Come Together is The Beatles at their most extraordinary. The lyrics make zero sense and appear to have been written by an eight-year-old, the guitars seem to be from about forty years in the future, and the animated video is as mental as the song. The bassline is just unbelievably good, and whilst the band may have been splitting at this point there is a surprising sense of harmony about the whole production.
#599: Patsy Cline - Crazy
Country music is almost always about depressing realism, and here we have the perfect example of how this theme can be successfully conveyed by an amazing voice. The Willie Nelson written song has become a country music staple, yet none owned it quite like Patsy.
#598: Van Halen - Panama
The best thing to be named after Panama, except maybe some hats and the odd canal. The song actually has nothing to do with the country, and actually refers to a car. Panama is an excellent hard rock track with one of the best shouty choruses around. The lyrics are infectious, the band give off a great rock and roll image, and thankfully it's the aggressive guitars at the fore. All great Van Halen tracks have a focus on exemplary guitar work, and Panama is no exception.
#597: Eagles - New Kid in Town
A cult favourite for country rock fans. Vocalist Glenn Frey carries a solid ballad with the usual lyricisms and dulcet tones of classic Eagles records. The track deals with strong themes of ageing, and so it's perhaps ironic that the quality of music released by the Eagles after this track went steadily downhill.
#596: Elvis Costello - Oliver's Army
A cheery anti-war track that manages to make the idea of young men being sent to war an incredibly catchy singalong. That's majorly impressive in a pop track. The catchy nature is annoying, as the lyrics are unbelievably brutal for a pop track, not even hesitating to throw in the odd racial slur.
#595: Little Richard - Tutti Frutti
A revolutionary rock and roll track with some added homosexual flair. Little Richard goes berserk on the mic, shouting in tongues about some girl he claims he wants to bang. Even today the song still sounds fresh, due in part to the fact this record laid the foundations for the fast pace and loud sounds of modern rock music.
#594: The Everly Brothers - Cathy's Clown
The catchiest of the Everly Brothers legendary harmonies. In this instance it is the lyrics that supersede the vocal harmonies, presenting an emotionally intriguing tale about cuckoldry and sexual frustrations.
#593: Green Day - When I Come Around
An anthem for adolescence and teenage rebelliousness. The angst-filled vocals are complementary to the slow but grungy guitar sound that never feels like it strays over the limit. The song was a huge hit for Green Day, cementing their place as one of the world's leading punk bands of the age.
#592: T. Rex - Metal Guru
Metal Guru is the perfect mix of heavy glam rock riffing and Mark Bolan's iconic voice. It's a song to be blared out of speakers at full volume, giving you every single decibel of the wide range of instruments that come together in this piece.
#591: Beastie Boys - (You Gotta) Fight for Your Right (To Party!)
The hit that propelled the Beastie Boys into the mainstream. This record is the best example of when a great beat is partnered with a powerful riff. The result is an angst-filled party anthem with large flavourings of intelligent satire. Surely every person has wanted to shout along to this one at some point in their life.
#590: Peter Gabriel - Solsbury Hill
Peter Gabriel pulls out a hell of a pop song with a unique folk influence. The song is both serene and beautiful in equal parts, topped off with some solid structuring. This is how to announce yourself as a serious talent after splitting up with your old band. However, I will call the man full of shit. Peter claims he saw an eagle on Solsbury Hill, which is strange, as there are a total number of zero eagles anywhere near the said hill.
#589: Boston - More Than a Feeling
A great example of pacing creating an epic hard rock anthem. You could easily refer to this as the original stadium rocker, made for blaring out and feeding off the energy of thousands. 'More Than a Feeling' is still commonly played on rock radio today, demonstrating the love that many still have for this breakthrough hit.
#588: The Beatles - Let It Be
The album 'Let It Be' was largely a steaming pile of shit, and should never really have been made in the first place. The titular track is however a diamond in the rough, and is arguably The Beatles at their most emotionally sincere. 'Let It Be' is the appropriate sendoff from possibly the most important band in existence.
#587: Giorgio Moroder and Philip Oakey - Together in Electric Dreams
One of the finest synthpop tracks of the 80s. The song is a product of its time, containing just the right balance of 80s cheese and infectious hooks. The song was far more successful than the film 'Electric Dreams', which it was originally written for, and can still be heard in radio circulation to this very day.
#586: John Lennon - Jealous Guy
Essentially John Lennon's way of apologising for being a massive dick. It's a song dedicated to McCartney, further fueling their intense bromance that had slowed down after the split of The Beatles. Ironically it's better than most McCartney written ballads, showing both the talent of Lennon along with his more sensitive side.
#585: The Wailers - Get Up, Stand Up
A catchy reggae number with an important message that far outweighs its inherent sense of cheerfulness. The idea of standing up for your rights is hammered home by Marley in just about every single line, with this theme evidently being a significant part of his life.
#584: The Beatles - I Want to Tell You
An overlooked number on the 'Revolver' album that in my opinion provides a key contribution in making this album an all-time great. The song is a Harrison written LSD trip, combining an almost hypnotic guitar sound with that of a stuttering piano. It's one of my favourite lyrical explorations of drug use, and one of the more unique tracks on a groundbreaking album.
#583: Boney M. - Daddy Cool
Germans are fucking mental. I find it hard to believe that the nation of Beethoven and Bach is also home to this erratic lot. I love how the group take all the funk of quality disco music and add their own lighthearted twist to the mix. It's bonkers, it's silly, but I'll be damned if it isn't one of the catchiest songs in existence.
#582: Phil Collins - In the Air Tonight
This is how you pace a rock song. All this atmospheric tension keeps building and building until finally being released with one epic drum break. Phil Collins was originally a drummer by trade, so he knows his way around a kit, and as such ends up creating one of the best drum tracks ever. That's right, Phil Collins can produce bona fide rock music.
