore the band’s commentary on the materialism pervading society. “Money” has become one of Pink Floyd’s most famous tracks, reflecting both the band’s innovative sound and their social and political commentary.
45. “Whipping Post” – The Allman Brothers Band (1969)
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Originally featured on their debut album, “Whipping Post” gained fame for its live version at the Fillmore East, where the band really shone through their improvisational skills and interplay. It is one of the most iconic blues-rock tracks ever, and it’s renowned for its soulful guitar solos and emotional depth. The song’s lyrics express despair and betrayal, resonating with listeners through Greg Allman’s powerful vocals. Its influence extends across genres, inspiring numerous artists to cover or sample it
44. “More Than A Feeling” – Boston (1976)
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The song “More Than a Feeling” arguably played a major significant role in the success of Boston’s debut album, and their popularity as a whole. This track is known for its layered guitar work and harmonics, was inspired by “Walk Away Renée” and is famous for its composition and ranging emotional depth. It highlights the power of music to evoke deep, personal feelings and memories, and it played a significant role in the success of Boston’s debut album.
43. “Baba O’Riley” – The Who (1971)
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Often mistakenly called “Teenage Wasteland,” “Baba O’Reily” is a signature track from their album Who’s Next. Inspired by Meher Baba and Terry Riley, its iconic opening synthesizer riff transcends its initial concept from the abandoned Lifehouse project. The song addresses the desolation of youth, symbolized by the aftermath of a concert, akin to the scene at Woodstock. Noteworthy for its innovative use of synthesizers and a distinctive violin solo by Dave Arbus, the track remains a potent symbol of teenage angst.
42. “Rumble” – Link Wray (1958)
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The only instrumental song to ever be banned on American radio. This instrumental, originally called “Oddball,” captured a raw, menacing vibe that influenced the rock and guitar soundscapes. “Rumble” was controversial for its perceived encouragement of violence, leading to its radio ban. Its unique sound came from Wray’s experimental technique of piercing his amplifier’s speakers. Over the years, “Rumble” has been covered by various artists, featured in films, and remains a symbol of rebellious rock spirit.
41. “Black Dog” – Led Zeppelin (1971)
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The opening track of Led Zeppelin’s fourth album, Led Zeppelin IV, showed Robert Plant’s distinctive a cappella vocals followed by dynamic, complex guitar riffs. Inspired by a black lab wandering around Headley Grange and influenced musically by Fleetwood Mac’s call-and-response style and Muddy Waters’ Electric Mud, the song’s creation was a collaborative effort. John Bonham’s innovative drumming navigated the song’s complicated structure, making it a staple in Led Zeppelin’s live performances until 1980. “Black Dog” stands as a testament to the band’s musical prowess and creativity.
40. “Highway to Hell” – AC/DC (1979)
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What made “Highway to Hell” so great was its focus on simplicity rather than complexity. The song’s iconic opening, marked by three distinctive chords, sets a rhythm that carries through its verses. Its minimalistic approach, featuring just a guitar, drums, and vocals, underscores the band’s mastery of creating a big sound with basic elements. The chorus brings everyone together, amplifying the energy with straightforward, yet effective musical shifts. This track not only highlights AC/DC’s signature style but also shows their ability to craft songs that are both raw and sophisticated, making “Highway to Hell” a rock anthem that resonates across generations.
39. “Riders on the Storm” – The Doors (1971)
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The genre-blending track “Riders on the Storm” quickly became iconic despite its eerie atmosphere. Inspired by spree killer Billy Cook, the song’s lyrics delve into dark themes with a broader spiritual message, aiming for a deeper reflection beyond the tale of a serial killer. Its jazz-like feel was controversial, even leading their producer to refuse participation, yet it’s this unique composition that helped it succeed, making it a lasting piece of The Doors’ legacy and a testament to Jim Morrison’s songwriting ability.
38. “You Really Got Me” – The Kinks (1964)
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This song was a sensation when it was first released, and still continues to shine today. “You Really Got Me” marked a turning point for The Kinks with its distinctive guitar riff by Dave Davies. Influenced by diverse musical inspirations, the song underwent several iterations before achieving its raw, powerful sound. Its recording process, featuring innovative production techniques, contributed to its enduring impact on rock music. “You Really Got Me” not only secured The Kinks’ fame but also inspired generations of musicians, embodying the spirit of rock with its energetic riff and rebellious tone.
