Billy Joel doesn't always venture into pop rock, but when he does the results are infectiously good. I suppose there's a certain irony in Billy Joel singing about fancying women above his class when he's a multi-millionaire, but Billy pulls off the role quite well, with the vocals being a particular highlight. Westlife failed to understand any of this in their pathetic cover version.
#749: Run-DMC - It's Like That
Funky hip hop that oozes style. The beat is the real high point of the release. It's not complex, but it thumps over the record like a sledgehammer. Maybe the single sounds dated nowadays, but back in the 80s this not only announced the group to the world, but also signalled a shift of urban music to pounding tracks like the one here.
#748: Martha and the Vandellas - Dancing in the Street
I'm sure we've all been victimised by the atrocious Bowie and Jagger cover of this classic, but the original really is a great soul record. The song has a cheerful tone, but most importantly has some brilliant vocals that could force a smile on any man's face.
#747: Arctic Monkeys - Do I Wanna Know?
A moody indie hit that's seen a surge in popularity from the alternative crowds. The depressing and downtempo verses give way to falsetto chants and a strong chorus that easily set this song apart from the many sad sounding alternative bands still hanging around.
#746: Dio - Rainbow in the Dark
You must be crazy to include the forbidden art of catchy keyboards within a serious heavy metal song, but Dio here pulls it off like a charm. The man also sounds great. Almost as great as the heavy guitar riffs.
#745: Rod Stewart - Sailing
Yes, we may be over a quarter of the way through this list but that doesn't mean my guilty pleasures won't still be featuring. Rod Stewart quits his bravado inspired act for once and actually powers his way through a heartwarming track.
#744: Supertramp - The Logical Song
The Logical Song is a track that intrigues rather than forcing itself upon you. It's not a pop record, and the themes are surprisingly deep, but it does have that user-friendly charm. The lyrics are interesting and yet somehow almost universally relatable.
#743: Tom Jones - It's Not Unusual
A Tom Jones classic. I know it's supposed to be young women who threw their underwear at him, but after a listen I'll happily strip for Tom. I don't know what's more legendary, the beat or the booming voice. The combination of both makes this an iconic release.
#742: Billy Joel - Just the Way You Are
A popular ballad with one of the most wholesome messages in music history. It's just so refreshing to have such a great song so perfectly encapsulate an average relationship without any gimmicks. Billy Joel may sound great, but it's that smooth saxophone that gets me every single time.
#741: U2 - I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For
Whilst a pompous douchebag not finding what he's looking for in life really isn't news there is no denying this is one of Bono's standout performances. The vocals are powerful, contrasting the subdued bassline and isolated acoustics. I have no idea what Bono is trying to find, with any luck a faulty nuclear reactor, but he sounds damn passionate about finding this said thing.
#740: Thin Lizzy - The Boys Are Back in Town
More at home in an epic compilation than a list of great songs, but you can't help but love it. I don't know if the boys are often back in town in Thin Lizzy's native Ireland, but they seem damn keen on reminding us with that infectious hook. I love the riff as well.
#739: David Bowie - Young Americans
Young Americans is a far cry from Bowie's early and best years, but still a cracking song nonetheless. The soul influenced track sound as good today as it ever did, with a saxophone filled melody that's damn fine to hear.
#738: The Beatles - Love Me Do
That harmonica has now become legendary, as has the doe-eyed vocals. It may not be the greatest rock track of all time, but it's a fine Merseybeat song that would launch The Beatles in their native Britain.
#737: Elton John - Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting
It's not often Elton John sounds like he could kick the shit out of you, but this song has a lively edge about it. It's a tune to blast out Saturday night down the pub after about five too many. I don't know how Elton John manages to pull it off, but boy does he do it in style.
#736: Lionel Richie - Hello
Cheesy ballad royalty. Lionel Richie is almost oppressively cheesy in this, but I can't help but fucking love it. His voice and the lyrics are like bargain bin Viagra. The music video has to be seen to be believed as well. All this is just brilliant 80s cringe.
#735: Lenny Kravitz - Are You Gonna Go My Way
Lenny Kravitz quite correctly decides that 70s hard rock is better for his style and produces a hit that seems so out of place in the early 90s. Those big repeating riffs and the shouted vocals take you back to the days when legends played the guitar. Okay, Kravitz is hardly Hendrix, but I hardly find myself caring when I turn the volume dial up.
#734: House of Pain - Jump Around
It's pretty self-explanatory what to do when you hear this banger, and the song gives you a massive helping hand. It might be a dance song, but it certainly doesn't feel corny or contrived. It has all the intensity of a serious rap song, all whilst maintaining a massive grin throughout.
#733: Roy Orbison - Crying
Wow, Orbison's voice is incredible in this. Even the falsetto fits absolutely perfectly into this downtrodden classic. When most legendary rock songs are about chatting up girls it's refreshing to have one of the best vocalists of all time pour his soul into this timeless piece.
#732: The 5th Dimension - Aquarius/ Let the Sunshine In
What the fuck was going on in America during 1969? I know it was written for the musical 'Hair', but even still, this is way out there even for a flamboyant musical. Having said that, the harmonies are actually brilliant, and the chorus even better. Interestingly we will not be in the age of Aquarius until 2448, and even then this song will still sound mental.
