10 Best Rock Songs With The Word 'Always' In The Title

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The word “always” carries a profound sense of permanence, commitment, and inevitability. Whether it signifies unchanging loyalty, lingering memories, or the acceptance of life’s ups and downs, “always” is deeply woven into human emotion and experience. In music, the word often taps into our deepest feelings—whether it’s undying love, inevitable disappointment, or lifelong dedication. This list of the 10 Best Rock Songs With the Word “Always” in the Title explores how different artists have captured this powerful idea in vastly different ways.

Joe Satriani’s instrumental masterpiece “Always with Me, Always with You” from his Surfing with the Alien album expresses eternal love and devotion through the language of guitar, demonstrating that words aren’t always necessary to convey deep emotion. Sheryl Crow’s “Always on Your Side” taps into the bittersweet nature of relationships, with the lyrics reflecting both closeness and distance, while the version with Sting elevates its emotional complexity. Carly Simon’s “That’s the Way I’ve Always Heard It Should Be” presents a haunting meditation on societal expectations of marriage, expressing doubt about whether love can truly thrive within those traditional confines.

Elvis Presley’s “Always on My Mind” brings forth a poignant apology for neglect, with the King’s unmistakable voice conveying regret and the hope for redemption in love. Billy Joel’s “She’s Always a Woman” offers a tender yet complex portrayal of a woman who is both fierce and vulnerable, and the song’s gentle piano melody captures the contradictions in human relationships. Lenny Kravitz’s “Always on the Run,” with its driving rock sound, speaks to the lessons imparted by a mother, emphasizing the need for resilience and freedom in the face of life’s challenges.

Bon Jovi’s “Always” is a classic power ballad that explores unwavering love, even after a relationship has ended, capturing both passion and heartbreak in equal measure. Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes’ “The Heart Always Knows” delves into the timeless wisdom of love and how the heart often understands things the mind cannot, with a soulful delivery that harkens back to vintage R&B. Pablo Cruise’s “Always Be Together” provides a soft rock anthem of resilience in love, emphasizing that no matter the struggles, true love finds a way to endure.

Finally, The Rolling Stones’ “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” is a philosophical reflection on life’s inevitable disappointments. It ultimately reminds us that while we may not get everything we desire, life often gives us what we need. The Stones’ classic rock anthem blends rock and gospel to deliver a message of acceptance and perspective.

Each of these songs brings its unique interpretation of the word “always,” exploring love, loss, resilience, and acceptance in different ways. From the eternal devotion in Joe Satriani’s instrumental to the reflective acceptance in The Rolling Stones’, these tracks capture the myriad emotions that come with the word “always,” making this collection a powerful journey through some of rock music’s finest moments.

# 10 – Always with Me, Always with You – Joe Satriani

“Always with Me, Always with You” is the first song on this new list of the best rock songs with the word “always” in the title, making it a strong and melodic opener. Released in 1987 on Joe Satriani’s highly acclaimed Surfing with the Alien album, this instrumental track quickly became one of his signature pieces, showcasing his ability to merge technical mastery with heartfelt emotion. The track stands out from the fast-paced, complex arrangements on the album, offering a moment of calm with its slow and lyrical melodies.

Recorded with a minimalist setup due to budget constraints, Satriani made the most of his two Kramer Pacer guitars and an adapted Stratocaster. This simplicity in his approach allowed the song to focus purely on expression rather than overwhelming effects or complicated layers. Produced alongside John Cuniberti and recorded using Bongo Bob Smith’s drum programming with Jeff Campitelli contributing percussion, the song stays emotionally raw and sonically rich. Surfing with the Alien became one of Satriani’s defining albums, with “Always with Me, Always with You” representing a different side of his technical guitar playing—this time, focused on emotion and subtlety rather than sheer speed and virtuosity.

