10 Best Rock Songs With The Word ‘Back’ In The Title

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The word “back” has fueled countless rock songs, many of which were written and released during the golden era of rock music in the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s. This was a time when rock and roll was at its creative peak, delivering some of the most iconic records and unforgettable songs. Nearly every track on this list is a timeless classic, from Aerosmith’s hard-hitting “Back in the Saddle,” which captures their gritty energy, to AC/DC’s anthem “Back in Black,” a tribute to their late frontman Bon Scott. CCR’s “Lookin’ Out My Back Door” brings whimsical imagery to life with its playful storytelling.

Thin Lizzy’s “The Boys Are Back in Town” embodies pure rock nostalgia, celebrating the return of wild days. Jethro Tull’s “Back-Door Angels” showcases their signature blend of folk and rock, and The J. Geils Band’s “Come Back” delivers on both catchy riffs and lyrical heartbreak. John Sebastian’s “Welcome Back” takes a more mellow approach as the beloved theme song for Welcome Back, Kotter, while The Beatles’ “Get Back” fittingly closes out the list, reminding us of their monumental impact on rock history. Together, these songs form a collection that represents some of the best of what rock music has to offer.

# 10 – Back On My Feet Again – The Babys

“Back On My Feet Again” kicks off this list as the first song, setting the tone with its powerful message of resilience and renewal. Released in January 1980 as part of The Babys album Union Jacks, the song marks the band’s final Top 40 hit, peaking at number 33 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song was written by lead vocalist John Waite alongside Dominic Bugatti and Frank Musker, with Keith Olsen serving as the producer. Recorded in 1979, the track is a dynamic example of power pop that merges catchy melodies with emotionally charged lyrics.

Lyrically, “Back On My Feet Again” is a song about redemption and emotional recovery. It opens with a man who has been through a difficult time, drowning his sorrows and avoiding the future, until a new relationship helps him regain his strength and happiness. “I was so lonely until I met you,” Waite sings, expressing the transformative power of love in bringing him “back on [his] feet again.” The chorus reinforces this theme of overcoming hardship, with an infectious repetition of “Here I am, I’m back on my feet again,” driving home the sense of triumph.

Musically, the song blends Waite’s powerful vocals with a driving rhythm and guitar riffs that create a feeling of both uplift and reflection. John Waite’s passionate delivery adds weight to the narrative of moving forward from personal despair. The song has an anthemic quality, with its hook-laden chorus and guitar work making it instantly memorable. The Babys were known for their melodic rock sound, and this track showcases the band at the peak of their abilities.

This song will stand as the launching point for this list, and comparisons can begin in future entries, where we will explore other songs that embody themes of personal perseverance, love, and reclaiming strength, all framed by the word “Back” in their titles. “Back On My Feet Again” is a fitting opening, as it encapsulates the spirit of recovery and the power of emotional revival.

Read More: Top 10 Songs By The Babys

# 9 – Welcome Back – John Sebastian 

The second song on this list, “Welcome Back” by John Sebastian, was the theme song for the hit 1970s TV show Welcome Back, Kotter. Released in 1976, the song quickly became a sensation, rising to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the adult contemporary charts. Written specifically for the show, the song captured the sentiment of returning to familiar places and faces, much like the main character Gabe Kotter returning to his old high school as a teacher. John Sebastian, known for his work with The Lovin’ Spoonful, was tasked with creating a catchy, relatable song, and “Welcome Back” became an instant classic.

The lyrics of “Welcome Back” revolve around the theme of coming home, both literally and metaphorically. The refrain “Welcome back, your dreams were your ticket out” speaks to the idea of venturing away to chase dreams, only to return to where you are needed. This message resonated with the show’s plot, as it depicted the return of Kotter to his high school, where he once was a student and now becomes a teacher to help guide the next generation. The song’s warm, acoustic sound and Sebastian’s laid-back vocal delivery helped to underscore the welcoming and nostalgic nature of the lyrics, which reflected the show’s heartwarming tone.

