Editor’s note, February 2024: In the two and a half years since Rolling Stone unveiled its completely reimagined 500 Greatest Songs list in September 2021, influential artists such as Beyonce, Lana Del Rey, and Taylor Swift have continued to shape the landscape of music with their classic tracks. Recognizing this evolution, we present an updated list. This revision is deliberately focused; the 2021 list already encompassed a vast history of popular music and was compiled through a vote by over 300 artists, writers, producers, and industry experts. This update reflects the significant contributions of the past three years, from 2021 to early 2024.
In 2004, Rolling Stone magazine created a monumental list: the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. This compilation became one of their most-read features, attracting hundreds of millions of views online. However, the world has transformed significantly since 2004. The iPod was a relatively new technology, and today’s global pop icons like Billie Eilish were just children. To reflect these changes and the ever-evolving world of music, Rolling Stone undertook a comprehensive reboot of this iconic list. For this new iteration of the RS 500, a diverse group of over 250 artists, musicians, and producers—ranging from Angelique Kidjo to Zedd, Sam Smith to Megan Thee Stallion, and M. Ward to Bill Ward—along with respected figures from the music industry and leading music critics and journalists were consulted. Each participant submitted a ranked list of their top 50 songs, and these votes were meticulously tallied to create the definitive ranking.
The sheer breadth of musical influence is evident in the nearly 4,000 songs that received votes. While the 2004 list leaned heavily towards early rock and soul, this updated version showcases a broader spectrum of genres. Expect to find a greater representation of hip-hop, contemporary country, indie rock, Latin pop, reggae, and R&B, reflecting the diverse tastes and evolving sounds of modern music. Significantly, over half of the songs in this new list were not present in the 2004 edition, including a remarkable third of the Top 100. The result is a more expansive and inclusive vision of popular music – a dynamic art form that continuously rewrites its own history with every new beat and melody.
More on How We Made the List and Who Voted
Written By Jonathan Bernstein, Jon Blistein, David Browne, Jayson Buford, Nick Catucci, Mankaprr Conteh, Bill Crandall, Jon Dolan, Gavin Edwards, Jenny Eliscu, Brenna Ehrlich, Jon Freeman, David Fricke, Andy Greene, Joe Gross, Kory Grow, Keith Harris, Will Hermes, Brian Hiatt, Christian Hoard, Joseph Hudak, Jeff Ihaza, Maura Johnston, Rob Kemp, Greg Kot, Elias Leight, Rob Levine, Alan Light, Julyssa Lopez, Angie Martoccio, Michaelangelo Matos, Tom Moon, Tom Nawrocki, Jon Pareles, Parke Puterbaugh, Mosi Reeves, Jody Rosen, Robert Santelli, Austin Scaggs, Claire Shaffer, Bud Scoppa, Rob Sheffield, Hank Shteamer, LC Smith, Brittany Spanos, Rob Tannenbaum, Simon Vozick-Levinson, Barry Walters, Alison Weinflash, Douglas Wolk
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Harry Styles, ‘As It Was’
harry styles as it was
Harry Styles’ chart-topping hit, “As It Was,” the lead single from his critically acclaimed third album, masterfully juxtaposes lyrical themes of relationship turmoil with an upbeat synth-pop soundscape. This famous song captures the internal conflict of a relationship in crisis, masked by shimmering, spun-sugar synthesizers. The track is punctuated by unique sonic elements, from the endearing opening featuring Styles’ goddaughter Ruby’s playful goodnight message, to the sing-song bridge that mirrors the rapid pace of thoughts racing within one’s mind. “As It Was” offers listeners a vivid, multi-layered experience. While seemingly light and airy on the surface, repeated listens reveal a deeper, more unsettling narrative, subtly hinting at underlying issues and anxieties within the relationship, as highlighted by the pointed question, “What kind of pills are you on?” This song quickly became one of the most Famous Songs of recent years, cementing Styles’ status as a pop music innovator.
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Townes Van Zandt, ‘Pancho and Lefty’
Townes Van Zandt in The Late Great Townes Van Zandt album art
“Pancho and Lefty” stands as a storytelling masterpiece, a poignant narrative woven into a song about a bandit and the friend who ultimately betrays him. While this track achieved mainstream country success as a duet by Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard in 1983, it is Townes Van Zandt’s own rendition, found on his 1972 album The Late Great Townes Van Zandt, that truly encapsulates the tragic fates of its characters. The song opens with what many consider to be some of the most evocative and descriptive verses in the country-folk genre: “Living on the road my friend/was gonna keep you free and clean/now you wear your skin like iron/your breath as hard as kerosene.” Van Zandt himself humbly acknowledged the almost ethereal nature of its creation, stating in 1984, “It’s hard to take credit for the writing, because it came from out of the blue.” This famous song’s impact lies in its raw emotion and storytelling depth, solidifying its place among the greatest narrative songs.
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Lizzo, ‘Truth Hurts’
Lizzo Truth Hurts single cover
Lizzo’s anthem of self-love and empowerment, “Truth Hurts,” resonated deeply with audiences worldwide, becoming one of her most famous songs. As Lizzo declared, “That song is my life and its words are my truth.” While she later shared songwriting credit with British singer Mina Lioness for the iconic line, “I just took a DNA test, turns out I’m 100 percent that bitch,” the sheer force and personality of this breakup anthem is undeniably Lizzo. The song is a powerful blend of swaggering confidence and endearing vulnerability, delivered with Lizzo’s signature uproarious and soulful style. Originally released in 2017, “Truth Hurts” experienced a surge in popularity in 2019 after being featured in the Netflix show Someone Great, where Gina Rodriguez famously sang it in a scene. This exposure propelled “Truth Hurts” to become Lizzo’s signature song and a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its message of self-acceptance and resilience.