Lyrically, while there are no words in this instrumental, the song tells its own narrative. The soaring guitar lines convey feelings of love, longing, and devotion, tapping into universal themes that resonate deeply with listeners. The arrangement is built on a gentle progression that escalates in intensity, much like the emotional journey it implies. This sense of continuity ties into the theme of “always”—the constant presence of love or a loved one, regardless of life’s challenges. Satriani’s delicate touch on the guitar evokes an intimate conversation, making “Always with Me, Always with You” a beautiful instrumental reflection on life’s deeper connections.

This song sets the stage perfectly for the rest of this list, and future comparisons will look at how Satriani’s emotive playing contrasts with more lyrical approaches to the word “always” in subsequent entries. Here, he communicates his message entirely through his instrument, adding an extra layer of timelessness to his work.

Read More: Top 10 Joe Satriani Songs

# 9 – Always On Your Side – ft. Sting – Sheryl Crow

“Always on Your Side” by Sheryl Crow is a standout track from her fifth studio album, Wildflower, released in 2005. Originally recorded as a solo track, the song gained further attention when it was re-released in 2006 as a duet with Sting. The combination of Crow’s emotionally resonant vocals with Sting’s smooth, soulful delivery added depth to the song, elevating its emotional weight. The duet version became the more familiar iteration, reaching No. 35 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and enjoying significant success in Canada, peaking at No. 2. Produced by John Shanks, the song reflects Crow’s introspective writing style, exploring themes of enduring love and the passage of time, while the production emphasizes a soft, melancholic arrangement that complements the heartfelt lyrics.

The song was recorded during sessions for Wildflower, which took place between 2004 and 2005. Crow’s work on this album was often noted for its stripped-back, introspective tone, and “Always on Your Side” is no exception. The song’s gentle blend of guitars, strings, and Crow’s soft vocals are a reflection of the album’s intimate style. The duet version with Sting provided additional layers of harmony and a heightened emotional dynamic, making the song even more poignant. The lyrics, “My yesterdays are all boxed up and neatly put away / But every now and then you come to mind,” express a sense of lingering connection and unresolved emotions, adding to the song’s universal appeal.

Lyrically, “Always on Your Side” fits well within the theme of this article’s exploration of songs with the word “always” in the title. The song speaks to the idea of unconditional support, even when life has moved on or circumstances have changed. Crow reflects on past relationships and the complexities of love, singing, “Even through it all, I’m always on your side.” The chorus captures the bittersweet feeling of always being there for someone, even when the relationship has evolved or ended. The vulnerability in Crow’s voice, combined with the warmth of Sting’s harmonies, creates a powerful sense of connection and emotional depth.

As the second song on this list, following Joe Satriani‘s “Always with Me, Always with You,” “Always on Your Side” continues the theme of enduring commitment, but with a lyrical focus on relationships and emotional connection rather than instrumental storytelling. Both songs highlight the word “always” as a powerful expression of permanence and devotion, though Crow’s take on the theme is more introspective and rooted in personal reflection, compared to Satriani’s more instrumental narrative.

Read More: Top 10 Sheryl Crow Songs

# 8 – Always on the Run – Lenny Kravitz

“Always on the Run” stands as one of Lenny Kravitz’s most distinctive tracks, combining a mix of hard rock, funk, and soul. Released in March 1991 as the lead single from his second album, Mama Said, the song showcases a bold collaboration with Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash, whose powerful riff adds an extra layer of grit to Kravitz’s signature blend of retro and modern rock. As the first single off Mama Said, “Always on the Run” set the tone for the album’s fusion of personal reflection and high-energy musicianship. With its groove-driven rhythm and Slash’s blues-infused guitar lines, the track was well-received and remains one of the standout songs from Kravitz’s catalog.

The song’s creation is as memorable as its sound. After finishing a European tour, Slash flew directly to New York, where he and Kravitz embarked on a vodka-fueled, whirlwind session that resulted in “Always on the Run.” The track was completed in just one day, with Kravitz playing drums, guitar, bass, and providing vocals, while Slash laid down the iconic lead guitar part. Kravitz also brought in horn players to further enrich the song’s funk influences. This collaboration between two icons of rock—Kravitz’s polished, soulful voice and Slash’s raw guitar—melded seamlessly, and their partnership extended beyond the studio when Kravitz joined Guns N’ Roses on stage in 1992 for a live performance of the song during the Use Your Illusion tour in Paris.

