Top 100 Songs of All Time

Top 100 Songs of All Time

Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for the Top 100 Songs of All Time.

For this list, we’ll be looking at the most acclaimed, influential, and undeniable recordings ever. We’re only including English-language tracks that aren’t instrumentals or from musicals like “The Wizard of Oz.”

Did we forget one of your favorites? Let us know in the comments below.

#100: “Smoke on the Water” (1973)
Deep Purple

It's one of the first riffs every guitar player learns for a good reason. "Smoke on the Water" is also the most famous Deep Purple track, combining great storytelling with a wonderful foundation from guitarist Ritchie Blackmore. Ian Gillan sings out a tale about a live show that went terribly wrong. Putting the event into musical lore, the band serves up an inviting tune that is almost impossible to get out of your head. The group helped to usher in hard rock and this particular single helped remind people of their important impact on the classic-rock era.

#99: “One More Time” (2000)
Daft Punk

Daft Punk was an iconic electronic duo that constantly outdid themselves. Off of their album "Discovery," the single "One More Time" represents all of their musical impulses rolled into one slick composition. There's only a handful of songs that are as insanely catchy in the electronic dance genre. Showing that all you need is a thrilling hook and a few words, this boils down the essence of the songwriting of Thomas Bangalter and Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo. Many have tried to chase their production style on this hit in particular and few have ever come close to matching it.

#98: “Bad Romance” (2009)
Lady Gaga

Where would pop music in the 21st century be without the contributions of Lady Gaga? Without her guiding energy, audiences would be deprived of mega hits like "Bad Romance." It's both self-assured and full of attitude in the best possible way. Gaga mixes together her diverse influences into a perfect pop record. Her unique vocalizations are second to none, proving that she has a voice to rival any of her contemporaries. She blends dance and electronic elements that sound futuristic even by today's standards. It's almost impossible to listen to this song and not take her seriously as an artist.

#97: “Losing My Religion” (1991)
R.E.M.

Spending the 1980s crafting college rock and jangle pop, R.E.M. changed course and found the mainstream with the folksy "Losing My Religion." The single was a major breakout for a band that earned their success without compromising their sound. Michael Stipe’s one-of-a-kind voice gives this piece an intriguing and mystifying quality that keeps audiences enthralled for each replay. Along with Peter Buck's mandolin, this essential element combines for a song that helped to build the 1990s alternative movement. It also signaled that the group were heading in many more interesting directions before the decade was through.

#96: “Dancing in the Street” (1964)
Martha and the Vandellas

"Dancing in the Street" is one of the finer works to ever come out of early Motown. It was made famous by Martha Reeves & The Vandellas, in what became a treasure trove of vocal talent. This includes an impressive array of instruments, including a killer horn section that introduces the song. The group's version was recorded in 1964, but they weren't the only ones to try their hand at this classic. Many popular acts from the 1960s and beyond tried to replicate the single’s magic. Its true potential hasn’t been matched, with this recording having a profound impact on R&B and pop culture in general.

#95: “In the End” (2001)
Linkin Park

Helping to legitimize the genre known as nu metal, Linkin Park paved their own way with a cocktail of rap and rock. Their initial sound was never represented as well as on “In the End.” The sizzling track defies expectations with its powerful musicality. Mike Shinoda sets up verses that keep listeners on their toes, while Chester Bennington makes a case for his place alongside the best vocalists of his generation. There's also a nuanced message within the lyrics and the band succeeds in plotting out an ambitious set of words. From the unforgettable chorus to the underrated bridge, this song is much more than a dose of 2000s nostalgia.

#94: “Crazy” (1961)
Patsy Cline

Written by Willie Nelson, the song "Crazy" is a standard popularized by world-class singer Patsy Cline. Along with being a great track on its own, the piece worked as an important step in bridging the gap between pop and country music. Cline's vocals have a profound resonance and an amazing tone to them. She delivers notes like nobody else could, in a piece about feeling a certain way about a special someone. The composition still remains in the public consciousness, transcending its initial release as a certifiable classic in every way. At the very least, it's a reminder of the performer’s artistry before her untimely death.

