Read More: Rob Bogaerts / Anefo, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Our recent article on the best rock songs about friendship received a huge response from our readers, many of whom suggested songs that weren’t included on the first list. When only selecting ten songs, it’s inevitable that some great ones will be missed. However, we take our readers’ comments very seriously, especially those from people who know rock music well—fans just like us, who have been listening to this music our entire lives, some for as long as 50 to 60 years.
In response to the feedback, we decided to create a part two, incorporating many of the songs that our readers suggested were missing from the first list. In many ways, I think this list is even stronger than the original, particularly with the final picks in the top five.
I want to thank everyone for visiting the site every day, reading the articles, and for the positivity and friendliness in your comments. When I first started this site, I envisioned it as a celebration of rock music, written by fans. I never intended it to be a critical site or one for professional critics, but rather a place for people who know and love music to celebrate it
# 10 – When You Got a Good Friend – Eric Clapton
“When You Got a Good Friend,” originally written and recorded by the legendary blues musician Robert Johnson in 1936, is a timeless reflection on loyalty, regret, and the deep value of friendship. Eric Clapton brought this iconic blues track to a new generation when he included it on his 2004 album Me and Mr. Johnson, which was a tribute to Johnson’s influence on modern blues and rock music. The album, recorded at Ocean Way Studios in Los Angeles and produced by Clapton’s longtime collaborator Simon Climie, captures the raw emotion and intricate guitar work that defines both Johnson’s and Clapton’s styles. Released in March 2004 by Reprise Records, Me and Mr. Johnson was a commercial success, selling more than two million copies worldwide and landing in the Top 10 charts in over fifteen countries.
Clapton’s rendition of “When You Got a Good Friend” stays true to Johnson’s original while infusing it with his own guitar virtuosity and smooth vocals. The song highlights the theme of valuing friendships, particularly the unique bond shared between two people who rely on each other for support and comfort. In the lyrics, the protagonist reflects on how he has mistreated a close companion and now wrings his hands in regret, wondering if it’s too late to apologize. The blues structure, combined with Clapton’s emotional guitar licks, underscores the sorrowful and introspective tone of the song. Clapton’s guitar work, marked by its clean precision, echoes Johnson’s original slide techniques but brings a modern blues-rock flavor to the track. His vocals express a sense of longing and loss, perfectly complementing the heartfelt lyrics about missed opportunities in relationships.
While Me and Mr. Johnson was primarily an homage to Robert Johnson’s extensive influence, Clapton’s interpretation of “When You Got a Good Friend” further illuminates the timelessness of Johnson’s songwriting. Clapton’s passion for Johnson’s work shines through in this performance, adding layers of emotion to a song that resonates with anyone who has ever experienced the pain of taking a friendship for granted. The song is a powerful reminder of the importance of treating those close to you with care and respect, blending a personal message with blues traditions in a way that continues to resonate with listeners today.
In addition to being a critical success, Me and Mr. Johnson allowed Clapton to revisit his roots and showcase his deep admiration for Johnson, whom he has often cited as one of his greatest influences. The album’s ability to breathe new life into classics like “When You Got a Good Friend” proves Clapton’s enduring talent and highlights how Johnson’s themes of love, loss, and friendship still hold relevance in modern music.
Read More: Top 10 Covers Of Eric Clapton Songs
# 9 – Can We Still Be Friends? – Todd Rundgren
“Can We Still Be Friends?” by Todd Rundgren is a heartfelt ballad about the end of a romantic relationship, framed with a plea for reconciliation in the form of friendship. Released in 1978 as part of his Hermit of Mink Hollow album, this song became the standout track, reaching number twenty-nine on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and number eight in Australia. The emotional depth of the song is thought to reflect Rundgren’s own personal experiences, particularly his breakup with long-time partner Bebe Buell in 1977. Despite the heartbreak, Rundgren’s lyrics express a desire for an amicable separation, asking whether two people who once shared a deep connection can remain friends despite their romantic relationship ending.
