“Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen
Few songs have managed to stir generations quite like “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Released in 1975, this six-minute epic is a wild ride through rock, opera, and ballad, all swirled together. The song has topped countless “greatest songs” lists, including Rolling Stone’s and the BBC’s, and as of 2024, it’s surpassed 2 billion streams worldwide. Freddie Mercury’s soaring vocals and the song’s unpredictable structure have made it a favorite at sporting events, karaoke nights, and music classrooms. Incredibly, “Bohemian Rhapsody” returned to the charts three times, most recently after the 2018 biopic, showing its undying popularity. With a story that’s both mysterious and emotional, people of all ages connect with it. It’s not just a song; it’s almost a rite of passage for music lovers. No wonder it’s called the “ultimate anthem.”
“Imagine” by John Lennon
“Imagine” is more than just a melody; it’s a message. Released in 1971, John Lennon’s plea for peace has become the unofficial anthem for hope around the globe. The song has been covered by hundreds of artists and played at countless memorials, protests, and Olympic ceremonies. In 2020, Rolling Stone ranked it as the third greatest song of all time. Its simple piano chords and heartfelt lyrics (“You may say I’m a dreamer…”) have inspired millions to envision a better world. According to Spotify, “Imagine” remains one of the top 100 most-streamed classic songs even in 2025. The tune’s impact is so strong that the United Nations once used it in a global campaign. It’s a song that feels almost timeless, echoing louder whenever the world faces hard times.
“Hey Jude” by The Beatles
When The Beatles released “Hey Jude” in 1968, nobody expected it to become one of the longest-running chart-toppers ever. Clocking in at over seven minutes, it defied radio norms but conquered hearts everywhere. The song spent nine weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, and it’s still the band’s most-streamed track on Spotify with over 1 billion plays as of May 2025. Paul McCartney’s gentle encouragement, “Take a sad song and make it better,” resonates with people facing tough times. The singalong “na-na-na” coda is almost hypnotic, uniting stadium crowds and family gatherings alike. It’s a song about comfort, resilience, and community. Even over 50 years later, “Hey Jude” remains a musical hug for anyone who needs one.
“Like a Rolling Stone” by Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan’s “Like a Rolling Stone” shattered expectations in 1965, and music critics still cite it as a turning point in rock history. Rolling Stone magazine even ranked it number one on their “500 Greatest Songs of All Time” list in 2004, and it’s never left the top five since. The song’s biting lyrics and electric organ riff shocked listeners who were used to Dylan’s folk sound. It’s been called “the song that changed everything,” inspiring a new era of honest, gritty songwriting. In 2023, the Library of Congress included it in the National Recording Registry for its cultural significance. The phrase “How does it feel?” still packs a punch, capturing the feeling of being lost or cast adrift. “Like a Rolling Stone” proved that a song could be art, protest, and entertainment all in one.
“Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana
“Smells Like Teen Spirit” didn’t just launch Nirvana—it detonated an entire music movement. Released in 1991, it crashed into the mainstream and made grunge a household word. According to Billboard, the song has sold over 8 million copies globally and is still one of the most-played rock songs on streaming services. Kurt Cobain’s raw voice and the gritty guitar riff turned teenage angst into an anthem. The music video, with its chaotic high school pep rally, became iconic, winning MTV’s Best New Artist in 1992. Even today, “Smells Like Teen Spirit” pops up in movies, commercials, and stadium playlists, proving its lasting power. It’s the sound of rebellion, bottled and shaken until it explodes.
“Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson
When Michael Jackson moonwalked across the stage, the world stood still, but it was “Billie Jean” that truly made him the King of Pop. Released in 1983, this funky thriller spent seven weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and has racked up over 1.5 billion streams on Spotify and YouTube combined by 2025. The song’s bassline is instantly recognizable, and Jackson’s performance on Motown 25 is still considered one of the greatest moments in TV history. “Billie Jean” broke racial barriers on MTV and helped bring pop to a global audience. The story of a mysterious woman and a denied child remains gripping, and the groove never gets old. It’s a song that defined a decade and still fills dance floors today.
“Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin
“Stairway to Heaven” is more than just a song—it’s a pilgrimage for rock fans. Released in 1971, it’s been called the most requested song in radio history. The track has sold over 37 million copies worldwide, according to the RIAA. Its gentle acoustic intro builds to a mind-blowing electric guitar solo, showing off Jimmy Page’s legendary skills. Robert Plant’s poetic lyrics have sparked endless debate and interpretation, with fans still searching for the “true meaning” more than 50 years later. The song’s influence is so huge that some guitar stores even jokingly ban people from playing it. For many, “Stairway to Heaven” is the gold standard of classic rock.