#93: “I Want It That Way” (1999)
Backstreet Boys

In a career full of ballads, Backstreet Boys managed to elevate their genre beyond the stereotypes dished out by their harshest critics. "I Want It That Way" is an essential glimpse into the music that conquered the late 1990s and early 2000s. The single recounts universal themes about love and relationships. The lyrics might not be Shakespeare, but they do encapsulate an important time period for millennial audiences. You can argue over which boy band was the best, but it's undoubtedly clear that this group brought out some of the most effective harmonies of the era.

#92: “Seven Nation Army” (2003)
The White Stripes

Jack and Meg White carved out a special place for themselves in the alternative scene, but this particular single transcended any one rock subgenre. “Seven Nation Army” makes the case that a rock duo can hit as hard as any four-piece band. Built around a steady drumbeat and a solid riff, the track sneaks up on listeners with its minimalism. Everything pushes forward until a cathartic chorus that seals the deal with its electric rage. With White’s reliably-awesome songwriting, it’s easy to see how this became one of the go-to chants in stadiums around the world.

#91: “Killing Me Softly with His Song” (1973)
Roberta Flack

Roberta Flack recorded many soul classics in her day, although it's hard not to count this as her true masterpiece. She gives this cover of "Killing Me Softly with His Song" an incredible performance that feels like it's coming directly from her heart. Flack is a masterful artist in many ways, including knowing just the right way to accentuate certain words. Her career would have still been successful without this song, but nowhere near as rewarding or iconic. The Grammy-winning number-one single also inspired the likes of future legends such as Lauryn Hill and her group Fugees.

#90: “London Calling” (1979)
The Clash

The title song from The Clash’s album “London Calling” finds the band at a musical crossroads. They hadn’t lost their punk edge, while exploring different influences that arguably enhanced their sound in the late 1970s. A building guitar part leads into Joe Strummer’s snarling vocal. He lets out each and every note with a determined attitude, embracing the end of a turbulent decade for music. Strummer and his fellow group members show that they haven’t forgotten any of their passion for playing or their interest in political anthems. Saying “goodbye” to one era and welcoming another, the band presents a single worthy of their most energized compositions.

#89: “Get Ur Freak On” (2001)
Missy Elliott

#88: “Uptown Funk” (2014)
Mark Ronson feat. Bruno Mars

#87: “Last Nite” (2001)
The Strokes

#86: “Someone like You” (2011)
Adele

#85: “American Idiot” (2004)
Green Day

Green Day entered the 2000s ready to reclaim their positions as the rulers of pop punk. With the single “American Idiot,” the band brought back their punk rock edge with a political statement for George W. Bush’s America. Singer Billie Joe Armstrong doesn’t waste any time in declaring his real feelings about the direction of the country. He and his fellow bandmates light up the track with their dedication, creating a chaotic and angry sound in their wake. This song and the adjoining record spoke to a generation of disaffected citizens, especially young people in the first decade of the 21st century. It also launched several years of world tours and a renewed interest in the band overall.

#84: “99 Problems” (2004)
Jay-Z

#83: “California Dreamin’” (1965)
The Mamas & the Papas

#82: “Blinding Lights” (2019)
The Weeknd

#81: “Gangsta’s Paradise” (1995)
Coolio feat. L.V.

#80: “High and Dry” (1995)
Radiohead

By their second album “The Bends,” Radiohead had already achieved international acclaim for their own interpretation of alternative rock. “High and Dry” is a track that finds the group in a more intimate and vulnerable space. Before their future endeavors with experimental music, the band became Brit-pop masters with this heartfelt single. Thom Yorke’s vocals are reliably effective in a moving song that once again shows off his idiosyncratic tone. Their ability to take a standard concept and imbue it with emotionality continues to amaze, with each member providing layer after layer of subtle instrumentations.