#581: Dionne Warwick - Walk On By
Warwick's signature tune has become a legendary soul track over the years. Sure, her voice is marvellous, but it's all about that little brass section. Like the vocals this section shows poise and restraint, never become showy. The song has since been covered by numerous artists, with none coming close to the stunning original.
#580: N.W.A - Fuck tha Police
Unsurprisingly a song that so graphically described the feeling of many minorities towards American police became just a little controversial. Both the lyrics and the beat are in your face the whole time, giving you a great insight into what this rap group think about local law enforcement. Even today you can still hear this phrase shouted by pissed off protestors when the Old Bill gets a little too personal.
#579: George Harrison - Got My Mind Set on You
George's career may have been on the ropes at the time, but here he is proving he can still write a pop hit. The composition is very simple, with a few vague phrases meaninglessly thrown in between the monster hook. Who cares if it's not written with the same sophistication that went into his Beatles work? Well, a lot of people actually. I am not one of those people, and always gravitate towards songs as infectious as this one.
#578: Blur - Parklife
Mostly heard being shouted out in its natural habitat of the British pub. In between the spoken words of cockney Phil Daniels you get a signature hook that's hard not to join in. At the end of the day it's just a lot of fun.
#577: Al Green - Love and Happiness
A soul classic with a lot of style. There's a direct contrast between Al Green's soulful tune and the funk laid down by the organ, horn section, and guitar. This contrast helps create one of the most distinctive soul records ever released.
#576: Queen - Somebody to Love
When Queen went over the top the results were often mixed. This is a prime example of when their exaggerated vocals and complex melodies worked a treat. This is arguably Freddie Mercury's finest vocal performance, managing to find the range of a whole choir with his voice alone.
#575: Bo Diddley - Bo Diddley
You may think naming a song after yourself is lacking in imagination and full of arrogance, but I've decided you're allowed to do that when you singlehandedly change the face of rock and roll. When you create a beat that has influenced some of the greatest rock tracks of all time who gives a shit what you call your song. Bo Diddley is a fairly standard rock and roll song in structure, but the beat is just so damn good.
#574: Donna Summer - I Feel Love
This was light years ahead of its time in 1977. Every single electronic dance song you can name has this track to thank for bringing these club inspired noises into the mainstream, and yes that includes the majority of 80s pop. The synthesisers are like something from another planet. You don't know whether to dance along to the track or just sit there in awe.
#573: Queen - The Show Must Go On
Just a quick note that the show can go on a lot longer if you don't fuck men without protection. 'The Show Must Go On' is Mercury's swansong. He was so ill at the time it's beyond belief that he was able to pull off this now iconic vocal performance. It's a defiant anthem of resistance, and also one ruined by the parasite that is Celine Dion. Fuck her, this is a deeply personal song and should be preserved as a moment of history.
#572: Yes - Roundabout
Familiar to meme connoisseurs. Roundabout is widely considered one of the greatest things to ever come out of prog rock. You want the longer album version instead of the heavily edited single which misses key areas of the song. Interestingly the single was only a hit in America, who were supposedly being introduced to the idea of a roundabout for the first time.
#571: Willie Nelson - On the Road Again
From a British travelling song to an American one. This track was released with the movie 'Honeysuckle Rose', which is just as bad as it sounds. The easily relatable lyrics and catchy nature of the song made this a huge commercial success, and the track has since become a favourite for many media outlets.
#570: Ray Charles - Georgia on My Mind
Ray Charles beautifully covers a traditional 1930s song, giving it a fresh soul flavour whilst not trashing the style of the original record. The combination of the strings and piano give this one a timeless feel. 'Georgia on My Mind' has since become the state anthem, which is a rare feat that few pop songs could ever boast about.
#569: Shocking Blue - Venus
Famously covered by Bananarama to huge commercial success. Not only is the original a far better song, but it's also part of the Nederbeat genre, which sounds sexy. The Dutch know their way around a guitar, so imagine my shock when it's the organ that provides the backbone of this one. It's classic 60s psychedelia with an added dose of Dutch coolness.
#568: The Rolling Stones - Wild Horses
The Rolling Stones weren't always about excessive rock and roll tracks, with this song proving they could always turn the volume down for deep introspective numbers. Mick Jagger's vocals are incredible, perfectly complimenting the acoustic feel of the ballad. I'm sure this touching track could start a romance between any couple, except maybe Marianne Faithfull, who left Mick Jagger shortly after this song was released.
#567: Four Tops - I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch)
I haven't got a clue what 'sugar pie' or 'honey bunch' have to do with anything, but that line certainly adds some vibrancy to an already energetic song. Levi Stubbs on vocals is both soulful and charismatic, helping the track become one of the best-loved Motown classics.
#566: David Bowie - Suffragette City
A glam rock classic with a surprising amount of intensity. The riffs in particular carry the song, adding greater ferocity to the attitude-filled lyrics of Bowie. There's a lot happening, with the song mixing different genres for that unusual sound that nobody other than Bowie could conjure up.
#565: Sly and the Family Stone - Hot Fun in the Summertime
Sly Stone songs either seem to exist in a world full of political strife or one where everything is perfect and flowery. This single is part of the latter world, creating a dreamy and fun atmosphere that does a great job at describing a warm summers day. The lyrics and vocals are as lax as the overall theme, making this the right song to chill out to on those hot days.
#564: The Beatles - No Reply
A really strong mix of impressive vocal harmonies and even better pacing. No Reply knows when to ramp up the volume and deliver some brilliant hooks. For once The Beatles weren't some doe-eyed young lads and actually presented themselves as jealous lovers pouring out their frustrations. No Reply will never be placed on the pedestal of great Beatles tracks, but deserves tremendous credit in any case.