Lyrically, the song is a tribute to Kravitz’s mother, paying homage to the life lessons she instilled in him. The lyrics reflect advice on self-respect, hard work, and the pursuit of love over material wealth, with lines like “My mama said, that love’s all that matters” embodying the heart of the song. Despite these words of wisdom, the recurring line “But I’m always on the run” reveals a tension between following that advice and the restless, rebellious nature of the narrator, creating a relatable push-and-pull dynamic. The song’s themes of independence and personal growth resonate with the overarching concept of Mama Said, an album largely focused on emotional introspection and moving forward from past experiences.

“Always on the Run” stands out not only for its infectious energy but also for the way it bridges genres, combining the essence of funk, rock, and soul. As the first song in this list of the 10 Best Rock Songs with the Word “Always” in the title, it kicks things off with an explosive mix of groove and raw emotion, setting the stage for the diverse explorations of the word “always” to come.

Read More: Top 10 Lenny Kravitz Songs

# 7 – The Heart Always Knows – Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes

Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes - Soultime

“The Heart Always Knows” is one of the most emotionally resonant tracks on Soultime!, Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes’ 2015 release. As part of an album that pays homage to vintage soul and rhythm and blues, this track stands out as a homage to the early roots of R&B, particularly the romantic, tender ballads of the late ’50s and early ’60s. With influences from legends like Ben E. King and Sam Cooke, the song beautifully captures the era’s timeless emotional depth, blending it with Southside Johnny’s seasoned voice, which has grown richer with age.

Recorded as part of the Soultime! sessions, the song features Southside Johnny’s regular collaborator Jeff Kazee as co-writer and co-producer. Together, they have crafted a collection of songs that perfectly channel the essence of classic soul music. The production on “The Heart Always Knows” is refined and understated, allowing Southside’s gravelly, heartfelt delivery to shine. The smooth instrumentation—characterized by gentle horns, steady rhythm sections, and evocative keys—captures the warmth and simplicity of classic R&B, while also feeling fresh and relevant.

Lyrically, “The Heart Always Knows” explores themes of love, intuition, and emotional connection, echoing the era when love songs focused on heartfelt, straightforward sentiments. The lines “We both have feelings that we’re afraid to show / But the heart always knows” encapsulate the song’s message: trusting the heart over the mind when it comes to matters of love. The lyrics convey a sense of vulnerability and a longing for closeness, offering a reflective, tender moment within the context of the album’s more upbeat soul grooves.

As the first track to be analyzed in this list, “The Heart Always Knows” exemplifies how Southside Johnny blends the old with the new, remaining true to his R&B roots while continuing to evolve as an artist. This song’s gentle homage to soul music’s golden era sets the stage for a collection of songs that showcase his ability to honor the past while making it his own.

Read More: Top 10 Southside Johnny Songs

# 6 – Always Be Together – Pablo Cruise

From Pablo Cruise’s fourth and most commercially successful album, Worlds Away (1978), “Always Be Together” is a beautiful expression of enduring love and the resilience of a relationship through difficult times. While the album is best known for its major hits like “Love Will Find a Way,” this track stands out for its emotional depth and heartfelt lyrics, providing a smooth and reflective moment amidst the California soft rock sound that defines much of the album. Though not released as a single, “Always Be Together” is a fan favorite for its soothing melody and hopeful message, fitting perfectly within the framework of the band’s overall sound and ethos.

Worlds Away was recorded with the production assistance of Bill Schnee, a noted figure in the soft rock and pop world, and it was completed at the Record Plant in Sausalito, California. Bruce Day joined the group as bassist after the departure of original member Bud Cockrell, bringing a slightly different flavor to the album’s rhythm section. The musicians on the track include David Jenkins on guitar and lead vocals, Cory Lerios on keyboards, Steve Price on drums, and Bruce Day on bass, with each band member contributing to the lush harmonies and tight musicianship that became hallmarks of Pablo Cruise’s music.

