The 100 Best Songs Of All Time

There are so many great songs out there that have defined entire decades, it’s hard to choose just 100 of the best. I’ve compiled a list of the greatest tunes of all time based on popularity, critical acclaim, and overall awesomeness.

Whether you’re looking for some new music to add to your playlist or just want to reminisce about some classic hits, this is a list of the 100 Best Songs Of All Time!

Contents

1. “Respect” by Aretha Franklin

Starting off this long list of the best songs of all time is Aretha Franklin with her 1965 song “Respect.” The track is an ode to women’s empowerment and has become an anthem for people all over the world. It’s been covered by a lot of popular artists like Otis Redding and Adeva while also featured in countless movies.

2. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana 

“Smells Like Teen Spirit” is one of the defining tracks of the ’90s grunge movement. It was released in 1991 by Nirvana and quickly became a global hit with over a billion Youtube views today. The song is about teenage angst and rebellion, something that a lot of people could relate to.

3. “Thriller” by Michael Jackson 

The next song is something you’ve probably heard a million times before. It’s Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” and it was released in 1983. The song is considered to be one of the greatest pop songs of all time and has been covered by many artists over the years, however, none have that flare that Michael brought to the song.

4. “Beat It” by Michael Jackson 

Another all-time-favorite song by Michael Jackson is “Beat It.” The track was released in 1983 and has become one of the most iconic songs of all time. It’s a song about fighting and has a catchy guitar riff that everyone recognizes. It now has over 800 million streams on Youtube!

5. “Fight The Power” by Public Enemy 

“Fight The Power” is a political song by Public Enemy that was released in 1989. It’s a call to action against racism and discrimination. The song can be found on the album “Fear Of A Black Planet”. This is a revolutionary track that everyone should remember, although, just a few seconds are more than enough to bring back the all-so-memorable melody.

6. “Stayin’ Alive” by Bee Gees 

There is no doubt that Bee Gees’ “Stayin’ Alive” is one of the most popular songs of all time. It was released in 1977 and has been played at parties and clubs ever since. The song is about dancing and having a good time, something we can all relate to. You can find it on their best-selling album, “Saturday Night Fever”.

7. “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor 

“I Will Survive” is an empowering song by Gloria Gaynor that was released in 1978. It’s a song about resilience and hope, something we all need in our lives. The track has been covered by many artists over the years, including Destiny’s Child and Christina Aguilera. It’s still widely streamed to this date with over 106 million views!

8. “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder 

Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition” is a classic song that was released in 1972. It’s a funky tune about bad luck and has become one of the most iconic songs of all time. It won a Grammy award and has been nominated for other music awards too. This can be streamed on all major music platforms.

9. “Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin 

The next song is a rock classic by Led Zeppelin. “Whole Lotta Love” was released in 1969 and is still played on radio stations today. It’s a song with a heavy guitar sound that we all know and love. This was used in their concert film “The Song Remains the Same” as one of the soundtracks.

10. “Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses 

“Sweet Child O’ Mine” is a power ballad by Guns N’ Roses that was released in 1988. It received numerous awards and nominations, including a Grammy. The song is about love and has become one of the most popular songs of all time. There was not a teenager alive that did not sing and shout the chorus of this song at one particular time.

11. “I Want To Hold Your Hand” by The Beatles 

The Beatles are one of the most popular bands of all time and “I Want To Hold Your Hand” is one of their most iconic songs. It was released in 1963 as a single in the UK and US. The song is about love and has a catchy melody that everyone has most probably heard before. This tune is considered to be the Beatles’ best-selling single of all time.

12. “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen 

We can’t miss out on “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen! This track was released in 1975 and is a rock opera that still resonates on radios, TV, and Youtube even today. It received multiple awards from the Grammy and MTV Music Awards. It now has 1.4 billion Youtube streams and that is not at all surprising.

13. “Stairway To Heaven” by Led Zeppelin 

Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway To Heaven” is a classic rock song that was released in 1971. It’s one of the most popular songs on their Untitled album. Rock music lovers certainly know this song as it’s considered “the forbidden riff” due to its massive overplaying over the years. The song is about a journey to heaven and has a great guitar solo by Jimmy Page.