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Harry Nilsson, ‘Without You’
Harry Nilsson Without You single cover
Harry Nilsson’s rendition of “Without You” is a poignant ballad that achieved phenomenal success, becoming one of his most famous songs, despite its somewhat cynical origins. Nilsson frankly admitted, “We did it because my career was on the wane and we wanted something to make a hit.” He recounted his initial encounter with the song, originally by Badfinger, saying, “I heard it and searched through every Beatles album for two and a half weeks, trying to find out which one of their tunes it was.” Producer Richard Perry amplified the song’s emotional intensity, layering strings to accentuate Nilsson’s raw and desperate vocal performance. Their strategy proved incredibly effective. “Without You” soared to Number One on the charts and earned a Grammy nomination for Record of the Year. This famous song is a testament to Nilsson’s vocal prowess and the enduring power of heartbreak anthems.
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Carly Simon, ‘You’re So Vain’
Carly Simon You're So Vain single cover
“You’re So Vain” by Carly Simon is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone, a famous song shrouded in mystery and speculation. As the quintessential diss track, it poses one of music’s most enduring questions: just who is the subject so consumed by vanity that they would assume the song is about them? Simon has revealed that actor Warren Beatty inspired the second verse, referencing “Oh, you had me several years ago/When I was still naive,” but the identity of the primary subject remains a topic of fervent debate. Regardless of its muse, the track is a masterpiece of 1970s soft-rock, enhanced by Paul Buckmaster’s lush orchestration and subtle background vocals from Mick Jagger. “You’re So Vain” remains a famous song not only for its musicality but also for the ongoing intrigue surrounding its lyrical target, making it a timeless classic.
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Cyndi Lauper, ‘Time After Time’
Cyndi Lauper Time After Time single cover
Cyndi Lauper’s “Time After Time” is a ballad that defied initial expectations to become one of her most famous songs. Lauper herself was initially hesitant about its potential as a lead single from her debut album, She’s So Unusual. She explained, “I asked them to please not put ‘Time After Time’ out as the first single. People would never have accepted me. If you do a ballad first, and then a rocker, that doesn’t work.” Written in the studio with keyboardist Rob Hyman, “Time After Time” is an emotionally resonant and aching ballad. Despite her reservations, her instincts were ultimately incorrect. Following the upbeat and iconic “Girls Just Want to Have Fun,” “Time After Time” was released as a single and became her first Number One hit. This famous song demonstrated Lauper’s versatility and solidified her status as a major musical force.
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The Pixies, ‘Where Is My Mind?’
The Pixies Where Is My Mind? single cover
“Where Is My Mind?” by The Pixies perfectly encapsulates the band’s unique blend of the bizarre and the catchy, becoming one of their most famous songs and a defining track of alternative rock. In an era dominated by gloomy sounds, this song showcased The Pixies’ freakish pop sensibilities that set them apart. Joey Santiago’s distinctive lead guitar riff is undeniably catchy, rivaling many Top 40 hooks in its memorability. While already influential in alternative music circles, “Where Is My Mind?” achieved even greater iconic status a decade after its release when featured in the film Fight Club. By then, it had already permeated the DNA of countless alternative radio hits, influencing bands from Nirvana to Korn. When asked in 1988 about his knack for creating great songs, Black Francis offered a characteristically enigmatic response: “It’s nice to have space. How much can one brain deal with?” This famous song’s enduring appeal lies in its haunting melody and its ability to resonate across generations.
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Kanye West, ‘Stronger’
Kanye West Stronger single cover
Kanye West’s “Stronger” marked a significant evolution in his sound, becoming one of his most famous songs and a stadium-rocking anthem. Reflecting on the more expansive and impactful tracks on his third album, Graduation, West explained, “I applied a lot of the things I learned on tour [in 2006] with U2 and the Rolling Stones, about songs that rock stadiums. And they worked!” The inspiration for this grandiose track came from Daft Punk’s electronic hit “Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger,” which West sampled and reimagined into a hip-hop powerhouse. A known admirer of the French duo, West commented, “These guys really stick with the whole not-showing-their-faces thing. Just amazing discipline — that’s straight martial-arts status.” “Stronger” became a famous song for its innovative sampling, powerful message of resilience, and its fusion of hip-hop with electronic and stadium rock elements.
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Miles Davis, ‘So What’
Miles Davis So What from Kind of Blue album art
Miles Davis’ “So What” is arguably one of the most recognizable jazz compositions of all time, a famous song that has transcended genres and generations. It is highly likely that no other song on this list has been played at more dinner parties than this opening track from the seminal album Kind of Blue. At the time of its release, “So What” represented a radical shift in jazz, moving away from complex bebop chord changes towards a more open and modal style of improvisation. Pianist Bill Evans noted that Davis often developed material just hours before recording sessions, yet the ensemble performance on “So What” sounds effortlessly cohesive. The all-star band, featuring saxophonists John Coltrane and Cannonball Adderley, delivers solos that have become as iconic as any in jazz history. The rhythm section, comprised of Evans, bassist Paul Chambers, and drummer Jimmy Cobb, creates a swing feel that is both sophisticated and deeplyGroovy. This famous song’s laid-back coolness and innovative structure cemented its legendary status in music history.
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Bad Bunny, ‘Titi Me Pregunto’
Bad Bunny Titi Me Pregunto music video still
Bad Bunny’s “Tití Me Preguntó” is a vibrant showcase of his boundless creativity and eccentric pop brilliance, quickly becoming one of his most famous songs. This track seamlessly blends frenetic dembow rhythms with a sophisticated sample from bachata legend Anthony Santos, culminating in a coda with hints of Latin psychedelia, all while maintaining a mainstream appeal. Bad Bunny navigates these diverse elements with both panache and a playful sense of humor. Using the familiar trope of concerned Latin American aunts inquiring about their nephew’s love life as a starting point, he launches into a humorous and suggestive lyrical barrage, set against a bouncy party vibe. In typical Bad Bunny fashion, the song unexpectedly transitions into moments of introspective self-reflection. “Tití Me Preguntó” is a famous song that exemplifies Bad Bunny’s genre-bending approach and his ability to create music that is both deeply personal and universally engaging.