#731: Gerry Rafferty - Baker Street
You know this one for the epic saxophone. There's far more to the song than the saxophone however. The lyrics are better constructed than a Sherlock Holmes case, and the production is ridiculously good for the late 70s. I'm not sure if this has been mentioned yet, but the saxophone is also fucking brilliant. #730: Daft Punk - Da Funk
Take a guess when this was released. No, you're wrong, it was 1995. The concept is very simple, but back in 1995 this would have turned heads in clubs, and even today is still a blast to turn up. You can clearly hear the influence this banger has had on almost every single piece of chart music today.
#729: The Beatles - I Want to Hold Your Hand
The iconic track that kicked off Beatlemania in America, and the rest of the world for that matter. Who can resist the charming tone of this foursome asking for a simple pleasure? Back in the 60s this pop record instantly made every other song in the charts obsolete.
#728: The Troggs - Wild Thing
Actually, this is a cover version of a song that never charted, although you wouldn't know that from the way The Troggs made this their signature track. It's since become a garage rock classic, helped by not only the now iconic lyrics, but that even better riff. It's primitive punk with a healthy dose of 60s rock.
#727: Ricky Nelson - Hello Mary Lou
Released as a B side to a rather average lead single. Hello Mary Lou is anything but average, with incredibly smooth vocals and a surprising guitar solo that even the best rock bands of all time weren't afraid to steal. All this from a pop song from the olden days.
#726: Queen - Killer Queen
This is the best sort of Queen. Killer Queen is a glam rock classic with enough of a pop influence and stellar production to captivate millions. I don't know why Freddie Mercury wrote a song about a call girl, or even if he knew anything about them, but I'm glad he did. I just wish Queen stuck with their glam rock sound.
#725: Cat Stevens - The First Cut Is the Deepest
A charming little tune that makes a dramatic downturn with a depressing chorus out of nowhere. There are excellent songwriting skills on display here, with the vocal tone matching the mood swing perfectly. The song may have had more success with Rod Stewart, but the more innocent Cat Stevens version will always be the better track.
#724: Jimi Hendrix - Little Wing
The perfect live track to demonstrate what a master guitarist Hendrix was. Little Wing is not the most ferocious and high tempo virtuoso performance from the man, but rather a blues inspired and narcotic expression of rock music. Many have tried to copy the record, but none have even come close to Hendrix's level.
#723: Chubby Checker - The Twist
There's something so wholesome about watching an overweight black man instructing you how to do a simple dance. Maybe that's why this innocent little song started a massive dance craze that many have joined in over the years. For a dance song this is pretty damn good.
#722: The Beach Boys - Surfin' Safari
The centrepiece for their debut album of the same name, and if we're being honest the only good song on it. The Beach Boys hadn't quite nailed that beach vibe yet, and just look like low paid accountants having a night out, but this song was our first chance to hear those charming harmonies that would lead the group onto far better projects.
#721: Madonna - Like a Virgin
Classic Madonna. Provocative, catchy, and a huge hook that wants you to sing along. There's not a lot in the song, but there doesn't need to be when you have Madonna's iconic voice carrying the whole thing. This is the song that turned Madonna into the pop icon she is today.
#720: Kiss - Crazy Crazy Nights
Classic Kiss. It's not sophisticated and it's extremely repetitive, but that's not the point. This is a song for thousands to shout out at live concerts, and for anyone to belt out in the shower. The hook is incredible, only bettered by vocalist Paul Stanley's voice.
#719: Culture Club - Do You Want to Hurt Me
Interestingly this is now what most Norwegians cry when Boy George has them handcuffed in his basement. The music video is actually live footage of him being sentenced. The song itself is an interesting mix of new wave and reggae with the centrepiece being the extravagance and smoothness of Boy George himself.
#718: Pet Shop Boys - It's a Sin
Here we see the natural behaviour of the homosexual when brought up as a Catholic, singing and dancing their way through the admittance of their sins. The song is actually a really good synthpop track with a massive overblown production that would have turned heads in the 80s. Interestingly the group were sued by Jonathan King for plagiarism, with Jonathan then going on to plagiarise the theme of the song himself by raping children.
#717: Fontella Bass - Rescue Me
Fontella Bass puts on a vocal performance that Aretha Franklin would envy. They even sound similar, but I don't think for one moment Aretha could pull off the hook as well as Fontella does here. It's a shame the lady never had another hit. That bass line is also fucking brilliant.
#716: The Shirelles - Will You Love Me Tomorrow
The smash hit that paved the way for girl groups to dominate the charts for the next few years. The song is beautifully written and performed even better. It's a sweet song with surprisingly deep themes, providing a great little anthem for romantic teenagers in the 60s.
#715: The Beatles - Rain
The B side to Paperback Writer that proved Ringo Starr was a seriously talented drummer. I love the psychedelic feel of the song, which The Beatles would go on and nail for the next few years. It actually sounds like it's being played at half speed. The production of the song is fantastic for the mid-60s, containing large hints for the musical direction the band were travelling.