14. “Purple Rain” by Prince 

“Purple Rain” is a power ballad by Prince that was released in 1984. It became an instant classic and can be found on his album of the same title. It now has over 200 million Youtube views and can also be streamed on all major music platforms. Prince was undoubtedly one of the most influential musicians of all time and “Purple Rain” played a huge role in that.

15. “Imagine” by John Lennon 

“Imagine” is a song by John Lennon, released on his 1971 album of the same name. The song encourages listeners to imagine a world without war, poverty, hunger, or hatred. “Imagine” has since been covered by many artists and has become one of the most popular songs of all time.

16. “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire 

The next song is a disco classic by Earth, Wind & Fire. “September” was released in 1978 and is one of their most popular songs. It’s a feel-good tune that always gets people up and dancing. It’s safe to say that this tune played a huge role in defining the 70’s sound as well as paving the way for 80’s music. This can be streamed on all major music platforms.

17. “Nothing Else Matters” by Metallica 

Metallica is a heavy metal band that was formed in 1981. “Nothing Else Matters” is one of their most popular songs and was released in 1992. The song has a slow, emotional melody that all beginner guitarists learn. It is a true testament to Metallica’s work that it will unlikely fade. It’s still streamed frequently, with over a billion views on Youtube.

18. “La Isla Bonita” by Madonna 

The next song is a more mellow track by Madonna. “La Isla Bonita” was released in 1987 and is about a fictional island called San Pedro. It’s one of the most popular songs on her album “True Blue”. The insanely catchy rhythm of the song still works even in a modern setting. This track is still a favorite in Karaoke bars and can be streamed on all major music platforms.

19. “Welcome To The Jungle” by Guns N’ Roses 

“Welcome To The Jungle” is a hard rock song by Guns N’ Roses. It was released in 1987 and is the opening track on their album “Appetite for Destruction”. The song is about the dangers of city life and has a catchy riff that everyone knows. This tune played a huge role in propelling the band and solidifying their place among the greats. It’s still one of the most popular songs on radio stations today.

20. “Iron Man” by Black Sabbath 

Another hit song on this list is “Iron Man” by Black Sabbath. It was released in 1971 and is one of their most popular tracks. The song is still relevant and is a huge part of Black Sabbath’s success. It has a heavy metal sound that was ahead of its time. You can still listen to it on all music platforms out there.

21. “Satisfaction” by The Rolling Stones 

The Rolling Stones is a rock band that was formed in 1962. “Satisfaction” is one of their most popular songs and was released in 1965. The song is a non-album single that you’ve probably heard of a million times before. As one of the greatest bands of all time, The Rolling Stones have had a huge influence on music since their time and forward.

22. “Let’s Groove” by Earth, Wind & Fire 

Another song by Earth, Wind & Fire makes this list. “Let’s Groove” was released in 1981 and is a disco classic. The song is about dancing and having a good time. It’s still played at parties and can be found on the band’s album, “Raise!” It became the sound of a TikTok dance trend in 2021 which made it popular with the new generation.

23. “Johnny B Goode” by Chuck Berry 

Chuck Berry’s “Johnny B Goode” is a classic rock song that was released in 1958. The song is about a young man named Johnny who wants to be a rock star. It’s still one of the most popular songs on radio stations today. If you don’t know the original, surely you’ve seen the rendition in ‘Back To The Future’. You can find the song on Chuck Berry’s album, “Chuck Berry Is On Top”.

24. “Tutti Frutti” by Little Richard 

“Tutti Frutti” is a classic rock song by Little Richard. It was released in 1955 and is one of the earliest examples of rock and roll. You can find it on his album, “Here’s Little Richard”. It amassed over 17 million views on Youtube and can also be streamed on other music platforms out there. However, modern-day streaming cannot grasp the greatness of this song and what it meant at the time.