#79: “Take Me Home, Country Roads” (1971)
John Denver

#78: “Livin’ on a Prayer” (1986)
Bon Jovi

#77: “Californication” (2000)
Red Hot Chili Peppers

#76: “Welcome to the Jungle” (1987)
Guns N’ Roses

#75: “Both Sides, Now” (1969)
Joni Mitchell

Known as one of the most superb singer/songwriters of any generation, Canadian artist Joni Mitchell only needs an acoustic guitar to get her point across. “Both Sides, Now” might be the pinnacle of her work as a writer, even more so than other highlights like “Big Yellow Taxi”. This song speaks to a feeling deep within all of us that begs to understand and be understood. Indelible details and references show up at every turn of this folk track, beckoning listeners to come back for seconds. Her expressive voice is anything but ordinary and creates an entirely original foundation. Mitchell never stops exploring the human condition, boiling down the mysteries of life into a glorious creation.

#74: “Born to Run” (1975)
Bruce Springsteen

#73: “Johnny B. Goode” (1958)
Chuck Berry

#72: “Back to Black” (2007)
Amy Winehouse

#71: “Fire and Rain” (1970)
James Taylor

#70: “Oops!… I Did It Again” (2000)
Britney Spears

Britney Spears appeared fully formed as a pop star in the late 1990s, taking the following decade by storm with her confidence. This massive single was one of the reasons that the superstar became an idol for younger music fans. In connection with an iconic music video, this track helped shape the cultural landscape with a catchy chorus that’s still quoted to this day. Spears’ voice and singular artistry create a package that’s impossible to forget. Starting off the 2000s with a bang, the singer takes control of her narrative with a strong follow-up to “...Baby One More Time.”

#69: “Layla” (1971)
Derek and the Dominos
#68: “Hey Ya!” (2003)
Outkast

#67: “Killing in the Name” (1992)
Rage Against the Machine

#66: “You Oughta Know” (1995)
Alanis Morissette

#65: “Jesus Walks” (2004)
Kanye West

Kanye West is a controversial and polarizing figure, but separating art from artists, this track finds him in top form as a musician. West started his solo career with a slew of instant classics, including this triumphant release. “Jesus Walks” summarizes his musical skills in a dynamic mixture of styles. It features his signature flow, unmistakable lyrics, and a production value that sets him apart from contemporary rappers. West’s elaborate vision comes through in a brilliant track, never compromising its sound for one second. After this successful single from “The College Dropout,” the performer went on to such other achievements as the samples from “Diamonds from Sierra Leone” or the introspection of “Runaway”.

#64: “Dream On” (1973)
Aerosmith

#63: “Where the Streets Have No Name” (1987)
U2

#62: “C.R.E.A.M.” (1994)
Wu-Tang Clan

#61: “Dancing Queen” (1976)
ABBA

#60: “Welcome to the Black Parade” (2006)
My Chemical Romance

MCR released their record “Welcome to the Black Parade” and changed emo forever. The band built a loyal following in the years leading up to this achievement, all of whom fell in love with their use of rock subgenres. Gerard Way pushes the envelope in terms of singing, shuffling between marching music and all-out chaos. His theatrical lyrics suit the overall production in a no-holds barred creation. Way and the band shift gears into a hard rock section to showcase their expertise in rocking the competition to smithereens. No paint is left on the palette, as the group brings it all together in a cathartic ending.

#59: “Lose Yourself” (2002)
Eminem

#58: “California Love” (1995)
2Pac feat. Dr. Dre & Roger Troutman

#57: “Champagne Supernova” (1996)
Oasis

#56: “I Will Survive” (1978)
Gloria Gaynor

#55: “Best of You” (2005)
Foo Fighters

Coming off of the album “In Your Honor,” the single “Best of You” has all of the intensity you could want from a Foo Fighters’ song. Dave Grohl’s visceral lyrics explore a universal feeling of being weighed down by it all. Never half-baked behind the microphone, Grohl yells his lines in a performance that becomes more passionate by the minute. His bandmates rock their instruments into oblivion with drummer Taylor Hawkins deserving particular mention. Hitting the drums as hard as his frontman ever did back in the day, Hawkins rolls his way into 2000s rock history. The group make one of their most emotional statements here, with “The Pretender” and “Everlong” following close behind for their excellent production value.