#714: Gloria Gaynor - I Will Survive
What a breakup anthem. Every time I belt this out I feel like the most empowered woman in the world. I love its disco and soul inspired soundtrack, and Gloria's voice has now become iconic for a great many people who so strongly relate to the clear message of this powerful track.
#713: Solomon Burke - Everybody Needs Somebody to Love
Solomon Burke sounds like an American preacher throughout most of this record and then blows you away with the smoothness of the chorus. The Blues Brothers can fuck off with their version.
#712: M.I.A. - Paper Planes
One of the most hard-hitting hip hop tracks of all time comes all the way from the streets of Hounslow. Yeah, not exactly an impoverished ghetto like the song makes it out to be. The themes of immigration presented by the song are all the more relevant today, even if the lines of the song are wrapped in a thick layer of sarcasm.
#711: Run-D.M.C. - It's Tricky
For me this song is forever synonymous with snowboarding games. It's not a typical rap number, and actually uses a guitar riff as the main beat, but still being full of personality and energy. There's no explicit behaviour, and all in all it's just honest and clean fun. #710: Ozzy Osbourne - Mama, I'm Coming Home
No, this really is an Ozzy Osbourne song. I don't know if anyone knew he had a sensitive side, but here it is out in the open. The song is a touching ballad with a surprising amount of finesse from the metal legend. The pacing is just fantastic and ends with an outpouring of emotion that pleases the soul instead of repetitively battering it like a classic Ozzy anthem.
#709: Catatonia - Mulder and Scully
A good case for Mulder and Scully would be working out how the hell this song isn't considered a classic. It's a cracking Britpop number with a massive dose of Welsh warbling. Cerys Matthews sounds more Welsh than Tom Jones, and there are enough nostalgic references lying around to give the single an underlying sense of fun.
#708: Wings - Live and Let Die
The song that now seems to be a soundtrack to just about everything. Originally it was for a James Bond film of the same name, but now it's become so ingrained in pop culture that you can attach it to anything vaguely dramatic. Today it's the best Bond theme by a mile, and a damn good single in its own right.
#707: Tammy Wynette - Stand by Your Man
It's incredible how so much pain can be transmitted through one voice. This is a beautiful love song that unfortunately now seems to exist for gender debates on the internet. Interestingly 'The First Lady of Country' was married a total of five times, but regardless of her blatant hypocrisy she still sounds fucking amazing.
#706: The Beatles - Think for Yourself
Fitting perfectly into the exemplary 'Rubber Soul' album is this gem. It's one of the best classics that George Harrison penned and illustrated the more serious and thoughtful tones that would dominate the greatest albums the band would produce. The bass line is especially pleasing, as is the vocal sound.
#705: The Supremes - Stop! In the Name of Love
Has there ever been a more startling hook than having one of the all-time great girl groups screaming at you? This song is a fine girl group banger that just about everyone can recite. Classic Motown and a classic pop record.
#704: T. Rex - Jeepster
A simple and repetitive song that's brought to life by the charisma of Marc Bolan. Some of the phrases he uses to describe the focal lady are mental, with the song containing some of the best car based sexual metaphors I've ever heard. Bolan still makes his lines sound sexy, with the rest of the song oozing in glam rock chic.
#703: The Small Faces - Itchycoo Park
A charming ditty about feeding ducks in a park whilst smoking a shit ton of marijuana. The Small Faces make East London sound charming, but then maybe weed masks the constant threat of being stabbed. East London is not too beautiful, but this song is to the ears.
#702: Red Hot Chili Peppers - Scar Tissue
A soulful and funk-infused track that could chill just about anyone. The hook in particular is mellow yet infectious, mirroring the stellar guitar playing in the background. The guitar solos are so pleasant to admire, bridging out an expertly placed jam.
#701: Queens of the Stone Age - No One Knows
You know this one for that riff. Actually, I think everyone has heard that riff. The blues-inspired riff carries this song, not sounding outdated or contrived in any way. Why 'Queens of the Stone Age' couldn't produce more music like this is my big question? I guess no one knows.
The single that defeated Oasis in the battle of Britpop. It's not one of Blur's more serious numbers, and only really serves as an insult to their biggest Britpop rivals, but there's no doubt this is an attractive pop influenced track that sold big back in the 90s.
#799: The Police - Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic
A pleasant track that fits into both the 80s vibe and the signature sound of The Police. The chorus is both catchy and lyrically pleasant even if the song presents the view of a stalker. A great pop track from a great ska band.
#798: Boney M. - Ma Baker
I don't think Boney M can pull off the hard gangster look they try to here, and instead the song is their usual fun-filled disco affair. At the height of both punk and disco it was somehow some mumbling Germans that conquered the European charts with an upbeat dance track describing the life of an American gangster. It is really catchy to be fair.
#797: Bob Dylan - Highway 61 Revisited
One of the finest blues-rock songs of all time, and one that perfectly helps cement the iconic Highway 61 into the genre it helped create. Dylan's nasally voice takes you through various quirky stories with the sophistication that's become typical Dylan.
#796: The Temptations - I Can't Get Next to You
A Motown classic with all the energy you usually find in a Temptations song. The lyrics are screamed in your face by five powerful voices, and there's a nice psychedelic undertone with that funky bassline.