25. “Jailhouse Rock” by Elvis Presley 

The next song is by the king of rock and roll, Elvis Presley. “Jailhouse Rock” was released in 1957 and is the official soundtrack of the movie of the same title. Words cannot describe the influence and greatness of the king of rock and roll and this tune was just one of the many great ones. You can find it on all music platforms out there.

26. “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson 

Who wouldn’t know the classic Michael Jackson song “Billie Jean”? It was released in 1983 and is one of the singer’s most popular songs. The song is about a man who is accused of fathering a child out of wedlock. It has a catchy beat and can be found on the best-selling album of all time, “Thriller”.

27. “Can’t Help Falling In Love” by Elvis Presley 

Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling In Love” is a classic love song that was released in 1961. It’s about a man who falls in love with a woman and can’t help it. You can find it on the album, “Blue Hawaii”. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, even by more modern bands like Twenty One Pilots, and is still popular today.

28. “Hey Jude” by The Beatles 

“Hey Jude” by The Beatles was released in 1968 and is one of the band’s most popular tracks. The song is about a man who is trying to comfort a friend going through a rough time. You can find it on the album “The Beatles”. It was a crowd favorite at their concerts.

29. “Let It Be” by The Beatles 

Another hit song by The Beatles is “Let It Be”. The song was released in 1970 and is about a man who is going through a tough time. He is advised to let it be and things will work out in the end. You can find it on the album of the same title. This tune is truly a foundational song of the band and will unlikely fade any time soon.

30. “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes 

“Seven Nation Army” is a song by The White Stripes. It was released in 2003 for the album “Elephant”. The song is about bravery and patriotism. It became a worldwide hit and amassed over 400 million views on Youtube. It also has one of the most popular bass lines of all time. You can also stream it on all major music platforms.

31. “New York, New York” by Frank Sinatra 

Another song that you probably have heard is “New York, New York” by Frank Sinatra. It was released in 1977 and is about the city of New York. The song has been covered by many artists over the years and is even still popular today. This now has over 31 million Youtube views.

32. “Is This Love” by Bob Marley 

Bob Marley is a man that needs no introduction. He has many popular songs but one of his most famous ones is “Is This Love”. The song was released in 1978 and is about a man who is in love with a woman. You can find it on the compilation entitled “Legend”.

33. “All Along The Watchtower” by Jimi Hendrix 

“All Along The Watchtower” is a song by Jimi Hendrix. It was released in 1968 and is about a man who is looking out for the world. He is warning people to be aware of what is happening around them. The original song is by Bob Dylan but Jimi was the one who propelled the single even higher.

34. “Come Together” by The Beatles 

Another Beatles song that made this list is “Come Together”. The song was released in 1969 and is about unity. It is a call for people to come together and work towards a common goal. It is one of the hit songs on the album, “Abbey Road”.

35. “I’m Still Standing” by Elton John 

Elton John is a well-known singer and songwriter. He has many popular songs like “I’m Still Standing”. The song was released in 1983 and is about resilience. It is a call for people to never give up no matter how hard life gets. This is one of his tracks on his “Too Low for Zero” album.

36. “Careless Whisper” by George Michael 

The next song is a more seductive one. It is “Careless Whisper” by George Michael. The song was released in 1984 and is about a man who is regretting his actions. He had an affair with a woman and is now trying to get her back. You can find it on the album “Make It Big”.

37. “Smooth Criminal” by Michael Jackson 

Michael Jackson seems to be taking over this list. He was a pop legend who had many popular tracks. One of his most famous ones was “Smooth Criminal”. The song was released in 1988 and was featured in the movie, Michael Jackson’s “This Is It”. The official music video now has a huge amount of views that will continue to rise.

38. “Like A Prayer” by Madonna 

Madonna’s “Like A Prayer” is up next. The song was released in 1989 and is about religious faith. It caused controversy when it was first released because of its religious imagery. However, it is still one of her most popular songs to this day. You can find it on the album of the same name as the song.

