Greta Van Fleet has taken the rock world by storm, rapidly ascending to global popularity. Known for their electrifying performances and sound reminiscent of classic rock giants, the band has cultivated a dedicated fanbase. From their initial EPs, Black Smoke Rising and From The Fires, to their debut LP, Anthem Of The Peaceful Army, Greta Van Fleet has consistently delivered powerful tracks. For fans new and old, exploring their most popular songs is the perfect starting point. Here’s a countdown of Greta Van Fleet’s top 10 songs that have resonated most with audiences worldwide.
10. Watching Over
“Watching Over” is a deep cut from Anthem of the Peaceful Army, showcasing the band’s psychedelic side. This track is a sprawling instrumental jam, driven by impressive guitar riffs and a mesmerizing rhythm section. It stands out for its extended, explorative nature, allowing each band member to demonstrate their musical prowess. Released early as a taste of the album, “Watching Over” offered a glimpse into the more nuanced and experimental directions Greta Van Fleet was exploring. For those who appreciate the band’s instrumental capabilities, this track is a must-listen.
9. Edge of Darkness
“Edge of Darkness,” featured on From The Fires, lives up to its name with a noticeably darker and heavier atmosphere compared to much of Greta Van Fleet’s catalog. This song embodies the spirit of 70s rock, delivering a powerful and gritty sound. The driving rhythm and Josh Kiszka’s soaring vocals create a sense of urgency and intensity. “Edge of Darkness” proves Greta Van Fleet’s versatility, demonstrating their ability to tap into a more shadowy and forceful rock sound while maintaining their signature style. It’s a track that appeals to listeners who appreciate the harder edge of classic rock.
8. Lover, Leaver
“Lover, Leaver” (also known as “Taker, Believer”) became a fan favorite long before its official release on Anthem of the Peaceful Army. A staple of Greta Van Fleet’s live shows, this track is an album highlight that captures the band’s raw energy and stage presence. Its dynamic shifts and powerful vocals, combined with intricate guitar work, make it a captivating listen. The song’s evolution through live performances prior to its studio recording speaks to Greta Van Fleet’s connection with their audience and their organic approach to music creation.
7. Age of Man
“Age Of Man” is arguably the most “epic” song from Anthem of the Peaceful Army. Clocking in at over six minutes, it’s a sonic journey that truly transports listeners back to the 1970s progressive rock era. The song’s grand scale, from its sweeping melodies to its thoughtful lyrics, makes it a standout track. “Age Of Man” showcases Greta Van Fleet’s ambition and their ability to craft expansive and immersive musical experiences. It’s a track for listeners who appreciate depth and complexity in rock music.
6. Anthem
The title track of Anthem of the Peaceful Army, “Anthem,” carries a powerful message of unity and overcoming division through music. This song is a call for harmony and understanding, delivered with Greta Van Fleet’s signature blend of rock intensity and melodic sensibility. “Anthem” resonates with its positive message and its anthemic chorus, making it a crowd-pleasing track that embodies the album’s overarching themes. It highlights the band’s ability to infuse their music with meaningful lyrical content.
5. You’re The One
“You’re The One,” also from Anthem of the Peaceful Army, offers a softer and more acoustic side of Greta Van Fleet. Released as a single, this mellow track features a catchy, sing-along chorus and a heartfelt delivery. It deviates from their typical hard-rocking sound, showcasing their versatility and ability to write compelling songs across different styles. “You’re The One” became popular for its radio-friendly appeal and its contrast to the band’s heavier tracks, demonstrating their broad musical range.
4. When The Curtain Falls
“When The Curtain Falls” marked the first single released from Anthem of the Peaceful Army, and it quickly became a major hit for Greta Van Fleet. This song delivers a high-energy rock performance with powerful vocals and a driving rhythm. Its immediate impact and catchy hooks solidified Greta Van Fleet’s position in the contemporary rock scene. “When The Curtain Falls” effectively built anticipation for the album and showcased the band’s ability to create impactful and commercially successful singles.
3. Safari Song
“Safari Song,” originally on the Black Smoke Rising EP and later featured on From The Fires, is an undeniably upbeat and infectious rocker. Lead singer Josh Kiszka’s vocal delivery, often compared to Robert Plant, is in full force here, adding to the song’s classic rock vibe. “Safari Song” is a high-energy track perfect for live shows and embodies the band’s raw, energetic sound. Its placement on two early releases underscores its importance in establishing Greta Van Fleet’s signature style and appeal.
2. Black Smoke Rising
“Black Smoke Rising,” the title track from Greta Van Fleet’s debut EP, is a testament to the band’s early impact. It’s remarkable how much excitement Greta Van Fleet generated with just four tracks, and “Black Smoke Rising” became a definitive fan favorite, especially known for its sing-along quality during live performances. This song captures the band’s raw talent and their ability to create anthemic rock tracks right from the start, setting the stage for their future success.
1. Highway Tune
“Highway Tune” is the song that truly ignited the Greta Van Fleet phenomenon. Released as a single with a successful music video, it propelled the band into the spotlight. Regardless of debates about their influences, “Highway Tune” undeniably sparked conversations and introduced Greta Van Fleet to a global audience, paving their way to stardom. This track’s infectious energy, powerful riffs, and memorable vocals made it a breakthrough hit and cemented its place as Greta Van Fleet’s most popular song.
Greta Van Fleet’s impressive catalog offers a rich tapestry of rock music, drawing from classic influences while forging their own path. This list of their top 10 most popular songs is a perfect introduction to a band that continues to captivate audiences and redefine rock for a new generation. Whether you’re drawn to their high-energy rockers or their more nuanced tracks, Greta Van Fleet’s music promises a compelling and unforgettable listening experience.