#54: “Master of Puppets” (1986)
Metallica

#53: “One Love/People Get Ready” (1984)
Bob Marley and the Wailers

#52: “Don’t Stop Believin’” (1981)
Journey

#51: “Time After Time” (1984)
Cyndi Lauper

#50: “Stayin’ Alive” (1977)
Bee Gees

Bee Gees took over disco and became one of its most successful proponents in the late 1970s, proving the genre had traction with singles like “Stayin’ Alive.” Its groovy introduction immediately sets the tone with a funky riff. Barry Gibb harmonizes with his super-talented brothers, taking the lead with his formidable falsetto. Starting off the film “Saturday Night Fever,” the track’s place in the annals of pop culture history is undeniable. John Travolta received the ultimate soundtrack for his famous strut down the New York streets. Slick and endlessly listenable, it’s an instant pick-me-up with its positive beat.

#49: “I Got You (I Feel Good)” (1965)
James Brown

#48: “My Heart Will Go On” (1997)
Celine Dion

#47: “Jolene” (1973)
Dolly Parton

#46: “September” (1978)
Earth, Wind & Fire

#45: “Alright” (2015)
Kendrick Lamar

In the 2010s, Kendrick Lamar hit the mainstream with his personal brand of hip-hop. His 2015 album “To Pimp a Butterfly” and its single “Alright” might be the pinnacle of his career in terms of artistic freedom coming together with an incisive political message. It contains an infectious rhythm that mixes perfectly with Lamar’s frenetic flow. After hearing his incredibly candid set of words and eclectic rhymes, there’s no doubting the artist’s status as a premier songwriter. The track’s status as a profound anthem for disenfranchisement and injustice remains unquestioned all these years later.

#44: “Purple Haze” (1967)
Jimi Hendrix Experience

#43: “I Feel the Earth Move” (1971)
Carole King

#42: “Like a Prayer” (1989)
Madonna

#41: “Lean on Me” (1972)
Bill Withers

#40: “Comfortably Numb” (1980)
Pink Floyd

Pink Floyd ended the 1970s with another masterpiece entitled “The Wall.” The concept album includes the epic “Comfortably Numb,” an emotional trip through the thoughts of a troubled rockstar. Roger Waters establishes the mood with his haunting and sinister verses, giving way to David Gilmour’s angelic choruses that bring together the nuances of the main character’s inner struggles. The track also allows for Gilmour to create two incredible guitar solos on top of a compelling story. This could be considered the high-water mark for the whole record, while the cultural impact of “Another Brick in the Wall, Part 2” can’t go unmentioned either (xref).

#39: “Juicy” (1994)
The Notorious B.I.G.

#38: “Bridge over Troubled Water” (1970)
Simon & Garfunkel

#37: “Georgia on My Mind” (1960)
Ray Charles

#36: “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)” (2008)
Beyoncé

#35: “War Pigs” (1970)
Black Sabbath

After “War Pigs” starts off Black Sabbath’s album “Paranoid,” you can’t help but feel converted to the world of heavy metal. Arguments abound about the originators of the genre, but few ever did it better than this band on this particular song. Some people consider these kinds of groups boneheaded for their loud music without actually listening to their ingenious lyrics. Ozzy Osbourne sings about rebelling against war-mongering and draft boards, in mature and imaginative phrases that haven’t lost their luster. The opening lines feel like the start of an opera or a film in both its scope and sound. Powered by one of the better quartets in rock history, this protest record digs deep and legitimizes metal as an artform.

#34: “My Way” (1969)
Frank Sinatra

#33: “My Girl” (1964)
The Temptations

#32: “Proud Mary” (1971)
Ike & Tina Turner

#31: “Space Oddity” (1969)
David Bowie

#30: “Dreams” (1977)
Fleetwood Mac

In a band full of extraordinary musicians and songwriters, Stevie Nicks might very well be the heart of Fleetwood Mac. Her list of awesome compositions include this single from the acclaimed album “Rumours.” This doesn’t discredit her other evocative tracks like “Landslide,” which could easily be on this list. “Dreams” finds Nicks in pristine form as a vocalist, serving up a set of lyrics that turn a relationship into an especially cinematic composition. Her use of thunder and rain as a motif is one of a handful of spectacular choices for this classic. It’s perhaps the most mature and daring moment on a record known for its heartbreaking creation, inviting audiences to frequently return to it for guidance.