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Lil Nas X, ‘Old Town Road’
Lil Nas X Old Town Road single cover
“Old Town Road” by Lil Nas X is a cultural phenomenon, a famous song that defied genre boundaries and broke records. Montero Hill, then an Atlanta college dropout residing on his sister’s couch and aspiring to a music career, discovered a track he liked by YoungKio, a 19-year-old Dutch producer. YoungKio’s beat incorporated a banjo sample from a Nine Inch Nails song, creating an unexpected sonic fusion. “I was picturing, like, a loner cowboy runaway,” Lil Nas X told Rolling Stone, envisioning the narrative for his song. Within a year, “Old Town Road” achieved unprecedented success, becoming the longest-running Number One song in history. In just one minute and 53 seconds, this famous song seemed to encapsulate vast themes of American cross-cultural exchange and appropriation, resonating with audiences across the globe.
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The Breeders, ‘Cannonball’
The Breeders Cannonball single cover
“Cannonball” by The Breeders is an indie rock anthem, a famous song that emerged from band turmoil to become an MTV sensation. After receiving a fax informing her that her services were no longer needed in the Pixies, Kim Deal formed The Breeders, enlisting her twin sister Kelley on guitar, despite Kelley’s lack of experience playing the instrument. This bold move paid off when “Cannonball,” an absurdist and infectiously catchy track, became a surprise MTV hit in 1993. Kelley playfully retorted to those who considered The Breeders a side project, telling Rolling Stone, “No, actually … the Pixies are a side project.” While The Breeders themselves would later go on an extended hiatus, the effortlessly fun and bouncy energy of “Cannonball” has ensured its timeless appeal. This famous song remains a beloved 90s alternative rock staple.
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The Weeknd, ‘House of Balloons / Glass Table Girls’
The Weeknd House of Balloons album art
“House of Balloons / Glass Table Girls,” often referred to as “House of Balloons,” is a groundbreaking track by The Weeknd, a famous song that set the stage for his meteoric rise to international stardom. In his early career, Toronto singer-songwriter Abel Tesfaye, known as The Weeknd, intentionally cultivated an enigmatic persona, releasing his first album without photos or interviews. “The whole ‘enigmatic artist’ thing, I just ran with it,” he explained. “No one could find pictures of me. It reminded me of some villain shit.” Despite the mystery surrounding him, the title track of House of Balloons established the thematic and musical blueprint for his career. Lyrically, it explored themes of drugs, sex, and depression, while musically, it innovatively sampled Siouxsie and the Banshees’ “Happy House,” forging a new direction for R&B. This famous song was instrumental in defining The Weeknd’s signature sound and aesthetic.
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Solange, ‘Cranes in the Sky’
Solange A Seat At The Table album cover
Solange Knowles’ “Cranes in the Sky” is a deeply introspective and artistically rich piece, a famous song that showcases her evolution as an R&B innovator. In a conversation with her sister Beyoncé, Solange described the song’s inspiration, partly drawn from the rapid real estate development she observed in Miami. She noted, “This idea of building up, up, up that was going on in our country at the time, all of this excessive building, and not really dealing with what was in front of us.” This external observation became a metaphor for her internal struggles with change, self-doubt, and ambition. Conceived years prior, “Cranes in the Sky” was finalized with producer Raphael Saadiq, resulting in a lavish and contemplative moment of neo-soul. This famous song is celebrated for its lyrical depth, nuanced production, and Solange’s powerfully emotive vocals.
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Lil Wayne, ‘A Milli’
Lil Wayne A Milli single cover
Lil Wayne’s “A Milli” is a masterclass in lyrical dexterity and beat innovation, a famous song that cemented his status as a rap icon. Producer Bangladesh crafted the beat by looping the opening chords from Gladys Knight and the Pips’ “Don’t Burn Down the Bridge,” then transitioned into a hard-hitting volley of trap drums. Originally, the instrumental was intended for a collaborative project featuring various Young Money Entertainment artists. However, “A Milli” ultimately became a solo showcase for Lil Wayne’s extraordinary rapping abilities. He dominates the track with relentless verses, displaying his signature flow and intricate wordplay, captivating listeners with his sheer skill and charisma. This famous song is revered for its minimalist yet powerful production and Lil Wayne’s unforgettable performance.
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Azealia Banks, ‘212’
Azealia Banks 212 single cover
“212” by Azealia Banks is a groundbreaking hip-house track, a famous song that launched her career and established her as a provocative and uninhibited artist. In 2011, Azealia Banks was a talented teenage rapper-singer who had signed a development deal with XL Recordings but hadn’t yet achieved mainstream recognition. Producer Jacques Greene recalled discovering a Dutch house-influenced track that was “just absolutely insane.” Over the jittery beats of Lazy Jay’s “Float My Boat,” a Belgian house duo, Banks unleashed ferocious freestyles celebrating her New York City hometown and explicit themes. Initially released as a viral track in 2011, “212” became a hip-house sensation, earning Banks a deal with Interscope Records and signaling the arrival of a bold and unconventional new voice in music. This famous song remains a defining track of the early 2010s hip-house scene.
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Weezer, ‘Buddy Holly’
Weezer Buddy Holly single cover
Weezer’s “Buddy Holly” is an iconic anthem of geek chic, a famous song that propelled them to mainstream success and defined 90s alternative rock. Written for frontman Rivers Cuomo’s girlfriend, this upbeat and poppy ode to nerdy romance almost didn’t make it onto the band’s self-titled debut, also known as the Blue Album. Cuomo and former member Matt Sharp were concerned that the song might be perceived as a novelty track, undermining the album’s overall seriousness. However, producer Ric Ocasek recognized the song’s undeniable appeal after hearing the recording studio receptionist humming it. He insisted on including it, a decision that proved pivotal. “Buddy Holly” became a famous song for its catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and its iconic music video, cementing Weezer’s place in pop culture.
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The Four Tops, ‘I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch)’
The Four Tops I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch) single cover
“I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch)” by The Four Tops is a Motown classic, a famous song known for its infectious energy and soulful vocals. The song’s inspiration came from songwriter Lamont Dozier’s grandfather, who affectionately called the women his hairdresser wife styled “sugar pie” and “honey bunch.” During the recording session, engineer Harold Taylor recalled the intense excitement the track generated, “People were banging on the door of the studio; they were so ecstatic about what they heard.” Despite the immediate enthusiasm, lead singer Levi Stubbs, ever the perfectionist, requested another take. Brian Holland assured him they would record another version soon, but Stubbs’ initial performance was so compelling that it was released and soared to Number One. This famous song exemplifies the Motown sound at its most vibrant and irresistible.
