Peter Frampton is undeniably a guitar legend, his career spanning decades and filled with incredible musical moments. From his early days in The Herd and Humble Pie to his phenomenal solo success, Frampton has consistently delivered memorable songs and masterful guitar work. His breakthrough album, Frampton Comes Alive!, catapulted him to superstardom, a peak followed by inevitable valleys, but his dedication to music and guitar prowess never wavered. Here’s a countdown of some of Peter Frampton’s songs that solidified his place in rock history.
10. All I Wanna Be (Is by Your Side)
After departing Humble Pie in 1971, just as their live album Rockin’ the Fillmore elevated their fame, Peter Frampton embarked on his solo journey. His 1972 debut album, Wind of Change, established his unique musical identity, featuring a blend of strong songwriting and impressive guest musicians like Ringo Starr and Billy Preston. “All I Wanna Be (Is by Your Side)” stands out as a highlight from this album. This slow, soulful track echoes elements of his Humble Pie era but showcases a newfound confidence and maturity in Frampton’s artistry. The song’s hazy, laid-back vibe is beautifully enhanced by his signature guitar phrasing, making it a quintessential early Peter Frampton song.
Alt text: Peter Frampton Wind of Change album cover, showcasing early solo work.
9. White Sugar
For his 1973 album Frampton’s Camel, Peter Frampton aimed for a more collaborative band dynamic, naming the album after his touring group. While the band lineup would evolve, the album itself is a testament to his growing artistry. “White Sugar” is a high-energy rock and roll track reminiscent of The Faces, with a raw, barroom swagger and attitude. The lyrics are open to interpretation – whether about a woman, drugs, or general excess – but the song’s infectious energy is undeniable. “White Sugar” remains a staple in Peter Frampton’s live performances, demonstrating its enduring appeal as a classic rock anthem among Peter Frampton Songs.
Alt text: Frampton’s Camel album cover, representing Peter Frampton’s band era.
8. Somethin’s Happening
The title track from his 1974 album, Somethin’s Happening, captures Peter Frampton growing assurance as a solo artist. This song, landing at No. 8 on our list of top Peter Frampton songs, highlights his evolving sound. The harmonies are prominent and well-crafted, while Frampton’s production is sharp and contemporary. The tasteful slide guitar work perfectly complements the song’s upbeat feel. Notably, after focusing on band collaboration with Frampton’s Camel, Frampton took a more hands-on approach for Somethin’s Happening, playing nearly all instruments himself, including some drum parts, showcasing his multi-instrumental talents.
Alt text: Somethin’s Happening album art, highlighting Peter Frampton’s solo production.
7. Apple of Your Eye
Peter Frampton’s fourth solo album, simply titled Frampton, released in early 1975, was a crucial stepping stone to his monumental success the following year. This album is arguably his strongest studio effort to date, featuring original versions of many songs that would become iconic on his live album. Despite the album’s overall strength, “Apple of Your Eye” remains a somewhat underrated gem. In just over three and a half minutes, this track exemplifies Frampton’s skill as both a concise songwriter and an exceptional guitarist. It’s a perfect example of Peter Frampton songs that balance musicality and songwriting efficiency.
Alt text: Peter Frampton’s self-titled 1975 album cover, a precursor to his breakthrough.
6. Dig What I Say
By 1981, Peter Frampton faced a career downturn after the highs of the ’70s, particularly following the critically panned Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band movie. However, instead of succumbing to despair, Frampton returned with renewed rock energy. Breaking All the Rules showcased a fiery guitar playing that had been somewhat subdued during his teen idol phase with hits like “I’m In You.” The opening track, “Dig What I Say,” signaled this resurgence, with guitar volume cranked up and a return to his rock roots. Songs like “Dig What I Say” were instrumental in re-establishing Frampton’s credibility as a serious rock musician and repairing any damage from the excesses of his earlier fame, marking a significant evolution in Peter Frampton songs.
Alt text: Breaking All The Rules album cover, representing Peter Frampton’s rock resurgence.
5. It’s a Plain Shame
“It’s a Plain Shame” bursts into action with a powerful guitar riff, immediately grabbing the listener’s attention. The verses carry a Rolling Stones-esque vibe, transitioning into a chorus with a Beatles-influenced melodic sensibility. A beautifully understated guitar solo adds further polish to this track. Clocking in at just over three minutes, “It’s a Plain Shame” possesses all the qualities of a hit song, yet it was relegated to the B-side of his cover of “Jumpin’ Jack Flash.” While Frampton’s rendition of “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” is commendable, it couldn’t surpass the Rolling Stones’ original, making it a “plain shame” that “It’s a Plain Shame” never received its deserved spotlight as an A-side hit among Peter Frampton songs.
Alt text: It’s a Plain Shame single cover, highlighting an underrated Peter Frampton track.
4. (I’ll Give You) Money
One of Peter Frampton’s most forceful rock songs, “(I’ll Give You) Money,” takes the fourth spot in our top 10 Peter Frampton songs list. This track, central to his 1975 Frampton album, is brought to life by powerful guitar work, reminiscent of his energetic days with Humble Pie. One can only imagine Steve Marriott’s take on this high-octane rocker. “(I’ll Give You) Money” quickly became a live performance highlight and was prominently featured on Frampton Comes Alive!. This song marked a significant step in Frampton’s solo career, signaling his growing success and solidifying his reputation for delivering powerful rock anthems.
Alt text: I’ll Give You Money single cover, showcasing Peter Frampton’s powerful rock side.
3. Show Me the Way
Frampton Comes Alive! was a phenomenon, emerging seemingly from nowhere to become a massive global success. While his previous album, Frampton, had achieved modest success, breaking into the US Top 40, it didn’t foreshadow the explosion to come. Although a studio version of “Show Me the Way” was released in 1975, it was the live rendition from Frampton Comes Alive!, released in early 1976, that truly propelled the song to No. 6 on the charts. “Show Me the Way” remains one of his most beloved and recognizable songs, enduring the test of time, voice box effect and all. It’s a quintessential Peter Frampton song that defines his signature sound for many fans.
Alt text: Show Me The Way single cover, a signature Peter Frampton hit.
2. Nowhere’s Too Far for My Baby
“Nowhere’s Too Far for My Baby” arguably stands as Peter Frampton’s finest songwriting achievement. With an incredibly catchy verse, dynamic chorus, and a minor-key bridge, this song showcases Frampton at his most Badfinger-esque and Beatle-influenced. Despite its hit potential, “Nowhere’s Too Far for My Baby” was surprisingly never released as a single. Regardless, it radiates a joyous energy matched by Frampton’s sharp guitar work, making it a unique and vibrant standout in his extensive catalog of Peter Frampton songs.
Alt text: Nowhere’s Too Far For My Baby single art, highlighting Peter Frampton’s songwriting.
1. Do You Feel Like We Do
Taking the top spot as the No. 1 Peter Frampton song is “Do You Feel Like We Do,” the epitome of ’70s concert rock jams. The song’s central riff is instantly captivating, embedding itself in the listener’s mind. More importantly, it rocks with undeniable energy. While a six-minute version appeared on the 1973 album Frampton’s Camel, it was the extended 15-minute live rendition that truly soared. FM radio stations embraced the track, especially in late-night slots. The breakdown section became a showcase for his talk box, which, beyond the gimmick, featured some of Frampton’s most blistering guitar solos. “Do You Feel Like We Do” remains powerful and iconic, and even the radio edits are still staples on classic rock stations, solidifying its place as the ultimate Peter Frampton song.
Alt text: Peter Frampton Do You Feel Like We Do live from Frampton Comes Alive!, his signature concert jam.