#795: The Rolling Stones - It's Only Rock 'n Roll (But I Like It)
The Stones were past their best in 1974 but still had a banger or two left in reserve. The title is a perfect description. The song is quite basic rock and roll, but that doesn't mean it isn't instantly likable. What is essentially a middle finger to modern critics became one of the band's catchiest tracks.
#794: The Clash - White Riot
If there's any band that you could make you want to riot it was probably The Clash. White Riot would depict a short and intense riot, but what a riot it would be. No nonsense, no mixing genres, just straight punk to the core.
#793: Green Day - American Idiot
From pure punk to a song labelled as a sellout in the same genre. I honestly don't care if this isn't proper punk because not only is it catchy but it also has a surprising intensity that many fail to notice. I like it a lot, and find it some of the band's best work.
#792: Dean Martin - That's Amore
I'm not sure how I feel about the Italian styling because to me it sounds cheesy at best. The song itself is carried by Dean, who has now become famous for this iconic bit of crooning. Yes, it's silly and
overwhelmingly sweet, but you can't deny it's not a wholesome track.
#791: Elton John - Can You Feel the Love Tonight
Only Elton can sing a cheesier love song than Dean Martin. Maybe it's only on this list for its use in The Lion King, but then maybe it's also on here for its emotionally charged tone. It's not Elton at his best, but it is a brilliant movie soundtrack.
#790: Journey - Wheel in the Sky
Journey were never the most sophisticated of hard rock groups, but they knew how to get a stadium to erupt. 'Wheel in the Sky' is tailor-made for large live audiences with its catchy hook and big riffs, signalling a new direction for a band that would go on to fill venues worldwide.
#789: The Doobie Brothers - Listen to the Music
Hippie ramblings to spread peace and love. Soft and bright acoustics might not immediately scream hit song, but remember this was released in the early 70s. A real product of its time, and one to smoke a joint over even today.
#788: Tame Impala - Mind Mischief
A particularly wavy outing from the masters of modern psychedelia. Mind Mischief might just be the same recycled chords and drum beat, but they're both equally as good as each other, and I'm happy they go on throughout the whole piece. At home in either the 70s or the modern day Tame Impala always know how to balance nostalgia with some cutting-edge noise.
#787: Spin Doctors - Two Princes
At home on every 90s playlist. It's a track you either love or loathe, and I personally love it's catchy and lighthearted nature. The simple beat and guitars may sound a little outdated in the modern world, but there's still enough charm and nostalgia to carry the track.
#786: Rose Royce - Love Don't Live Here Anymore
I'm still not convinced with the beat on this one, but wow, that voice is absolutely incredible. If there was any vocal performance to sum up a heartbreak it would be that of Rose Royce. I like how the minimalistic production highlights these vocals and gives the track that serious tone.
#785: Nancy Sinatra - These Boots Are Made for Walkin'
Me love this single long time. Nancy Sinatra comes across as a classy and sultry sex icon with this fashionable hit. It's since been used in various films as well as being ruined by every single artist under the sun. And yes, that comment was mainly aimed at Jessica Simpson.
#784: Gary Glitter - I Love You Love Me Love
The nonce allergic to overage girls also appears to be allergic to commas. The man may be a monster but this plodding number one hit deserved every bit of its success. The chorus is a mouthful but it's begging to be sung along.
#783: The Archies - Sugar, Sugar
Bitterly sweet, but oh so catchy. It's everything lovable about bubblegum pop and manufactured bands rolled into one. Just try to listen without singing along. Not possible.
#782: Queen - You're My Best Friend
A song for those put in the friendzone that is actually pleasant and well mannered. Who knew that was possible? It's actually a song written about bassist John Deacon's wife and serves as not only a solid pop rock track but a loving ballad at the same time.
#781: Jeff Buckley - Hallelujah
I find it hard to pick between this Jeff Buckley cover and the Leonard Cohen original. Both are great songs but the Buckley version has crisper vocals and the soft acoustic sound gives this version a far more depressing atmosphere. A beautiful track from a truly talented artist.
#780: New Order - World in Motion
You only have to listen to the garbage World Cup anthems the English football team has produced in the past to understand why this song is such a refreshing surprise. Even if you hate football you at least have to listen to striker John Barnes transforming into an MC.
#779: KC and the Sunshine Band - That's the Way (I Like It)
Banned by the BBC for the sexually suggestive grunts. To be fair the grunts do add some sexual undertones to the hook. The song resembles more of a classic funk song than the disco genre it tries to emulate, but I'm not complaining when the hook and beat are as good as they are here.
#778: Bo Diddley - Who Do You Love?
Now seen as a pioneering track in the world of rock and roll. The guitar riff in this one is legendary, with its influence still clear to see in rock songs throughout history. The lyrics should also share the praise, evoking dark imagery and themes of black magic.
#777: Count Five - Psychotic Reaction
A 60s psychedelic classic tragically often forgotten. Maybe the repeated tempo changes are polarising, or maybe the grimy sound is unattractive to some. For 1966 these features were incredibly forward thinking. I think it's one of the finest pieces of the era and has aged just as well as the classics from that time period.