Musically, “Welcome Back” is a breezy, folk-inflected tune featuring Sebastian on guitar and vocals. The song’s simplicity, catchy chorus, and the universal theme of returning to one’s roots made it a perfect fit for the show and a commercial success on its own. Like “Back on My Feet Again” by The Babys, “Welcome Back” revolves around a sense of renewal. However, this time, it’s the emotional comfort of returning to where you belong rather than personal recovery. Both songs on the list examine what it means to rediscover yourself through the familiar, but “Welcome Back” does so with a uniquely heartfelt and reflective tone.

Read More: Top 10 John Sebastian Songs

# 8 – Come Back – The J. Geils Band

“Come Back,” the lead single from The J. Geils Band’s 1980 album Love Stinks, represents a dynamic blend of rock, new wave, and disco influences that captured the band’s evolving sound. Released in January 1980, the song quickly made its mark on the charts, peaking at number 32 on the Billboard Hot 100 and spending five weeks in the Top 40. It also performed well in Canada, reaching number 19. Produced by Seth Justman and recorded at Long View Farm Studios in Massachusetts in 1979, the track showcases the energy and charisma that defined the J. Geils Band’s late ’70s and early ’80s success.

Lyrically, “Come Back” revolves around themes of longing and desperation for a lost love, with lead singer Peter Wolf delivering an impassioned plea for reconciliation. Lines like “When you left me all alone, you left me cryin’ on my own” paint the picture of someone grappling with heartache, while the repeated refrain of “Come back” echoes the emotional intensity behind the song’s message. The song maintains a rhythmic intensity that mirrors the urgency of its lyrics, with a driving beat that blends elements of rock and disco—a sound characteristic of the era.

Musically, “Come Back” fits seamlessly into the band’s discography, marked by its use of energetic instrumentation and catchy hooks. The song’s combination of rock guitars and danceable rhythms gives it a unique sound, reflective of the late ’70s transition into the more experimental styles of the ’80s. Compared to the reflective, nostalgic tone of John Sebastian’s “Welcome Back,” “Come Back” carries a raw emotional intensity, as it’s fueled by the pain of separation and a yearning for redemption. It is a prime example of the band’s ability to fuse rock energy with the contemporary soundscapes of the time.

Read More: 10 J. Geils Band Songs Fans Love

# 7 – Back-Door Angels – Jethro Tull

“Back-Door Angels,” from Jethro Tull’s 1974 album War Child, is a complex and imaginative track that embodies the band’s signature blend of progressive rock and folk influences. Written by Ian Anderson, the song delves into themes of mysticism, faith, and perception, all wrapped in the band’s unmistakable instrumental creativity. The album War Child marked a crucial moment for Jethro Tull, as the band navigated the aftermath of the mixed reception to A Passion Play. This seventh studio album represented a return to shorter, more accessible songs, but “Back-Door Angels” still retains the depth and intricacy that fans had come to expect.

Musically, the track stands out for its dynamic structure and diverse instrumentation, featuring Anderson’s flutes, soprano and alto saxophones, along with Martin Barre’s electric guitar work and John Evan’s skillful use of piano and synthesizers. Barriemore Barlow’s drumming and percussion elevate the track’s rhythmic complexity, while Jeffrey Hammond provides a solid bass foundation. The song showcases the band’s instrumental prowess, blending acoustic and electric elements, and creating a haunting, atmospheric feel that’s both earthy and otherworldly.

Lyrically, “Back-Door Angels” explores the mystery of unseen forces and the human need to find meaning or belief in them. Anderson’s words describe mystical figures—angels who move unnoticed, touching lives in subtle, enigmatic ways. The song questions faith and belief, with lines such as, “Why do the faithful have such a will to believe in something? And call it the name they choose, having chosen nothing,” probing the idea of blind faith versus deeper understanding. Compared to other tracks on this list, like “Come Back” by The J. Geils Band, which is more straightforward in its lyrical theme of longing, “Back-Door Angels” dives deeper into philosophical reflections, maintaining a sense of poetic ambiguity throughout.

The song’s instrumental breaks, particularly Anderson’s flute interludes and Barre’s guitar riffs, further emphasize its progressive rock roots. “Back-Door Angels” fits within War Child’s broader thematic framework, where Anderson’s lyrics often question societal norms, spiritual beliefs, and the nature of reality. This track, in particular, blends fantasy with critique, making it a standout composition both on the album and on this list of ‘Back’-themed songs.