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Lady Gaga, ‘Bad Romance’
Lady Gaga Bad Romance single cover
Lady Gaga’s “Bad Romance” is a bold and theatrical pop masterpiece, a famous song that elevated her to a new level of artistic eccentricity and global fame. Having already established herself as a pop star, Gaga pushed creative boundaries further with this Nadir “RedOne” Khayat production. The song drew inspiration from the electronic music scene Gaga encountered while touring Europe, resulting in a sound that was both cutting-edge and deeply personal. Gaga summarized the song’s core concept as, “I want the deepest, darkest, sickest parts of you that you are afraid to share with anyone because I love you that much.” Fittingly, she debuted the then-unreleased track at Alexander McQueen’s show during Paris Fashion Week, emphasizing its high-fashion and avant-garde sensibilities. “Bad Romance” became a famous song for its dramatic flair, powerful vocals, and its fusion of pop with electronic and theatrical elements.
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Robert Johnson, ‘Cross Road Blues’
Robert Johnson Cross Road Blues single cover
Robert Johnson’s “Cross Road Blues” is a foundational blues recording, a famous song steeped in myth and legend, and profoundly influential on generations of musicians. The raw emotion in Johnson’s voice and his virtuosic, mystifying slide guitar playing captivated the British rockers of the 1960s. Eric Clapton described its intensity, “I could take the music only in very small measures because it was so intense.” Recorded in a San Antonio hotel room in 1936, just two years before Johnson’s tragic death at age 27, “Cross Road Blues” is a powerful expression of spiritual desolation and betrayal. The song is famously associated with the apocryphal legend of Johnson selling his soul to the devil at a crossroads in exchange for his extraordinary guitar skills. Regardless of the myth, “Cross Road Blues” remains a famous song for its haunting atmosphere, raw emotion, and Johnson’s unparalleled guitar artistry.
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Biz Markie, ‘Just a Friend’
Biz Markie Just A Friend single cover
Biz Markie’s “Just a Friend” is a feel-good hip-hop classic, a famous song that showcased his unique personality and comedic charm. Biz Markie (1964-2021) was a beloved DJ, rapper, producer, human beatboxer, and overall hip-hop personality, known for his infectious good nature. “Just a Friend,” from his second album, became his breakout hit, an ode to the frustrating experience of being in the friend zone. Built upon a simple yet effective beat, plinking piano, and Markie’s deliberately off-key singing, the song interpolates Freddie Scott’s 1968 track “(You) Got What I Need.” The lyrics, humorously warbled by Biz, recount a real-life experience. As he told Rolling Stone in 2000, “I was talking to this girl from L.A., and every time I called her, this dude was at her house, and she’d say, ‘Oh, he’s just a friend.’ I hated that.” This famous song is celebrated for its humor, catchy melody, and Biz Markie’s endearingly awkward vocal delivery.
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Santana, ‘Oye Como Va’
Santana Oye Como Va single cover
Santana’s “Oye Como Va” is a Latin rock fusion masterpiece, a famous song that introduced Latin rhythms to a global audience. Growing up in San Francisco during the psychedelic era, Carlos Santana was deeply influenced by the city’s counterculture. He famously claimed, “You cannot take LSD and not find your voice, because there is nowhere to hide.” While his early musical influences were blues artists, Santana made history with his electrifying rendition of “Oye Como Va,” a 1962 salsa track by Cuban percussionist Tito Puente. Santana retained the original cha-cha pulse but replaced the horns with Greg Rolie’s organ and his own signature lysergic guitar lines. Years later, Puente acknowledged Santana’s impact, stating, “He put our music, Latin rock, around the world, man.” This famous song is a landmark in cross-cultural music, blending Latin rhythms with rock instrumentation to create a sound that is both energetic and universally appealing.
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Juvenile feat. Lil Wayne and Mannie Fresh, ‘Back That Azz Up’
Juvenile Back That Azz Up single cover
Juvenile’s “Back That Azz Up” (featuring Lil Wayne and Mannie Fresh) is a defining track of New Orleans bounce music, a famous song that brought the city’s hip-hop scene to the national stage. In the late 1990s, Mannie Fresh’s sharp, innovative productions for Cash Money Records were instrumental in placing New Orleans at the forefront of hip-hop. The song’s title bore a striking resemblance to local artist DJ Jubilee’s single “Back That Thang Up,” leading to an unsuccessful lawsuit for infringement by Jubilee. The beat itself is built on the “Triggerman” rhythm, a foundational element of New Orleans bounce. Juvenile delivered his signature shit-talking bounce rhymes, while Lil Wayne contributed a memorable “drop it like it’s hot” hook. Mannie Fresh recounted Wayne’s immediate enthusiasm, “[He] immediately was just like, ‘Shit, I’m getting a piece of this.’” This famous song is an essential example of bounce music, characterized by its high-energy rhythm and explicit lyrics.
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The Go-Go’s, ‘Our Lips Are Sealed’
The Go-Go's Our Lips Are Sealed single cover
The Go-Go’s “Our Lips Are Sealed” is a new wave classic, a famous song that marked their breakthrough and became an anthem of youthful discretion and secret romance. According to writer Jane Wiedlin, the radiant first hit of The Go-Go’s was influenced by “the Buzzcocks and Sixties girl-group stuff.” The song was also inspired by a clandestine relationship Wiedlin was having with Terry Hall of the U.K. ska band The Specials. Hall received a co-writing credit as Wiedlin based the lyrics on poetry he had written to her in a letter. Wiedlin recalled the personal nature of the song, “It was pretty personal. I mean he had a fiancee at the time — nowadays I wouldn’t touch that with a 10-foot pole, but I was 19, and I was like ‘fiancee shmiancee.’” “Our Lips Are Sealed” became a famous song for its catchy melody, relatable themes of secret love, and its blend of new wave energy with girl-group charm.