#776: The Jacksons - Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)
The first time you could really tell that Michael was going to become the next big star. Here he transforms a very standard disco song into an absolute classic. It's fun and full of energy, but most importantly it's Michael that makes you want to sing along.
#775: The Stranglers - No More Heroes
The keyboard inclusion really makes this song for me. The lyrics are intriguing, asking what happened to historical figures like Leon Trotsky. Not only am I not convinced he was a hero, but it's well documented that he was purged by Stalin. Marks down for history then, but a great song nonetheless.
#774: Dr. Dre - Still D.R.E
Dre and Snoop Dogg might work well together in this one, but it's that beat and production value that really set this one apart. The beat in particular has become iconic in the rap game, and is a large part in why Dre is one of the most notorious rap artists in history.
#773: The Beatles - I Want You (She's So Heavy)
A different direction was taken by The Beatles here. Instead of their signature sounds we get an eight-minute blues-rock epic with some Latin American vibes thrown in halfway through, all finished with an abrupt ending. A refreshing gem tucked away in an iconic album.
#772: Lana Del Rey - Video Games
An ode to the olden days. Not only is the song styled like a nostalgic anthem but its performed in exactly the same way. It's sultry and moody in tone, yet shows a surprising amount of naivety. Video Games became Lana's breakthrough hit, defining her sad tone that she would later become famous for.
#771: New York Dolls - Personality Crisis
The Americans have no concept of punk or glam rock, so when a song comes along that tries to cover both bases you expect something terrible. Personality Crisis certainly isn't terrible, and is actually an interesting concoction that surpasses many glam rock classics across the pond. The Brits had been doing this stuff for years, but rarely could you find a British glam rock classic with as much grit and attitude as this.
#770: Kim Wilde - Kids in America
Not your typical pop record, but one that still relies on a killer hook. The synthesisers and monotone vocals give the single a strangely dark undertone, contrasting nicely with the chants in the chorus. Let's be honest, it's the chants in the chorus that make this such a great hit.
#769: Bob Marley and the Wailers - Could You Be Loved
One of Marley's most iconic hits. The track has a more pop orientated feel despite undoubtedly being a reggae song. There's also some surprisingly sophisticated guitar work hidden away behind the simplistic lyrics and beat. Proof that you don't need to overcomplicate things to warm the hearts of many.
#768: Bob Dylan - Desolation Row
One of Dylan's most breathtaking and rambling stories. Released as the final track on the brilliant 'Highway 61 Revisited' album this eleven-minute sermon is undoubtedly an epic composition. I'm not sure even Dylan could tell you what the song is actually about, but when the song finally ceases I'm usually too burnt out to care.
#767: Edwin Starr - War
Of all the songs released in opposition to the Vietnam War none are as direct as this one. It's in your face and it tells you exactly what to think. Originally recorded by the media-friendly 'Temptations' the song was repackaged for the unknown Edwin Starr. The rest, as they say, is history, and Starr is now synonymous with anti-war music forever.
#766: Bee Gees - How Deep Is Your Love
A surprisingly deep single from the band who were then revolutionising cheesy disco. That's not to say this isn't a cheesy song, but I don't care when the result is as soothing and catchy as the one here. How the hell this became a hit with punk rock dominating the charts I will never know. Even by soft pop standards this is a very conservative effort.
#765: Blur - Song 2
A song taking the piss out of hard rock has inadvertently become one of the most famous hard rock songs of all time. The intro has become a classic, but everyone knows this song for the high pitched cheer that blares out during the chorus. Whether this is a joke or not it still works better than the majority of serious rock songs.
#764: Eddy Grant - Electric Avenue
It might not be proper reggae, but it does have a cracking beat and an even better chorus. It's not complex either, but give Grant an energetic piece and he will turn even the simplest stuff into good pop music.
#763: Gorillaz - Clint Eastwood
As gimmicks go a virtual band that contains a man with bad teeth and a drummer with Thunderbird 4 on his head should be shit. Maybe they are a shit concept, but their music certainly isn't. Once again this virtual band fuse together genres that don't normally work together, but here the rock and hip-hop elements compliment each other perfectly.
#762: Eurythmics - Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)
A synthpop masterclass from Annie Lennox. It's not only got a great hook but also has a great beat to get down to. Sweet Dreams is an absolute 80s classic and what would become the signature song of Eurythmics.
#761: Dobie Gray - Drift Away
About as smooth as Southern soul gets. Over the years it's been covered by just about everyone, but the Dobie Gray version is certainly the best. Like the title suggests this is very much a song that will help you drift away into a pleasant place. The chorus is just a great listen, knowing when to ramp up the intensity and showcase that phenomenal voice.
#760: James Taylor - You've Got a Friend
A wholesome acoustic number. Originally written by Carole King this song was brought to life by the soft vocals of Taylor accompanying the even softer acoustics. It has enough of that 70s cheese to be nostalgic whilst simultaneously giving off a sweetness that never gets old.
#759: Kiss - Rock and Roll All Nite
Nobody ever accused Kiss of being too sophisticated. This rock and roll anthem is by no means adventurous or complex but it is full of adrenaline and built to be shouted along too. Really the song is custom made for live crowds, and like many Kiss songs is about becoming part of the act and not giving a shit about the rudimentary composition.
