10 Best Songs That Feature The Word 'Queen' In The Title

Feature Photo: Christian Bertrand / Shutterstock.com

Our article on the 10 Best Songs That Feature the Word ‘Queen’ in the Title became one of the most enjoyable ones we’ve written in this genre. The abundance of fantastic songs using “Queen” in the title certainly contributed to the fun. While the vast selection made it challenging to narrow down, it was a pleasure revisiting so many tracks—some of which we hadn’t heard in years. We typically aim to balance these lists with a mix of iconic bands and lesser-known ones. However, with so many undeniable classics to choose from, this list leans heavily on the well-loved hits. We opened with a song by The Subways—a fantastic band perhaps better known among younger, modern-day rock fans—before diving deep into classic tracks and concluding with the band that arguably best represents this theme: Queen.

# 10 – Rock And Roll Queen – The Subways

I love this freaking band. This is pure rock and roll that that manages to blend late style 70s punk with a 90s twist. It’s almost like the B52’s meet Nirvana. In the end, it’s just a great song played by a group of passionate rock and roll musicians. Released as the third single from their 2005 debut album Young for Eternity, this track cemented The Subways’ place in the indie rock scene. Produced by Ian Broudie, known for his work with Echo & the Bunnymen, Young for Eternity highlighted the band’s knack for catchy, stripped-down rock riffs paired with high-octane lyrics. The track was recorded in London, where the band, consisting of Billy Lunn (vocals/guitar), Charlotte Cooper (bass/vocals), and Josh Morgan (drums), worked to create a sound that captured their energetic live performances and anthemic quality.

In terms of cultural impact, “Rock & Roll Queen” gained significant traction through its placement in popular media. It was prominently featured on the soundtrack of the popular television series The O.C. and appeared on Music from the OC: Mix 5. Its infectious appeal led to its inclusion in a range of media, including TV advertisements for Rimmel, and films such as Live Free or Die Hard and RocknRolla, where The Subways even appeared performing the song. Its popularity extended into the gaming world with appearances on the soundtracks for FIFA Street 2 and Saints Row 2, where its high-energy vibe complemented the action-packed visuals.

# 9 – Queen Of Spades – Styx

We have written a lot of articles on the band Styx. It’s one of our favorite bands of all time having seen them multiple times in the 1970s. One of the things that we do know about the band Styx is that every time we post an article on Styx songs and share it on our Facebook page, one of the most popular songs that gets the most love from Hardcore Styx fans is this great song called “Queen of Spades.” Featured on Pieces of Eight, the band’s eighth studio album released in 1978, “Queen of Spades” was written by James “JY” Young and Dennis DeYoung, who also handled lead vocals. Recorded at Paragon Recording Studios in Chicago, the album was self-produced by the band and engineered by Rob Kingsland and Barry Mraz.

Read More: 10 Most Rocking Styx Songs

# 8 – Black Magic Woman/Gypsy Queen – Santana

Opening the door to mystical imagery and seductive rhythms, “Black Magic Woman/Gypsy Queen” by Santana is the third song on this list, adding a soulful and ethereal element to the theme of queens in rock. Originally written by Peter Green and first recorded by Fleetwood Mac in 1968, “Black Magic Woman” was later transformed by Santana on their 1970 album Abraxas. Santana’s version introduces an extended arrangement that incorporates “Gypsy Queen,” an instrumental piece written by Hungarian jazz guitarist Gábor Szabó, blending seamlessly with the original song. This fusion not only underscores the song’s haunting vibe but also reveals Santana’s knack for mixing Latin rock with blues, jazz, and world music influences.

# 7 – Queen Of Hearts – Juice Newton

Now you know we couldn’t complete a list of the best songs with the word “Queen” in the title without including this monster hit by Juice Newton. Released in 1981 from her Juice album, the song became a defining hit for Newton, climbing to number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and cementing her crossover appeal. Written by Hank DeVito, the song merges country charm with pop accessibility, creating a sound that’s as infectious as it is timeless. In contrast to the darker mystique of Santana’s “Black Magic Woman/Gypsy Queen,” which explores the magnetic pull of a more mysterious and intense love, Newton’s “Queen of Hearts” feels carefree, almost like a breath of fresh air. The overacting in the video though is a little bit tough to bear.

Read More: Top 10 Juice Newton Songs

# 6 – Rocket Queen – Guns N’ Roses

From this point on this list gets pretty heavy. And why not this is classic rock and roll history. I think it’s not a stretch to say that the song Rocket Queen is one of the band’s most popular songs among their hardcore fans. Closing Appetite for Destruction with a potent mix of rock swagger and raw vulnerability, “Rocket Queen” by Guns N’ Roses is both an explosive anthem and a deeply personal track. Written by Axl Rose with the help of guitarist Slash, it showcases the band’s signature grit and edge, blending sleazy riffs and unapologetic lyrics with a surprising turn toward emotional honesty in the final verses. The song has become a fan favorite and a powerful representation of Guns N’ Roses’ ability to mix toughness with tenderness.

# 5 – King And Queens – Aerosmith

I always thought that Aerosmith’s Draw the Line album was the most underrated record of their career. Released in the shadows of Toys in the Attic and Rocks—two of the 1970s’ most phenomenal rock and roll albums—Draw the Line didn’t receive as much love as it deserved. Yet, looking back, this is truly one of the best albums the band ever released. The song “King And Queens” explores the rise and fall of power and the eternal conflicts of humanity. Written by Steven Tyler, guitarist Brad Whitford, drummer Joey Kramer, bassist Tom Hamilton, and producer Jack Douglas, “Kings and Queens” ventures into heavier, almost progressive rock territory, blending rock and baroque influences in a compellingly intense piece that demonstrates Aerosmith’s range beyond their signature blues-rock style.

