37 Best Rock and Roll Songs Of All Time

Rock and Roll has been a staple of music culture for decades, and there are countless songs that have become classics over time. This list of 37 Best Rock and Roll Songs of All Time features a range of artists, from the early pioneers of the genre to more recent hits.

Some of the early classics on the list include Elvis Presley’s “Jailhouse Rock,” Chuck Berry’s “Maybelline,” and Little Richard’s “Tutti Frutti.” These songs helped establish the sound and energy of Rock and Roll and set the stage for future generations of artists.

Other songs on the list showcase the diversity of the genre, from Roy Orbison’s soulful “Oh, Pretty Woman” to the punk energy of The Ramones’ “Blitzkrieg Bop.” There are also plenty of iconic hits from legendary bands like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Queen.

Whether you’re a fan of the early pioneers or more modern takes on the genre, there’s something for everyone on this list of 37 Best Rock and Roll Songs of All Time. These songs have stood the test of time and continue to inspire generations of musicians to this day.

1. Long Tall Sally – Little Richard

“Long Tall Sally” is a high-energy rock and roll song performed by Little Richard, released in 1956. Richard’s distinctive vocals, backed by a boisterous piano and drums, make for an electrifying performance that helped to define the rock and roll genre. The song features catchy lyrics about a tall, speedy and sassy woman named Sally that has caught the singer’s attention, and is known for its lively pace and explosive energy. It is an iconic song that has influenced countless musicians and has become a classic in its own right. With its dynamic instrumentation and unique vocal style, “Long Tall Sally” remains an enduring example of the raw power of rock and roll music.

2. Rock Around the Clock – Bill Haley and the Comets

“Rock Around the Clock” is a classic rock and roll tune by Bill Haley and the Comets, released in 1954. The song is characterized by its lively rhythm and upbeat tempo, along with Haley’s distinctive vocal style. The lyrics of the song celebrate the youthful spirit of the time and the joy of dancing. The track became a huge commercial success and has since become synonymous with the early days of rock and roll. It was one of the first rock and roll songs to reach mainstream success, and it opened the door for other rock and roll hits. “Rock Around the Clock” remains a beloved classic, with its infectious beat and joyful message still resonating with audiences today.

3. Great Balls of Fire – Jerry Lee Lewis

“Great Balls of Fire” is a rock and roll classic that was released in 1957 by Jerry Lee Lewis. The song features Lewis’s distinctive piano playing and energetic vocals, which helped to define the sound of early rock and roll. The lyrics are playful and flirtatious, with Lewis declaring his love for his “baby” and comparing their relationship to a fiery explosion. The song became an instant hit and helped to solidify Lewis’s place in the pantheon of rock and roll legends. With its infectious rhythm and catchy lyrics, “Great Balls of Fire” remains a beloved classic that continues to inspire new generations of musicians.

4. That’ll Be the Day – Buddy Holly & The Crickets

“That’ll Be the Day” is a rock and roll classic that was released in 1957 by Buddy Holly & The Crickets. The song features Holly’s distinctive vocals and guitar playing, along with a driving rhythm that helped to define the early rock and roll sound. The lyrics tell the story of a lover who has left, with Holly defiantly declaring that he’ll find someone new who will love him “till the end of time”. The song became a commercial success and helped to establish Holly as one of the most important figures in rock and roll history. “That’ll Be the Day” has since become a beloved classic, with its timeless message of love and resilience continuing to inspire new generations of rock fans.

5. Johnny B. Goode – Chuck Berry

“Johnny B. Goode” is a rock and roll classic by Chuck Berry, released in 1958. The song is characterized by Berry’s signature guitar riff, as well as his distinctive vocal style and lyrics that tell the story of a young, talented musician named Johnny B. Goode. The song has been covered by numerous artists and is widely considered one of the most important and influential rock and roll songs of all time. It has been included in several “best of” lists and continues to inspire new generations of musicians to this day.

6. Jailhouse Rock – Elvis Presley

“Jailhouse Rock” is a rock and roll classic by Elvis Presley, released in 1957. The song is characterized by Presley’s dynamic vocals, a driving rhythm, and lyrics that celebrate the joy of dancing. The song was also the title track for Presley’s third film, in which he played a character named Vince Everett who becomes a singing sensation while serving time in prison. The song’s popularity helped to solidify Presley’s position as the King of Rock and Roll, and it remains a beloved classic today. With its infectious beat and iconic dance moves, “Jailhouse Rock” continues to inspire new generations of music fans and dancers.