#758: Art Garfunkel - Bright Eyes
The soundtrack to the excellent film Watership Down, which I'm ashamed to admit is one of the few films that made me cry. There's something about a beautiful song providing an uplifting moment in a film where poorly animated rabbits are brutally being murdered that hit home. The film may have scarred me life, but over the years this song has never lost its appeal.
#757: Simple Minds - Don't You (Forget About Me)
Originally offered to Billy Idol but thankfully ended up being given a pop vibe by Scottish rockers Simple Minds. It's a wonderfully eighties track that fits right in with the new wave genre. It's one of those tracks that both rock and pop fans can both agree to love, only seeming to get better with age.
#756: Alice in Chains - Rooster
Rooster draws you in with its melodic opening, only to then smash you in the face with its incredibly heavy sound. It's not a traditional grunge song that powers through muffled vocals and heavy riffs in two seconds. This is a brutal and arduous song, like its subject matter, expertly brought to life through amazing guitar playing and emotionally charged vocals.
#755: The Stranglers - Peaches
I dread to think what the 'peaches' in this song refer to. In fact the whole record is just a bunch of sexual innuendos, and as a result was unsurprisingly banned by the censor hungry BBC. I don't know why anyone cared when you have that awesome bass line to carry the song.
#754: Tubeway Army - Are 'Friends' Electric?
One of the big questions in life. In fact, I think there's a lot of questions to be asked about this unusual composition. I refuse to question the excellent synthesisers along with Gary's rambling vocals that don't seem to go anywhere. Maybe that's because he has Asperger's. The rambling does suck you in, as does the styling, which even by the standards of today still sounds futuristic.
#753: Stevie Wonder - You Are the Sunshine of My Life
Easy listening, smooth soul music from a man who could serenade anyone. I've never even thought of comparing my partner to the sun, but Stevie here makes it sound like the best chat up line ever. The production in particular is just brilliant, especially those trumpets.
#752: Frankie Lymon & The Teenagers - Why Do Fools Fall in Love
Frankie Lymon, who sounds like an eight-year-old girl, puts in a big shift with his vocal performance here. He carries a nice little beat, only aided with some smooth backing harmonies. The song may sound like your average pop song of yesteryear, but this track really did pave the way for young groups with high pitched vocals to dominate the charts for years.
#751: The Monkees - I'm a Believer
This doesn't make the list solely because it was in Shrek. Seriously, this is a fantastic pop song. Like everything with The Monkees it's both catchy and charming in equal measure.
A symphony of blues rock, and grunting. La Grange is actually about an illegal whorehouse in Texas that actually shut down due to the popularity of this song. Over the years La Grange has become synonymous with classic rock, and that simple riff has become legendary
. #849: Sam the Sham and the Pharaohs - Wooly Bully
Sam and his Pharaohs are an interesting bunch and probably a bit mental. Having said that, they did know how to perform a catchy song that doesn't take itself seriously. It's also quite a good rock and roll track when you start ignoring how ridiculous this whole act is.
#848: The Beach Boys - Little Honda
An exciting little number from The Beach Boys that not only perfectly encapsulates what makes their laid back vibes so great but also showed a transition towards a more artistic style that would later define their career.
#847: Van Halen - Jump
I hate that hard rockers as talented as Van Halen have to resort to synthesisers instead of relying on their god given talents, but annoyingly this song somehow works. There's still enough Van Halen flamboyance around and at the end of the day it's a really catchy song.
#846: The Doors - Roadhouse Blues
A real driving song this one. It's a song that will make you want to put your foot down hard on the gas pedal. A real tune that displays the best of rock and roll, and let's be honest, makes you feel damn cool at the same time.
#845: Christie - Yellow River
An overlooked number one single from the early 1970s that gained popularity out of nowhere. The song itself is full of energy yet relatively simple, and the chorus is infectious and extremely well written. An underrated gem from a band long forgotten.
#844: The Beatles - The Ballad of John and Yoko
A big middle finger from John Lennon to the press and the rest of The Beatles. Not only does it detail Lennon's personal life but Lennon and McCartney recorded it without permission from the other half of the group. This solid single is so well written it almost makes Lennon and Yoko Ono seem like they're not complete twats.
#843: Electric Light Orchestra - Don't Bring Me Down
The heavy layering of guitars gives this one a rather intense flavour when compared to other ELO tracks. The structure is very simple, yet the recurring elements combine to create some high-quality loud noises.
#842: Joan Osborne - One of Us
Formulaic pop rock lost in the pages of time. The lyrics probably aren't as deep as you imagine and the guitar track is about as simple as you can possibly get, but there's something alluring about this well-performed track. It does help that the chorus is really catchy.
#841: Ray Charles - I Got a Woman
No, it's not Kanye West's 'Gold Digger', but a Ray Charles classic. It's a testament to the quality of the song that it's still able to be a huge hit half a century later. I just wish people would associate the track with the breakout and also a revolutionary single from the legendary Ray Charles.
#840: America - A Horse with No Name
More at home on classic rock radio stations than anywhere else. America came up with a pleasant song that caresses the ears even if the delivery is a little rough around the edges. You don't have to be fucking Wordsworth to describe heat as anything other than hot.
