Top 10 KISS Songs
Script written by Gabriel Foley.
They were made for loving you. Welcome to WatchMojo.com, and today we’re counting down our picks for the top 10 KISS songs.
For this list, we’ve chosen our entries based on a combination of the artist’s fan favorites and their most commercially successful songs.
#10: “God of Thunder”
Destroyer (1976)
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Since the lyrics are sung from the point of view of someone with supernatural rock and roll powers, this song off KISS’s fourth studio album was the perfect fit for Gene Simmons’ “Demon.” With its mid-tempo pace, eerie vibe and heavy metal sound, “God of Thunder” was a live stunner back in the day and really brought out the band’s theatrical side.
#9: “God Gave Rock ‘N’ Roll to You II”
Revenge (1992)
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Originally found on the “Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey” soundtrack, this 5-and-a-half minute rocker is also one of the highlights of KISS’ early ‘90s record. Charting within the top 10 in several European countries, the single proved the band was far from finished making rock and roll hits. It may be a re-imagining of an Argent track, but KISS truly made it their own thanks to its mix of pop rock, hard rock, heavy metal and glam metal. “God Gave Rock ‘N’ Roll to You II” is also notable for its memorable chorus and Simmons and Paul Stanley sharing lead vocal duties.
#8: “Forever”
Hot In the Shade (1990)
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Who knew Michael Bolton and KISS could make beautiful music together? But that’s exactly what happened when the soft rock crooner teamed up with Stanley to pen this power ballad that hit the Billboard Hot 100 Top 10. Taken off the band’s 15th studio album, “Forever” became KISS’ first single to reach the top 40 since 1979.
#7: “Beth”
Destroyer (1976)
While we could’ve also chosen “Hard Luck Woman,” it’s this earlier track sung by drummer Peter Criss and one of only two KISS singles to be certified gold that makes our list. Dealing with the difficulties of being away from their wives and girlfriends, “Beth” shows off the band’s softer side in terms of lyrical content and musical style. But that’s not all: the Destroyer tune even became their highest-charting Billboard Hot 100 single when it peaked at number 7.
#6: “Shout It Out Loud”
Destroyer (1976)
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Though KISS experimented a fair amount on their fourth album, they weren’t afraid to throw their hard rock style in there either. Inspired by The Hollies, KISS undoubtedly composed this energetic number with their fellow rockers in mind and hoped they would “shout it out loud” with them all night long. Considering its status as a concert staple, it’s no wonder a live version of the track also charted on the Billboard Hot 100.
#5: “Love Gun”
Love Gun (1977)
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Aside from their standout stage makeup and attire, KISS has also made their mark on the music world thanks to their successful blend of hard rock and heavy metal. And according to Stanley, there are few KISS songs that represent the band’s sound as well as the title track to their sixth effort. Penned by Criss, “Love Gun” continues to be incorporated into the band’s live sets today and has been covered by multiple artists and appeared in various media formats.
#4: “Strutter”
Kiss (1974)
As the opening track of their self-titled debut, this fast, guitar-centric rocker served as an introduction to KISS’ music. Co-written by Simmons and Stanley, “Strutter” failed to chart, but it’s still a band favorite. Fusing hard rock and glam rock with Bob Dylan-inspired lyrics, the three-minute number was often played in concerts during the band’s early years.
#3: “I Was Made For Lovin’ You”
Dynasty (1979)
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With its distinctive guitar riff and catchy chorus, this Dynasty song became a hit with fans and critics alike. “I Was Made For Lovin’ You” didn’t only reach the Billboard Hot 100’s top twenty but topped multiple charts around the world. Though its success and disco elements caused some fans to accuse KISS of selling out, the song’s popularity can’t be denied. Plus a more rockin’ rendition of the track is often incorporated into live shows.
#2: “Detroit Rock City”
Destroyer (1976)
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Easily one of the group’s most iconic songs, this tune is a powerhouse of the band’s signature sound. Though it speaks of the real-life death of a KISS fan, “Detroit Rock City” still manages to rock hard and loud. The Stanley-penned track may not have charted, but it continues to be a fan favorite that’s made numerous pop culture appearances as well.
Before we get to the number one pick, here are a few honorable mentions:
- “Lick it Up” Lick It Up (1983)
- “Unholy” Revenge (1992)
- “Calling Dr. Love” Rock and Roll Over (1976)
- “I Love It Loud” Creatures of the Night (1982)
- “Crazy Crazy Nights” Crazy Nights (1987)
#1: “Rock and Roll All Nite”
Dressed to Kill (1975)
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When you think of KISS, there’s a very good chance that this is the song that comes to mind. Thanks to its loud, anthemic nature, the Dressed to Kill single helped the band capture the excitement of their live shows in the studio and gave us one of the most iconic party rock songs ever. Experience this song live and there’s no doubt you’ll want to “rock and roll all night and party every day” with KISS over and over again.
Do you agree with our list? What’s your favorite KISS song? For more entertaining top 10s, be sure to subscribe to WatchMojo.com.
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