#563: Alice Cooper - School's Out
An anthem for students everywhere. There is no better song for summing up that sense of relief and impending freedom after the bell rings for the last time in that academic year. Back in 1973 Alice Cooper looked and sounded like a proper rock star, feeding rebellious thoughts into the minds of innocent children in the most sinister way possible. Oh, the guitar riff is also fucking great.
#562: Madness - It Must Be Love
A unique mix of ska and new wave. The genres never seem to meet in the middle, and the result feels like a very complex pop record. There's a lot of charm found within the lyrics of this song, backed up with the upbeat array of instruments used on the track. I wasn't aware that this is actually a cover, but listening to the little-known original you wouldn't know, as the two songs sound nothing alike.
#561: Crowded House - Weather with You
I'm not sure I'd like to be known as the person who takes the rainy and miserable weather of Britain with them, so I assume the track is about the bands native New Zealand. It's the brilliant and cheery hook that makes this such a good song, especially after the laid back vibes found throughout the verses. It's the best chorus to ever come out of New Zealand, and in my opinion should become the national anthem.
#560: Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers - Breakdown
Tom Petty plays the role of arrogant cock rocker like a treat, providing a small taster for where the band would be headed. Breakdown has a really nice build that ends with some neat little riffs. I like how the guitar is the focal point of the song, showcasing simple but quality guitar work.
#559: The Cure - Boys Don't Cry
Jesus, that riff is just so good. Boys Don't Cry has become one of my favourite alternative new wave tracks thanks to both that riff and the talent of frontman Robert Smith. A great break up song that just wants to be turned up to max volume.
#558: Rise Against - Re-Education (Through Labor)
When I was about twelve this song made me feel like I was Che Guevara. I thought the edgy and thought-provoking lyrics in this would start a revolution of the mind. They didn't, but it's still a brutally aggressive modern punk track filled with anger and heavy subjects. The epic chorus has enough power to radicalise anyone, and even if the song doesn't float your boat you can still argue about the meaning of the lyrics for days upon end.
#557: Black Sabbath - Children of the Grave
From one deeply political song to another. 'Children of the Grave' is such a heavy metal anthem. Black Sabbath are not a band to fuck about, blatantly criticising the Vietnam War to the tune of heavy riffs and some damn impressive drumming. The track is one that would inspire many heavy metal bands around the world with its unmatched ferocity that would have instantly shocked any listeners in the early 70s.
#556: The Modern Lovers - Roadrunner
The riff is now instantly recognisable, but this song should really be known for its revolutionary influence on punk music. Roadrunner takes a more lackadaisical approach to the genre, instead relying on the guitar and drum combo to carry the song. There's no unnecessary aggression, instead indulging itself in themes of freedom with its carefree attitude.
#555: Happy Mondays - Step On
If any song could sum up Manchester it would be this one, and I'm not just saying that because they stole the song off of someone else. From Shaun Ryder's opening remarks to the pointless and hilarious dancing of Bez there's no denying that it was probably mountains of drugs that should take the credit for this one. It's mental, it's good-humoured, but most importantly it's so damn infectious.
#554: Jay-Z - 99 Problems
I really pity Jay-Z with all these problems. If only he had the luxury of being able to relay these issues on one of the most beautiful women on the planet or stacks of wealth. To be fair to the man he drops one of the most memorable rap tracks of the last decade whilst simultaneously mouthing off critics, so I'll be nice. Maybe listen to the uncensored version if you don't want Jay-Z to sound like he has a speech impediment.
#553: Megadeth - Symphony of Destruction
If any band could adequately describe the idea of destruction it would certainly be Megadeth. In a list heavy with protest songs this has to be one of the most impactful, not needlessly thrashing around guitar riffs and instead letting the energy build before releasing it in a powerful tirade.
#552: Janis Joplin - Me and Bobby McGee
The late Janis Joplin's most famous hit recorded just days before her passing, even if it wasn't originally her song. You wouldn't know it wasn't tailor-made for her considering how fitting her vocals seem to be for the style of song. It starts out fairly tame, but slowly builds and builds into a dramatic blues-based ballad.
#551: Ozzy Osbourne - Over the Mountain
Ozzy Osbourne at his most intense. 'Over the Mountain' is a tour de force of frantic guitar riffs, vocals that shatter your eardrums, and fast-paced drumming. Guitarist Randy Rhoads puts in a big shift, daring to try and overtake the presence of Ozzy.
Rise Against songs have the uncanny ability to bring to the front issues that will swamp the media in the next few years. Their songs are also usually played at breakneck speed with a lot of forceful energy. This one is no exception, with introspective verses being contrasted with shouty hooks and loud riffs to really hammer the message into your brain.
#649: Electric Light Orchestra - Mr. Blue Sky
I love the pacing in this progressive rock record. The composition is actually fairly simplistic, yet the pacing and structure make the whole record feel highly creative. Still not sure what they were smoking when they let a fucking robot have a solo. I suppose like the song itself it's just a bit of cheery fun.
#648: The Kinks - Tired of Waiting for You
The Kinks had a tendency to turn things up with their songs, but here's evidence they were just as talented when everything was slowed down. There's still a great riff present, but the vocals are far more subdued than expected, creating a nice little contrast.
#647: Blondie - Hanging on the Telephone
I doubt the youth of today can relate to the crime of being left hanging on the phone, but you can tell by the angst in the vocals that it's a pretty big deal. Although Blondie made the song their own with their version it was originally released as a power pop record just a few months earlier. Trust me, you want the attitude-heavy Blondie version.
#646: Metallica - Wherever I May Roam
If I could pick any entrance music for myself it would have to be this song. The sitar led intro that gives way to some heavy riffs is just fantastic. It perfectly sets up the snarling vocals that electrify me sitting alone, yet alone the effect they would have on an audience thousands strong.