39. “Hotel California” by The Eagles 

“Hotel California” is a song by The Eagles. It was released in 1976 and is about materialism. The song is about a man who is trying to find himself and ends up at the Hotel California. He realizes that he can never leave and is stuck there forever. Surely everyone already knows this tune and can understand its placement on this list.

40. “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver 

The next song has been used in a lot of movies and shows. “Take Me Home, Country Roads” is a song by John Denver. It was released in 1971 and is about nostalgia. The song is about a man who is longing for his home. You can find it on the album, “Poems, Prayers & Promises”.

41. “Africa” by Toto 

“Africa” is a song by Toto. It was released in 1982 and is about the continent of Africa. The song is about the beauty of the continent and its people. It is one of their most popular songs and you can find it on the album, “Toto IV”. It has been streamed over 700 million times on Youtube and remains a popular song to this day.

42. “Piano Man” by Billy Joel 

Billy Joel is a popular singer and songwriter. He has many hits like “Piano Man”. The song was released in 1973 and is about a piano player in a bar. The song is about the people who come into the bar and their stories. It is one of the tracks on the album of the same name as the tune.

43. “One” by U2 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ftjEcrrf7r0&ab_channel=U2VEVO

U2 is a popular rock band from Ireland. They have many hits like “One”. The song was released in 1992 and is about love and understanding. It is a call for people to come together and understand each other. The song sits on their album “Achtung Baby”.

44. “Jolene” by Dolly Parton 

Next on the list is a song by Dolly Parton. “Jolene” is a song about a woman who is asking Jolene not to take her man. The song was released in 1973 and is one of Parton’s most famous tracks. It’s popular country music that has been covered by popular artists like Miley Cyrus and Pentatonix.

45. “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ttEMYvpoR-k&ab_channel=LeonardCohenVEVO

“Hallelujah” is a song by Leonard Cohen. It was released in 1984 and is about religious faith. It has over 18 million views on Youtube and can be found on his album “Various Positions”. You can also stream it on other music platforms. The song has deep religious roots and most will instantly recognize it, even those who have only seen the movie Shrek.

46. “Good Times” by Chic 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Er9xGRolrT4&ab_channel=DiscoSaturdayNightTV

The next song is “Good Times” by Chic. It was released in 1979 and is about having a good time. They sing about how good times are never-ending and that we should enjoy them while we can. The song is one of their most popular tracks and you can find it on the album, “Risque”.

47. “Suspicious Minds” by Elvis Presley 

Elvis Presley is a popular singer and songwriter. He has many hits like “Suspicious Minds”. The song was released in 1968 and is about paranoia and being madly in love. It is one of his most famous tracks on the album, “From Elvis in Memphis”.

48. “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman 

“Fast Car” is a song by Tracy Chapman. It was released in 1988 and is about escaping from a difficult life. The song is about a woman who is trying to escape her abusive boyfriend and the poverty she grew up in. It is a part of her self-titled album and it now has over 170 million views on Youtube.

49. “Hit The Road Jack” by Ray Charles

Ray Charles is a popular singer and songwriter. He has many hits like “Hit The Road Jack”. The song was released in 1961 and is about leaving someone who is no good for you. It is one of his most famous tracks as a non-album single. This was a monumental track at the time and is still relevant today. You can also find it on other platforms like Spotify.

50. “Yesterday” by The Beatles 

Another Beatles song makes it on the list. “Yesterday” is about the beautiful memories of the past. It remains a popular song to this day. The song was released in 1965 and is one of their hit songs. It can be found on the album, “Help!”.

51. “It’s Not Unusual” by Tom Jones 

“It’s Not Unusual” is a song by Tom Jones. It was released in 1965 and is about love being a wonderful thing. The song is about how love can make you do things that are out of the ordinary. Tom Jones is a staple in music and helped define the sound of the 60s without question. You can still stream the song on all music platforms out there.

52. “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston 

If you’re a fan of love songs, then this next one’s for you. “I Will Always Love You” is a song by Whitney Houston. It was released in 1992 and is about the never-ending love between two people. It is still widely popular and is one of her most famous tracks. It is the soundtrack for the blockbuster movie, “The Bodyguard”.