37. “Another Brick in the Wall, Pt. 2” – Pink Floyd (1979)
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Standing as a critical commentary on rigid educational systems, “Another Brick in the Wall, Pt. 2” advocates for individuality against the backdrop of authoritarian teaching methods. Part of the iconic album “The Wall,” this track features a memorable disco beat and a children’s choir, adding a poignant touch to its message. The song’s lyrics challenge traditional schooling, with Roger Waters drawing from personal experiences to craft a narrative that resonates with listeners seeking freedom from thought control. Its global success, coupled with controversy, underscores its impact across generations, despite opposition from figures like Margaret Thatcher and even its ban in South Africa during apartheid.
36. “Sympathy for the Devil” – The Rolling Stones (1968)
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Delving into humanity’s darker side, “Sympathy for the Devil” explores themes of evil and moral responsibility through the lens of the devil’s perspective. The song was influenced by literary works and reflects on historical atrocities, suggesting both Satan’s involvement and humanity’s complicity. Despite its controversial reception, it’s recognized for its compelling lyrics and musical innovation, holding a mirror to society’s moral complexities.
35. “Sweet Home Alabama” – Lynyrd Skynyrd (1974)
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This song has stirred diverse interpretations since its release. Some see it as a response to Neil Young’s critique of Southern history in “Southern Man,” while others embrace it as a celebration of Southern pride. Mentioning Governor George Wallace and Alabama’s racial tensions adds depth to its meaning. Despite controversies around its connection to the Confederate flag and stereotypes, the song remains a significant reflection of the complexities and debates surrounding the American South’s identity.
34. “Smoke on the Water” – Deep Purple (1972)
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Morbidly, this song tells the story of a fire at the Montreux Casino during a Frank Zappa concert, which ultimately inspired the song. Known for Ritchie Blackmore’s guitar riffs, it stands as a classic rock staple, though not necessarily the considered band’s best. Despite its fame, “Smoke on the Water” is just one facet of Deep Purple’s diverse discography, which spans multiple line-ups and musical styles, from hard rock to classical influences. The band’s work, including overlooked tracks like “Child in Time,” showcases their ability to blend rock’s power with artistic expression.
33. “Dream On” – Aerosmith (1973)
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Arguably, this is one of Aerosmith’s greatest (and enduring) hits. First released in 1971, this power ballad showcases Steven Tyler’s distinctive voice, ranging from tender to powerful, to themes of ambition, hope, and the pursuit of dreams despite life’s challenges. It has a deeply memorable melody combined with Joe Perry’s emotive guitar work, and resonates with audiences generation after generation. The song’s reflective lyrics encourage listeners to chase their dreams and persevere, making it a timeless anthem.
32. “Born to Be Wild” – Steppenwolf (1968)
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One of the rock classics. It’s an anthem that gives the spirit of freedom and rebellion. Released in 1968, it became synonymous with the counterculture movement of the time, capturing the desire to break free from societal constraints. Its iconic opening line and powerful guitar riffs make it instantly recognizable, embodying the essence of the open road and the pursuit of adventure. The song’s association with the motorcycle culture and its feature in the film “Easy Rider” further cemented its status as a timeless classic.
31. “Layla” – Derek and the Dominos (1970)
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A rock masterpiece deeply rooted in personal anguish and unrequited love. Eric Clapton’s “Layla,” performed by Derek and the Dominos, is a creation that was inspired by Clapton’s intense feelings for Pattie Boyd, George Harrison’s wife, and the Persian poem “The Story of Layla and Majnun.” Featuring a powerful guitar intro by Duane Allman and a distinctive piano coda, “Layla” transcends its origins to explore themes of longing and heartbreak. The song’s legacy is cemented by its various renditions, including a notable unplugged version by Clapton, showcasing its enduring emotional resonance.
30. “The Chain” – Fleetwood Mac (1977)
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From Fleetwood Mac’s acclaimed album Rumours, stands out as the sole track credited to the entire band. It’s a musical journey that begins with an unmistakable intro, leads into hauntingly cryptic lyrics, and blends into a vigorous, harmonious chorus. This song uniquely merges two distinct musical pieces into one, showcasing the collective genius of Stevie Nicks, Christine McVie, Lindsey Buckingham, Mick Fleetwood, and John McVie. Their collaboration birthed a moody, compelling anthem that remains iconic in rock history.”
29. “Thunderstruck” – AC/DC (1990)
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“Thunderstruck” became a hit almost as soon as everyone heard the opening guitar riff by Angus Young. It has energized stadiums, movies, and commercials worldwide. This song is celebrated for its powerful impact and iconic status, marking it as one of the biggest rock songs in history. It showcases Angus Young’s unparalleled guitar skills, making “Thunderstruck” a track that not only defines AC/DC’s legacy but also continues to inspire and excite listeners across the globe.