#645: Stealers Wheel - Stuck in the Middle with You
Now an iconic piece of music thanks to its rather vicious usage in Reservoir Dogs. If you can get the picture of an ear being severed out of your head then you actually come across a catchy little folk-rock number. You start to get charmed by its positive tone until you're once again reminded of that torture scene.
#644: The Zombies - She's Not There
The Zombies were a British rock band from the 60s with their own unique sound. With this song we have high pitched vocals being backed up with the sound of an organ and a neat little bassline. Interestingly this song charted better in America than it did back home, but then no other British exports sounded anything like this.
#643: The Surfaris - Wipe Out
The Surfaris might have a terrible band name, but they know how to write a catchy instrumental. In the 60s this was the sound of the sea. Both the guitar riff and the ferocious drumming have now become iconic, and whilst many people may not remember the band they can certainly remember hearing this legendary piece.
#642: Frankie Goes to Hollywood - Two Tribes
This is what happens when one of the campest bands of the decade decides to create an anti-war protest song. It doesn't quite carry the theme of impending nuclear annihilation, but it is damn catchy. You can't imagine anything like this being released today, but even back in the 80s this was fucking mental.
#641: Sam & Dave - Soul Man
Sam and Dave certainly are soul men. If you don't believe them they will happily shout it in your face with an added accompaniment of some oppressively loud horns. We don't get a lot of insight on what constitutes a 'soul man', but there's no denying that Sam and Dave's impressive vocals are incredibly soulful.
#640: Duran Duran - Rio
What a hedonistic pleasure. You have Duran Duran sailing around some tropical paradise with a bunch of models, singing along to this feel-good anthem. The bass is fantastic, and I just love the intermittent guitar riffs. The hook is just the icing on the cake, making this an instant 80s new wave classic.
#639: The Miracles - Shop Around
Smokey Robinson has such an incredible voice. Here we have a simple and novel early Motown track that's instantly lifted by the dynamism in that man's vocal chords. This delightful little tale was the first Motown record to sell over a million, also holding the distinction of the first to be shipped across the pond as well.
#638: Bon Jovi - Livin' on a Prayer
Best performed at max volume when off your face in a karaoke bar. I don't care if people look at me like I'm an idiot because this song begs you to perform it with all you've got. You've probably heard it more times than any other song, but that's because it has that universal appeal that gets everyone to sing along in unison.
#637: Jim Croce - You Don't Mess Around with Jim
Jim Croce is a man who I doubt has ever intimidated anyone. His lack of on-stage charisma gives this cheery song a playful feeling, never taking itself too seriously. It's incredibly well written and performed with a surprising amount of energy for a chart-topping folk rock song.
#636: Tame Impala - Let It Happen
Tame Impala decided that reviving the genre of psychedelic rock wasn't enough for them, and so instead thought they would give synthpop a bash as well. The change works a treat, giving a modern twist to a genre that had died out decades before. There's a lot going on, most of which I don't have a hope of ever understanding, highlighting the chaotic feel of the whole record.
#635: The Boomtown Rats - Rat Trap
These were the days when Bob Geldof was singing his way through revolutionary songs instead of shouting at all of us to give him our fucking money. Rat Trap is an experimental number and signalled the beginning of a new wave genre that would dominate the charts in the next few years, symbolically dethroning the archaic 'Summer Nights' on the UK charts.
#634: Ultravox - Vienna
We go from one founder of Live Aid to the other. Unlike the previous song this new wave classic goes for the darker approach to the genre. Many new wave hits are full of experimental sounds, but Vienna likes to tell the story with a minimalistic approach. It works, and the contrast between the verses and the chorus is phenomenal. It was criminal this never made it to the top of the charts, even despite the fact it was the fifth best selling single of the whole year.
#633: Michael Jackson - You Are Not Alone
What do you get when you cross a song written by a rapist with the voice of a paedophile? Actually a very touching song it turns out. It's clear that R. Kelly's voice is the one being conveyed in the lyrics, but Michael manages to tone down his huge personality and deliver a sincere vocal performance. This is about as emotionally fulfilling as a ballad can possibly get.
#632: Stevie Wonder - Part-Time Lover
Stevie Wonder always knows has to combine pop and soul to produce a smash hit. Part-Time Lover is a fun and catchy pop track really made for dancing rather than hearing about the scandalous relationship of two lovers. Only Stevie Wonder can make being unfaithful sound like the best decision you could ever make.
#631: Bob Marley and the Wailers - Three Little Birds
Wow, I wish I had the same cheerful outlook on life as Bob Marley. Maybe the cheerfulness comes from the mountain of marijuana the man smoked everyday. In any case, I don't really care where the positive vibes came from as this is a delightful little reggae track. The song is about as simple as reggae gets, but that in no way diminishes the strong message.
#630: Alice Cooper - No More Mr. Nice Guy
When you release a record with the B side 'Raped and Freezin' I don't think you're in a position to claim you were once a nice guy. This song was released at the height of Alice's glam rock phase, so it's not too dark and gory, but has all the elements of a great hard rock track. The opening riff in particular is great, with that heavy guitar sound reverberating throughout the track.
#629: Jimmy Eat World - The Middle
For once an indie rock track with the message that everything will be okay instead of wallowing in self-pity. The upbeat track culminates in a really catchy chorus filled with vibrant energy. It may well be a product of its time, but there's no harm in indulging yourself over a classic of the genre.
#628: The Searchers - When You Walk in the Room
Originally released by Jackie DeShannon this track was given a new lease of life when four lads from Liverpool decided to cover the record to quick commercial success. The opening riff is what makes this song for me. It's a classic Merseybeat guitar line, carrying the track when the lyrics get a bit weak in places.