Lyrically, “Always Be Together” explores the idea of a relationship that has weathered the storms of life and grown stronger as a result. The lines “When I look back on our early years, how we spent so much time in tears” speak to the struggles that many couples face, while the repeated refrain “We will always be together” expresses the conviction that love will ultimately prevail. The song’s message of hope and endurance resonates with the overall theme of Worlds Away, which reflects both the highs and lows of love.

In comparison to Lenny Kravitz’s “Always on the Run,” another song on this list, the themes of perseverance and connection stand strong in both tracks. While Kravitz’s song focuses more on a personal journey driven by the lessons of his mother, “Always Be Together” centers on the power of a lasting romantic relationship. Both songs capture the essence of resilience but channel that theme through different lenses—Kravitz with his raw, funky rock energy and Pablo Cruise with their soft, melodic soul.

Read More: Top 10 Pablo Cruise Songs

# 5 – That’s the Way I’ve Always Heard it Should Be – Carly Simon

“That’s the Way I’ve Always Heard It Should Be” was Carly Simon’s breakthrough song, released as the lead single from her self-titled debut album Carly Simon in 1971. Written by Simon and her longtime collaborator Jacob Brackman, the song became an instant classic, peaking at No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning Simon a Grammy nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. This haunting and introspective track also set the stage for Simon’s illustrious career, ultimately helping her win the Grammy for Best New Artist at the 1972 awards.

The song was produced by Eddie Kramer, who also worked with artists such as Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin. Recorded at Electric Lady Studios in New York City, Simon brought in an understated yet powerful arrangement. Simon’s delicate piano playing lays the foundation, while orchestral elements subtly build in intensity, mirroring the emotional weight of the lyrics. The production enhances the haunting atmosphere, allowing Simon’s voice to deliver the melancholic narrative of disillusionment with societal norms around marriage.

Lyrically, “That’s the Way I’ve Always Heard It Should Be” challenges traditional views of love and marriage, making it a standout song from the early 1970s. The song reflects on the tensions between societal expectations and individual desires. The chorus, “But you say it’s time we moved in together / And raised a family of our own, you and me / Well, that’s the way I’ve always heard it should be,” captures a sense of resignation rather than joy, a recurring theme in the song. Simon’s protagonist seems torn between wanting to conform to the expectations of marriage and the fear of losing herself in the process. This existential tension is reflected in the lyrics “But soon you’ll cage me on your shelf / I’ll never learn to be just me first by myself.”

The song’s emotional complexity and its critique of the pressures of love and marriage align it with other introspective songs about relationships. In contrast to other songs on this list like “Always Be Together” by Pablo Cruise, which is more optimistic about love’s resilience, Simon’s song presents a more nuanced, somber view of marriage as something that can potentially trap individuals rather than liberate them. This makes “That’s the Way I’ve Always Heard It Should Be” a poignant reflection on personal and social expectations, elevating it as one of Simon’s most enduring and thought-provoking works.

Read More: Top 10 Carly Simon Songs

# 4 – Always On My Mind – Elvis Presley

“Always On My Mind” became one of Elvis Presley’s most iconic ballads, recorded just weeks after his separation from Priscilla Presley in March 1972. Though the song was originally penned by Wayne Carson, Johnny Christopher, and Mark James, it was Elvis’ emotive delivery that made it resonate with audiences worldwide. Released as the B-side to his hit single “Separate Ways,” Presley’s version of “Always On My Mind” quickly overshadowed the A-side, solidifying its place in pop culture as one of his most moving and introspective performances. The song reached No. 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 9 on the Easy Listening chart, becoming a crossover hit in both country and pop categories.