Rundgren took full creative control of Hermit of Mink Hollow, playing every instrument and handling all vocals himself. This do-it-all approach gave the album, especially “Can We Still Be Friends?”, a personal, reflective quality resonating with listeners. The song’s arrangement reflects Rundgren’s signature style—melodic and layered with a soft-rock sound that blends piano, synthesizer, and guitar. The simplicity of the song’s structure highlights the emotional weight of its lyrics, as Rundgren moves from regret over the breakup to a hopeful but uncertain question about maintaining a friendship. His gentle vocal delivery perfectly complements the melancholy mood of the track, making it a quintessential soft rock anthem of the 1970s.
“Can We Still Be Friends?” is a song that has maintained its cultural relevance over the decades, with notable appearances in the films Dumb and Dumber (1994) and Vanilla Sky (2001), as well as in the TV series Nip/Tuck. The song’s universal theme of attempting to salvage a friendship from a broken relationship has made it timeless. Its inclusion in multiple soundtracks underscores its lasting appeal and emotional resonance, reminding listeners that even in the face of heartbreak, there is a lingering hope that something meaningful can still be preserved. The song remains one of Rundgren’s most well-known and beloved tracks, standing out as a poignant meditation on love, loss, and the complex nature of human relationships.
Read More: Top 10 Todd Rundgren Cover Songs
# 8 – Let’s Be Friends (Skin to Skin) – Bruce Springsteen
“Let’s Be Friends (Skin to Skin)” by Bruce Springsteen is a track from The Rising, an album released in 2002 that largely reflects Springsteen’s thoughts and emotions in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks. While much of the album focuses on grief, resilience, and healing, “Let’s Be Friends (Skin to Skin)” presents a slightly more personal, intimate perspective on human connection and reconciliation. The song emphasizes a desire to put aside differences and embrace unity, and it is laced with the simple, yet profound, message of reconciliation and understanding—a theme that fits neatly within the broader emotional landscape of The Rising.
Musically, the song maintains a light, hopeful tone, with Springsteen’s vocals capturing both urgency and warmth. The E Street Band plays a crucial role in delivering the track’s blend of rock and soul, with Clarence Clemons adding his signature saxophone touches and the rest of the band providing rich, layered instrumentation. Produced by Brendan O’Brien, the album was recorded in New Jersey and Atlanta during 2001-2002. Springsteen’s use of both modern and traditional instruments gives the song a timeless quality, while the harmonies and rhythm emphasize the call for connection and friendship.
Lyrically, the song reflects Springsteen’s signature style of grounding universal themes in personal storytelling. The opening lines set the stage for a relationship on the verge of deepening: “I been watchin’ you a long time / Trying to figure out where and when / We’ve been moving down that same line / The time is now maybe we could get skin to skin.” The plea to “start talkin'” and “tear down walls” reveals an invitation to overcome differences and rebuild bonds, a reflection of the broader themes of unity that run throughout The Rising. While not one of the biggest hits from the album, “Let’s Be Friends (Skin to Skin)” captures the spirit of solidarity and personal connection, and remains a standout track in Springsteen’s discography.
In a broader sense, the song addresses the need for empathy, trust, and communication—elements that are often crucial in any meaningful friendship. Springsteen’s repeated refrain of “Baby, let’s be friends” reinforces the hope for rekindling or reinforcing relationships, making this song a fitting opener for an article on friendship.
Read More: Complete List Of Bruce Springsteen Albums And Songs
# 7 – We’re Going to Be Friends – The White Stripes
“We’re Going to Be Friends” by The White Stripes is a tender and nostalgic song from their 2001 album White Blood Cells. Released in 2002, this minimalist track contrasts sharply with the raw, electric sound that the band is often associated with, opting instead for a soft acoustic guitar and a childlike narrative. Jack White, who wrote and produced the song, crafts a warm and simple story about two children, Suzy Lee and the narrator, who forge a bond at the beginning of a school year. The song captures the innocence and purity of childhood friendship, with its lyrics highlighting the small, joyful moments that define their connection.