#839: The Police - Roxanne
Now a more popular drinking game than the song ever was. It is a good drinking song for the record, but creatively it's far superior. The single itself is about a man falling in love with a prostitute, but that deep theme seems lost on students of today as they pound down another swig of vodka.
#838: The Beach Boys - Fun, Fun, Fun
The title provides a very apt description of the song's styling. The vocal harmonies are of the high standard that The Beach Boys became known for with the melodies conjuring up images of the beach in summer. A signature song from such a lovable group.
#837: 2Pac - California Love
This is how you return from a brief prison stint if you're one of the world's most notorious rappers. You brag about your lavish lifestyle in the most confrontational way possible. Not only does the song contain some killer verses but the hook is still as catchy today as it ever was. #836: The Jam - That's Entertainment
A little slice of England. Well, a slice of the English underground music scene at least. That's Entertainment is full of British wit and sarcasm and like everything great in Britain was written after Paul Weller came home from the pub drunk. What a hero.
#835: Gary Glitter - Do You Wanna Touch Me
Being asked if I want to touch a convicted paedophile makes my skin crawl. Once you dislodge the sick from your throat you do find yourself listening to a song with one hell of a hook, even if the imagery is fucking disgusting. Glam rock royalty from one creepy weirdo.
#834: The Cars - Drive
A hauntingly beautiful love song. Masterfully produced to create that melancholic atmosphere that echoes throughout the whole piece. This is a heartfelt ballad with a strong scent of the 80s that keeps it on your standard nostalgia playlist.
#833: Chuck Berry - Rock and Roll Music
What could very well be the definitive anthem for rock and roll. With this song Chuck Berry encapsulates every positive trope of 50s music. The song has been covered by just about every band worth mentioning, and still today is regarded as a landmark release in the rock and roll genre.
#832: Duran Duran - Save a Prayer
A wonderful product of 80s pop. The subtle synths in the background add so much atmosphere to the already complex composition. Duran Duran were known for their hard-hitting pop anthems, but this is by far their most sophisticated.
#831: The Crystals - Then He Kissed Me
A song that for me will forever be synonymous with being let through the kitchens into the biggest club in town. The film Goodfellas may have introduced the song to modern audiences, but this is actually one of the strongest singles released by any girl group. The naivety in the lyrics is touching, as is the innocent feel of the whole song.
#830: A Flock of Seagulls - I Ran (So Far Away)
A nostalgic synthpop classic tailor-made for the 80s. Its catchy chorus and infectious beat conjure up all the positive vibes of 80s pop even if nobody in Britain actually bought the damn thing.
#829: Saint Etienne - Only Love Can Break Your Heart
A mish-mash of various genres. You may be wondering how all this added stuff can work when applied to a folk-rock song from Neil Young, and to be honest I have absolutely no idea myself. The result is a great track however, breathing life into a forgotten song and giving it a new edgy flavour.
#828: Kanye West - Runaway
The most sophisticated track in Kanye's discography. The lyrics graphically explore Kanye's relationships, overlayed with a lonely piano and a complex array of samples. Runaway is a detailed portrait of an often misunderstood man, and undoubtedly one of the best rap tracks in recent memory.
#827: Toto - Hold the Line
'Hold the Line' is what Toto are all about. A huge crescendo of a chorus partnered with some powerful riffs and a nice little bit of piano. It's a song just begging to be belted out at full volume.
#826: KC and the Sunshine Band - Give It Up
Brilliantly 80s. A fun disco-fueled dance track that's just as likely to get stuck in your head as it is to make you bust a move. Good honest fun that will easily put a grin on your face.
#825: The Dixie Cups - Chapel of Love
Possibly sounding dated in this day and age, but still has that innocent charm. The composition is simplistic and thankfully doesn't feel the need to overshadow the strong vocals. The best iteration of the song was when Stanley Kubrick married it to the war in Vietnam in his film 'Full Metal Jacket'.
#824: Pat Benatar - Hit Me with Your Best Shot
A solid pop-rock record with one catchy hook. The guitars and vocals are all well and good, never becoming overcomplicated and sticking to the fundamentals of a good rock song. #823: The Clash - Should I Stay or Should I Go
Easily the most well-known Clash song, and also one of their most simple. The song isn't punk rock at its most vicious, but it does have a solid riff and a chorus now iconic in the world of punk. Interestingly the song only became a number one hit ten years after it was originally released due to being used in a jeans commercial.
#822: Queen - Don't Stop Me Now
One of Freddie Mercury's more polished vocal performances. I suppose there's a lot to leave on the table when you're describing your homosexuality. The vocal harmonies in the chorus work wonders, and the more pop-inspired elements ensure this is a Queen song that only gets better with age.
#821: The Beatles - Get Back
Famously played live on a London rooftop. Musically it's a blues-inspired rock number that gives it a sound very similar to other British rock bands around the same time, yet still has that famous Beatles flair and originality.
#820: The Four Seasons - December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night)
That December in 1963 does indeed sound like a great night. The hook to this one is infectious and the 70s pop and disco styling are so fun to listen to. It may not be the most sophisticated record, and it's certainly a departure from the group's signature sound, but it is one that can be sung over and over again without becoming tedious.