Read More: 10 Most Underrated Jethro Tull Songs

# 6 – Lookin’ Out My Back Door – Creedence Clearwater Revival

“Lookin’ Out My Back Door” by Creedence Clearwater Revival, released on the 1970 album Cosmo’s Factory, stands as one of the band’s most whimsical and enduring tracks. Written by lead vocalist and guitarist John Fogerty, the song showcases the band’s ability to blend upbeat country rhythms with surreal, vivid imagery. The track reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100, held back from the top spot by Diana Ross’s rendition of “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” Notably, this song gave CCR their only number-one spot on the Cash Box Top 100.

The song’s lyrics, which describe colorful and dream-like creatures like “giants doing cartwheels” and “elephants playing in the band,” led some listeners to believe it was a thinly veiled reference to drug use. Lines such as “Won’t you take a ride on the flyin’ spoon?” were thought to allude to drug paraphernalia. However, Fogerty himself has debunked this theory, explaining that the song was written for his young son, Josh, and the imagery was intended to evoke the joyful innocence of childhood, not drug culture. Fogerty also mentioned that the reference to a parade passing by was inspired by Dr. Seuss’s And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street. The upbeat and lighthearted feel of the song captures this childlike wonder, making it a fun and accessible track for all ages.

Musically, the song features a lively combination of country and early rock influences, driven by Fogerty’s sharp guitar riffs and the steady rhythm of Doug Clifford on drums. John Fogerty also plays a strong role in the production, ensuring that the song balances whimsy with tight, polished instrumentation. The song’s catchy “doot, doot, doo” refrain makes it a joyful singalong track, which contrasts with the more melancholic and introspective themes found in other CCR hits. Compared to tracks on this list like “Come Back” by The J. Geils Band, “Lookin’ Out My Back Door” feels more carefree and playful, avoiding the emotional weight of longing or heartbreak.

The lyrics themselves are a mix of surreal imagery and personal reflection, particularly the line “Forward troubles Illinois, lock the front door, oh boy,” which suggests a desire to shut out the real world and embrace a simpler, more imaginative one. This theme of escapism is reinforced throughout the song with its fanciful descriptions and Fogerty’s delivery, which perfectly captures the sense of wonder and whimsy intended for his son.

Read More: Creedence Clearwater Revival’s Best Song On Each Studio Album

# 5 – Back Door Man – The Doors

“Back Door Man,” one of The Doors‘ standout blues tracks, was featured on their 1967 self-titled debut album. The song, originally written by Willie Dixon and made famous by blues legend Howlin’ Wolf, was reinterpreted by The Doors with their signature dark, sensual edge. Jim Morrison’s intense vocals and the band’s electrifying arrangement turned this blues standard into something far more menacing and provocative, making it an essential part of The Doors‘ catalog.

The “back door man” of the lyrics refers to a man who sneaks around with a married woman while her husband is away. Morrison’s delivery of the song takes on a feral quality, emphasizing the rebellious and predatory nature of the character. Lines like “You men eat your dinner, eat your pork and beans / I eat more chicken than any man ever seen” evoke a sense of dominance and sexual prowess, reinforcing the illicit and dangerous feel of the song. Morrison’s vocal performance channels raw, untamed energy, making this version a primal anthem compared to Howlin’ Wolf’s bluesy original.

Musically, the song is driven by Ray Manzarek’s haunting organ lines and Robby Krieger’s blues-inflected guitar riffs, underpinned by John Densmore’s precise drumming. The synergy between the band members on “Back Door Man” is palpable, with each contributing to the overall atmosphere of tension and rebellion. While The Doors maintained the song’s blues roots, they injected it with psychedelic rock elements, much like they did with other songs on their debut album. This fusion of styles helped to define The Doors‘ sound and their place in the emerging counterculture movement of the late 1960s.

In contrast to more playful tracks like “Lookin’ Out My Back Door” by Creedence Clearwater Revival, “Back Door Man” delves into themes of deception and illicit desire, presenting a more visceral and gritty perspective. The two songs share a certain blues foundation, but The Doors’ rendition of “Back Door Man” trades in innocence for raw power, embodying the darker side of rock music.