53. “The Best” by Tina Turner 

Tina Turner is a popular singer and songwriter. She has many hits like “The Best”. The song was released in 1989 and is about being the best that you can be. It is an empowering song that encourages people to be their best selves. You can find it on her album, “Foreign Affair”.

54. “Wonderwall” by Oasis 

The next song is popular indie/rock music. “Wonderwall” is a song by Oasis. It was released in 1995 and is about being there for someone when they need you. It is a beautiful song that has been covered by many artists over the years. You can find it on their album, “(What’s the Story) Morning Glory?”.

55. “I Want You Back” by The Jackson 5 

Another hit song is “I Want You Back” by The Jackson Five. It was released in 1969 and is about wanting someone back after they have left you. The song is a nostalgic track that will make you want to dance at the same time. You can find it on the album, “Diana Ross Presents The Jackson Five”.

56. “Never Gonna Give You Up” by Rick Astley 

Those who grew up in the 80s will remember this next song. “Never Gonna Give You Up” is a song by Rick Astley. It was released in 1987 and is about never giving up on someone you love. The song is an upbeat track that will make you want to dance along. The signature intro is more than enough to jog some memories. It can be streamed on all major music platforms.

57. “Take On Me” by a-ha 

“Take On Me” is a song by a-ha. It was released in 1984 and is about taking risks in life. It has a catchy beat that will make you want to sing along. The song is about taking chances and living life to the fullest. If we’re talking about massive hits, this song is among those from the 80s. It is popular for its high energy and is still played on the radio today.

58. “Stand By Me” by Ben E. King 

The next song is a classic. “Stand By Me” is a song by Ben E. King. It was released in 1961 and is about having someone to rely on. The song is a slow ballad that will make you feel the emotions. It has been covered by many artists over the years and is known by almost anyone these days, even after 50+ years.

59. “Rocket Man” by Elton John 

Elton John is a well-known singer and songwriter. He has many hits like “Rocket Man”. The song was released in 1972 and is about an astronaut. It is one of the hit songs on his best-selling album “Honky Château”. Even his modern collaboration with Dua Lipa, “Cold Heart”, features a few verses from the original tune. You can still stream the songs on any music platform out there.

60. “She’s A Lady” by Tom Jones 

This song is very popular among Tom Jones fans. “She’s A Lady” is a song that was released in 1971 and is about admiring a lady. The song is an ode to all the ladies out there. The catchy rhythm and Jones’ amazing vocals make this an all-time classic. You can find it on his album of the same title.

61. “Dream On” by Aerosmith 

“Dream On” is a song by Aerosmith. It was released in 1973 and is about following your dreams. The song is an inspirational track that will make you want to pursue your goals. It is one of the popular tracks under their self-titled album. Most notably this tune is popular for the amazing vocals from Steven Tyler, particularly the screaming toward the end.

62. “Crazy” by Patsy Cline 

Patsy Cline is a well-known country singer. “Crazy” is one of her most popular songs. The song was released in 1961 and is about being crazy in love. It is a heartbreak song on her album, “Showcase”. It now has over 23 million views on Youtube and can also be streamed on all major music platforms.

63. “I Just Called To Say I Love You” by Stevie Wonder 

“I Just Called To Say I Love You” is a song by Stevie Wonder. It was released in 1984 and is about expressing love to someone. The song is a feel-good track that will make you want to call your loved ones. It received numerous awards and nominations since its release, making it one of his most successful songs. Stevie Wonder is truly a legend in the music game.

64. “Jump” by Van Halen 

Next on the list is “Jump” by Van Halen. The song was released in 1983 and is about taking risks. It amassed over 159 million views on Youtube and can also be streamed on other music platforms. It was covered by popular artists like Crazy Frog and KIDZ BOP. The signature melody is surely a memorable one that most likely everyone knows.

65. “Losing My Religion” by R.E.M. 

