Written by Ray Davies, reflecting the band's early hard rock sound.
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180 matching catalog entries
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Showing 1-180 of 180.
1965
1968
A cover of Joe South's song, transformed into a psychedelic rock anthem.
View background statusA hard rock cover of Eddie Cochran's 1958 hit about teenage frustration.
View background status1970
This classic rock staple launched the career of British band Free and became their biggest hit.
View background statusThis hard rock song gained popularity in 1971 and has since become a classic rock staple.
View background statusThis hard rock song continued Steppenwolf's string of hits in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
View background statusThis hard rock classic became Mountain's best-known song and a staple of classic rock radio.
View background statusThis hard rock song showcased The Guess Who's evolving sound and became one of their biggest hits.
View background statusBlack Sabbath formed in Birmingham from the blues-oriented group Earth, bringing Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler and Bill Ward together. The early albums Black Sabbath and Paranoid established a heavy,...
View background statusThe House of the Rising Sun
Frijid PinkReported release: 1970Date needs verification
Source year-end #60This heavy rock version of the traditional folk song became Frijid Pink's biggest hit.
View background status1971
This song about the angst of turning 18 became Alice Cooper's breakthrough hit.
View background statusThis hard rock song gained popularity in 1971 and has since become a classic rock staple.
View background statusThis cover of The Rolling Stones' song became a hit for Grand Funk Railroad.
View background statusFeatures yodeling and other vocal effects Known for its unique blend of hard rock and experimental sounds
View background statusAlthough never released as a single, this epic rock song from "Led Zeppelin IV" became one of the band's most famous works.
View background statusThis hard rock song, featuring Rod Stewart on vocals, became one of The Faces' most popular tracks.
View background statusThis hard rock anthem, with its famous scream, became one of The Who's most recognizable songs.
View background status1972
A satirical take on political campaigns
View background statusThe joy of summer vacation
View background statusSmoke on the Water
Deep PurpleReported release: 1972 / 1973Date needs verification | Recent carryover
A fire at the Montreux Casino
View background statusA traditional Irish folk song
View background status1973
Written by Steven Tyler While not initially a hit, it later became one of Aerosmith's signature songs
View background statusSmoke on the Water
Deep PurpleReported release: 1972 / 1973Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #50Features one of the most famous guitar riffs in rock history Inspired by a real fire at the Montreux Casino
View background statusWe're an American Band
Grand Funk RailroadReported release: 1973Date needs verification
Source year-end #23Produced by Todd Rundgren Became an anthem for the band and American rock music
View background statusWoman from Tokyo opens Deep Purple's 1973 album Who Do We Think We Are in the band's official archive. The track sits in the original seven-song program alongside Mary Long and Rat Bat Blue. Its documented album year...
Read background and sources1974
Taking chances and going with the flow
View background statusTakin' Care of Business
Bachman-Turner OverdriveReported release: 1973Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #63Randy Bachman's work ethic and musical career
View background statusCover of Little Eva's 1962 hit, reimagined as a rock song
View background statusCover of Little Eva's 1962 hit
View background statusBachman-Turner Overdrive grew from Randy Bachman's work after leaving the Guess Who and from the earlier group Brave Belt. Fred Turner shared vocal duties with Bachman as the band developed a direct, guitar-driven...
View background status1975
A song about the difficulties of maintaining a relationship.
View background statusA rock ballad about romantic desire and intimacy.
View background statusA hard rock song with Cooper's trademark theatrical style.
View background statusJackie Blue
Ozark Mountain DaredevilsReported release: 1975Date needs verification
Source year-end #30Written about a free-spirited woman the band knew.
View background statusRoll On Down the Highway
Bachman-Turner OverdriveReported release: 1974Date needs verification | Recent carryover
A rock anthem celebrating life on the road as a touring musician.
View background statusSome Kind of Wonderful
Grand Funk RailroadReported release: 1974Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #6A cover of Soul Brothers Six's 1967 hit, given a rock makeover.
View background statusYou Ain't Seen Nothing Yet
Bachman-Turner OverdriveReported release: 1974Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #98A rock song with a stuttering vocal hook, originally recorded as a joke.
View background status1976
Foghat formed after drummer Roger Earl and singer-guitarist Dave Peverett left Savoy Brown. The band's approach joined American blues influences with British rock and a strong emphasis on concert performance. Its...
View background statusCooper's struggle with alcoholism
View background statusKiss developed around Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Ace Frehley and Peter Criss, building a theatrical rock identity through makeup, amplified spectacle and audience participation. Alive! brought the energy of the...
View background statusA metaphor for a relaxed, enjoyable romantic encounter.
View background statusThe return of a group of friends to their hometown.