#819: Nirvana - All Apologies
The B Side might be Kurt Cobain imploring the listener to literally rape him, which is then followed by a track called 'Moist Vagina', but All Apologies is the final hurrah in a storied career cut tragically short. The combination of guitar riffs and introspective lyrics give a melancholic atmosphere and a vivid look into the mind of a very troubled man.
#818: Eagles - One of These Nights
The title track of the Eagles finest album. The vocal harmonies are of exquisite quality, happily becoming the focal point of the song. The composition is rather peculiar, even at some stages feeling like a disco record, with only the harmonies reminding you this is a classic Eagles track.
#817: Boney M. - Rasputin
Yes, this may be very corny, but holy shit that introduction and hook are enough to put a smile on my face regardless of the situation. You could play this at a funeral and I'd be dancing around the coffin. Trust those zany Germans to take the genre of disco and go absolutely mental with it.
#816: Motley Crue - Kickstart My Heart
I'm not certain this song would kickstart your heart. A nuclear power plant perhaps, but not your heart. Written about bassist Nikki Sixx's revival after an overdose Kickstart My Heart is violent, angry, and adrenaline filled.
#815: Cream - White Room
A psychedelic rock that is carried by a surprising amount of energy. The drums are the highlight by far and the foundation for the whole song, but I also love the intertwined guitar riffs over the top. A song to easily get lost in.
#814: The Crazy World of Arthur Brown - Fire
If historians ever uncover footage of this number one single then they would believe Britain went fucking mental in the late 60s. Whilst hippies were providing a cultural revolution we had this cult leader proclaiming himself the god of hellfire. I absolutely love the craziness. The craziness that would be copied my other rock acts for decades to come.
#813: Cyndi Lauper - Time After Time
One of the more touching ballads from a period in pop that favoured loud and flashy compositions. Cyndi Lauper is not prancing around the town wanting to have fun but instead showing a more mature side with this deeply personal track. One of the 80s standout hits.
#812: Elvis Costello - Watching the Detectives
An intriguing fusion of reggae and new wave. There's such a sense of style generated by the merging of two totally different genres. I have no idea what the song is about, but the atmosphere created is as dark as the detective shows Costello references.
#811: John Lee Hooker - Boom Boom
Blues at its most raw and simple. You don't need any fancy gimmicks when you have a hook and a riff as good as this one. Boom Boom has been recorded by just about every blues-inspired artists to ever exist, becoming one of the most iconic tracks in the genre.
#810: Hot Chocolate - You Sexy Thing
I can confirm the sexy thing being referred to in this song is actually the fuzz guitar. The disco beat and lyrics are both fairly standard, but that fuzz guitar just takes everything to the next level. The vocals are memorable to say the least as is its numerous appearances in films across the decades.
#809: Eddy Grant - I Don't Wanna Dance
Not the best technical song in history, but my god is it catchy. The upbeat feel of the song is interesting considering it's a song about the British class and race divide. I doubt many British people gave a shit about that message when sending this banger to the top of the charts.
#808: The Byrds - I'll Feel a Whole Lot Better
A forgotten Byrds classic that summed up everything great about the band despite being released as a B side early in their career. It's one of those times in music when the B side easily surpasses the flip side. The song is certainly one of the most underrated pop-rock songs of all time.
#807: Adam Ant - Stand and Deliver
In a decade of flashy choruses this may just be the best of the lot. Adam Ant is his usual eccentric self, making a seemingly tedious costume drama chaotically fun. Unfortunately Adam Ant then legitimately went mental and this song ended up being butchered to try and save endangered gorillas. Let's just remember this as an 80s classic.
#806: Willie Nelson - Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain
A proper country classic from maybe the best country artist of all time. This song, in particular, has been covered by many notable artists, but none are as soulful and beautiful as the Willie Nelson version. The slow acoustic arrangement and Nelson's gruff voice work perfectly together in one of the most emotionally rich country songs ever.
#805: Marvin Gaye - Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)
About as smooth as soul music can ever get. I literally have no idea why this smoothness was applied to the destruction of the environment, but it somehow works a treat. Environmentally friendly soul from the master himself.
#804: Nazareth - Love Hurts
A timeless classic if you love shrieking soft rock. I don't, but even I have to admit this is a rock classic. Originally released by the Everly Brothers the song has been recorded by many artists, but none are as notable as this power ballad from Nazareth. If you can get past the shrieking vocals you find a solid rock song.
#803: Tina Turner - What's Love Got to Do with It
Tina Turner's comeback hit, and what a way to do it. Not many people can power out a memorable chorus like Tina Turner and it's of no surprise that this became her biggest-selling single.
#802: Kool & the Gang - Jungle Boogie
Now a pop culture staple thanks to numerous appearances in film and television Jungle Boogie is in itself a very good funk track with some great vocals. The song is also highly influential in the disco genre, blaring through clubs years before the disco wave of the late 70s.
#801: Jackson Browne - Running on Empty
A song for rocking out to down an empty highway with the roof down. A smooth and melodic release in the folk-rock genre and a staple of any classic rock playlist worth its salt.