#29: “Strange Fruit” (1939)
Billie Holiday

#28: “Purple Rain” (1984)
Prince and the Revolution

#27: “Hotel California” (1977)
Eagles

#26: “Stand by Me” (1961)
Ben E. King

#25: “Feeling Good” (1965)
Nina Simone

When Nina Simone sang a song, she gave it everything she had. She takes this jazzy number and turns it into much more than a show tune. Simone’s artistry transcended the confines of any singular genre or musical point-of-view, bringing her virtuoso instincts to this dramatic number. There’s not one false move at any point in this staggering recording. The depth and true character of her voice really comes across in a track that is forever associated with her. Many artists from Flo Rida to Kanye West have borrowed from this version in particular, reminding the younger generations of the singer’s influence on modern music.

#24: “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” (1968)
Otis Redding

#23: “Be My Baby” (1963)
The Ronettes

#22: “What a Wonderful World” (1967)
Louis Armstrong

#21: “Gimme Shelter” (1969)
The Rolling Stones

#20: “Superstition” (1972)
Stevie Wonder

In a career of incredible work, "Superstition" finds Stevie Wonder at a crossroads of funk, R&B, and pop majesty. It's hard to argue against its effervescent energy and the strategic use of a clavinet. The song punctuates the brilliance of his early 1970s period, making for one of his most crowd-pleasing singles. This track shot to number-one in the U.S. with its inventive lyrical content that explores much more than the usual topics of love. Wonder always brings a sense of joy and spirit to any of his recordings, but this ranks among his most engaging productions.

#19: “God Only Knows” (1966)
The Beach Boys

The Beach Boys cultivated a wide-range of summertime hits in the 1960s, but their album "Pet Sounds” rewrote the rules of pop music forever. Among an incredible list of work on the record, "God Only Knows" stands out as the most heartbreaking and musically sophisticated track. Brian Wilson's ingenious arrangements and Carl Wilson's lead vocals combine for a beautifully melancholic song. The bold recording trades the usual rock instruments for a string section to rival any classical piece. Wilson's unquestionable genius is personified on this lovingly-crafted recording, inspiring a legion of musicians to dream bigger.

#18: “Fight the Power” (1989)
Public Enemy

Public Enemy's place in hip-hop history was solidified with the release of "Fight the Power." Created for the film "Do the Right Thing," this record features all the best ingredients of an incredible protest song. It has a funky rhythm and fantastic samples to rival any rap single of its day. This doesn't compromise its message either, containing an honest and political consciousness that follows in a tradition of civil rights' anthems. Hype-man Flavor Flav keeps the energy high as Chuck D lays down a series of powerful verses coinciding with the movie's energy. There are few hip-hop groups that could better depict the struggles of 1980s New York, or the racial divide in American society.

#17: “What’s Going On” (1971)
Marvin Gaye

Few artists could speak to their audiences with as much vulnerability as Marvin Gaye. Perhaps his finest accomplishment as a writer was "What's Going On," the title track to a concept album full of incredible observations. Gaye's soulful masterstroke creates inviting rhythms that support his universal question. This song tracks the singer's feelings on everything from war to racism with pinpoint accuracy. His musings on life are so effective that they still have resonance many generations later, never wavering or fading to induce tears in listeners. The beauty of the release defined a decade of impressive music to follow.

#16: “Blowin’ in the Wind” (1963)
Bob Dylan

Among the most lauded writers of 20th century music, Bob Dylan's lyrical mastery will be remembered forever. "Blowin' in the Wind" is just one example of his genius. Written during his early folk period, the song presents an important philosophical question for the 1960s. His rich metaphors question the nature of conflict and humanity on their most basic level. Dylan's way with words never ceases to amaze or provoke thought, using every syllable to its fullest potential. Some would rather choose his later single "Like a Rolling Stone" to talk about his generational impact, but the endless influence that stems from this record deserves just as much attention.

#15: “Straight Outta Compton” (1988)
N.W.A

N.W.A created their own landscape with the title track off of "Straight Outta Compton." This electric song and the album of the same name generated a wave of new hip-hop in Los Angeles, setting the tone for gangsta rap’s rise to power. Ice Cube starts off the first verse like he's been waiting his whole life to let people know his truth, not mincing words or censoring himself in any way. The lyrics discuss the reality of being Black in America and combat the racial inequalities that still hold true today. Produced by various group members including Dr. Dre, the furiousness of this song has no equal.