Read More: The Doors Most Underrated Songs

# 4 – The Boys Are Back In Town – Thin Lizzy

The Boys Are Back in Town is not just a classic rock anthem; it’s a song that vividly captures the essence of friendship, rebellion, and the thrill of returning to familiar grounds after being away. Released in 1976 as the lead single from Jailbreak, Thin Lizzy’s biggest album, it quickly became the band’s signature song, climbing to No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. and solidifying their place in rock history. With its infectious energy and powerful dual-guitar harmonies, the song has remained timeless, continuing to resonate with audiences decades after its release.

Lyrically, the song centers around the return of a group of wild, untamed friends, whose presence breathes life back into a town. From the very first line, “Guess who just got back today,” the listener is drawn into a narrative of nostalgia and excitement. The chorus, “The boys are back in town,” is a rallying cry, celebrating camaraderie and the thrill of youth. The mention of specific places like Dino’s Bar ‘n’ Grill, where “the drink will flow and blood will spill,” creates a vivid image of a wild night out, reinforcing the carefree, rebellious spirit that runs throughout the song.

The lyrics also capture the volatility and unpredictability of these boys, reflected in lines like, “If the boys want to fight, you better let ’em.” This gives the song a gritty, street-level realism, contrasting with the celebratory tone. The combination of joy and chaos in these lyrics makes it a fitting choice for this list, where the concept of coming “back” ties to the recurring theme of returning to past experiences or places with a renewed sense of purpose.

Unlike songs like The Babys‘ “Back on My Feet Again,” which focuses on personal recovery and overcoming adversity, The Boys Are Back in Town celebrates collective energy and shared experiences. It’s not about individual redemption but rather about the group’s return to wreak havoc and relive the glory of their past adventures, making it a key piece in this list of rock songs with “Back” in the title.

Read More: Scott Gorham of Thin Lizzy: The ClassicRockHistory.com Interview

# 3 – Back In The Saddle – Aerosmith

“Back in the Saddle” is one of Aerosmith’s most powerful and iconic songs, setting the tone as the opening track for their 1976 album Rocks. Written by Steven Tyler and Joe Perry, the song marked a turning point for Aerosmith’s sound, embracing a hard-hitting blend of hard rock and proto-heavy metal. Although it only peaked at #38 on the Billboard Hot 100, its legacy has grown significantly over time, solidifying it as one of the band’s most well-known tracks and a mainstay in their live performances. The song’s gritty themes and aggressive energy showcase Aerosmith’s unapologetic approach to rock during the height of their success in the 1970s.

Instrumentally, the song stands out with its unforgettable main riff, composed by Joe Perry on a Fender Bass VI. The unique growl of the bass, paired with Tom Hamilton’s heavy bass line and Brad Whitford’s searing lead guitar, creates an unforgettable sonic atmosphere. The song opens with a slow, dramatic build-up of drums and guitar before exploding into the powerful chorus, “I’m back in the saddle again.” The distinctive sound effects, such as the galloping horse and whip cracks, add to the imagery of the wild west and emphasize the song’s raw intensity. Despite its rock foundation, the track also incorporates elements of sexual innuendo, with Tyler’s lyrics alluding to various metaphorical references through his wordplay around cowboys and saddles.

Lyrically, “Back in the Saddle” sees Steven Tyler embodying the persona of a cowboy riding back into town, with clear references to both sexual exploits and dominance. Lines like “Peelin’ off my boots and chaps, I’m saddle sore” and “I’m calling all the shots tonight, I’m like a loaded gun” reinforce this imagery, presenting a character who is both wild and in control. While the lyrics can be interpreted as straightforward cowboy references, their underlying sexual themes give the song a more provocative edge, making it both a rebellious anthem and a bold exploration of desire.

“Back in the Saddle” stands apart from many other songs on this list due to its heavier tone and overt sexual undertones, contrasting sharply with tracks like The Boys Are Back in Town by Thin Lizzy, which centers more on themes of friendship and camaraderie. Aerosmith’s fierce energy and rock-driven sound make “Back in the Saddle” a key highlight in any discussion of songs with “Back” in the title, and its enduring popularity only further cements its place in classic rock history.