7. C’mon Everybody – Eddie Cochran

“C’mon Everybody” is a rock and roll classic by Eddie Cochran, released in 1958. The song is characterized by Cochran’s energetic vocals, catchy guitar riff, and lyrics that encourage listeners to join in the fun. The song has been covered by numerous artists and has become a beloved classic, known for its infectious beat and upbeat spirit. With its call to action and exuberant sound, “C’mon Everybody” remains a staple of rock and roll music.

8. Ain’t That a Shame – Fats Domino

“Ain’t That a Shame” is a rhythm and blues classic by Fats Domino, released in 1955. The song is characterized by Domino’s distinctive vocal style, along with a driving beat and catchy melody. The lyrics tell the story of a heartbroken lover who has been left behind, with Domino singing about the pain of lost love. The song was a commercial success and helped to establish Domino as one of the most important figures in early rock and roll. “Ain’t That a Shame” has since become a beloved classic, with its timeless message of heartbreak and resilience resonating with listeners across generations.

9. Blue Suede Shoes – Carl Perkins

“Blue Suede Shoes” is a rock and roll classic by Carl Perkins, released in 1956. The song is characterized by Perkins’ distinctive guitar riff, as well as his energetic vocals and lyrics that caution listeners not to step on his blue suede shoes. The song was a commercial success and has since become a beloved classic, covered by numerous artists and featured in several movies and TV shows. With its driving beat and infectious energy, “Blue Suede Shoes” remains a staple of rock and roll music.

10. La Bamba – Ritchie Valens

“La Bamba” is a classic song by Ritchie Valens, released in 1958. The song is a traditional Mexican folk song that Valens arranged and performed in a rock and roll style, with lyrics that celebrate the joy of dancing. The song features Valens’ distinctive vocals, as well as a driving beat and catchy melody that have made it a beloved classic across generations. “La Bamba” has since been covered by numerous artists in various styles, and remains a staple of dance parties and celebrations around the world. With its infectious energy and timeless message of joy and celebration, “La Bamba” continues to inspire new generations of music fans and dancers.

11. The Twist – Chubby Checker

“The Twist” is a classic dance song by Chubby Checker, released in 1960. The song is characterized by Checker’s distinctive vocals, along with a catchy beat and lyrics that encourage listeners to dance and twist along. “The Twist” was a commercial success and has since become a beloved classic, inspiring new dance crazes and becoming a staple of wedding receptions and dance parties around the world. With its infectious energy and timeless appeal, “The Twist” remains one of the most iconic dance songs of all time.

12. Maybelline – Chuck Berry

“Maybelline” is a classic rock and roll song by Chuck Berry, released in 1955. The song is characterized by Berry’s distinctive guitar style, as well as his energetic vocals and lyrics that tell the story of a car race. “Maybelline” was a commercial success and helped to establish Berry as one of the most important figures in early rock and roll. The song has since become a beloved classic, covered by numerous artists and featured in several movies and TV shows. With its driving beat and timeless appeal, “Maybelline” remains a staple of rock and roll music.

13. Tutti Frutti – Little Richard

“Tutti Frutti” is a classic rock and roll song by Little Richard, released in 1955. The song is characterized by Richard’s energetic vocals, as well as a driving beat and catchy melody that have made it a beloved classic across generations. The lyrics are playful and suggestive, with Richard singing about a girl who loves to rock and roll. “Tutti Frutti” was a commercial success and helped to establish Richard as one of the most important figures in early rock and roll. The song has since been covered by numerous artists and featured in several movies and TV shows. With its infectious energy and timeless appeal, “Tutti Frutti” remains a staple of rock and roll music.

14. My Babe – Little Walter

“My Babe” is a classic blues song by Little Walter, released in 1955. The song is characterized by Walter’s powerful harmonica playing, as well as his soulful vocals and lyrics that express the pain of lost love. “My Babe” was a commercial success and has since become a beloved classic, inspiring new generations of blues musicians and fans. With its haunting melody and heartfelt lyrics, “My Babe” remains one of the most iconic blues songs of all time.

15. Shake, Rattle and Roll – Elvis Presley

“Shake, Rattle and Roll” is a classic rock and roll song by Elvis Presley, released in 1956. The song is characterized by Presley’s distinctive vocals, along with a catchy beat and lyrics that encourage listeners to dance and have fun. “Shake, Rattle and Roll” was a commercial success and helped to establish Presley as one of the most important figures in early rock and roll. The song has since become a beloved classic, covered by numerous artists and featured in several movies and TV shows. With its infectious energy and timeless appeal, “Shake, Rattle and Roll” remains a staple of rock and roll music.

16. Rumble – Link Wray

“Rumble” is a classic instrumental rock and roll song by Link Wray, released in 1958. The song is characterized by Wray’s distorted guitar sound, as well as a driving beat and catchy melody that have made it a beloved classic across generations. “Rumble” was a commercial success and helped to establish Wray as one of the most innovative guitarists of his time. The song has since been covered by numerous artists and featured in several movies and TV shows. With its raw energy and groundbreaking sound, “Rumble” remains a landmark achievement in rock and roll history.