Recorded at RCA Studio C in Hollywood, the track was produced by Felton Jarvis, who had worked closely with Presley during his late career. The personnel on this recording included Elvis on vocals, James Burton on lead guitar, Emory Gordy Jr. on bass, and David Briggs on piano, among others. The arrangement was minimalist, allowing Elvis’s poignant vocal performance to stand out, especially as he captured the regret and longing embedded in the lyrics. The gentle accompaniment of strings and subtle backing vocals emphasized the song’s vulnerability, making it a perfect vehicle for expressing heartbreak.

Lyrically, “Always On My Mind” delves into themes of regret, missed opportunities, and the acknowledgment of one’s emotional shortcomings in a relationship. The opening lines, “Maybe I didn’t love you quite as often as I could have, maybe I didn’t treat you quite as good as I should have,” set the tone for the confessional nature of the song. Elvis’s vocals, brimming with emotion, convey a man desperate to make amends for neglecting the simple acts of love. This song, much like Carly Simon’s “That’s the Way I’ve Always Heard It Should Be,” reflects the complications of relationships, but while Simon’s song questions the institution of marriage, Presley’s track is a deeply personal apology, a plea for another chance to make things right.

Unlike some of the more hopeful tracks on this list, “Always On My Mind” stands out for its melancholic tone, making it a heartfelt exploration of lost love and the inevitable pain that comes with looking back on what could have been. In comparison to Lenny Kravitz’s “Always on the Run,” which exudes a sense of rebellion and freedom, Presley’s ballad is introspective, showing a more vulnerable side to the theme of being “always on someone’s mind.”

Read More: Top 10 Elvis Presley Love Songs

# 3 – She’s Always A Woman – Billy Joel

“She’s Always a Woman” is one of Billy Joel’s most beloved ballads, featured on his highly successful 1977 album The Stranger. The song became a signature piece of Joel’s softer, more introspective songwriting style. Released as a single in 1978, it reached No. 17 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of several hits from The Stranger album, which also included classics like “Just the Way You Are” and “Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Song).” Produced by Phil Ramone and recorded at A&R Recording Studios in New York City, the track is built around Joel’s piano playing, which is complemented by a delicate acoustic arrangement, allowing the vulnerability of the lyrics to take center stage.

The lyrical content of “She’s Always a Woman” reflects Joel’s admiration for strong, independent women, which, in this case, was inspired by his then-wife, Elizabeth Weber. The song describes a woman who is complex, sometimes contradictory, and unapologetically herself—both tender and tough. Joel sings about a woman who “can kill with a smile” or “ruin your faith with her casual lies,” yet in the end, remains a figure of fascination and admiration. This nuanced portrayal shows a woman who defies expectations, someone who Joel praises for her ability to stay true to herself even as she challenges the people around her.

Compared to other songs on this list, like Carly Simon’s “That’s the Way I’ve Always Heard It Should Be,” which reflects on societal expectations of relationships, “She’s Always a Woman” takes a more personal and direct approach in celebrating an individual woman’s complexity. While Simon’s song grapples with the concept of marriage and conformity, Joel’s song is an ode to a woman’s independence and refusal to be defined by anyone’s standards but her own. Both tracks showcase the complexities of relationships, but while Simon’s is more reflective and conflicted, Joel’s tone is filled with adoration, despite the woman’s challenging traits.

Musically, the song features a soft, almost waltz-like rhythm, with Joel’s soothing vocals and delicate piano leading the way. His gentle delivery of lyrics like “She takes care of herself, she can wait if she wants, she’s ahead of her time” reinforces the message of empowerment within the song. “She’s Always a Woman” stands out for its celebration of individuality and the recognition of the beauty in imperfection.

Read More: Top 10 Billy Joel Songs

# 2 – Always – Bon Jovi

“Always” is a power ballad by Bon Jovi, released in 1994 as the lead single from their Cross Road greatest hits album. This emotionally charged track became one of the band’s most commercially successful songs, peaking at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming an international hit, reaching the top of the charts in countries like Belgium, Canada, and Ireland. The song’s worldwide success marked it as a fan favorite and Bon Jovi’s final top 10 hit in the U.S. The release also holds significance as the last single to feature bass player Alec John Such before he departs from the band later in 1994.