#627: ZZ Top - Gimme All Your Lovin'
I don't know what relationships ZZ Top have been in, but I would have assumed that being given all someone's love would include hugs and kisses by default. It is an infectious chorus however, so I'll let these bearded rockers off. The shocking thing about this track is the inclusion of synthesisers from a group who look like they haven't discovered electricity. The synths only add to the song, bringing this band into the modern age of rock.
#626: Bonnie Tyler - Total Eclipse of the Heart
Who would have guessed that one of the best 80s pop records would have come from the mouth of a Welsh lady who sounds like she's just eaten gravel? Not only is this song brilliant to scream out when drunk, but it's also a good song full stop. The pacing is incredibly good for a pop-rock song, and the whole composition is so overwhelmingly garish that it becomes impossible to ignore.
#625: Jerry Lee Lewis - Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On
Usually the only shaking going on in Mr Lewis' life is between him and his thirteen-year-old cousin. If there was ever a song to demonstrate what rock and roll was all about it would be this one. Jerry Lee Lewis goes crazy on the piano, with some added sexual tension that would have put the Bible Belt of America into a coma.
#624: The Righteous Brothers - You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'
Another historic song that seems to be allergic to the letter 'g'. The Righteous Brothers give one hell of a performance in this dark ballad with their incredible voices. The background noise is purposely kept to a minimum during the verses to show off the talent, only to then be accompanied by a full orchestra during the chorus. An amazing composition and an amazingly written song.
#623: Blondie - One Way or Another
What does Debbie Harry do when she gets dirty and disturbing fanmail? No, she doesn't phone the police, and instead is inspired to write this song. The vocals are just as aggressive as you would imagine, but it's the guitar riff that really steals the show.
#622: Van Morrison - Into the Mystic
A really beautiful acoustic number from a man with an equally beautiful voice. The lyrics are purposely kept as mysterious as the theme of the whole track, with the piece benefiting greatly from a minimalistic approach.
#621: Bob Dylan - Hurricane
Bob Dylan's storytelling is usually off the charts, so it's a pleasant surprise when he uses these songwriting talents to tell the story of a real travesty. The wrongful conviction of Rubin Carter has been the subject of many protest pieces, with each one failing to captivate the audience in the same way Dylan manages here. That even includes the feature-length film of the same name that came out twenty years later.
#620: Pixies - Monkey Gone to Heaven
An interesting and ridiculous take on spirituality and environmentalism by a band who were probably injecting themselves with heroin when writing the lyrics. The song itself is a really good mixture of loud noises, accompanied by an incredible bassline and the odd interjection from a rogue cello.
#619: Stevie Wonder - Living for the City
What an incredible way to tackle systemic racism in a nation. Stevie Wonder could have just whinged about it, but instead decided a seven-minute epic justified his frustrations. I love the interlocking guitar and synth, but it's the lyrical content where this lengthy track really shines.
#618: Supergrass - Alright
Alright is a song that's great to join in with even if you don't know any of the actual words. In all honesty it doesn't matter because the published lyrics make no sense, and it's the inherent sense of fun that attracts you to the song. Alright became a teen anthem in the UK, which is a far cry from the depressing worlds indie rock bands love to live in today.
#617: Etta James - At Last
You have to feel for Etta James. Most artists don't have their most famous and treasured piece ruined by the evil combination of Celine Dion and Beyonce. James has one of the greatest soul voices in existence, beautifully adding to the already stellar Glen Miller arrangement.
#616: James Brown - Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine
Very few individuals have the sexual chemistry to pull this one off. James Brown in certainly one of those people that can make ovaries burst across the nation just by singing a few short lines, even managing to get past the censor hungry media in the early 70s. He's backed up with a funky little bassline and the equally impressive Bobby Bird, who only adds to the song with his vocal responses.
#615: Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band - Night Moves
You may feel 60 years old singing along to this one, but it is unapologetically a good song. Night Moves relies on the nostalgic feel of youth to work, reminding listeners of cool summer evenings with an everpresent piano and the sweet serenade of backing singers. Bob sounds great as well, telling a personal story that will resonate inside many.
#614: Deep Purple - Child in Time
Prog rock mastery from the south of England. Deep Purple decide to perform this lengthy number with grace and dignity, creating a song that only evolves when heard live. Many would consider this one of the finest rock songs ever recorded.
#613: Bryan Adams - Run to You
Here we see a sexually confused Bryan Adams declaring his intentions to sleep around in the most dramatic way possible. The guitar-heavy sound and Bryan's vocals compliment each other really well. The chorus is memorable, being repeated over and over again until you feel the need to join in. A real standout pop-rock number from a man who has made a career off of them.
#612: Elvis Presley - In the Ghetto
Elvis wasn't just some lucky karaoke singer and did actually take the time to sing about important issues that mattered. His serious tone is just right for the serious subject matter, echoing the sentiments of an increasingly divided nation.
#611: Green Day - Boulevard of Broken Dreams
A simple pop-rock single on the surface with a certain charm hidden underneath. The slow pace certainly isn't dull, and I really enjoy the distorted effects given to the guitars. It's almost an American interpretation of Britpop, and it sort of works, even if the Yanks did get there ten years too late.
#610: Al Green - Take Me to the River
Now famous for the cover version by Talking Heads and an appearance in The Sopranos. Al Green's version may not be the most popular, but it is the far superior song. The track is both groovy and soulful, taking the form of a gospel song with strong themes of baptism and soul cleansing. Al Green would go on to become an ordained minister, and I would love to be part of his congregation if he adds this track to the hymn list.
#609: Them - Gloria
Them may be a tediously boring band name, but their music was anything but. Van Morrison embraces the natural ferocity of his voice, showing just how malleable that mouth is. Gloria is a glorious rock track with a strong blues-based influence that would give it a legendary status in the garage rock genre. The song is actually named after Morrison's thirteen year old cousin, which makes the blatant sexual themes of the song a bit fucked up.