View background statusA line from the Mel Brooks film "Young Frankenstein"
View background status1977
The intensity and passion of rock and roll lifestyle
View background statusA playful take on romantic expertise
View background statusPaul Stanley's attempt to write a Rod Stewart-style song
View background statusCooper's struggle with alcoholism
View background statusCooper's attempt at writing a straightforward love song
View background status1978
The song was inspired by the band's blues-rock influences.
View background statusThe song was inspired by Nugent's high-energy rock style and provocative persona.
View background status1979
The joy of dancing all night
View background statusHow You Gonna See Me Now
Alice CooperRelease: 1978Source checked | Recent carryover
Source year-end #87Alice Cooper began as the name of a rock band formed in Phoenix, with a stage style drawing on horror films and theatrical spectacle. Working with Bob Ezrin, the group reached a wider audience through Love It to...
View background statusThe band's experimentation with disco sounds
View background statusThe dream of becoming a rock star
View background status1981
A hard rock track from the band's "Difficult to Cure" album.
View background status1982
Van Halen developed through Pasadena parties and Los Angeles clubs before its self-titled 1978 debut. The early band joined Eddie Van Halen's elaborate guitar work with David Lee Roth's vocals, Alex Van Halen's drums...
View background statusAn early Bon Jovi song about enduring love.
View background statusA hard rock ballad about emotional detachment.
View background status1983
A cover of Slade's 1973 hit, which became Quiet Riot's breakthrough single.
View background statusDef Leppard emerged from Sheffield during the rise of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. Their later records developed a melodic rock approach suited to large concert stages. Pyromania and Hysteria became central...
View background statusPhotograph
Def LeppardReported release: 1982Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #90Inspired by a photograph of Marilyn Monroe.
View background statusThe lead single from the band's debut album, showcasing their hard rock sound.
View background statusYour Love Is Driving Me Crazy
Sammy HagarReported release: 1982Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #79One of Hagar's biggest solo hits before joining Van Halen.
View background status1984
Cum on Feel the Noize
Quiet RiotReported release: 1983Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #68A cover of Slade's 1973 hit, the song was inspired by the raw energy of rock concerts.
View background statusThe song was inspired by the band's desire to create a straightforward rock anthem.
View background statusThe song was inspired by the patience and dedication required in long-term relationships.
View background statusThe song was inspired by a TV news story about a man threatening to commit suicide by jumping off a building.
View background statusThe song was inspired by the band's experiences with femme fatales in the Los Angeles rock scene.
View background statusA cover of Slade's 1972 hit, the song was inspired by the wild lifestyle of rock musicians.
View background statusThe song was inspired by the band's desire to create a powerful, high-energy rock anthem.
View background statusThe song was inspired by the cyclical nature of relationships and life in the fast lane.
View background statusThe song was inspired by the band's rebellious attitude and desire to stand up against authority.
View background status1985
California Girls
David Lee RothReported release: 1984Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #88A cover of The Beach Boys' classic, given a hard rock makeover by the Van Halen frontman.
View background statusA hard rock track about intense desire and passion.
View background statusA cover of the T. Rex classic, given a hard rock makeover by the supergroup.
View background statusA melodic metal ballad showcasing the band's softer side.
View background statusA supergroup featuring Jimmy Page and Paul Rodgers, blending hard rock with 80s production.
View background statusA hard rock ode to summer romance and fun.
View background statusA power ballad marking KISS's temporary abandonment of their trademark makeup.
View background status1986
The struggles of working-class Americans
View background statusWalk This Way
Run-D.M.C. featuring AerosmithReported release: 1986Date needs verification
Source year-end #89This groundbreaking collaboration reimagined Aerosmith's 1975 hit with a hip-hop twist.
View background statusWritten for the Stephen King film "Maximum Overdrive," this song questions the nature of creation and control.
View background statusThis was the first single with Sammy Hagar as lead vocalist, exploring new love.
View background statusCo-written with Desmond Child, this song describes a heartbreaking relationship.
View background status1987
Starting over and self-reliance
View background statusThe excitement and uncertainty of new love
View background statusThe struggles of working-class Americans
View background statusThe pain and pleasure of love
View background statusSexual attraction and flirtation
View background statusThe lifestyle of touring musicians
View background statusThe allure of a rebellious, desirable person
View background statusThe band's experiences in the gritty underbelly of Los Angeles.
View background status1988
The saving grace of love
View background statusBon Jovi formed in New Jersey in 1983 around Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, David Bryan, Tico Torres and Alec John Such. Their early albums paired hard-rock playing with prominent pop melodies, reaching a much wider...
View background statusIron Maiden was formed in East London by bassist Steve Harris in 1975. The band's early albums emerged during the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, pairing forceful guitars with Harris's galloping bass patterns. Paul...