“Losing My Religion” is a song by R.E.M. It was released in 1991 and is about struggling to keep your faith. The song is a slow ballad that will make you think about your own beliefs. A classic rock song for the ages, to say the least. It has won multiple awards and amassed almost a billion views.

66. “What A Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong 

Louis Armstrong is a well-known jazz singer. “What A Wonderful World” is one of his most popular songs. The song was released in 1967 and is about appreciating life. It is a feel-good track that will make you appreciate the world around you. It also has been featured in the movie, Madagascar.

67. “Son Of A Preacher Man” by Dusty Springfield 

“Son Of A Preacher Man” is a song by Dusty Springfield. It was released in 1968 and is about a preacher’s daughter who falls for a bad boy. It became a worldwide hit at the time and amassed over 20 million views on Youtube today. It can also be featured on other music platforms out there.

68. “Mr. Tambourine Man” by Bob Dylan 

“Mr. Tambourine Man” is a song by Bob Dylan. It was released in 1965 and is about being lost and wanting to be found. The song is a folk track that will make you think about your own life. This track is one of the hit songs on his album “Bringing It All Back Home”.

69. “Super Freak” by Rick James 

Rick James is a well-known R&B singer. “Super Freak” is one of his most popular songs. The song was released in 1981 and is about a woman who is a super freak. It became a worldwide hit and has been covered by multiple artists since its release. The signature melody is unlikely to fade away from popularity any time soon. You can stream it on all music platforms out there.

70. “A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke 

The song was originally written in response to the Civil Rights Movement and Cooke’s own experiences with racism. The lyrics talk about how a change is going to come, but it’s unclear when that will be. It was released in 1964 for the album “Ain’t That Good News”.

71. “Like A Rolling Stone” by Bob Dylan 

“Like A Rolling Stone” is a song by Bob Dylan. It was released in 1965 and is about feeling lost and alone. The song is a folk-rock track that amassed over 35 million views on Youtube. This track is one of the hit songs on his album “Highway 61 Revisited”. Bob Dylan is without a doubt a huge influence on music and this is just one testament to that.

72. “What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye 

Marvin Gaye is an iconic R&B singer. “What’s Going On” is one of his most popular songs. The song was released in 1971 and is a protest song about the Vietnam War. It became a worldwide hit and has won a Grammy and numerous other music awards. Rolling Stones magazine has this song ranked #4 of the best songs of all time.

73. “War” by Edwin Starr 

“War” is a song by Edwin Starr. It was released in 1970 and is about the horrors of war. The song became a worldwide hit and has been covered by multiple artists since its release. It now has over 7 million views on Youtube and can also be streamed on other music platforms out there. If the name doesn’t ring a bell, just remember the comedy “Rush Hour” and the hilarious scene with Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker.

74. “Nuthin’ But A G Thang” by Dr. Dre ft. Snoop Dogg 

Next on the list is “Nuthin’ But A G Thang” by Dr. Dre ft. Snoop Dogg. The song was released in 1992 and is about the gangsta lifestyle. It became a worldwide hit with over 85 million views. The collaboration between Dre and Snoop resulted in an all-time classic in the hip-hop world. You can stream it on all music platforms out there.

75. “Juicy” by The Notorious B.I.G. 

While on the topic of hip-hop, “Juicy” is a song by The Notorious B.I.G. It was released in 1994 and is about his come-up in the rap game. It can be found under his album “Ready to Die”. If you’re a fan of rap music, you probably know this song and how it helped put Biggie on the map.

76. “B.O.B.” by Outkast 

Outkast’s “B.O.B.” is a song that was released in 2000. It’s about being yourself and not conforming to what others want you to be. The song became a worldwide hit with over 20 million views on Youtube. You can find it on their “Stankonia” album.

77. “Gasolina” by Daddy Yankee 

You might have a memory of dancing along to our next song at a school dance or family reunion. “Gasolina” by Daddy Yankee was released in 2004 and is a reggaeton song that has been played all over the world. It has a catchy beat and infectious lyrics that will have you singing along in no time.