#608: Big Joe Turner - Shake, Rattle and Roll
A standard setting track for rock and roll. It's one of those tracks that always belongs in any 1950s style jukebox. For the 50s this is sexually risque and full of positive energy. Bill Haley would also have success with the track, but that's not on the same level as this immortalised version.
#607: Lynyrd Skynyrd - Sweet Home Alabama
This one needs no introduction. I'm sure there are hermits on remote peaks in the Himalayas who know all the words to Sweet Home Alabama. Many miss the fact that this is a giant middle finger to fellow rocker Neil Young who dared to criticise Southern America. Just a quick listen will make you proud to be from the state of Alabama, even if you've never stepped foot there.
#606: Red Hot Chili Peppers - Under the Bridge
An introspective number from a band that relied on exerting charisma to sell records. The strong themes of loneliness and drug abuse are the foundation of the song, but there's a fulfilling sense of optimism found during the hooks. 'Under the Bridge' would become one of the most popular rock songs of the 1990s, and is still being given regular airtime to this day.
#605: Dr. Hook - When You're in Love with a Beautiful Woman
I love the opening line. I'm not sure I want to know what's hard when you're loving a beautiful woman, but you've just created one hell of a hook as your name would suggest. The song became a number one hit in the UK, and has since become a staple of any 70s pop playlist.
#604: Otis Redding - (Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay
One of the most mellow and peaceful tracks in existence. The reality of the lyrics paints a different picture, focusing on heartbreak and emptiness in contrast to what the composition would have you believe. Emotionally this is one of the deepest songs ever recorded and also one of the most tragic, considering Redding would die just three days after recording this track.
#603: Elton John - Rocket Man
A classic Elton piano ballad. Rocket Man feels like an epic journey, but in reality the song is just a talented man and his trusty piano. The themes of space give this ballad a lonely and atmospheric feel, only broken by Elton's powerful voice. The song now makes the news as a Donald Trump insult, which unfortunately often takes away the inherent beauty of this piece.
#602: Snoop Doggy Dogg - Gin and Juice
Gin and juice is a nice combination. It's almost a better combination than this beat and Snoop's laid back lines. 'Gin and Juice' is almost a snapshot of West Coast America during the 1990s, fittingly narrated by Snoop lavishly bragging about the quality of life and his care free persona. Everyone seems to be having a great time, and that attitude translates nicely into the ears of the listener.
#601: David Bowie - Changes
Here we see the first time that Bowie properly delved into his unique world of art pop. Changes is a triumph in pacing, combining subdued pianos and vocals right up until the hook is spluttered out by Bowie. Even today the composition sounds alternative and unique, yet there's enough pop influence to maintain its popularity. Change would certainly play a huge role in Bowie's career, perfectly summed up with this fitting track.
Man, this one wants to make me get up and dance just writing about it. The chorus is as hot as an inferno and the vocals are about as strong as any disco track I can remember. The song never hit its stride until being used in the film 'Saturday Night Fever', but ever since has become a classic of the genre.
#699: The Beatles - Please Please Me
The epitome of a youthful group ready to conquer their native country. Please Please Me is everything right with the early work of The Beatles. That hook gets me shouting along every single time, but underneath the powerful vocals there are some sophisticated guitars at work.
#698: Elton John - Your Song
Elton is right when he claims this song is quite simple. In truth that's all it needs to be. Elton perfectly compliments the simplistic piano, coming up with an emotion-filled performance. Its simplistic design does have the downside of making it liable to plagiarism, and unfortunately every single cover of this classic has been terrible.
#697: Gnarls Barkley - Crazy
I love the production of this modern hit. It's not too overblown, but there's enough layering for it to really stand out over the equally pleasing lyrics. Back in 2006 this was like a breath of fresh air and deserved every bit of success it got.
#696: Duran Duran - Hungry Like the Wolf
Is describing your insatiable lust for someone in relation to a rabid wolf a bit creepy? Possibly. Does this metaphor translate into a good pop song? Most certainly. This song led to global exposure for the band, and even today this track is seen as a definitive 80s classic.
#695: My Chemical Romance - Welcome to the Black Parade
The national anthem for goths everywhere. Just a quick listen is enough to bring back vivid memories of my emo based mistakes of the past, and even now making me seriously considering falling in love with the colour black. The actual song is an anthemic punk trip through powerful choruses and great riffs, creating a modern classic that's incredibly well collated.
#694: The Beatles - If I Fell
Paul McCartney and John Lennon are one of the all-time greatest songwriting combinations and work just as well when combining vocal harmonies. It's a shame the song is never considered to be The Beatles at their best because the lyrics are excellent and the ballad has a unique structure that flows really nicely.
#693: The Special A.K.A. - Free Nelson Mandela
The best song imaginable for absolving convicted terrorists. The message, unlike in many protest songs, is pretty damn clear. It's a surprisingly cheerful number for the subject matter, and actually makes me want to dance rather than storm high-security prisons. If anything it's a pleasant reminder that good still happens in this often gloomy world.
#692: The Arctic Monkeys - Mardy Bum
I have absolutely no idea what a 'mardy bum' is, but I do know this is an excellent song. It's a very brilliant British take on relationship trouble, described in far better style than any other indie band could manage.
#691: The Beatles - I Feel Fine
A fun and well-produced track that highlights the solid guitar playing The Beatles could muster up. The chemistry between the band is evident and they appear to have fun with this simple upbeat pop track.
#690: The Jam - Going Underground
A classic British punk track providing an intriguing commentary on world affairs. It's angry without being too aggressive and inspiring without being too preachy, which is a hard mix to pull off. The guitar sounds great as well.