28. “American Woman” – The Guess Who (1970)
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“American Woman” wasn’t just a song that topped charts, but an intriguing piece with a rich backstory involving spontaneity and misunderstandings about its meaning. Created almost by accident during a live performance, its origins are deeply Canadian, despite what the title suggests. Its creators, particularly Burton Cummings, have clarified that it was more a reflection on personal preferences than political commentary, although public and historical context gave it a life of its own. This song demonstrates how music can transcend its creators’ intentions, embedding itself in cultural and political discussions far beyond its initial release. Lenny Kravitz’s cover of the song further propelled it into popularity and arguably became more well-known than the original.
27. “Wish You Were Here” – Pink Floyd (1975)
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In the aftermath of their monumental and emotionally taxing album The Dark Side of the Moon, Pink Floyd felt a profound creative void, questioning their future in music. This period of doubt and disillusionment laid the groundwork for “Wish You Were Here,” an introspective masterpiece about feeling disengaged from one’s own life. Remarkably accessible yet slow and somber, the song’s genesis involved David Gilmour’s country-influenced guitar riff and Roger Waters’ reflective lyrics, making it one of Pink Floyd’s most straightforward and poignant tracks. Despite its simplicity, “Wish You Were Here” is filled with the band’s signature quirks and explores themes of absence, longing, and reflection on the band’s own experiences and the tragic decline of former member Syd Barrett.
26. “Stairway to Heaven” – Led Zeppelin (1971)
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“Stairway to Heaven” transcends being merely a song to become a legendary piece of rock mythology. Robert Plant, the band’s iconic vocalist, has famously resisted performing this magnum opus live, hinting at the profound emotional and physical toll it exacts. Who could blame him? The song’s ranging notes would leave anyone’s throat hoarse. The song’s cryptic lyrics and Page’s mystical guitar work contribute to its enigma, making it a subject of rock lore, including a poignant scene in their concert film where Jimmy Page confronts his own mortality.
25. “Waterloo Sunset” – The Kinks
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David Bowie famously said, “I never heard a song from The Kinks I didn’t like”. “Waterloo Sunset” by The Kinks is a testament to Ray Davies’ ability to craft songs that encapsulate the essence of London life, infused with a sense of poetic reflection. The song, emerging in the later 1960s, serves as a melodic contemplation of life’s simple moments, set against the backdrop of looking out a window at Waterloo Station.
24. “All Along the Watchtower” – Jimi Hendrix (1968)
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“All Along the Watchtower” was originally written by Bob Dylan. However, after hearing Jimi’s cover just once, Dylan reportedly said “It’s Jimi’s now.” This track is a masterpiece, showcasing Hendrix’s genius guitar work and innovative sound. This 1968 cover significantly differs from Dylan’s acoustic version with its electrifying guitar solos, influencing others during a pivotal time in rock history. It’s a profound example of how a cover can surpass the original, leaving a lasting impact on music and culture.
23. “Be My Baby” – The Ronettes (1963)
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Produced by Phil Spector in 1963, “Be My Baby” is an iconic song that epitomizes the Wall of Sound production technique. Its opening drum beats and lush orchestration combined with Veronica Bennett’s (later known as Ronnie Spector) emotive vocals, captured the essence of teenage romance and longing. The song’s popularity was exacerbated during its release in the civil rights era.
22. “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” – The Rolling Stones (1965)
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Arguably one of the most iconic riffs in all of rock, which supposedly came to Keith Richards during a dream and was immediately recorded in the hotel room after. The seminal rock song released in 1965 quickly became a defining anthem of frustration and disillusionment. The song expresses the band’s disenchantment with commercialism and the unattainable ideals of society. Its raw energy and candid lyrics not only solidified the Stones’ place in rock history but also captured the mood of a generation questioning the status quo.
21. “American Pie” – Don McLean (1971)
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Released in 1971, the song’s lyrics mourn the ‘day the music died,’ referring to the tragic plane crash that killed Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper in 1959. McLean weaves a tapestry of historical and cultural references that capture the loss of innocence and the end of an era, making “American Pie” a timeless reflection on change and nostalgia. This song still holds a special place in many people’s hearts today, including the ones who first heard it when it was released.
20. “Paint It Black” – The Rolling Stones (1966)
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You know a song is great when you can listen to it nearly 57 years later and it still sounds fresh, new, and exciting. “Paint It Black” by The Rolling Stones showcased the band’s foray into darker, more introspective themes. Its distinctive sitar intro, played by Brian Jones, marked one of rock’s early experiments with Indian instruments, adding a mesmerizing depth to the song’s exploration of grief and longing.
