Top 20 Songs of All Time
Photo by Alex Green
Carter Zieger
I am always running out of new music to listen to, so it’s always a pleasure to find a new artist or song that I can add to my playlist. If you feel the same way, here are 20 songs that I will always appreciate and represent the musical talent of each respective artist.
20. “Sympathy For the Devil” by The Rolling Stones
One of the most popular bands of the late ‘60s, The Rolling Stones were one of the most influential rock bands of their time. Music like this is what made them popular. I really enjoy this song, especially because of the unique instrumentals they use that aren’t always present in their songs.
19. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana
Despite its success, Nirvana hated the song, found it embarrassing, and intentionally ruined it during live performances. Nevertheless, it’s still a good song. The guitar riff mixed with the random and unusual lyrics creates such an impressive tune, which is great to listen to.
18. “Take the ‘A’ Train” by Duke Ellington
“Take the ‘A’ Train” is such an important jazz standard. (Standards are tunes that all jazz musicians and fans should know and are for jazz bands everywhere.) The song was written in 1939 and is still popular with jazz fans today, which is why it is such an important part of American history
17. “Two-Headed Boy” (all parts) by Neutral Milk Hotel
As a fan of folk music, I have to say no band handles the genre quite like Neutral Milk Hotel. Though the lyrics are abstract and strange, the vocals from their lead singer, Jeff Magnum, are awesome to listen to. This song and the album it comes from (In The Aeroplane Over the Sea) both represent the best of folk music.
16. “Doo Wop (That Thing)” by Ms. Lauryn Hill
The hit song off of Ms. Hill’s album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, “Doo Wop” does it all. It tackles real world problems with unique soul and R&B vocals that make this song a classic for fans of hip-hop and R&B.
15. “Where is My Mind?” by Pixies
My description of this song probably will not do it justice, but “Where Is My Mind?” is an absolutely beautiful song. From the wailing background to the punchy drum beat, the whole song is like a dream. It is a must-listen for alternative fans.
14. “Epitaph” by King Crimson
King Crimson revolutionized British rock and roll music, and this song is some of their best work. Their music sounds so orchestral while still maintaining really impressive drumming and a guitar that carries the piece. If you like classic British rock, King Crimson is for you.
13. “Shine On You Crazy Diamond” by Pink Floyd
Though I am not a Pink Floyd fan myself, I can't deny their talent and dedication when it comes to making music. This song is definitely impressive, and it sounds great. It is a lot like a King Crimson song, which is why I put these two songs in similar places.
12. “Jigsaw Falling Into Place” by Radiohead
Radiohead never fails to impress with their music. From the bass riff to the vocals, the song presents to the listener everything that's great about Radiohead and really fits the vibe of the album. If you like alternative rock, this is a great song to listen to.
11. “House Of The Rising Sun” by The Animals
I stumbled across this song on a couple of other music lists, and I found it really enjoyable. It is my favorite rock song to date, and the lyrics are really thoughtful and fits this whole mood that makes the song really unique.
10. “Sing About Me, I’m Dying Of Thirst” by Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar is one of the most consistently impressive and well-performing artists in the modern day, specifically because of songs like this. “Sing About Me, I’m Dying Of Thirst" tells a story about situations that real people suffer from—including himself. From the production to the heavy tone and flow that Kendrick brings to the table, he masterfully communicates his message in every song. What is surprising, however, is that this song is far from his most popular, which only further proves how consistent he is.
9. “Gangsta’s Paradise” by Coolio and L.V.
“Gangsta’s Paradise” is one of my top-5 favorite hip hop songs of all time, not only because of the amazing beat and flow but also because it paved the way for serious and conscious rap—where rappers tackle serious topics and struggles—which is my favorite type of hip hop. It’s not to say that other rappers had not talked about real issues in other songs, but “Gangsta’s Paradise” definitely helped to popularize this style.
8. “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson
This song represents Michael Jackson so well: his vocals, the background music, the iconic ad libs, not to mention the music video. This song is what puts everyone on to MJ, and it deserves its place as the most popular song. But honestly, I could say this about the entire album!
7. “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin
I'm not a huge fan of Led Zeppelin, but “Stairway to Heaven” is an undeniably great song. The iconic guitar riff carries the song alongside the mystical lyrics.
6. “Everybody Wants To Rule The World” by Tears For Fears
It seems that this song only gets better as it gets older because it is so relevant for each generation. It still feels so nostalgic and is truly a timeless piece, which is why it deserves this spot. If you haven’t heard this song before, I couldn’t recommend it more.
5. “What A Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong
This song could make a grown man cry. It is so emotional and optimistic that you can't help but feel hope when you listen to it. It's another song that belongs to everyone, similar to “Sir Duke.” I suggest listening to this song if you like music that evokes strong feelings.
4. “Strawberry Fields Forever” by The Beatles
I know this isn’t The Beatles’ most popular song, but it is certainly my favorite. This is probably because of the style of the song just fitting my taste more, but some fans of the band would agree. There are better Beatles songs, so go listen to them if you are interested.
3. “Starman” by David Bowie
“Starman” is my favorite Bowie song and a favorite rock song of mine as well. He uses rock and pop elements that make his songs unique and fun to listen to, so I highly recommend giving him a listen.
2. “Sir Duke” by Stevie Wonder
“Sir Duke” is one of those songs that feels like it belongs to everyone, and I'm sure that was what Stevie Wonder was going for. The song is like an anthem dedicated to music, and anybody can listen to it and enjoy it.
1. “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen
This song is on a whole other level from other songs. It is such a masterpiece, each of the three parts telling such a dramatic and orchestral story all the while showing the entire band’s skill. The lyrics, Instrumentals, and story all combine to create what is essentially the perfect song.
That concludes my top 20 songs of all time. Thanks for reading!