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Kris Kristofferson, ‘Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down’
Kris Kristofferson Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down single cover
Kris Kristofferson’s “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down” is a country-folk masterpiece of desolation, a famous song that poignantly captures the feeling of Sunday morning blues. The overwhelming sense of despair in the song is so palpable that it can be almost painful to listen to. It was this raw emotional honesty that drew Johnny Cash to perform it on his TV variety show in 1970, giving the song significant exposure. Kristofferson himself recorded a stunning studio version that same year for his debut album, Kristofferson. While Cash’s interpretation, more accessible and shuffling, became the version most listeners gravitate towards, Kristofferson’s original recording is equally powerful. Listening to both back-to-back reveals the profound depth of Kristofferson’s lyrics, which vividly depict hangover-induced loneliness and desperation, shaking the listener to their core. This famous song is a testament to Kristofferson’s songwriting brilliance and his ability to convey raw human emotion.
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Janet Jackson, ‘Rhythm Nation’
Janet Jackson Rhythm Nation single cover
Janet Jackson’s “Rhythm Nation” is a socially conscious pop anthem, a famous song that combined danceable beats with a powerful message of unity and social awareness. This Number Two hit emerged late in the recording sessions for her blockbuster album Rhythm Nation 1814. Co-producer Jimmy Jam recalled the song’s genesis, “switching between MTV and CNN. Watching music videos on one side and watching atrocities on the other. Somehow they all merged together. The idea for ‘Rhythm Nation’ was you can dance, but we can also do something more intelligent.” The musical inspiration struck when Jam heard Sly and the Family Stone’s “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)” at a restaurant, prompting him to rush to the studio to sample it. “Rhythm Nation” became a famous song for its innovative blend of pop, R&B, and new jack swing, and for its socially conscious lyrics that encouraged unity and positive change.
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Curtis Mayfield, ‘Move On Up’
Curtis Mayfield Move On Up single cover
Curtis Mayfield’s “Move On Up” is an uplifting soul classic, a famous song that is both politically empowering and irresistiblyGroovy. Driven by swinging horns and vibrant congas, the song is effortlessly propulsive. The nine-minute LP version, featuring a powerful drum break, laid a foundation for both disco and hip-hop. Mayfield’s message was equally strong: emphasizing pride and dignity as essential for Black Americans to achieve progress and rise above societal challenges. Mayfield explained his inclusive approach, “I’m not trying to say anything to make you think, ‘Well, this is the way, this is the only way.’ I’m trying to cover the whole subject.” “Move On Up” became a famous song for its positive message, infectious rhythm, and its lasting influence on various genres of music.
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Tammy Wynette, ‘Stand by Your Man’
Tammy Wynette Stand By Your Man single cover
Tammy Wynette’s “Stand by Your Man” is a controversial country classic, a famous song that has sparked debate and discussion since its release. From its inception, this pledge of wifely devotion, the first song Wynette ever co-wrote, became a cultural lightning rod. Feminists in the 1970s criticized its message of unquestioning fidelity, and Hillary Clinton famously distanced herself from the song during Bill Clinton’s first presidential campaign to emphasize her modern woman identity. However, the recording itself transcends ideological objections. The catch in Wynette’s voice during the verses builds to a powerful vocal swell that meets the epic scope of Billy Sherrill’s production. “Stand by Your Man” remains a famous song not only for its musical qualities but also for the ongoing cultural conversation it provokes about gender roles and relationships.
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Peter Gabriel, ‘Solsbury Hill’
Peter Gabriel Solsbury Hill single cover
Peter Gabriel’s “Solsbury Hill” is a folk-rock anthem of personal liberation, a famous song that marked his departure from Genesis and the beginning of his solo career. Shortly after leaving Genesis in 1975, Gabriel climbed to the top of Little Solsbury Hill in Somerset, England, seeking reflection on his life-altering decision. This experience inspired his debut solo single, in which he communicated to fans his reasons for pursuing a solo path. Musically, “Solsbury Hill” was also a deliberate departure from Genesis’ prog-rock sound, embracing a pastoral and acoustic style with a prominent 12-string guitar melody. The song has since become widely used in movies and film trailers, contributing to its ubiquity. Gabriel himself acknowledged its widespread use, admitting to Rolling Stone in 2011, “Maybe I’ve let it go too much.” “Solsbury Hill” is a famous song for its uplifting melody, personal lyrics about change and self-discovery, and its enduring presence in popular culture.
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The Animals, ‘The House of the Rising Sun’
The Animals The House of the Rising Sun single cover
The Animals’ “The House of the Rising Sun” is a blues-rock transformation of a traditional folk ballad, a famous song that became their signature hit and a defining track of the British Invasion. Animals singer Eric Burdon explained their intent, “We were looking for a song that would grab people’s attention.” They found it in the old American folk song “The House of the Rising Sun.” Bob Dylan had recorded a version in 1962, singing the grim tale from the perspective of a Southern woman trapped in a New Orleans brothel. The Animals, hailing from Newcastle, an English coal-mining town, changed the gender in the lyrics to a male perspective. Keyboardist Alan Price created the new arrangement, adding a distinctive organ solo inspired by Jimmy Smith’s hit “Walk on the Wild Side,” and controversially claimed composer credit. “The House of the Rising Sun” became a famous song for Burdon’s powerful vocals, its dramatic arrangement, and its successful adaptation of a folk song into a rock anthem.
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Gladys Knight and the Pips, ‘Midnight Train to Georgia’
Gladys Knight and the Pips Midnight Train to Georgia single cover
Gladys Knight and the Pips’ “Midnight Train to Georgia” is a soulful and emotionally resonant ballad, a famous song that became one of their signature hits and a beloved classic. Songwriter Jim Weatherly originally wrote the song as “Midnight Plane to Houston,” intending it for Cissy Houston (Whitney Houston’s mother). However, he changed the destination and title to “Midnight Train to Georgia” to make it “more R&B … in order to get it onto Black radio.” Weatherly had already penned “Neither One of Us,” another Number Two hit for Knight and the Pips. When they heard “Midnight Train,” they recognized its potential and propelled it to the top of the charts. Weatherly admitted his surprise at writing an R&B hit, “I never really imagined writing R&B songs. I really thought I was writing country songs.” The song’s themes of migration and changing times resonated deeply, reflecting the 1970s as the first decade since World War I where more African Americans were moving to the South than leaving it. “Midnight Train to Georgia” is a famous song for its powerful vocals, soulful arrangement, and its poignant storytelling.