View background statusIs This Love
WhitesnakeReported release: 1987Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #17The uncertainty and excitement of new love
View background statusDavid Lee Roth became known as Van Halen's original lead vocalist before building a separate solo catalog. Crazy from the Heat featured his interpretations of familiar songs, including California Girls and the Just a...
View background statusLove Bites
Def LeppardReported release: 1987 / 1988Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #30The pain and pleasure of love
View background statusThe carefree spirit of rock 'n' roll lifestyle
View background statusA chance encounter with a sugar-pouring incident in a café
View background statusThe music developed during a house rehearsal from a guitar figure Slash was playing. The other musicians added chords, bass and drums; Axl Rose supplied words inspired by Erin Everly. A later suggestion from producer...
Read background and sourcesWhite Lion was a New York hard-rock band led by Danish singer Mike Tramp and guitarist Vito Bratta. Its music combined melodic hooks with the guitar-centered production associated with 1980s pop metal. Albums...
View background statusRecognizing true love
View background status1989
Based on a true story about a young man who accidentally killed his friend and was sentenced to life in prison.
View background statusArmageddon It
Def LeppardReported release: 1988Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #53A play on words ("I'm a-gettin' it") and the excitement of rock 'n' roll lifestyle.
View background statusThe idea of finding one's soulmate and destined partner.
View background statusClose My Eyes Forever
Lita Ford and Ozzy OsbourneReported release: 1988Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #77A rock ballad about the intensity of love and loss.
View background statusThe fear of losing someone and the desire to hold onto a moment.
View background statusEvery Rose Has Its Thorn
PoisonReported release: 1988Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #3Written by Bret Michaels after a phone call with his girlfriend revealed she was with another man.
View background statusThe band's desire to create a power ballad that would appeal to a wide audience.
View background statusWritten about the band's commitment to their fans and each other.
View background statusThe physical and emotional connection in a passionate relationship.
View background statusAerosmith developed a guitar-centered rock sound in Boston, with Steven Tyler and Joe Perry joined by Brad Whitford, Tom Hamilton and Joey Kramer. Their 1973 debut introduced Dream On and Mama Kin, while Toys in the...
View background statusA cover of Ian Hunter's song about caution in love after being hurt.
View background statusParadise City
Guns N' RosesReported release: 1988Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #86The band's vision of an ideal place, contrasting with the gritty reality of city life.
View background statusThe need for patience in a relationship, showcasing the band's softer side.
View background statusThe toxic nature of an addictive and destructive relationship.
View background statusA tribute to the band's rock 'n' roll influences and the power of music.
View background statusWhen the Children Cry
White LionReported release: 1988Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #60The impact of war and social issues on innocent children.
View background status1990
(Can't Live Without Your) Love and Affection
NelsonRelease year not establishedDate review open
Source year-end #27Nelson is the rock group led by twin brothers Matthew and Gunnar Nelson, the sons of singer Ricky Nelson. Their melodic rock debut After the Rain included (Can't Live Without Your) Love and Affection. The brothers...
View background statusHard rock sound
View background statusWritten for the film "Young Guns II"
View background statusGlam metal innuendo
View background statusClassic rock love song
View background statusSkid Row grew out of the New Jersey rock scene around the songwriting partnership of bassist Rachel Bolan and guitarist Dave 'Snake' Sabo. Guitarist Scotti Hill joined as the group developed a forceful combination of...
View background statusJanie's Got a Gun
AerosmithReported release: 1989Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #61Child abuse and revenge
View background statusAcoustic rock ballad
View background statusWritten for the film "Young Guns II"
View background statusHard rock comeback
View background statusGlam metal sound
View background statusEmotional rock ballad
View background statusMotley Crue emerged from Los Angeles with a lineup built around singer Vince Neil, bassist Nikki Sixx, drummer Tommy Lee and guitarist Mick Mars. Their stage presentation became part of the band's identity, including...
View background status1991
After the Rain
NelsonReported release: 1990Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #56Hope after difficult times
View background statusWritten for the film "Young Guns II"
View background statusCinnamon Girl (Live on Weld)
Neil Young & Crazy HorseRelease: 1991Source checked
Screenshot additions: 1960s listWeld documents Neil Young and Crazy Horse on their 1991 tour following Ragged Glory. Cinnamon Girl appears as its sixth track, matching the screenshot's Arc Weld and track-number tags. This is a live return to the...
Read background and sourcesEverything About You
Ugly Kid JoeReported release: 1991 / 1992Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Sarcastic take on love songs
View background statusHigh Enough
Damn YankeesReported release: 1990Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #14The intensity of passionate love
View background statusThe emptiness felt without love
View background statusWarrant emerged from Hollywood's Sunset Strip rock scene with an early recording lineup that included Jani Lane, Erik Turner, Jerry Dixon, Joey Allen and Steven Sweet. Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinking Rich introduced...