Originally intended for the soundtrack of Romeo Is Bleeding, Jon Bon Jovi ultimately decided against contributing the song after feeling let down by the film’s execution. However, at the encouragement of John Kalodner, a friend and A&R executive, Bon Jovi reworked the song and released it. Produced by Peter Collins, “Always” stands as a quintessential Bon Jovi track, capturing the soaring emotion and heartfelt lyrics that characterize much of their work from the late 80s and early 90s.

Lyrically, the song revolves around the themes of undying love, regret, and longing. The protagonist reflects on the memories of a past relationship, with vivid lyrics like “Now your pictures that you left behind / Are just memories of a different life,” depicting a deep sense of loss. The song’s chorus promises eternal love: “I will love you, baby, always / And I’ll be there forever and a day,” with passionate declarations underscoring the desperation of wanting to make amends. Musically, the track is driven by Jon Bon Jovi’s powerful vocal delivery, David Bryan’s sweeping keyboards, and Richie Sambora’s iconic guitar work, which includes a stirring solo that elevates the ballad’s intensity.

“Always” fits perfectly into the list of the 10 Best Rock Songs with the word “Always” in the title, as it highlights Bon Jovi’s ability to craft memorable, emotionally resonant anthems. The song can be compared to other tracks on the list like Carly Simon’s “That’s the Way I’ve Always Heard It Should Be,” as both songs delve into complex emotions surrounding love, albeit from different perspectives. While Simon’s song questions the traditional expectations of relationships, Bon Jovi’s ballad explores love’s resilience and undying devotion despite heartbreak.

The music video, directed by Marty Callner, further cemented the song’s iconic status by telling a dramatic love story, featuring betrayal, heartbreak, and redemption. With its powerful blend of heartfelt lyrics, soaring instrumentals, and strong visual storytelling, “Always” remains one of Bon Jovi’s signature ballads, showcasing the band’s timeless appeal in the world of rock.

# 1 – You Can’t Always Get What You Want – The Rolling Stones

“You Can’t Always Get What You Want” is one of The Rolling Stones‘ most iconic songs, originally released in 1969 as part of their landmark album Let It Bleed. Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the song captures the quintessential mix of rock, blues, and gospel elements that made the Stones such a force in late 60s music. It initially appeared as the B-side to “Honky Tonk Women” but gained more prominence over time, becoming a fan favorite despite not charting highly upon its original release. Re-released in 1973, it reached number 42 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 34 on the Cashbox Top 100, affirming its place as a cornerstone of the band’s catalog.

Musically, the song is driven by its choral introduction, performed by the London Bach Choir, which adds a gospel dimension to the song’s rock foundation. The instrumentation features contributions from Rolling Stones members Mick Jagger (vocals), Keith Richards (guitar), and Bill Wyman (bass), while notable session players like Al Kooper (organ, piano, French horn) and Jimmy Miller (drums) round out the sound. The use of the choir and Kooper’s French horn create a unique texture that distinguishes it from other songs on the Let It Bleed album, adding a grandeur that matches the lyrical theme.

Lyrically, the song is a meditation on life’s disappointments and compromises. The chorus, “You can’t always get what you want / But if you try sometimes, well, you might find / You get what you need,” is one of the most memorable and often-quoted lines in rock history. Jagger’s lyrics tell vignettes of social gatherings, personal frustrations, and political movements, blending the personal with the universal. The song resonates with a kind of hopeful resignation, acknowledging that while ideal outcomes may be unattainable, there is solace in accepting life’s realities.

In the context of the 10 Best Rock Songs with the word “Always” in the title, “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” stands as a philosophical counterpart to the emotional intensity of songs like Bon Jovi’s “Always.” While Bon Jovi’s ballad focuses on love and regret, the Stones’ track expands its thematic scope to societal and existential concerns. The combination of rock’s rawness with gospel-inspired grandeur gives the song a timeless quality, making it one of the band’s most enduring works.