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Dixie Chicks, ‘Goodbye Earl’
The Chicks Goodbye Earl single cover
Dixie Chicks’ “Goodbye Earl” is a darkly humorous murder ballad with a feminist edge, a famous song that sparked both controversy and acclaim. This upbeat track, telling the story of two friends who poison an abusive husband, elicited varied reactions. Some radio stations banned it, fearing it might encourage violence against spouses, while others used it as an opportunity to share domestic abuse hotline numbers. Despite the lyrical content, record label executives were initially more concerned about another song on the Chicks’ Fly album, “Sin Wagon,” specifically its reference to “mattress dancing.” Natalie Maines recounted their manager relaying the executives’ message, “You can’t say [that], but they love the song about premeditated first-degree murder.” “Goodbye Earl” became a famous song for its catchy melody, darkly comedic lyrics, and its provocative take on domestic abuse, sparking important conversations and solidifying the Dixie Chicks’ reputation for pushing boundaries.
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Mazzy Star, ‘Fade Into You’
Mazzy Star Fade Into You single cover
Mazzy Star’s “Fade Into You” is a dream pop classic, a famous song that encapsulates the genre’s ethereal and melancholic beauty. Singer Hope Sandoval and guitarist David Roback, the core members of Mazzy Star, were previously involved in the 1980s neo-psychedelic Paisley Underground scene in Los Angeles. After Sandoval replaced Kendra Smith as the singer in the band Opal, she and Roback reformed the group as Mazzy Star. Their second album produced “Fade Into You,” a spaced-out and hauntingly beautiful track, arguably dream pop’s ultimate expression of hazy longing. Roback described their artistic focus, “We’re not so concerned about the outside world. [Each song] is its own world unto itself.” “Fade Into You” became a famous song for Sandoval’s mesmerizing vocals, its dreamy atmosphere, and its enduring appeal as a quintessential dream pop track.
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Nirvana, ‘Come as You Are’
Nirvana Come As You Are single cover
Nirvana’s “Come as You Are” is a grunge anthem, a famous song that showcases Kurt Cobain’s introspective lyrics and the band’s signature sound. Cobain explained the song’s themes, “It’s just about people and what they’re expected to act like. The lines in the song are really contradictory. They’re kind of a rebuttal to each other.” The song is built around a simple yet iconic riff, enhanced by producer Butch Vig with a flanged, subaquatic guitar effect. Cobain reportedly drew inspiration for the riff from a 1984 song by the U.K. art-metal band Killing Joke, a debt that Dave Grohl acknowledged years later by drumming on Killing Joke’s 2003 album. In the tragic aftermath of Cobain’s suicide, the lyric “And I swear that I don’t have a gun” took on a particularly haunting and poignant resonance. “Come as You Are” remains a famous song for its iconic riff, introspective lyrics, and its place as a defining track of the grunge era.
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Luther Vandross, ‘Never Too Much’
Luther Vandross Never Too Much single cover
Luther Vandross’ “Never Too Much” is an R&B classic, a famous song that launched his solo career and established him as the leading male balladeer of the 1980s. Vandross’ solo debut was partially financed by earnings from singing jingles for KFC and 7UP. He credited Roberta Flack, for whom he had sung background vocals, with encouraging him to pursue his own solo career. Vandross recounted, “She said, ‘Luther, you’re too comfortable sitting on that stool singing “ooh and aaah.”‘ Roberta was single-handedly responsible for me starting my own career.” Flack’s encouragement was sparked by hearing the demo of “Never Too Much,” a buoyant and uplifting love song. With Vandross’ delicate high notes, the song became one of the most celebrated love anthems of the 1980s. “Never Too Much” became a famous song for Vandross’s smooth vocals, its infectious melody, and its timeless appeal as a romantic ballad.
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Daft Punk feat. Pharrell Williams, ‘Get Lucky’
Daft Punk Get Lucky single cover
Daft Punk’s “Get Lucky” featuring Pharrell Williams is a disco-infused global phenomenon, a famous song that defined a year and revitalized disco for a new generation. When Pharrell Williams offered to collaborate on Daft Punk’s fourth album, he mentioned his musical admiration for Chic legend Nile Rodgers. Fortuitously, Daft Punk had a track in progress that they had created with Rodgers himself. The result was “Get Lucky,” the lead single from their disco-inspired album Random Access Memories. The song became an instant sensation, soaring to the top of charts worldwide and becoming the defining song of its year. Williams acknowledged Daft Punk’s creative leadership, telling Rolling Stone, “I think the robots are leading. Daft Punk, they’re definitely leading.” “Get Lucky” became a famous song for its infectious disco groove, Pharrell Williams’ smooth vocals, and its seamless collaboration between Daft Punk and Nile Rodgers, bridging generations of music lovers.
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Joni Mitchell, ‘Help Me’
Joni Mitchell Help Me single cover
Joni Mitchell’s “Help Me” is a sophisticated and sultry folk-jazz masterpiece, a famous song that showcased her increasing musical control and innovative arrangements. Mitchell’s 1974 album, Court and Spark, her best-selling album, was also the project where she exerted the most musical control to date. She explained her process, “I guided everything into place on Court and Spark — even though I didn’t play it, I sang it, and then they played it from that, and it was pretty much as writ.” (Her subsequent album, The Hissing of Summer Lawns, embraced a looser and more jazz-oriented approach.) “Help Me,” recorded with the jazz ensemble Tom Scott’s L.A. Express, features one of Mitchell’s most seductive vocal performances and richly detailed arrangements. Its sophisticated sound and lyrical depth inspired Prince to pay lyrical homage to the song in his track “Ballad of Dorothy Parker” 13 years later. “Help Me” became a famous song for Mitchell’s evocative vocals, its jazz-infused arrangement, and its lasting influence on subsequent artists.