#14: “Your Song” (1970)
Elton John

Elton John and Bernie Taupin began their musical partnership in the late 1960s and became household names within a few years. Their collaboration on "Your Song" shows that they were destined to work together, showing off the magical connection between music and lyrics. Taupin's efforts express the finer details of a love letter in ways that few artists ever could. Heightening the impact of these words, John expands upon the romantic quality of the composition in his vocals. A particular highlight of the track comes with his articulation of a line about eye color. It's all even more exceptional when considering that this was just the beginning of the duo's journey together, later creating fantastic follow-ups such as “Rocket Man”.

#13: “A Change Is Gonna Come” (1964)
Sam Cooke

Sam Cooke was never better or more perfect for a piece than "A Change Is Gonna Come." His greatness extends throughout every note in the song, especially in his articulation of each riveting word. The track became associated with the civil rights movement in 1960s America. It is both a beacon of hope for a brighter future and a deeply-felt message for change. Cooke was no stranger to hits, but this single strikes a chord that can't be found on any Billboard list or written review. He's also accompanied by a brilliant string arrangement that heightens the mood and takes an already wonderful song to another plane of existence.

#12: “I Walk the Line” (1956)
Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash was a country legend that played by his own rules. His song "I Walk the Line" culls together his own philosophy with the deep voice that separated him from his contemporaries. Cash stands alone as an artist of indomitable spirit and tenacity, establishing himself as an enviable songwriter in this track. He practically creates a genre all his own with his inviting vocals and steady beat to match. There's no denying this work's place among his finest recordings, ranking alongside the likes of "Folsom Prison Blues" or "Ring of Fire" (xref). His subtle and poetic ways seep out of this production and reveal a man that's much more than the cowboy stereotype.

#11: “At Last” (1960)
Etta James

"At Last" starts with one of the most unforgettable lines ever. With Etta James at the helm, the song instantly achieved iconic status for her interpretation of them. She efficiently captures the amazing feeling of finding the right person and falling in love with them. As a burst of pure happiness and affection, this recording never fails to bring up warm and fuzzy feelings. James doesn't always get the attention of the other stellar voices of the 1950s and 1960s, but this performance quickly reminds everyone of her magnitude. Her invaluable contributions to blues, soul, and R&B all exist within this track's DNA.

#10: “Imagine” (1971)
John Lennon

John Lennon's most profound statement as a solo artist captures a global audience with its thematic richness. It still endures long after its 1971 release, provoking thought and criticism for its bold ideas. Lennon's lyrics pine for a future without war or poverty among other things that divide humanity. His captivating songwriting and the accompanying piano part provide a snapshot of another world, daring to dream of something beyond the typical social structures we have in modern life. The song has its fair share of opponents, but the true impact of the track continues to influence generations of listeners.

#9: “Respect” (1967)
Aretha Franklin

Nobody sings like Aretha Franklin and there's arguably no greater example of her unprecedented vocals than on "Respect." Adapting Otis Redding's original track for a new audience, Franklin recorded her own version in 1967 and it became her defining release. Her tone and range are one-in-a-million on a song that allows her to infuse all of her capabilities into a raw performance. She spells the title with the intensity of a shooting star, catapulting herself to the top of the charts in a pivotal era in American history. It's fair to say that there were female singers before and after her, with few coming close to her genius on this cover.

#8: “Stairway to Heaven” (1971)
Led Zeppelin

Led Zeppelin remixed blues riffs and brought them into the late 1960s and 1970s. Their atmospheric tale "Stairway to Heaven" is often considered the jewel in their crown, combining their love for their early rock influences and mystical lyrics. It all plays out like a dense film with twists and turns courtesy of Robert Plant's compelling voice. Jimmy Page starts everything off with one of the most well-known arpeggios in guitar, later transitioning into an entrancing riff and solo. The combination of these two performers, along with the underrated efforts of John Paul Jones and precise drumming of John Bonham, is an example of a grandiose track that rides the line and succeeds.