78. “Blitzkrieg Bop” by Ramones 

“Blitzkrieg Bop” is a song by the Ramones. It was released in 1976 and is about teenage rebellion. The song is a punk rock track that has been covered by multiple artists over the years. You can find it on their self-titled album, “Ramones”, and can be streamed on all music platforms. The Ramones are still synonymous with the punk genre.

79. “Back To Black” by Amy Winehouse 

Amy Winehouse is a singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the early 2000s. “Back To Black” is one of her most popular songs. The song was released in 2007 and is about a failed relationship. It has been covered by famous artists like Beyonce and Bryan Ferry.

80. “Rolling In The Deep” by Adele 

The next song is a more recent one. “Rolling In The Deep” by Adele was released in 2010 and is about a failed relationship, and the woman is now strong enough to defend herself. The song became a worldwide hit and won multiple Grammy Awards. Adele is truly an artist that can adapt to any musical era with breathtaking hits like this.

81. “Kiss” by Prince 

“Kiss” is a song by Prince. It was released in 1986 and is about the power of love. The song became a soundtrack for the movie “Under the Cherry Moon”. It reached a whopping 58 million views since it was uploaded on Youtube. It can also be streamed on other platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.

82. “99 Problems” by Jay-Z 

Jumping back to hip-hop, the next song is “99 Problems” by Jay-Z. It was released in 2004 and is about how money can’t buy happiness. The song became a hit with over 21 million views on Youtube. You can find it on his album “The Black Album” which contains some of his hit songs.

83. “Straight Outta Compton” by N.W.A. 

N.W.A.’s “Straight Outta Compton” is one of the most influential rap songs of all time. The song helped to popularize gangsta rap and launched the careers of Ice Cube, Dr. Dre, and Eazy-E. The song’s raw lyrics and aggressive delivery were a stark contrast to the more positive and lighthearted rap songs that were popular at the time.

84. “The Humpty Dance” by Digital Underground 

Digital Underground’s “The Humpty Dance” is a song about a man who is trying to get lucky with women. The song became a hit in the early 1990s and helped to launch the career of rapper Tupac Shakur. You can find it on their album “Sex Packets”. This was Tupac’s breakthrough, hands down.

85. “Stan” by Eminem 

“Stan” is a song by Eminem. It was released in 2000 and is about an obsessed fan who takes things too far. The song became a hit with over 109 million views on Youtube. You can find it on his album “The Marshall Mathers LP”. For years now, this tune has served as Eminem’s foundation on top of which he built his career.

86. “Free Fallin'” by Tom Petty 

Tom Petty is a singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the 1970s. “Free Fallin'” is one of his most popular songs. The song was released in 1989 for the album “Full Moon Fever” and is about living life to the fullest. It has been covered by multiple artists over the years like John Mayer and Deana Carter.

87. “Shook Ones, Pt. II” by Mobb Deep 

The next song on the list is “Shook Ones, Pt. II” by Mobb Deep. It was released in 1995 and is about being a tough gangster. This rap music can be found on their album “The Infamous”. If you’re a fan of rap music, then this is a song that you need to check out. You probably remember the beat from Eminem’s movie “8 Mile”.

88. “Killing In The Name” by Rage Against The Machine 

Next on our list of the 100 best songs of all time is “Killing In The Name” by Rage Against The Machine. This song was released in 1992 and quickly became a hit, reaching number 25 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song is known for its heavy guitar riff and angry lyrics, which are critical of the US government.

89. “Master Of Puppets” by Metallica 

Metallica is known for their heavy metal sound and “Master Of Puppets” is one of their most popular songs. The song was released in 1986 and is about addiction. It has been covered by multiple artists over the years. You can find it on their self-titled album. Metallica were a force to be reckoned with at the time and this track is just one of many that made them great.

90. “Georgia On My Mind” by Ray Charles 

“Georgia On My Mind” is a song by Ray Charles. It was released in 1960 and is about longing for home. The song became a hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It has been covered by multiple artists over the years, including Willie Nelson. This is one of the hit songs on their album “The Genius Hits the Road”.