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John Lee Hooker, ‘Boom Boom’
John Lee Hooker Boom Boom single cover
John Lee Hooker’s “Boom Boom” is a blues boogie classic, a famous song that epitomizes his signature style and became a foundational track for early rock & roll. Hooker explained that this swinging and swaggering track was inspired by his chronic lateness to his regular gig. “There was a young lady named Luilla,” Hooker recounted. “She was a bartender [at the Apex Bar in Detroit]. I’d always be late, and whenever I’d come in she’d point at me and say, ‘Boom Boom, you’re late again.’ One night she said, ‘Boom boom, I’m gonna shoot you down.’ She gave me a song, but she didn’t know it.” Keith Richards aptly described Hooker’s raw and elemental style, “Even Muddy Waters was sophisticated next to him.” This was intended as high praise for Hooker’s primal blues power. “Boom Boom” became a famous song for its infectious rhythm, Hooker’s distinctive boogie style, and its influence on rock and roll music.
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Van Morrison, ‘Into the Mystic’
Van Morrison Into The Mystic Moondance album cover
Van Morrison’s “Into the Mystic” is a transcendent and soul-stirring ballad, a famous song often considered his definitive masterpiece. Exquisitely arranged and soulfully sung, it evokes a sense of nostalgia and longing, feeling like an intimate whisper. The highlight of his classic 1970 album Moondance, “Into the Mystic” benefited from a new, more organic recording approach for Morrison. He explained, “It was more like working with an actual band rather than a bunch of session guys.” Regarding the enigmatic lyrics, Morrison admitted, “So many of my songs from that Seventies period, I haven’t a clue what they’re about. A lot of the time, I was just picking up on a vibe.” “Into the Mystic” became a famous song for its ethereal atmosphere, Morrison’s emotive vocals, and its timeless quality, resonating with listeners seeking spiritual and emotional depth in music.
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Roy Orbison, ‘Crying’
Roy Orbison Crying single cover
Roy Orbison’s “Crying” is a dramatic and operatic ballad of heartbreak, a famous song that showcased his extraordinary vocal range and emotional intensity. Orbison explained that he wrote this lush and dreamy song after unexpectedly encountering a former love, “Whether I was physically crying or just crying inside is the same thing.” His performance is intensely emotional, culminating in a soaring, wailing high note, a vocal feat he maintained throughout his career until his death in 1988. Bob Dylan described Orbison’s vocal power in Chronicles, “He sounded like he was singing from an Olympian mountaintop and he meant business. He was now singing his compositions in three or four octaves that made you want to drive your car over a cliff. He sang like a professional criminal.” “Crying” became a famous song for Orbison’s powerful vocals, its dramatic arrangement, and its ability to evoke profound sadness and heartbreak.
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Steel Pulse, ‘Ku Klux Klan’
Steel Pulse Ku Klux Klan single cover
Steel Pulse’s “Ku Klux Klan” is a politically charged reggae anthem, a famous song that directly confronted racism and social injustice. As the first major British reggae band and notable songwriters, Steel Pulse made their Island Records debut with this incendiary track addressing the rising tide of racist violence in late-1970s Britain. The lyrics, “The Ku Klux Klan/Here to stamp out Black man,” are stark and direct. To amplify the song’s message, they famously performed it live—including a memorable BBC appearance—while wearing white Klan hoods. Vocalist Michael Riley explained the provocative choice, “The hoods seemed extreme at the time, but that’s what we are in a way. When we wore them, people started questioning what the song was about instead of just dancing to it.” “Ku Klux Klan” became a famous song for its bold political statement, its powerful reggae rhythm, and its willingness to confront racism directly.
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Sade, ‘No Ordinary Love’
Sade No Ordinary Love single cover
Sade’s “No Ordinary Love” is a sophisticated and emotionally nuanced ballad, a famous song that showcased Helen Adu’s distinctive vocal style and the band’s smooth, jazzy sound. Helen Adu’s subtle yet expressive vocal range has always been her strength. She explained her approach, “I decided that if I was gonna sing, I would sing how I speak, because it’s important to be yourself.” Her voice subtly cracks with emotion before the first chorus of this 1992 hit, enhancing the romantic drama of the lyrics. Stuart Matthewman’s guitar work further amplifies the mood; amidst the mellow groove, he adds a moody and subtly noisy guitar part, giving the song an unexpected edge. Sade is not only the singer’s name but also the name of the band, highlighting the collaborative nature of their music. “No Ordinary Love” became a famous song for Sade’s signature vocals, its sophisticated jazz-influenced arrangement, and its understated yet powerful emotional delivery.
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Beck, ‘Loser’
Beck Loser single cover
Beck’s “Loser” is a slacker anthem and a genre-bending breakthrough, a famous song that defied expectations and launched his unconventional career. In 1992, a 22-year-old Beck Hansen was working as a video store clerk and performing quirky folk songs in Los Angeles coffeehouses. After friends offered to record some of his music, Beck recorded “Loser” in his producer’s kitchen. It became the centerpiece of his album Mellow Gold. Initially, “Loser” was perceived by some as a novelty hit, but Beck understood its deeper resonance. He dismissed the slacker generation label, saying, “You’d have to be a total idiot to say, ‘I’m the slacker-generation guy. This is my generation.… we’re not gonna fuckin’ show up.’ I’d be laughed out of the room in an instant.” “Loser” became a famous song for its lo-fi production, its blend of folk, hip-hop, and alternative rock elements, and its ironic and self-deprecating lyrics, capturing the zeitgeist of the early 90s.
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Bon Jovi, ‘Livin’ on a Prayer’
Bon Jovi Livin' On A Prayer single cover
Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ on a Prayer” is an arena rock anthem for the working class, a famous song that has resonated across generations with its themes of struggle and hope. Like his New Jersey predecessor Bruce Springsteen, Bon Jovi focuses on everyday heroes and heroines. “Livin’ on a Prayer,” co-written with guitarist Richie Sambora, elevates the daily struggles of fictional characters Tommy and Gina to epic proportions. The song is characterized by its grandeur—guitar-pick slides, dramatic pauses, and the signature key change—all contributing to its enduring appeal. Bon Jovi reflected on the song’s longevity in 2005, “It’s great that we wrote songs so long ago that people can still relate to. When I hear ‘Livin’ on a Prayer,’ I think to myself, ‘We wrote that. That song has really made its mark. I guess that works.’” “Livin’ on a Prayer” became a famous song for its anthemic qualities, relatable lyrics about working-class life, and its enduring popularity as a karaoke and sing-along favorite.