#689: Randy Newman - You've Got a Friend in Me
Toy Story may be an animated film aimed at children, but that doesn't mean the soundtrack was thrown together with little effort. Randy Newman produced one of the most heartwarming songs of all time, and one that the majority of children have stuck in their head all their lives.
#688: The Temptations - Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me)
A surprisingly profound number from an often upbeat group. The stellar vocals take the listener through an interesting tale of fantasies and failed love interests. It's a classic 70s soul track that fits in best with the best love tracks of the 60s.
#687: The Strokes - Reptilia
Such a great guitar track. The lyrical content is kept purposely simple so you can get the most out of the erratic guitar riffs. Annoyingly the cover art for the single depicts an animated centipede, which isn't reptilian in any way. Love the song though.
#686: Nas - It Ain't Hard to Tell
Nas doesn't fuck around here, he spits some seriously deep bars. The flow is amazing, illustrating why the man is considered one the all-time hip hop greats. The track is the last hurrah on the groundbreaking album 'Illmatic', ending it on a big high with a very loud bang.
#685: Breaking Benjamin - The Diary of Jane
A personal favourite from my angst-filled teenage years. Today the song still stands on its own two feet, displaying a great amount of energy and ferocity that's often lacking with modern rock bands. Yes the lyrics are a bit sappy, and it's hardly very sophisticated, but this is still a song pleasing on the ears after years of exposure.
#684: The Jimi Hendrix Experience - The Wind Cries Mary
A chilled and calm rock ballad from an evident master of the guitar. The lyrics also star here, and we end up with an atmospheric ballad that perfectly compliments the mellow guitar. Hendrix proving that great rock records don't always have to be turned up to the max.
#683: New Order - True Faith
A real synth classic from the heart of Manchester. The upbeat nature is not matched by the lyrics which elegantly describe a drug dependency. The George Michael cover was nowhere close to matching the artistry on display here.
#682: Bruce Springsteen - Thunder Road
A nicely paced ballad that paints a realistic love scenario with a surprising amount of emotion. Thunder Road is perhaps best witnessed live, as is a lot of Springsteen's material. The build is the real highlight of the song, ending with some powerful lines and memorable guitar work.
#681: Eric B. & Rakim - I Know You Got Soul
Expertly mixed hip hop track with some of the finest lyricism the genre has ever seen. Rakim's flow is out of this world, spitting lines that would end up becoming iconic. The now famous 'pump up the volume line' is instantly quotable, and the soul samples would become popular in the genre thanks to their clever use here.
#680: Eagles - Tequila Sunrise
About as smooth and relaxing as country rock can get. The Glenn Frey led vocals mirror this styling, creating a soothing atmosphere that envisages scenes of the American desert. The song is almost as nice as the cocktail of the same name.
#679: Ray Charles - I Can't Stop Loving You
This love song is so outdated it feels like it was released in another dimension. That's not to say it isn't an all-time classic. They may sound old fashioned but the string and choir accompaniment really compliment Ray's iconic voice. The song is a pleasant marriage of country and soul, and despite being recorded by over 700 artists is still the best when in the hands of Ray Charles.
#678: Paul McCartney - Maybe I'm Amazed
The piece that McCartney himself said he wants to be remembered for. Unfortunately for him that's never going to happen, but he is right that this is a fine love song. Paul's vocals in particular are so much more dramatic than when he was a Beatle, mainly due to the personal nature of the song.
#677: Prince - Purple Rain
A melodic ballad of epic proportions. Prince himself is arguably bigger than the song itself, putting in a mesmerising performance. However, what elevates this song to the next level is the incredible production which effortlessly fuses a million different genres into one modern rock anthem.
#676: Oasis - Wonderwall
Wonderwall may have been butchered by every pretentious guitar playing bellend that ever existed, but the Oasis original still stands as a solid rock track. It's a testament to the quality of the song that something so simple is still so adored by many.
#675: Sly and the Family Stone - Everyday People
A wholesome soul track with a universal message of love and acceptance. The simple premise is that a strong groove and a positive message will carry a song, which is exactly what happens here. Everyday People straddles a fine line between corny and optimistic, but manages to stay charming throughout.
#674: Eagles - Take It to the Limit
A typical Eagles number. You get smooth harmonies dispersed with large choruses that worm their way into your head. It's so easy to get lost in a calm and atmospheric ballad like this one, even if the structure is about as basic as it gets.
#673: Blink-182 - All the Small Things
A defining single for the pop-punk genre. It's certainly a far cry from punk records of previous decades, but still has its own innocent charm and a bundle of energy. The music video is also a great little spoof of the garbage plaguing the pop charts in the late 90s with only a slight hint of irony that this song is part of that system.
#672: Bobby Darin - Beyond the Sea
Nobody told Bobby Darin that swing was dead by the 50s. I don't know what idiot told him to record a song from a bygone 1945 in 1959, but I'm glad they did. Darin's crooning sounds great, not surprisingly standing out over the millions of other artists who have had a crack with this iconic song.
#671: The Beatles - All My Loving
A perfect example of the charm offensive that early Beatles records suffocated their fans with. The structure is standard Merseybeat, but there's a surprisingly rich guitar sound at the forefront. In fact, the whole composition is just fantastically done. Arguably the best love song The Beatles ever produced.
#670: Sam Cooke - Shake
The beat on this record is enough to make paraplegics shake it down on the dancefloor. I don't know how to shake it like a bowl of soup, but I damn well want to at least try. Shake was overshadowed by the drastically different B side, but still deserves credit as an absolute classic.
#669: Rainbow - Stargazer
The highlight of the album 'Rising'. In short, this song is insane. The drums and guitars are all over the place throughout its lengthy duration, the lyrics are some tale about a wizard enslaving mankind, and they drafted in a German philharmonic orchestra for the string section. I fucking love this level of madness. What a heavy metal anthem.