17. Lucille – Little Richard

“Lucille” is a classic rock and roll song by Little Richard, released in 1957. The song is characterized by Richard’s distinctive vocals, along with a catchy beat and lyrics that tell the story of a wild and unpredictable woman named Lucille. “Lucille” was a commercial success and helped to establish Richard as one of the most important figures in early rock and roll. The song has since become a beloved classic, covered by numerous artists and featured in several movies and TV shows. With its upbeat tempo and infectious energy, “Lucille” remains a staple of rock and roll music.

18. Peggy Sue – Buddy Holly

“Peggy Sue” is a classic rock and roll song by Buddy Holly, released in 1957. The song is characterized by Holly’s distinctive vocals and guitar playing, along with a catchy melody and lyrics that express the joy and excitement of falling in love. “Peggy Sue” was a commercial success and helped to establish Holly as one of the most important figures in early rock and roll. The song has since become a beloved classic, covered by numerous artists and featured in several movies and TV shows. With its timeless appeal and heartfelt lyrics, “Peggy Sue” remains a favorite among rock and roll fans.

19. That’s Alright, Mama – Elvis Presley

“That’s Alright, Mama” is a classic rock and roll song by Elvis Presley, released in 1954. The song is characterized by Presley’s distinctive vocals and guitar playing, along with a catchy rhythm and blues-inspired beat. “That’s Alright, Mama” was a commercial success and helped to establish Presley as one of the most important figures in early rock and roll. The song has since become a beloved classic, covered by numerous artists and featured in several movies and TV shows. With its infectious energy and pioneering sound, “That’s Alright, Mama” remains a landmark achievement in rock and roll history.

20. Woo-Hoo – The Rock-A-Teens

“Woo-Hoo” by The Rock-A-Teens is a classic instrumental rock and roll song released in 1959. The song became a hit, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard charts, and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. The song features a catchy guitar riff, an infectious beat, and a driving rhythm that makes it a perfect dance track.

21. Summertime Blues – Eddie Cochran

“Summertime Blues” by Eddie Cochran is another classic rock and roll song that became a hit in the late 1950s. The song features a memorable guitar riff and catchy lyrics about the frustrations of teenage life. It was an instant hit and has been covered by many artists over the years, including The Who and Alan Jackson. The song’s popularity also helped to cement Cochran’s status as one of the early pioneers of rock and roll.

22. Bo Diddley – Bo Diddley

“Bo Diddley” by Bo Diddley is an iconic rhythm and blues track that features a distinctive beat and a raw, gritty sound. The song’s rhythm is often referred to as the “Bo Diddley beat,” which has been used in countless rock and roll songs since its creation. The song’s lyrics are playful and witty, and it showcases Diddley’s unique style of songwriting and guitar playing. The song has become a classic of early rock and roll and has been covered by many artists over the years, including The Rolling Stones and Buddy Holly.

23. The Wanderer – Dion & The Belmonts

Dion & The Belmonts’ “The Wanderer” is a classic doo-wop tune that features a catchy melody, tight harmonies, and a driving beat. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a restless, independent spirit who travels from place to place, seeking adventure and excitement. With its energetic, upbeat sound and relatable lyrics, “The Wanderer” is a timeless classic that captures the spirit of the 1950s and continues to be beloved by music fans of all ages.

24. Tequila – The Champs

The 1950s was a decade of groundbreaking music and legendary artists, and Ray Charles was one of the most influential musicians of the era. “Got a Woman” was one of his early hits that showcased his unique blend of gospel, R&B, and jazz styles. The song features a driving rhythm section, a soulful horn section, and Charles’ trademark vocals, which seamlessly combine gospel-inspired call-and-response patterns with bluesy, melismatic phrasing.

25. Got a Woman – Ray Charles

The Champs’ “Tequila” is an instrumental rock and roll classic that has become a party favorite over the years. The song’s infectious saxophone riff and driving percussion make it a perfect dance tune, while the shouts of “Tequila!” give it a playful, celebratory feel. “Tequila” is a great example of the lively and upbeat music that defined the rock and roll genre in the 1950s, and it remains a beloved classic today.

26. See You Later Alligator – Bill Haley and the Comets

The late 1950s and early 1960s brought about a significant shift in popular music, and these three songs represent the diversity of this era. “See You Later Alligator” by Bill Haley and the Comets is a classic rock and roll tune, with a catchy melody and upbeat lyrics that became a staple of the genre. The song is driven by a lively piano riff and features some excellent saxophone work, as well as Haley’s distinctive vocal style.