Read More: Joe Perry of Aerosmith Interview: 13 Albums That Changed My Life

# 2 – Back In Black – AC/DC

“Back in Black” is one of the most iconic rock anthems ever created, serving as both a powerful tribute to AC/DC’s former lead singer Bon Scott and a declaration of the band’s perseverance. Released in 1980 as part of their Back in Black album, this track is notable for its unmistakable guitar riff and hard-hitting lyrics. The song was written shortly after Scott’s sudden death in February of that year, with Brian Johnson stepping in as the new lead vocalist. Despite its somber context, “Back in Black” pulses with defiant energy, celebrating survival and triumph amidst adversity.

Musically, “Back in Black” is driven by Angus Young’s electrifying guitar riff, which has become one of the most recognizable in rock history. The song’s riff is a perfect reflection of AC/DC’s straightforward yet powerful rock style, with Malcolm Young’s rhythm guitar and Phil Rudd’s drumbeat providing a rock-solid foundation. The band recorded the album at Compass Point Studios in Nassau, Bahamas, under the guidance of legendary producer Robert John “Mutt” Lange, whose polished production helped shape the track’s timeless sound. With Johnson’s dynamic vocals and lyrics that hint at both the band’s rebellious spirit and the memory of Bon Scott, the song became an instant classic.

Lyrically, “Back in Black” celebrates a return to form, with lines like “I’m back in the saddle again” and “Forget the hearse ’cause I never die” illustrating AC/DC’s determination to push forward in the face of personal tragedy. The lyrics may be interpreted as a nod to Bon Scott’s larger-than-life persona, but they also highlight the band’s resilience. The metaphor of being “back in black” captures both the mourning of Scott’s death and a renewed sense of purpose. The song stands out as a defiant anthem, combining celebration with reflection.

Though it peaked at #38 on the Billboard Hot 100, “Back in Black” has grown far beyond its initial chart position, becoming a staple of rock radio and a song that defines an era of hard rock. It set the standard for songs with “Back” in the title, offering an aggressive, triumphant edge that stands in contrast to tracks like Thin Lizzy’s “The Boys Are Back in Town,” which focuses on nostalgia and camaraderie. In both sound and spirit, “Back in Black” epitomizes the undying energy and ethos of rock ‘n’ roll.

Read More: Chris Slade: The ClassicRockHistory.com Interview

# 1 – Get Back – The Beatles

“Get Back” stands as the closing track on this list, providing a fitting end with its energetic and infectious rhythm. Written by Paul McCartney and credited to the Lennon–McCartney partnership, the song was released as a single in April 1969, featuring Billy Preston on electric piano, a rare instance of a non-Beatle being credited alongside the band. This track, recorded during the infamous “Let It Be” sessions, is a product of the band’s final chapter together and is renowned for its raw, live-sounding arrangement, reminiscent of the original “back to basics” ethos of rock and roll that The Beatles sought to rediscover during this period.

“Get Back” became a chart-topping success, reaching number one in numerous countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. Despite being released amid the tensions leading to The Beatles’ eventual breakup, the song captures a joyous, groove-laden performance. The rooftop concert on top of Apple Corps, which marked the band’s last live public performance, famously included “Get Back,” giving the track a historical significance tied to the end of an era for The Beatles. The single version of the song differs from the version on the Let It Be album, with the latter incorporating dialogue and studio chatter between McCartney and Lennon at the beginning, adding to its spontaneous charm.

Lyrically, “Get Back” reflects McCartney’s narrative style, introducing characters like Jojo, a man who leaves Arizona for California, and Loretta Martin, whose gender identity is playfully ambiguous. The repeated phrase “Get back to where you once belonged” can be interpreted in various ways—either as a social commentary, or a simple plea to return to a place of comfort. It’s a celebration of roots, fitting for The Beatles’ desire to get back to their own musical roots. The rhythm, driven by Ringo Starr’s solid drumming and Preston’s playful keyboard, makes it one of The Beatles’ most infectious and enduring rock songs. Ending the list with “Get Back” is an ideal choice, as it represents both a culmination of The Beatles’ journey and an open invitation to return to what matters most, much like other songs on this list that evoke a sense of rediscovery and reflection.

Read More: Beatles Albums In Order Of Original UK And US Studio Issues

Updated March 13, 2025

10 Best Rock Songs With The Word ‘Back’ In The Title article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2025