Recorded in Memphis, Tennessee, White Blood Cells was produced by Jack White and is considered one of the band’s breakthrough albums, marking a shift in their style. The song’s stripped-down arrangement, featuring only White’s gentle vocals and acoustic guitar, allows the lyrics to shine and brings a sense of intimacy and closeness. “We’re Going to Be Friends” is a rare and charming departure from the duo’s usual garage rock sound, providing a soothing interlude on the album. The simplicity of the song is mirrored in the recording process itself, as White’s acoustic guitar and vocal delivery create an atmosphere of quiet reflection.
Lyrically, the song beautifully captures the carefree and earnest qualities of early childhood friendships. Lines such as “We sit side by side in every class / Teacher thinks that I sound funny / But she likes the way you sing” bring to life the playful and sincere interactions between the two children. The recurring mention of “Suzy Lee,” a character who appears in other White Stripes songs, adds a layer of continuity to their storytelling and draws listeners deeper into the world that Jack White creates. While the song speaks of schoolyard activities like walking to class, playing ball, and learning letters, its underlying message speaks to the universal feeling of finding a true friend, with whom the simplest moments become memorable.
Comparing it to other songs on this list, such as Todd Rundgren’s “Can We Still Be Friends?” shows a contrast in the type of friendships being explored. Where Rundgren’s song looks at the aftermath of a romantic relationship and the possibility of maintaining a friendship despite heartbreak, “We’re Going to Be Friends” focuses on the earliest, most innocent form of friendship. While Rundgren’s lyrics wrestle with complex emotions like regret and loss, The White Stripes’ song celebrates the carefree joy of companionship before life’s complications take hold.
Similarly, Bruce Springsteen’s “Let’s Be Friends (Skin to Skin)” offers a much more mature and urgent perspective on friendship, with its undertones of reconciliation and desire. Where Springsteen’s track emphasizes the importance of breaking down barriers and forming a deep connection later in life, “We’re Going to Be Friends” takes a simpler, more innocent approach, emphasizing the ease with which childhood friendships are formed without the emotional complexities that come later.
# 6 – True Colors – Cyndi Lauper
“True Colors” by Cyndi Lauper is an emotionally resonant anthem about authenticity, self-expression, and support between friends. Released as the lead single from Lauper’s 1986 album True Colors, the song struck a deep chord with listeners, quickly ascending to number one on the US Billboard Hot 100, remaining for two weeks. The track, written by Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly, is celebrated for its melodic beauty and empowering message of unconditional love and acceptance. Lauper’s passionate delivery and the song’s touching lyrics make it a timeless testament to friendship and support, particularly during moments of vulnerability.
The song’s production, recorded in 1986, showcases a more stripped-down sound than Lauper’s earlier, more pop-centric hits. Producer Lennie Petze helped craft an arrangement that allowed Lauper’s unique vocal tone and emotional depth to shine. Accompanied by a delicate instrumental backdrop that complements her heartfelt performance, Lauper’s voice takes center stage as she reassures her friend, singing, “I see your true colors shining through / That’s why I love you.” The minimal production enhances the song’s intimate feel, making it a powerful ode to emotional honesty and strength in relationships.
Comparing True Colors to other songs on this friendship-themed list highlights its role as an anthem of reassurance and support. Like The White Stripes’ “We’re Going to Be Friends,” Lauper’s song focuses on a deep connection between two people, but while the former captures the innocence of childhood bonds, True Colors addresses the complexities of adult friendship, offering solace during difficult times. Both songs emphasize the importance of being there for each other, but Lauper’s anthem explores the importance of seeing past surface-level struggles to love and appreciate someone’s true self.
In terms of chart success, True Colors not only topped the charts in the US but also resonated globally, becoming an enduring symbol of loyalty and friendship. Its Grammy nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance further solidified Lauper’s place as a formidable voice in pop music. Lyrically, the song stands out for its emphasis on reassurance, with lines like “Don’t be afraid to let it show / Your true colors are beautiful like a rainbow,” reminding listeners of the power of authenticity and the importance of supporting loved ones through their darkest moments.