#668: Thin Lizzy - Jailbreak
I don't know what goes on in Ireland where a jailbreak in a town could potentially be in multiple locations, but the riffs in this song are as brutal and violent as the said event. Jailbreak never really saw the commercial success it deserves, but is still regarded as a classic of the genre in any case.
#667: Roy Orbison - In Dreams
In my opinion the greatest vocal performance in the career of this master of the microphone. In Dreams creates this unique dreamy atmosphere that can't be found anywhere else in 60s pop music, partly charming and partly sinister. The lyrics are crafted to perfection into a tale both captivating and poignant.
#666: Bee Gees - Massachusetts
1967 was many a year before these boys discovered disco. Here there's no absurdly high pitched vocals, and no ridiculous use of teeth whitening kits. This is simple pop music with an added whiff of hippies and marijuana, filled with the very same harmonies that would make this group cultural icons in the next decade.
#665: Don Henley - The Boys of Summer
What a summer anthem. This is what pop rock is all about. You get big riffs giving way to almighty hooks that just have to be sung along to. There are pleasant themes radiating all around this tune, although with this one there's a constant sense of nostalgia and regret under the surface. It's a long way off from Henley's days in the Eagles, but an epic way to reinvent yourself.
#664: The Allman Brothers Band - Ramblin' Man
The Allman Brothers once again proving that southern rock doesn't have to be simplistic and dated whilst still staying faithful to Southern America. As always with the band you get great guitar work building the foundations of the track with a surprisingly catchy chorus to certify this one a hit.
#663: Eminem - Lose Yourself
Eminem might not be a good actor, but back in the day he knew his way around a movie soundtrack. The beat on this one is perfect for his angst-filled lyrics, pumping you up for the crucial parts of the narrative. It's like the Rocky soundtrack with an extra set of teeth. Let's just all forget his recent forays into the world of movie soundtracks and remember this great track instead.
#662: Prince - Raspberry Beret
Jesus, that beat and guitar combination are the epitome of funk. What a perfect little world this song takes you to. Raspberry Beret describes a charming attraction between Prince and some innocently beautiful woman, contrasting the majority of his sexually explicit and ambiguous work. It's such a lovely story to get sucked into, and such a great song to groove along with.
#661: The Stone Roses - I Am the Resurrection
A brilliant summation of the Manchester music scene at the time. Not only do we have an emphasis on raw sounding guitar riffs, but also catchy hooks that are still iconic today. Interestingly the bassline is a reworked version of Taxman by The Beatles, giving the record a faint Merseybeat feel. Despite being over eight minutes in length it still feels like your average pop record, along with feeling incredibly Northern at every point.
#660: The Tymes - Ms Grace
An often forgotten Philadelphia soul classic. Everything from the dramatic intro to the well layered and smooth vocals is just stereotypical soul brilliance. Sadly the band only became commercially successful in the UK, and not Philadelphia as it turns out, but then us Brits have always been suckers for songs with included brass bands.
#659: Bobby Darin - Mack the Knife
Sadly a classic swing number that most Brits never got to hear thanks to the censor hungry BBC getting their knickers in a twist over a fucking knife. Imagine if they made the same fuss over actual knife crime. Political issues aside the song is a dark tale that graphically describes a shady and evil villain. The characterisation is better than most novels, and Darin sounds in his element as he croons his way through a series of murders.
#658: The Isley Brothers - Shout
Shout has more energy than an excited puppy. The cover artwork sums up the styling of the song perfectly. It's not sophisticated or pretentious, just three men shouting into the microphone in an often successful attempt to get you dancing. I imagine in 1959 this would have sent parties fucking crazy.
#657: The Verve - Bitter Sweet Symphony
The sight of Richard Ashcroft being a bit of a dick to the orchestral sounds of The Rolling Stones has now become an iconic image in pop culture. The string section makes this song, allowing the record to be both calm and anthemic. One of the most famous Britpop releases of all time, and also one of the best.
#656: Wizzard - See My Baby Jive
Wizzard are now sadly mostly known for their Christmas songs, but back in the 70s they were glam rock legends. There's a lot going on in this one, as there is in most Wizzard hits, so thank the lord we have the strong vocals of Roy Wood to boom throughout all this glorious mess.
#655: The Dave Clark Five - Glad All Over
The catchiest Merseybeat song there is out there. If there's any song to illustrate why the sounds of Liverpool took over the pop world then this might be the one. I find it physically impossible not to join in after that simple drum beat. One of the best Liverpudlian tracks of all time, released by a band from North London.
#654: Tom Jones - Green, Green Grass of Home
Tom Jones is now more at home touching the grey concrete of Los Angeles rather than sheep shit filled grassy hills of Wales, but at one point he was a bigger icon in his native land than a bunch of daffodils. That's due in part to releases like this one that showcased his booming voice over an existing and mature country track.
#653: Wings - Goodnight Tonight
1979 was the year of disco, and so Paul McCartney decided it would be a good idea to add a bit of spice to the Wings catalogue. The strange combination of disco and rock actually works a treat, not coming across as a man past his prime cashing in on modern trends. The guitars sound funky, and the bass line in particular carries the record. John Lennon allegedly commented he didn't care for the song, but then you needed his music at that time like a bullet in the chest.
#652: Daft Punk - Around the World
Why is a song with the same lyric repeated over and over again so good? Well, firstly the bass line is phenomenal, and secondly, the robotic voice that repeats the hook easily gets stuck in your head. Daft Punk proving you just needed a bedroom rather than a whole recording studio to make infectious music.
#651: Bob Seger - Old Time Rock and Roll
The musical equivalent of every single comment section on YouTube. I don't know if Bob Seger wants a medal for daring to like older music, but he deserves praise for singing a damn catchy song. I don't care if its cliche filled and overplayed because at the end of the day it's just some good honest fun.