91. “Cocaine” by Eric Clapton 

There’s no denying the impact that Eric Clapton had on the world of rock music. His song “Cocaine” is one of his most popular songs. The song was released in 1977 and is about addiction. It has been covered by multiple artists over the years. You can find it on his album “Slowhand”. Although, the original track is from J. J. Cale.

92. “Dancing Queen” by Abba 

Who could forget the one and only ABBA? “Dancing Queen” is a song by Abba. It was released in 1976 and is about dancing and having fun. Ask your mom about this song and she’ll probably tell you that it’s one of her favorites. It has been covered by multiple artists over the years, including Cher. You can find it on their album “Arrival”.

93. “Thunderstruck” by AC/DC 

AC/DC is a band that needs no introduction. “Thunderstruck” is one of their most popular songs. The song was released in 1990 and is about the power of thunder and lightning. The signature guitar sound in the intro is known by most people across the globe. It now has over a billion views and counting.

94. “In The Air Tonight” by Phil Collins 

“In The Air Tonight” is a song by Phil Collins. It was released in 1981 and is about the feeling of anticipation. Phil Collins was unbeatable at a time and songs like this one are the reason why. You can find it on his album “Face Value”.

95. “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” by Beach Boys 

This next song is a light-hearted one. “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” is a song by the Beach Boys. It was released in 1966 and is about the simple things in life that would make it better. It now has over 4 million Youtube views and can also be streamed on other music platforms out there. This song is behind some memorable comedic scenes in movies we love.

96. “Another Brick In The Wall” by Pink Floyd 

Pink Floyd is a band that is known for their concept albums. “Another Brick In The Wall” is one of their most popular songs. The song was released in 1979 and is about the education system. You can find it on their album “The Wall”. This song has long been in the hearts of music lovers and that will unlikely change in the near future.

97. “Another One Bites The Dust” by Queen 

The next song has been played at sporting events for years. “Another One Bites The Dust” is a song by Queen. It was released in 1980 and is about mortality. You can find it on their album “The Game”. It now has over 500 million views on Youtube. Despite Mercury’s passing, the band is still active with the coming replacement – Adam Lambert.

98. “Every Breath You Take” by The Police 

“Every Breath You Take” is a song by The Police. It was released in 1983 and is one of the most memorable songs ever. It has been covered by multiple artists over the years, including Puff Daddy and Usher. It is still widely popular and can be found on their album “Synchronicity”.

99. “Summer Of ’69” by Bryan Adams 

Bryan Adams is a Canadian singer-songwriter. “Summer Of ’69” is one of his most popular songs. The song was released in 1985 and is about summer love. This is the most popular track on his album “Reckless”. It now has over 170 million Youtube views. Even for those who haven’t lived the summer of 69, it sure does paint a clear picture of what it was like back then.

100. “Please Forgive Me” by Bryan Adams 

Finishing off our list is a song that was written as an apology. “Please Forgive Me” by Bryan Adams is a heartfelt ballad asking for a lover’s forgiveness. The lyrics are simple but effective, and the emotion in Adams’ voice is palpable. The song was released in 1993 and you can still stream this classic hit on all music platforms out there.

Final Thoughts

These are just a few of the best songs of all time. Countless other songs could have made this list. They vary in genre, style, and artist. But they all have one thing in common: they’re timeless classics that will continue to be loved for years to come.

Aretha Franklin Featured Image (Top-Left) by: Atlantic Records(Life time: Published before 1978 without a copyright notice), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Nirvana Featured Featured Image (Top-Right) by: P.B. Rage from USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Michael Jackson Featured Image (Bottom-Left) by: Zoran Veselinovic, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Public Enemy Featured Image (Bottom-Right) by: Mika Väisänen, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Common
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Brian Clark

Brian Clark

I’ve been a writer with Musician Wave for six years, turning my 17-year journey as a multi-instrumentalist and music producer into insightful news, tutorials, reviews, and features.

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