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Lana Del Rey, ‘A&W’
Lana del Rey in A&W music video
Lana Del Rey’s “A&W” is a sprawling and ambitious epic, a famous song that embodies her signature blend of Americana, vulnerability, and dark romanticism. “A&W” is quintessential Lana Del Rey: a seven-minute journey that seamlessly transitions from the sun-drenched SoCal folk-rock of her recent albums back to the hip-hop-infused pop production of her earlier work. This expansive musical scope is matched by an equally ambitious narrative—vulnerable and lurid, nostalgic and hopeless, both humorous and profoundly bleak. The unifying element is the use of the classic root beer brand “A&W” as shorthand for “American Whore,” showcasing Del Rey’s unique ability to subvert and reinterpret American iconography. “A&W” became a famous song for its epic length, its genre-bending sound, and its complex exploration of American identity and female vulnerability, solidifying Lana Del Rey’s status as a unique and significant voice in contemporary music.
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Jefferson Airplane, ‘White Rabbit’
Jefferson Airplane White Rabbit single cover
Jefferson Airplane’s “White Rabbit” is a psychedelic rock classic, a famous song that brought the counterculture sound to mainstream America. This heady rock bolero was written by vocalist Grace Slick, reportedly after experiencing LSD and listening to Miles Davis’ Sketches of Spain. Slick initially recorded “White Rabbit” with her previous band, The Great Society, before re-recording it with Jefferson Airplane. She explained the song’s inspiration, “Our parents read us stories like Peter Pan, Alice in Wonderland, and The Wizard of Oz. They all have a place where children get drugs, and are able to fly or see an Emerald City or experience extraordinary animals and people.… And our parents are suddenly saying, ‘Why are you taking drugs?’ Well, hello!” “White Rabbit” became a famous song for its hypnotic rhythm, surreal lyrics referencing Alice in Wonderland, and its role in popularizing psychedelic rock and challenging societal norms.
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Sister Nancy, ‘Bam Bam’
Sister Nancy Bam Bam single cover
Sister Nancy’s “Bam Bam” is a foundational dancehall anthem, a famous song that established her as a pioneering female voice in reggae and dancehall music. Nancy (born Ophlin Russell) was a DJ (mic controller) for Kingston’s Stereophonic sound system when she connected with reggae producer Winston Riley in the late 1970s. Nancy admired Riley’s serious approach to recording, “I really admired how he took recording serious. You couldn’t go into his studio and do any foolishness.” Their collaboration peaked with “Bam Bam,” one of the greatest early dancehall tracks. The song is both booming and bright, tough yet playful, characterized by its infectious rhythm and Sister Nancy’s commanding vocal presence. “Bam Bam” has been extensively sampled by numerous artists across genres, from Lauryn Hill to Kanye West, testament to its enduring influence. This famous song is celebrated for its groundbreaking status in dancehall, its infectious energy, and Sister Nancy’s pioneering role as a female DJ in a male-dominated scene.
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Missy Elliott, ‘The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)’
Missy Elliott in The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly) music video
Missy Elliott’s “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)” is a groundbreaking hip-hop track, a famous song that announced her arrival as a major solo artist and showcased her and Timbaland’s innovative production style. As producers, Elliott and Timbaland had already made a significant impact on hip-hop and R&B rhythms before Missy’s debut single. High-profile features had also introduced audiences to Elliott’s distinctive, bobbing rap flow. However, “The Rain” was an undeniable revelation. With its ghostly sample of Ann Peebles’ “I Can’t Stand the Rain,” the memorable Beenie Man misquote (“Who got the keys to the jeep?”), and a twitchy yet sleek beat, the song was unlike anything else at the time. “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)” made Missy Elliott a star and solidified her and Timbaland as the producers to beat in the industry. This famous song is celebrated for its innovative production, Missy Elliott’s unique rap style, and its lasting influence on hip-hop and R&B.
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Toto, ‘Africa’
Toto Africa single cover
Toto’s “Africa” is an enduring soft-rock anthem, a famous song that, despite its lyrical ambiguity, has become a cultural phenomenon. Toto drummer Jeff Porcaro humorously noted in 1985, “It’s funny. We thought ‘Africa’ was bold, and it did pretty good, but lyrically it didn’t make a dime of sense.” Despite the nonsensical lyrics, the song’s immediate appeal lies in its instantly calming synthesizer riff, created on a Yamaha GS-1 “dialed in [to] those kalimba, marimba kind of sounds,” as Porcaro described. Combined with the soaring chorus, the instrumental and vocal melodies create a captivating and emotionally resonant experience. “Africa” hit Number One and has since become a yacht-rock touchstone. In 2019, Weezer’s affectionate cover brought the song back into the mainstream, making it ubiquitous once again—a favor Toto returned by covering Weezer’s “Hash Pipe.” “Africa” became a famous song for its iconic synth riff, memorable chorus, and its unlikely but enduring popularity across generations and genres.
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Migos feat. Lil Uzi Vert, ‘Bad and Boujee’
Migos Bad and Boujee single cover
Migos’ “Bad and Boujee” featuring Lil Uzi Vert is a trap music phenomenon, a famous song that became a meme-generating anthem and propelled Migos to mainstream superstardom. If ringtones defined an earlier era of rap, social media gave rise to meme rap, and “Bad and Boujee” became its defining anthem. The song’s iconic “Raindrop, drop-top” hook inspired countless Twitter memes and Vine clips, even appearing at the 2017 Women’s March on Washington, D.C. Migos member Offset wrote the hook during a period of personal turmoil, telling Rolling Stone, “I had some little situations going on with life, family stuff going down, so I went downstairs to record. Sometimes that’s the best time to get music off — you might be mad, make some crazy shit.” “Bad and Boujee” became a famous song for its infectious hook, its cultural impact as a meme, and its role in solidifying trap music’s dominance in the mainstream.