Read More: Top 10 Cyndi Lauper Songs
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LPn0KFlbqX8
# 5 – I’ll Stand By You – The Pretenders
“I’ll Stand by You” by The Pretenders is a heartfelt ballad about loyalty, support, and unconditional love in moments of personal hardship. Released as the second single from their 1994 album Last of the Independents, the song was co-written by Chrissie Hynde alongside the accomplished songwriting duo of Tom Kelly and Billy Steinberg. It became one of the band’s most commercially successful tracks, blending Hynde’s powerful vocals with emotionally resonant lyrics that pledge unwavering devotion to a loved one during their darkest times.
Recorded in 1993 and produced by Ian Stanley, I’ll Stand by You captures the essence of vulnerability, offering solace to someone who is struggling with emotional pain. Hynde’s vocal performance carries both strength and empathy, as she sings, “Nothing you confess could make me love you less,” reassuring the listener that they are not alone in their suffering. The song’s message of steadfast support has resonated deeply with audiences, making it an anthem of friendship, love, and solidarity.
Upon its release, I’ll Stand by You achieved significant chart success, reaching number 16 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and number 10 in the UK. The song was also a hit in several other countries, showcasing its universal appeal. In addition to its success on the charts, it has been covered multiple times, with notable versions by Girls Aloud and Carrie Underwood, both of which were recorded as charity singles. These covers further highlight the song’s lasting impact and its ability to serve as a source of comfort for listeners.
The song’s lyrics convey a message of companionship that is central to the theme of friendship. Hynde offers herself as a protector and confidante, promising to “stand by” her friend no matter what trials they face. The song’s power lies in its simplicity and sincerity, making it one of the most memorable anthems about friendship and loyalty, comparable to other tracks on this list that explore the themes of enduring support and emotional connection.
Read More: 10 Most Underrated Pretenders Songs
# 4 – Friends – Terry Reid
“Friends” by Terry Reid is a soulful, blues-tinged track from his 1969 self-titled album, Terry Reid. Often seen as a hidden gem in his catalog, this song offers a reflection on the simplicity and deep value of friendship, celebrating the comfort and support that friends bring into one’s life. The lyrics speak of the timeless nature of friendship, reminding listeners that, no matter the circumstances, the bond between friends remains strong and supportive. It’s a heartfelt expression of the importance of having “friends beside you” and “friends to guide you,” emphasizing how those relationships enrich life.
The track was recorded during the sessions for Reid’s album, which was produced at Wessex Sound Studios in London. Reid’s band during this time featured Peter Solley on keyboards and Keith Webb on drums, and their tight musicianship complements Reid’s soulful vocals and blues-rock guitar playing. Reid was often praised for his distinctive voice, and “Friends” stands out for its understated yet emotional delivery, allowing the lyrics and music to intertwine naturally. The song takes on a warm and inviting atmosphere, mirroring the way true friendship provides warmth and support.
“Friends” also gained wider recognition when it became a UK hit in 1970 for the band Arrival. Their version captured the essence of Reid’s original but brought a different layer of popularity to the track, showcasing its versatility and broad appeal. While Terry Reid’s version leans into a bluesy rock vibe, Arrival’s cover gave it a softer, more polished sound. In both renditions, the message remains clear—friendship is a cherished part of life that endures through good times and bad. “Friends” fits seamlessly into this list of top songs about friendship, offering a timeless reminder of the importance of those who stand by your side, no matter the situation
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=muudNWElSbs
# 3 – All My Friends – Gregg Allman
All My Friends by Gregg Allman, from his 1973 Laid Back album, stands as a heartfelt reflection on friendship, nostalgia, and the passage of time. Recorded at Capricorn Sound Studios in Macon, Georgia, and The Record Plant in New York City, this song is a key part of Allman’s debut solo album, which he co-produced with Johnny Sandlin. While Laid Back gave Allman a creative outlet outside of his commitments to The Allman Brothers Band, it wasn’t about leaving the band but rather exploring a different musical direction, with more personal and introspective songwriting.