27. I Get Around – Beach Boys

“I Get Around” by the Beach Boys showcases the group’s unique sound, with tight harmonies, catchy melodies, and a driving rhythm section. The song was a huge hit in 1964 and remains a beloved classic to this day, with its lyrics celebrating the joy of cruising around with friends and enjoying the freedom of youth.

28. Twist and Shout – The Beatles

“Twist and Shout” by the Beatles is a cover of a song originally recorded by the Isley Brothers, and the Fab Four’s version is an energetic and unforgettable performance. John Lennon’s vocals are raw and powerful, and the song features the famous “twist” dance beat that became a sensation in the early 1960s. The song’s popularity helped to solidify the Beatles’ status as one of the most influential bands in music history, and its enduring appeal has made it a classic rock standard.

29. Oh, Pretty Woman – Roy Orbison

“Oh, Pretty Woman” by Roy Orbison is a timeless classic, known for its catchy melody and emotive lyrics. The song was written by Orbison and Bill Dees and was released in 1964. It was a major commercial success, topping the charts in several countries, including the US and UK.

The song is notable for its distinctive opening guitar riff, which sets the tone for the rest of the song. Orbison’s powerful vocals are complemented by the use of strings and a driving beat, giving the song a dramatic and anthemic feel.

30. Not Fade Away – The Rolling Stones

“Not Fade Away” is a song by The Rolling Stones, originally written and performed by Buddy Holly. The Stones’ version, released in 1964, features Keith Richards’ iconic guitar riff and Mick Jagger’s energetic vocals. The song became a hit in the UK and US, cementing The Rolling Stones’ status as one of the biggest bands of the era.

31. Runaway – Del Shannon

“Runaway” by Del Shannon is a classic rock and roll song from the early 1960s. The song features Shannon’s distinctive falsetto vocals and a prominent use of the electronic keyboard, which was still a relatively new instrument at the time. The song’s catchy melody and memorable chorus helped it become a major hit, reaching the top ten in several countries. The song has since been covered by numerous artists and has become a rock and roll standard.

32. Why Do Fools Fall in Love Frankie Lymon and The Teenagers

“Why Do Fools Fall in Love” is a classic doo-wop hit from Frankie Lymon and The Teenagers. The song was a huge hit in 1956, reaching number one on the R&B charts and number six on the pop charts. It is known for its catchy melody and the high-pitched vocals of lead singer Frankie Lymon. The song’s lyrics explore the question of why people continue to fall in love, despite the potential heartbreak that comes with it. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of love songs, as well as the timeless nature of the doo-wop genre.

33. Bad Moon Rising – Creedence Clearwater Revival

“Bad Moon Rising” is a 1969 hit from American rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival. The song features a catchy guitar riff and memorable lyrics, including the iconic opening line, “I see a bad moon rising.” The song’s lyrics describe a sense of foreboding and impending doom, reflecting the turbulent social and political climate of the late 1960s. Despite its dark themes, “Bad Moon Rising” remains a popular classic rock hit, known for its energetic rhythm and sing-along chorus.

34. Crazy Little Thing Called Love – Queen

“Crazy Little Thing Called Love” is a 1980 hit from British rock band Queen. The song features a throwback rock and roll sound, with a catchy guitar riff and upbeat tempo. The song’s lyrics describe the singer’s infatuation with a woman, highlighting the unpredictable and chaotic nature of love. “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” is a testament to Queen’s versatility as a band, showcasing their ability to incorporate a wide range of musical influences into their music.

35. Rebel Rouser – Duane Eddy

“Rebel Rouser” by Duane Eddy is a classic instrumental rock and roll piece that was released in 1958. Eddy’s signature sound was characterized by his use of the twangy guitar, which is prominent in this song. The driving beat and energetic guitar riffs create an atmosphere of excitement that will have the listener dancing along.

36. Roll Over Beethoven – ELO

“Roll Over Beethoven” by ELO is a cover of Chuck Berry’s classic hit. Released in 1973, this song features a combination of rock and roll and classical music, which is a hallmark of ELO’s sound. The song starts with a beautiful classical introduction before launching into a rocking guitar riff. The chorus is catchy, and the lyrics are fun and playful, making it a favorite among fans of classic rock.

37. I Saw Her Standing There – The Beatles

“I Saw Her Standing There” is a classic Beatles track that was released in 1963. This song is a high-energy rock and roll piece that features driving guitars, pounding drums, and catchy lyrics that will have the listener tapping their feet along. The song’s opening line, “Well, she was just seventeen, you know what I mean,” has become iconic and is instantly recognizable to music fans around the world. This song is a testament to the Beatles’ early years as a rock and roll band and is a must-listen for fans of the genre.