19. “Johnny B. Goode” – Chuck Berry (1958)
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The pioneer of rock n’ roll himself. Released in 1958, “Johnny B. Goode” featured Berry’s masterful guitar riffs and storytelling about a country boy with dreams of stardom. There’s no arguing its influence is vast, inspiring countless musicians and serving as a blueprint for rock music. The song’s enduring popularity and critical acclaim cement its place as a defining piece of rock history.
18. “Crying” – Roy Orbison (1961)
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Elvis Presley said, “In my humble opinion, Roy Orbison is the greatest singer I have ever heard.” And how can you argue with ‘The King’? Released in 1961, “Crying” is a poignant ballad that showcases Orbison’s remarkable vocal range and emotional depth. In its essence, it’s about the heartache of lost love, with Orbison’s voice conveying a profound sense of longing. Its lush arrangement and Orbison’s powerful delivery have made “Crying” a timeless classic.
17. “London Calling” – The Clash (1979)
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When The Clash first introduced themselves in the mainstream around the late 70s and early 80s, there was nothing like it at the time. “London Calling” had a hard, unique drum line that you could almost march along to. This title track from their third album combines punk’s raw energy with reggae’s groove, addressing social unrest and the fears of its era. Its powerful lyrics and Joe Strummer’s impassioned delivery capture a city, and a world, on the brink of change.
16. “Whole Lotta Love” – Led Zeppelin (1969)
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This song is famous amongst rock enthusiasts for having one of the greatest guitar riffs of all time. This powerful riff, combined with Robert Plant’s poignant vocals, creates a thrilling musical piece. The track not only showcases Led Zeppelin’s innovative approach to songwriting and arrangement but also cemented the band’s status in rock history.
15. “Sweet Child o’ Mine” – Guns N’ Roses (1987)
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Although you could categorize this into the ‘overplayed’ category, its influence on the genre cannot be denied. This classic from Guns N’ Roses skillfully navigates through a spectrum of emotions — passion, desperation, loneliness, anger, and excitement. Its dynamic structure, however, is what sets the song apart. It’s recommended to listen with quality headphones to appreciate the intricate details and how each instrument contributes to the overall mix.
14. “Under Pressure” – Queen & David Bowie (1981)
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This song not only features one of rock music’s most iconic bass lines ever, but it showcases the synergistic blend of two of the biggest talents in all of music. How could you go wrong between Queen and David Bowie? The creation process involved both Queen and Bowie contributing their own styles and ideas, with the memorable bass riff serving as a foundation for the song’s exploration of life’s pressures. This collaboration resulted in a timeless anthem that has resonated with audiences for its musical innovation since its release.
13. “Strawberry Fields Forever” – The Beatles (1973)
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“Strawberry Fields Forever” marked a pivotal shift for The Beatles, departing from their classic rock style into a psychedelic phase. This evolution began with John Lennon’s introspective songwriting and experimentation with drugs. Yet again, just like with their earlier rock sound, they ended up revolutionizing the genre in their own way, influencing other artists to introduce psychedelic elements to their music. “Strawberry Fields Forever” is a perfect encapsulation of this shift.
12. “Go Your Own Way” – Fleetwood Mac (1977)
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Beyond its catchy riffs and chorus, “Go Your Own Way” originated from heartbreak. Penned by lead guitarist Lindsey Buckingham during his breakup with singer Stevie Nicks. The song’s emotional intensity is matched by its musical innovation, drawing inspiration from the Rolling Stones for its distinctive drum pattern. This track is a powerful expression of personal and musical tension, reflected both in its lyrics and its urgent, driving rhythm, embodying the band’s turbulent dynamics and creative genius.
11. “Back in Black” – AC/DC (1980)
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Its influence on the genre alone is enough reason to rank them on the list. Admittedly, it’s become almost overplayed nowadays, with this song featuring in countless films, series, and sports stadiums across America. Still, it features catchy lyrics and riffs that have resonated with listeners ever since its 1980 release. The album itself, Back in Black, remains a hit classic even today.
10. “Born to Run” – Bruce Springsteen (1975)
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From the beginning, the song kicks into an energetic drive, perfectly encapsulating its famous, youthful spirit. Springsteen’s storytelling gives vivid imagery and themes of rebellion and freedom. Musically, it features a rich, layered production with prominent use of saxophone, electric guitar, and keyboard, that all combine into a lovely, almost carefree sound. This combination of lyricism and dynamic musical range has made “Born to Run” an enduring rock classic.