In “All My Friends,” Allman’s distinct voice and organ work are complemented by the contributions of talented musicians, including Scott Boyer and Tommy Talton on guitars, Bill Stewart on drums, and David Brown on bass. The song was recorded in March 1973, with its laid-back, soulful groove reflecting the album’s Southern rock, blues, and gospel influences. The album itself received widespread acclaim, reaching No. 13 on the Billboard Pop Albums chart, but “All My Friends” resonates on a more personal level, offering a message of friendship and reconnection.
Lyrically, the song speaks to the importance of time in preserving friendships. Allman sings, “All my friends came to see me this year, oh yeah, and I was glad to have them here,” expressing gratitude for those friendships that have endured despite life’s changes. The song’s sentiment is clear: friendships, though strained by time and distance, can always be renewed if we “rely on time.” This theme of reconnection ties beautifully to the overall message of the song, where Allman reflects on shared experiences and the importance of being present with the people who matter most.
In the context of this list of Top 10 Songs About Friendship, All My Friends is a perfect counterpoint to tracks like “I’ll Stand By You” by The Pretenders, which focuses on supporting a friend through difficult times. While Chrissie Hynde pledges steadfast support, Allman’s song takes a more nostalgic and reflective view, focusing on the return of friends and the joy of rekindling those bonds. Similarly, compared to Todd Rundgren’s “Can We Still Be Friends?”, where Rundgren explores the pain of a friendship at risk after a romantic fallout, Allman’s track emphasizes enduring friendships that survive the passage of time, offering a more hopeful perspective.
Read More: Top 10 Gregg Allman Songs From His Solo Albums
# 2 – Why Can’t We Be Friends? – WAR
“Why Can’t We Be Friends?” by WAR, released in 1975, is an iconic song with a simple, yet profound message about unity, friendship, and breaking down social and racial barriers. It was the title track from their studio album Why Can’t We Be Friends? and quickly became a commercial success, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100. Each band member contributes vocally, adding unique verses that reinforce the song’s theme of embracing differences and fostering understanding between individuals and communities.
The recording sessions for the album took place at Wally Heider Studios and Sound City Studios in California. War was known for blending genres, and this track fuses funk, soul, and rock to create a rhythmically infectious groove. The lyrics are simple yet repetitive, with the phrase “Why can’t we be friends?” sung 44 times throughout the song’s 3:49 runtime. This simplicity, combined with its upbeat and catchy melody, allowed it to resonate widely across diverse audiences, making it one of the band’s most recognizable tracks. The song was even beamed into space during the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project, symbolizing unity between Soviet and U.S. astronauts in the Cold War era.
Lyrically, “Why Can’t We Be Friends?” addresses themes of equality and breaking down racial and cultural barriers. For instance, in the verse, “The color of your skin don’t matter to me, as long as we can live in harmony,” War emphasizes that the superficial differences between people should not prevent them from becoming friends. The song also humorously critiques political and social structures, as evident in the lines, “I’d kinda like to be the president so I can show you how your money’s spent.” The clever mix of humor and serious social commentary gives the song a timeless quality, allowing it to remain relevant in discussions about unity and inclusion.
When compared to other songs in this article, “Why Can’t We Be Friends?” shares a message of unity and togetherness, similar to the sentiment in “I’ll Stand By You” by The Pretenders, which promises support through difficult times. However, while The Pretenders’ song focuses on one-on-one loyalty, WAR’s track takes a broader perspective, advocating for friendship and unity on a societal level. The repetitive structure of the lyrics also mirrors the simplicity of “We’re Going to Be Friends” by The White Stripes, which uses repetition to emphasize the power of childhood bonds, while WAR’s repetition highlights a universal desire for peace and friendship.
