TIMELESS MELODIES
Let's Sing And Dance To 10 Of The Best Songs Of All Time
Published on April 18, 2024
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With countless voices, instruments, melodies, and hearts beating in harmony to the rhythm over the years, it's a real challenge to name only 10 of the best songs in history. Yet, some pieces have something that transcends time and trends, capable of taking even the most serious person to the dancefloor or moving the most stoic to tears.
We know we've had to omit some iconic hits here (there could be a part two, what do you say?), but here are, in no particular order, ten songs from the history of music that we've chosen for you. We promise each one has the power to awaken the neighborhood to the urge to sing along!
"Johnny B. Goode"- Chuck Berry
Credit: Dominik Scythe
Let's start with a classic of classics. It's hard to find an adult who hasn't heard this song at least once in their lifetime. Back in 1958, the legendary Chuck Berry released an anthem that would define a whole era: "Johnny B. Goode."
A true rock and roll masterpiece, you don't even need three seconds of that opening guitar riff to recognize it and start dancing.
The artist has revealed that this hit has some autobiographical hints, and a quick listen to the lyrics and the title confirms it: Did you know that the talented musician was born at 2520 Goode Avenue in St. Louis?
"(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction"- The Rolling Stones
Credit: Vale Arellano
In 1965, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards wrote a song that would become one of the world's most danced-to rock and roll hits. We're talking about "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" by The Rolling Stones, an absolute gem for fans of this genre.
Richards' iconic guitar at the beginning of the song is one of the most recognizable hooks in music history, forever linked with the image of Jagger's dance moves on stage.
But that's not all; Keith Richards claimed to have recorded that unforgettable guitar riff while he was sleepwalking! When he woke up the next morning, little did he know that he had created a masterpiece destined to be remembered for generations!
"Like a Rolling Stone"- Bob Dylan
Credit: Brett Jordan
But 1965 was full of hits, and among them is one of the most famous songs of the legendary Bob Dylan.
Ever found yourself singing "Like a Rolling Stone" at the top of your lungs? If not, we highly recommend giving it a try. This sensational hit resonated deeply with millions, reaching the impressivenumber 2 spot on the US Billboard charts.
But this success came close to never materializing: Rumor has it that, believe it or not, the label hesitated to release the song due to its unusually lengthy duration of nearly 6 full minutes.
"Superstition"- Stevie Wonder
Credit: Duncan Kidd
Now, it's time to dance to a funkier beat. And when it comes to funk, one track stands out above the rest: "Superstition," Stevie Wonder's 1972 hit.
Shortly after it was first released, this hit had already reached number 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. It is said that during the recording sessions, Wonder improvised most of the song, perfectly complementing the rhythm set by the talented musician Jeff Beck.
Although Wonder and Beck had initially agreed that Beck would release the track first as part of his album, Stevie eventually took the lead and released it first on his Talking Book album.
Just remember: after you listen, give a knock on some wood for good luck!
"Respect"- Aretha Franklin
Credit: Robinson Recalde
While the original song was penned and performed by Otis Redding in 1965, Aretha Franklin's 1967 version of "Respect" has inscribed itself into our collective memory. With an irresistible rhythm and the Queen of Soul's divine voice, this song was crowned by Rolling Stone magazine as the absolute number 1 among the 500 best songs!
Did you know that Franklin's version is not only enriched with her own musical style but also subtly changes the original lyrics? "Respect" also transcended its musical nature to become a powerful feminist anthem of its time, helping to question gender roles in our society.
"My Way"- Frank Sinatra
Credit: Dushawn Jovic
Standing as one of the most universally recognized and covered songs, transcending language barriers with its charm, "My Way" by Frank Sinatra was recorded over five decades ago, but it still resonates in our hearts.
As many already know, this hit takes its music from the French song "Comme d'habitude" (we highly recommend listening to it if you haven't already.) And it was the talented Paul Anka who wrote the lyrics specifically for our beloved "Ol' Blue Eyes".
Sinatra's charismatic style and incomparable voice propelled this song to international glory, surpassing the original in popularity and solidifying it as one of the artist's signature pieces.
"Bohemian Rhapsody"- Queen
Credit: Noah Näf
Universally acclaimed across generations and continents for its musical brilliance paired with its iconic music video, Queen's famous 1975 song, "Bohemian Rhapsody," could not be left out of this list.
The opening chorus of voices, questioning, "Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy?" became an emblematic moment for the band. Furthermore, the song's remarkable span of 6 minutes allowed for a dynamic exploration and combinations of rhythms, styles, and harmonies, separating significantly from the conventional rock norms of its era.
Incredibly, no synthesizers were used during the recording process (which took three weeks of meticulous work), opting to craft all sounds using traditional voices and instruments!
"Suspicious Minds"- Elvis Presley
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Marking a pivotal moment for the King's career revival in the 1970s, "Suspicious Minds" by Elvis Presley and its iconic guitar solo is to this day a treasured gem for Elvis fans and the music world in general.
Originally written and first recorded by American songwriter Mark James, it wasn't until Elvis gave voice to this song that it soared to commercial success.
Rumor has it that Elvis was initially uncomfortable with Mark James' presence in the studio, so James decided not to attend the recording session, which took place between 4 and 7 am (yes, the working hours of the King). However, when the song was completed, James was blown away by Elvis' rendition, a fact that ultimately brought the two artists together.
"A Day in the Life"- The Beatles
Credit: Neil Martin
Regarded by music specialists as one of the Beatles' finest, if not their absolute best, "A Day in the Life" showcases a mountain of talent in both its musical composition and lyrical prowess.
Released as part of their iconic 1967 album,Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band****, this piece marked a pivotal moment in music productionand had a major impact on the society of its time.
According to Lennon himself, the controversial lyrics were inspired by a news article in the Daily Mail reporting the tragic death of Tara Browne, the young heir to the Guinness fortune.
"Redemption Song"- Bob Marley and the Wailers
Credit: Bill Fairs
Composed by the legendary Bob Marley and released with his band Bob Marley and the Wailers in 1980 (almost 45 years ago!), this gem transcends time and cultures.
We're talking about none other than "Redemption Song". But what makes it so special? Well, it is generally acclaimed for its deep and meaningful lyrics. Bob Marley wasn't just singing; he was preaching a message of self-liberation that still hits today. This hit is characterized by its acoustic nature; all we hear is a captivating guitar and Marley's moving voice.
But there is much more behind the music. Some historians say that when Bob Marley penned this song, he was dealing with the pain of the illness that would claim his life just a year later.