9. “Purple Haze” – Jimi Hendrix (1967)
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Perhaps one of the best pieces of rock music ever written. Its inclusion in the Grammy Hall of Fame speaks volumes to that fact. Musically, it was considered groundbreaking for its innovative use of guitar techniques and sound effects. Hendrix’s ability to blend blues elements with Eastern musical influences created a unique sound that was completely new to rock music. Hendrix shined even brighter during his live renditions, with his most famous one occurring in San Diego in 1969. His energetic presence combined with his fashion style captivated audiences worldwide.
8. “Comfortably Numb” – Pink Floyd (1979)
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“Comfortably Numb” is a song that seemingly gets better with each listen. The major takeaway of this song is David Gilmour’s guitar performance. Against a backdrop of internal band conflict and financial stress for Pink Floyd which originated during a tumultuous period post-Animals tour, it was inspired by Roger Waters’ alienation and a particular concert experience. With financial pressures and the creative standoff between Waters and Gilmour, the song emerged from their last vestiges of collaboration, thanks to producer Bob Ezrin’s mediation.
7. Lynyrd Skynyrd – “Free Bird” (1976)
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Beyond its iconic guitar solo that got stuck in everybody’s head at least once in their lives, “Free Bird” is a song about liberation during a generation that desperately sought it. While some speculated the song paid tribute to Duane Allman, it was inspired by a personal conversation between guitarist Allen Collins and his girlfriend. The song eloquently speaks to the dichotomy of freedom and love, and its lasting impact resonates in various contexts — from graduations to funerals — highlighting its musically diverse and strong message.
6. “Imagine” – John Lennon (1971)
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This song emerged as a beacon of hope for many. It was performed by icons like Stevie Wonder and Neil Young during pivotal moments in history, reinforcing its enduring appeal as a peace anthem. Penned in 1971 amidst the Vietnam War from Yoko Ono’s poetry, “Imagine” is a profound call for unity, transcending religion, possessions, and borders. Despite controversies, its message of peace and unity continues to resonate, making “Imagine” a timeless masterpiece
5. “Ring of Fire” – Johnny Cash (1963)
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There’s a reason Johnny Cash is arguably the face of classic American rock/country. There are fewer better examples of this than the song “Ring of Fire.” With its unique touch of Mexican horns and Cash’s trademarked low rumble voice, this song has become a staple of any classic playlist. It spent 7 weeks at the top spot on the music charts and still remains one of the most beloved songs in history.
4. “Hey Jude” – The Beatles (1968)
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“Hey Jude” was penned by Paul McCartney to comfort John Lennon’s son Julian during his parents’ divorce, and it ultimately emerged as a monumental anthem of solace and encouragement. Spanning over seven minutes, its evocative lyrics and memorable melodies formed a timeless piece that transcends generations. Even today, it holds massive listening appeal — one of the reasons the Beatles is one of the greatest music groups in history.
3. “Like a Rolling Stone” – Bob Dylan (1965)
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When “Like a Rolling Stone” was first released, it was an instant hit from the very first crack of the snare in the opening. Within months, Jimi Hendrix was covering it. That should tell you the immense impact this song had on music and culture. It more or less revolutionized music with its blend of diverse musical styles, the raw edge of Dylan’s voice — and the probing nature of the lyric “How does it feel?”
2. “Hotel California” – The Eagles (1976)
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Perhaps one of the most popular songs in American pop culture, it would be a shame to leave it off this list. Its influence has spanned generations, and almost anybody would know exactly how this song sounds — a testament to its popularity. Beyond the catchy harmonies, however, is a deep dive into the struggles with addiction and the illusion of the Californian dream. The Eagles crafted a narrative that’s both vivid and reflective, using the metaphor of a luxurious hotel to explore themes of excess, temptation, and the search for freedom that’s just out of reach.
1. “Bohemian Rhapsody” – Queen (1975)
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Each time you hit play on this song, you’re guaranteed six whole minutes of an electrifying, genre-bending adventure. “Bohemian Rhapsody” refuses to be pigeonholed, combining rock, opera, and ballad into a masterpiece that’s as audacious as it is catchy. For its time, it was borderline revolutionary. This, in conjunction with Freddie Mercury’s unparalleled vocal range, takes this track beyond its limits, bringing listeners on a rollercoaster of emotion. It’s proof that sometimes, the rules of music are meant to be broken. For us, it’s a timeless classic.