#7: “Can’t Help Falling in Love” (1961)
Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley is often known as the "King of Rock and Roll," but is sometimes overlooked for his work on songs like "Can't Help Falling in Love." This track represents Presley as a heart throb, competing with the great vocalists of the era such as Frank Sinatra. He takes a chance in changing genres and succeeds here with a more intimate performance. Originally featured on the album and film "Blue Hawaii," the single followed the performer throughout his heyday as a live act. It became the go-to closer for his impressive stage shows and was one of the best reminders of the artist's dramatic hold on an audience. While “Hound Dog” showcases his hip-swinging attitude, this choice puts the vocalist in touch with his emotional side.

#6: “Smells Like Teen Spirit” (1991)
Nirvana

"Smells Like Teen Spirit" pools all of Nirvana’s musical genius into an exciting single. The song is built around a simple guitar riff and the songwriting prowess of Kurt Cobain. No track better explained the grunge movement, with its rock and punk influences shining in every note. Dave Grohl’s drums rumble and rattle throughout, in a cacophonous mix of ferocity and skillful playing. Cobain’s lyrics are another standout as they sneak up on listeners with their interpretative lines. The singer screams the final lines with every ounce of strength he has left, securing his place in music history.

#5: “I Will Always Love You” (1992)
Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston's defining performance still stuns listeners decades after it first hit the charts. The singer's cover of Dolly Parton's classic redefines the peak of musical performance in any genre, shattering expectations with her impeccable voice. This single off of "The Bodyguard" soundtrack took an already successful career and elevated it far beyond anyone's comprehension. Houston does justice to Parton's deeply emotional words in a recording that will forever exemplify the concept of making something your own. Some people have chased the song for many years, but absolutely no one has ever come close to this version.

#4: “Beat It” (1983)
Michael Jackson

On the album “Thriller,” Michael Jackson hit a massive milestone as a solo artist. “Beat It” is one piece of the legendary pop puzzle that also includes “Billie Jean” and the title track. The singer infuses rock elements into a huge single for all audiences to enjoy, working closely with iconic producer Quincy Jones in the control room. Steve Lukather from Toto lays down the memorable guitar riff with gusto, not to be outdone by Eddie Van Halen’s equally fun solo stylings. Jackson is on top of the world at this moment and showing he has an inventive songwriting ability to match his vocal talents.

#3: “Bohemian Rhapsody” (1975)
Queen

An epic song to shame all others, “Bohemian Rhapsody” is Queen’s magnum opus. Their virtuoso talents come together for several thrilling sections. Beginning with the vocal harmonies in phase one, the band showcase their singing abilities before Freddie Mercury takes over. The track transitions from a piano ballad to an operatic section that invokes Scaramouche without missing a beat. It all builds to a hard rock climax that each and every member heightens with their respective instruments. Mercury’s writing has all the respectability of a fine symphony, making it one of the more influential compositions in popular culture.

#2: “Let It Be” (1970)
The Beatles

In one of The Beatles’ final releases, they issued a sobering ballad about finding strength in the darkest moments. Paul McCartney starts the song with a piano as he summons the memory of his mother. The haunting lyrics give hope to all listeners, reminding them that there’s always a better day ahead of them. McCartney takes the lead on this number and gives one of his greatest vocal performances in a career that also includes stunning writing on pieces like “Yesterday” (xref). It feels almost effortless as he pours his heart out, never stretching too far to find the right words. Many Beatles’ tracks could have taken this place, but “Let It Be” works best as an encapsulation of the group’s larger message of peace.

#1: “Hallelujah” (1984)
Leonard Cohen

Released in the 1980s, Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” has a timeless quality that could work in any era. Cohen’s enigmatic words transcend spiritual and philosophical ideas, using Biblical phrases to discuss the complexities of life and love. His deep and resonant voice brings a unique energy to the original version, embracing the imperfections and blemishes in his delivery. Many artists have spent the following decades paying tribute to this track. It has the capacity to adapt to almost any other singer’s style, making stars out of singers such as Jeff Buckley (xref). The underlying poetry of the lyrics and the innovative melody are nearly unmatched in their grandeur.