Rock and roll music has been around for over six decades and has produced some of the most iconic songs of all time. But what is the most popular rock song ever? While it's impossible to determine a single definitive answer, we can take a look at some of the most popular rock songs in history.
Stairway to Heaven - Led Zeppelin
"Stairway to Heaven" by Led Zeppelin is often cited as one of the greatest rock songs ever recorded. Released in 1971, the eight-minute-long song is a masterpiece of guitar solos, haunting melodies, and poetic lyrics. It's been covered by countless artists and is still a staple on classic rock radio stations today.
Bohemian Rhapsody - Queen
"Bohemian Rhapsody" by Queen is another contender for the title of most popular rock song ever. The song, released in 1975, is a six-minute-long epic that features opera-style vocals, hard rock guitar riffs, and a catchy sing-along chorus. It's been covered by everyone from The Muppets to Panic! At the Disco.
Sweet Child O' Mine - Guns N' Roses
"Sweet Child O' Mine" by Guns N' Roses is one of the most recognizable rock songs of all time. Released in 1987, the song features a memorable guitar riff, soaring vocals, and a catchy chorus. It's been covered by artists ranging from Sheryl Crow to Slash himself.
Smells Like Teen Spirit - Nirvana
"Smells Like Teen Spirit" by Nirvana is often credited with ushering in the grunge era of rock music in the early 1990s. The song, released in 1991, features a driving guitar riff, angsty lyrics, and a chorus that's become an anthem for disaffected youth. It's been covered by everyone from Tori Amos to Miley Cyrus.
Hotel California - Eagles
"Hotel California" by the Eagles is a classic rock song that's stood the test of time. Released in 1976, the song features intricate guitar work, haunting lyrics, and a memorable chorus. It's been covered by everyone from Gipsy Kings to the cast of Glee.
Don't Stop Believin' - Journey
"Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey is a power ballad that's become a staple at sporting events and karaoke bars around the world. Released in 1981, the song features soaring vocals, a driving beat, and a chorus that's impossible not to sing along to. It's been covered by everyone from the cast of Glee to the Rock of Ages movie soundtrack.
Livin' on a Prayer - Bon Jovi
"Livin' on a Prayer" by Bon Jovi is another rock anthem that's become a favorite at parties and sporting events. Released in 1986, the song features catchy lyrics, a driving beat, and a chorus that's sure to get everyone singing along. It's been covered by everyone from Alvin and the Chipmunks to the cast of Glee.
Back in Black - AC/DC
"Back in Black" by AC/DC is a hard rock classic that's still played on radio stations around the world. Released in 1980, the song features a driving beat, screaming vocals, and a guitar riff that's become synonymous with the band. It's been covered by everyone from Shakira to Bruce Springsteen.
What's the Frequency, Kenneth? - R.E.M.
"What's the Frequency, Kenneth?" by R.E.M. is a lesser-known rock song that still has a cult following. Released in 1994, the song features a catchy guitar riff, cryptic lyrics, and a driving beat. It's been covered by everyone from The Roots to St. Vincent.
Enter Sandman - Metallica
"Enter Sandman" by Metallica is a hard rock classic that's become a staple at sporting events and rock concerts. Released in 1991, the song features a pounding beat, screaming vocals, and a guitar riff that's impossible to forget. It's been covered by everyone from The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain to Limp Bizkit.
With or Without You - U2
"With or Without You" by U2 is a ballad that's still played on radio stations around the world. Released in 1987, the song features haunting vocals, a mesmerizing guitar riff, and a chorus that's impossible not to sing along to. It's been covered by everyone from Boyce Avenue to Keane.
Paradise City - Guns N' Roses
"Paradise City" by Guns N' Roses is another classic rock song that's become a favorite at sporting events and rock concerts. Released in 1988, the song features a driving beat, screaming vocals, and a guitar solo that's become legendary. It's been covered by everyone from Slash's Snakepit to The Darkness.
Living on a Prayer - Bon Jovi
"Living on a Prayer" by Bon Jovi is a power ballad that's stood the test of time. Released in 1986, the song features catchy lyrics, a driving beat, and a chorus that's sure to get everyone singing along. It's been covered by everyone from Alvin and the Chipmunks to the cast of Glee.
Eye of the Tiger - Survivor
"Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor is a classic rock song that's become synonymous with the movie Rocky III. Released in 1982, the song features a driving beat, catchy lyrics, and a chorus that's impossible not to sing along to. It's been covered by everyone from The Amity Affliction to Weird Al Yankovic.
Purple Haze - Jimi Hendrix
"Purple Haze" by Jimi Hendrix is a psychedelic rock song that's still played on radio stations around the world. Released in 1967, the song features a guitar riff that's become iconic, along with lyrics that are open to interpretation. It's been covered by everyone from The Cure to Prince.
Satisfaction - The Rolling Stones
"(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" by The Rolling Stones is a classic rock song that's still played on radio stations around the world. Released in 1965, the song features a guitar riff that's become iconic, along with lyrics that are still relevant today. It's been covered by everyone from Britney Spears to Devo.
Back in Time - Huey Lewis and the News
"Back in Time" by Huey Lewis and the News is a lesser-known rock song that still has a cult following. Released in 1985, the song was featured in the movie Back to the Future and features a driving beat, catchy lyrics, and a chorus that's impossible not to sing along to. It's been covered by everyone from Pitbull to Matt Nathanson.
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Explore the most popular rock songs ever recorded, from Led Zeppelin's "Stairway to Heaven" to Guns N' Roses' "Sweet Child O' Mine." Discover the stories behind these iconic songs and why they continue to resonate with music fans around the world.
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rock songs, popular rock songs, classic rock, Led Zeppelin, Guns N' Roses, Queen, Nirvana, Eagles, Journey, AC/DC, R.E.M., Metallica, U2, Bon Jovi, Survivor, Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones, Huey Lewis and the News