Rod Stewart, a legendary British singer and songwriter, has had an illustrious career spanning over five decades. With a unique voice and style that blends rock, pop, and soul, he has created a vast array of iconic songs that continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Here’s a comprehensive look at his top 20 songs, showcasing his incredible talent and enduring legacy.
1. Maggie May (1971)
This folk-infused rock ballad is often considered one of Stewart’s finest works. The song’s storytelling, coupled with its memorable melody, has made it a staple of classic rock radio.
2. Do Ya Think I’m Sexy? (1978)
A disco-infused hit that showcases Stewart’s ability to adapt to changing musical trends. This song’s catchy chorus and upbeat rhythm make it a standout in his discography.
3. Sailing (1975)
Originally recorded by The Sutherland Brothers, Stewart’s version of “Sailing” became a huge hit, peaking at number one in the UK. Its soaring chorus and nostalgic value have made it a fan favorite.
4. You’re in My Heart (1977)
This romantic ballad highlights Stewart’s softer side, with a beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics that explore the depth of love and connection.
5. Hot Legs (1977)
Part of the “Foot Loose & Fancy Free” album, “Hot Legs” is a tribute to Stewart’s fascination with women and fast cars, blending rock and roll with a hint of humor.
6. Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright) (1976)
A sultry, seductive song that became one of Stewart’s biggest hits. Its suggestive lyrics and smooth, soulful delivery make it a classic of the era.
7. Young Turks (1981)
This song marked a new era in Stewart’s career, embracing the new wave and synth-pop of the early ‘80s. Its catchy, upbeat melody and themes of youth and rebellion resonated with a new generation of listeners.
8. Rhythm of My Heart (1991)
Featured in the movie “Flatliners,” this song incorporates elements of rock and Celtic music, showcasing Stewart’s eclectic taste and ability to craft compelling, narrative-driven songs.
9. Some Guys Have All the Luck (1984)
Originally recorded by The Persuaders in 1973, Stewart’s cover version became a massive hit, benefiting from his distinctive voice and the song’s timeless, soulful melody.
10. Baby Jane (1983)
A catchy, upbeat track with a memorable chorus and a music video that received heavy rotation on MTV. It’s a quintessential ‘80s pop-rock song that highlights Stewart’s ability to craft infectious melodies.
11. What Am I Gonna Do (I’m So in Love with You) (1983)
Another hit from the “Body Wishes” album, this song features Stewart’s soulful vocals and a blend of rock and pop elements, making it a fan favorite.
12. The First Cut Is the Deepest (1977)
A cover of Cat Stevens’ song, Stewart’s version is notable for its emotional depth and poignant delivery, showcasing his ability to interpret and elevate existing material.
13. I Don’t Want to Talk About It (1975)
Originally recorded by Crazy Horse, Stewart’s cover version became a hit, featuring his heartfelt, emotive vocals and a soaring chorus.
14. Passion (1980)
The title track from his album of the same name, “Passion” combines rock with elements of new wave, featuring a catchy chorus and Stewart’s distinctive vocals.
15. Tonight I’m Yours (Don’t Hurt Me) (1981)
A song that blends rock with elements of new wave and synth-pop, its catchy melody and Stewart’s engaging vocals make it a highlight of his ‘80s output.
16. Lost in You (1988)
Part of the “Out of Order” album, this song features a more contemporary sound, with Stewart embracing late ‘80s production techniques and styles.
17. Forever Young (1988)
A cover of Bob Dylan’s classic song, Stewart’s version is notable for its soaring chorus and heartfelt delivery, making it a standout track in his discography.
18. My Heart Can’t Tell You No (1988)
A soulful ballad that showcases Stewart’s vocal range and emotional delivery. Its blend of rock and pop elements, along with its catchy melody, makes it a compelling listen.
19. This Old Heart of Mine (1975)
A cover of The Isley Brothers’ song, Stewart’s version is a soulful interpretation that highlights his ability to bring new life to classic tracks.
20. Downtown Train (1989)
A song that marked a creative resurgence for Stewart, featuring a memorable chorus and a blend of rock and pop elements. Its music video, which received significant airplay, helped introduce Stewart to a new audience.
Rod Stewart’s vast and varied discography is a testament to his enduring talent and his ability to evolve with the times while remaining true to his artistic vision. Each of these top 20 songs offers a glimpse into his remarkable career, showcasing his unique voice, style, and the indelible mark he has left on the music world.
What is Rod Stewart’s most successful song?
+Rod Stewart’s most successful song is often considered to be “Maggie May,” which reached number one on both the US and UK charts and has become an iconic track in his discography.
How many number one hits has Rod Stewart had?
+Rod Stewart has had multiple number one hits throughout his career, both as a solo artist and with the Faces. Some of his most notable number one hits include “Maggie May,” “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?,” and “Sailing.”
What genre of music is Rod Stewart primarily associated with?
+Rod Stewart is primarily associated with rock music, but his career has spanned a wide range of genres, including pop, soul, blues, and folk. He is known for his eclectic style and his ability to blend different musical influences into his work.