With its groove-driven sound and its message of inclusiveness, “Why Can’t We Be Friends?” remains one of the definitive songs of its time, not only in terms of its chart performance but also for its contribution to the ongoing conversation about social harmony and friendship. The song’s longevity is a testament to its ability to transcend decades, genres, and cultures, continuing to be a staple in any discussion about friendship and unity.
Read More: Top 10 Songs From The Band War
# 1 – Bridge Over Troubled Water – Simon & Garfunkel
“Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon & Garfunkel stands as one of the most iconic songs about friendship and support, earning its place as the closing track on our list of Top 10 Songs About Friendship. Released in January 1970 as the second single from their fifth studio album Bridge Over Troubled Water, the song is a testament to unwavering loyalty in times of hardship. With Paul Simon penning the lyrics and Art Garfunkel delivering the heart-wrenching lead vocals, the song’s message of being a metaphorical “bridge” for someone in distress resonates as one of the most powerful declarations of friendship in music history.
The lyrics unfold as a promise to stand by a friend in their darkest moments. Lines like, “When you’re weary, feeling small, when tears are in your eyes, I will dry them all,” speak directly to the theme of being there for someone when they need it most, no matter the personal sacrifice. The chorus, “Like a bridge over troubled water, I will lay me down,” emphasizes the selfless nature of true friendship. The song goes beyond surface-level companionship, highlighting the idea of emotional and physical sacrifice, offering solace and support as one’s friend faces life’s hardships. This theme of support is echoed throughout the list, such as in The Pretenders’ “I’ll Stand By You”, but “Bridge Over Troubled Water” stands out for its poetic depth and grand musical arrangement.
Recorded between August and November of 1969, the song was produced by Paul Simon, Art Garfunkel, and Roy Halee. Instrumentally, it features Larry Knechtel on piano, Joe Osborn on bass, and Hal Blaine on drums, with additional string arrangements by Jimmie Haskell and Ernie Freeman. The recording was split between California and New York, and the production added a “Wall of Sound”-style effect to match the emotionally rich vocals and soaring instrumentation. The song took two weeks to complete and was the last recorded for the album, although it was the first one finalized.
“Bridge Over Troubled Water” achieved massive commercial success, spending six weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and reaching the top spot in numerous countries, including the UK and Canada. The song won five Grammy Awards in 1971, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year, further cementing its status as a cultural touchstone. It is often cited as Simon & Garfunkel’s signature song and has been covered by over 50 artists, from Aretha Franklin to Johnny Cash, proving its enduring relevance and universal message.
Musically, the song’s gospel-influenced piano arrangement, coupled with Garfunkel’s angelic vocals, brings a spiritual weight to its message. The addition of orchestral strings and vibrant percussion gives the song an anthemic quality that perfectly complements the emotional lyrics. The crescendo in the third verse, “Sail on silver girl, your time has come to shine,” adds a layer of hope and redemption, solidifying the song as not only about friendship but also about resilience in the face of adversity.
In comparison to other songs on the list, “Bridge Over Troubled Water” takes a more profound and spiritual approach to the theme of friendship. While tracks like “Why Can’t We Be Friends?” by War focus on unity and breaking down social barriers, “Bridge Over Troubled Water” digs deeper into the emotional bonds that tie friends together in times of personal crisis. The song serves as a powerful reminder that, like a bridge over troubled waters, friendship can offer safe passage through life’s most challenging moments, echoing sentiments found in other tracks on this list but standing out for its grandeur and timelessness.
Read More: Top 10 Simon & Garfunkel Songs
The Top 10 Songs from our first list on Rock songs about Friends
# 10 – Waiting On A Friend – The Rolling Stones
# 9 – Thank You Friends – Big Star
# 8 – Friends – The Police
# 7 -Fake Friends -Joan Jett and the Blackhearts
# 6 – Best Friend – Harry Nilsson
# 5 – I’ll Be Your Mirror – The Velvet Underground
# 4 – Friends – Led Zeppelin
# 3 – You’re My Best Friend – Queen
# 2 – Friends – Elton John
# 1 – With A Little Help From My Friends – The Beatles
Songs About Friendship article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024
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