“What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye
Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On” stands as a soulful cry for compassion and justice. Released in 1971, it tackled issues like war, poverty, and environmental destruction—topics still painfully relevant today. In 2021, Rolling Stone named it the greatest song of all time, a testament to its enduring power. The song topped R&B charts for weeks and remains a staple on radio and streaming playlists. Gaye’s silky voice and poignant questions (“Who are they to judge us…”) resonate across generations. “What’s Going On” is often used in documentaries and protest events, underscoring its lasting role as a soundtrack for change. It’s proof that music can be both beautiful and urgent.
“Respect” by Aretha Franklin
Aretha Franklin’s “Respect” is a powerhouse of soul and a rallying cry for equality. Originally written by Otis Redding, Franklin’s 1967 version turned it into a feminist and civil rights anthem. The song shot to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned Aretha her first two Grammy Awards. According to the Recording Industry Association of America, “Respect” is recognized as one of the top 5 songs of the 20th century. The famous “R-E-S-P-E-C-T” chorus has been chanted at marches, celebrations, and even political rallies. In 2019, the U.S. Library of Congress added it to the National Recording Registry. The track’s energy and message never go out of style.
“Hotel California” by Eagles
“Hotel California” is a haunting journey through 1970s rock mystique. Released in 1976, the song has sold over 32 million copies and remains one of the Eagles’ signature tracks. Its mysterious lyrics have fueled decades of speculation, with fans still debating what “you can never leave” really means. The guitar solo, often ranked among the best in history, is instantly recognizable. In 2024, “Hotel California” was named one of the most-played classic rock songs on U.S. radio. The song’s blend of storytelling and musicianship makes it a must-have for any “greatest songs” list.
“I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston’s rendition of “I Will Always Love You” is a masterclass in vocal power. Originally written and recorded by Dolly Parton, Houston’s 1992 version became a global phenomenon, topping charts in over 20 countries. According to Guinness World Records, it’s the best-selling single by a female artist, with over 20 million copies sold as of 2025. The song’s emotional build, capped by Houston’s legendary high note, can still give listeners goosebumps. It’s a wedding staple, a breakup anthem, and a pop culture touchstone all at once. “I Will Always Love You” shows how a song can become a universal language of love and loss.
“Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen
“Born to Run” is the sound of freedom, hope, and wild possibility. Released in 1975, Bruce Springsteen’s anthem captured the restless spirit of American youth. The song’s wall-of-sound production and passionate lyrics helped it break into the top 40 and become Springsteen’s signature song. In 2024, it was named one of Rolling Stone’s “Songs That Defined America.” It’s a staple at concerts, sports events, and even political rallies. “Born to Run” is a reminder that music can make you feel like you’re flying down the highway, chasing dreams with the wind in your hair.
“Superstition” by Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition” is a funky, irresistible burst of energy. Released in 1972, it topped the Billboard Hot 100 and has been sampled and covered by dozens of artists. Wonder’s iconic clavinet riff and powerful vocals have kept the song fresh for over 50 years. It’s a favorite at parties, in commercials, and on playlists everywhere. In 2023, Billboard reported that “Superstition” was still among the top 200 most-streamed classic tracks. The song’s groove makes it impossible not to move, and its message about believing in yourself never gets old.
“Purple Rain” by Prince
“Purple Rain” is more than a song—it’s an emotional journey. Released in 1984, the title track from Prince’s breakthrough album became his signature ballad, blending rock, soul, and gospel. In 2024, it was named one of the top 10 songs of all time by Rolling Stone. The song’s epic guitar solo and Prince’s raw, pleading vocals make it unforgettable. “Purple Rain” is often played at major events and tributes, especially after Prince’s passing in 2016. It’s a song that can make you cry, dance, and dream, all at once.
“Good Vibrations” by The Beach Boys
“Good Vibrations” is one of pop’s most ambitious and joyful creations. Released in 1966, it was the most expensive single ever recorded at the time, taking months and dozens of studio sessions to complete. The track shot to number one and became an instant classic, known for its lush harmonies and innovative sound effects. In 2025, it remains one of the most-streamed songs from the 1960s. The Beach Boys’ Brian Wilson called it a “pocket symphony,” and many music historians see it as a turning point in pop production. “Good Vibrations” is a burst of sunshine that never fades, no matter how many times you hear it.