View background statusStanding up for one's beliefs
View background statusFinding one's soulmate
View background statusSinger and bassist Kip Winger formed Winger after touring with Alice Cooper. The band's late-1980s approach joined accessible hard-rock melodies to technically demanding instrumental playing. Its later return to...
View background statusSeeking comfort in difficult times
View background statusCover of the Five Man Electrical Band song
View background statusThe concept of lucid dreaming
View background statusPoison developed from an independent band into a widely recognized American rock act after its debut album appeared in the 1980s. The group's familiar lineup pairs singer Bret Michaels with guitarist C. C. DeVille,...
View background statusPolitical changes in Eastern Europe
View background status1992
Cats in the Cradle
Ugly Kid JoeReported release: 1992 / 1993Date needs verification | Recent carryover
A cover of Harry Chapin's song about a father-son relationship over time.
View background statusEverything About You
Ugly Kid JoeReported release: 1991 / 1992Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #72A sarcastic rock song about hating everything about someone.
View background statusHave You Ever Needed Someone So Bad
Def LeppardReported release: 1992Date needs verification
Source year-end #80A power ballad about intense longing and desire.
View background statusMr. Big is the American hard-rock band fronted by singer Eric Martin. Its catalog combines technically accomplished rock playing with melodic ballads. Lean into It included To Be with You and Just Take My Heart,...
View background statusDef Leppard emerged from Sheffield during the rise of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. Their later records developed a melodic rock approach suited to large concert stages. Pyromania and Hysteria became central...
View background statusA power ballad about the anticipation of finding love.
View background statusA epic rock ballad about love and loss, inspired by a short story by Del James.
View background statusA power ballad about finding genuine love.
View background statusA power ballad about the depth of romantic love.
View background status1993
Jon Bon Jovi wrote the song while hungover in a hotel room, reflecting on his life.
View background statusCat's in the Cradle
Ugly Kid JoeReported release: 1992 / 1993Date needs verification | Recent carryover
Source year-end #61A cover of Harry Chapin's 1974 hit about the relationship between a father and son.
View background statusThe power ballad explores themes of heartbreak and emotional vulnerability.
View background statusIron Maiden was formed in East London by bassist Steve Harris in 1975. The band's early albums emerged during the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, pairing forceful guitars with Harris's galloping bass patterns. Paul...
View background statusBon Jovi formed in New Jersey in 1983 around Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, David Bryan, Tico Torres and Alec John Such. Their early albums paired hard-rock playing with prominent pop melodies, reaching a much wider...
View background statusThe song addresses social and political issues of the early 1990s.
View background statusThe acoustic ballad was written as a tribute to the band's fans.
View background status1994
Jon Bon Jovi's pledge of eternal love and devotion.
View background statusAerosmith developed a guitar-centered rock sound in Boston, with Steven Tyler and Joe Perry joined by Brad Whitford, Tom Hamilton and Joey Kramer. Their 1973 debut introduced Dream On and Mama Kin, while Toys in the...
View background statusA reggae cover of Peter Frampton's 1975 hit.
View background statusThe band's reflection on wild youth and reckless behavior.
View background statusA cover of The Rolling Stones' 1968 classic, exploring historical atrocities.
View background status1995
Written as a love song for the movie "Romeo Is Bleeding."
View background statusVan Halen developed through Pasadena parties and Los Angeles clubs before its self-titled 1978 debut. The early band joined Eddie Van Halen's elaborate guitar work with David Lee Roth's vocals, Alex Van Halen's drums...
View background statusA power ballad about devotion and commitment.
View background statusA cover of The Rolling Stones' 1968 classic, exploring historical atrocities.
View background statusA power ballad about the end of a relationship.
View background status1997
The nightlife and atmosphere of Chelsea, London.
View background status1998
Written for the film "Armageddon," about intense love and devotion.
View background statusI Don't Want to Miss a Thing
AerosmithReported release: 1998Date needs verification
Source year-end #23Written for the movie "Armageddon," the song was inspired by a comment James Brolin made about missing Barbra Streisand even while she slept.
View background status2000
The song was inspired by the band's desire to create an anthem for a new generation of fans.
View background status2001
The loss of innocence and disillusionment
View background status2003
Muse developed in Teignmouth, Devon, as the trio of Matthew Bellamy, Chris Wolstenholme and Dominic Howard. Bellamy's vocals, guitar and keyboards combine with bass and drums in a rock sound associated with...
View background status2006
Who Says You Can't Go Home
Bon Jovi featuring Jennifer NettlesReported release: 2006Date needs verification
The track celebrates the idea of returning to one's roots and the comfort of home.
View background statusBrowse by year
1960-2025. Each year contains 150 selections.