# 4 – Little Queen – Heart

Heart’s debut album, Dreamboat Annie, was a phenomenal success, with relentless airplay for songs like “Magic Man” and “Crazy on You” on FM radio. Fans quickly fell in love with the band, captivated by the dynamic between Ann Wilson’s powerful rock and roll voice and Nancy Wilson’s vibrant stage presence, as she played her heart out on guitar and contributed more vocally than many realized. While their debut album was incredibly successful, many fans argue that their follow-up, Little Queen, was an even better record. Here we have its title track, aptly named “Little Queen.”

Read More: 10 Most Underrated Heart Songs

# 3 – God Save The Queen – The Sex Pistols

“God Save the Queen” by The Sex Pistols is one of the most incendiary punk anthems of all time, symbolizing the rebellious, anti-establishment spirit that defined the British punk movement. Released in 1977 during Queen Elizabeth II’s Silver Jubilee, this track from their only studio album, Never Mind the Bollocks, Here’s the Sex Pistols, caused immediate controversy for its provocative lyrics and scathing critique of British society. With lyrics penned by Johnny Rotten, the song casts the monarchy as a tool of oppression, referring to it as a “fascist regime” and boldly declaring “there is no future in England’s dreaming.”

Recorded with Steve Jones on guitar, Paul Cook on drums, and Sid Vicious on bass, “God Save the Queen” became a defining moment in punk rock. Produced by Chris Thomas at Wessex Sound Studios in London, the track combines snarling vocals with raw, aggressive instrumentation. Its release was met with intense backlash, with BBC and several other radio stations banning it. Despite—or perhaps because of—this, the song climbed to number two on the UK Singles Chart. The censorship only fueled its popularity, cementing it as an anti-establishment anthem that resonated with a generation frustrated with the status quo.

Read More: Top 10 Sex Pistols Songs

# 2 – Mississippi Queen – Mountain

It’s easy to argue that Leslie West of Mountain was one of the greatest rock and roll guitar players of all time. Listening to his many appearances on The Howard Stern Show in the ’80s and ’90s was always a joy, as his larger-than-life personality matched his phenomenal guitar playing and the lasting legacy of music he has left us. It’s a shame that he’s gone.

“Mississippi Queen” was released in 1970 on the album Climbing!. Leslie West’s raw, thunderous guitar playing combined with his powerful vocals created an electrifying sound that immediately set the band apart. Felix Pappalardi’s bass and Corky Laing’s precise drumming perfectly complement West’s iconic guitar riff, which has since become one of the most recognizable in rock.

Read More: Top 10 Mountain Songs

# 1 – Killer Queen / The March Of The Black Queen / White Queen (As It Began)/ God Save the Queen / – Queen

How could we not give Queen the number one spot on this list? Closing out a list like this with Queen is a fitting tribute to a band that has become synonymous with theatrical rock and grand musical storytelling. Queen’s use of “Queen” in their song titles isn’t just a reference to the band name; each song encapsulates a unique part of their creative identity, showcasing the diversity that made Queen legendary. Here’s a closer look at each of these quintessential tracks.

“Killer Queen” – from Sheer Heart Attack (1974) This track, written by Freddie Mercury, was Queen’s breakout single in the United States, reaching No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100. With its polished glam-rock sound, “Killer Queen” tells the story of a sophisticated femme fatale. Mercury’s lyrics bring out an alluring, yet dangerous character, while Brian May’s guitar solo, paired with Mercury’s crisp piano lines, adds a jazz-like flair that sets the song apart from typical rock anthems.

“The March of the Black Queen” – from Queen II (1974) A grandiose, multi-part suite, “The March of the Black Queen” is one of the most ambitious tracks Queen ever recorded. Found on the darker, “black” side of Queen II, this song showcases Mercury’s operatic influences and foreshadows the layered complexity that would define “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Its ever-shifting musical sections, time signatures, and harmonies make it a sprawling journey, full of dynamic contrasts and theatrical drama. This song epitomizes Queen’s fearless approach to blending rock with classical and progressive elements.

“White Queen (As It Began)” – also from Queen II (1974) Another gem from Queen II, “White Queen (As It Began)” was penned by Brian May, and stands in striking contrast to “The March of the Black Queen.” While “The March of the Black Queen” is dark and turbulent, “White Queen” has a gentler, more melancholic quality. May’s poetic lyrics express themes of unrequited love and longing, capturing a timeless feeling of yearning. His delicate guitar work and the song’s haunting harmonies lend it an ethereal beauty that highlights the band’s softer side, demonstrating the emotional depth Queen could achieve within a single album.

“God Save the Queen” – from A Night at the Opera (1975) Queen’s instrumental cover of the British national anthem, “God Save the Queen,” became a staple in their live shows and a bold statement of pride for both the band and their British roots. Arranged by Brian May, this rendition is the closing track on A Night at the Opera and serves as a grand, patriotic finale to one of rock’s most celebrated albums. Its triumphant guitar arrangement pays homage to traditional values while capturing the essence of rock and roll’s revolutionary spirit. This version is often performed at the end of Queen’s concerts, creating a fitting bookend to their legendary live shows. This is in stark contrast to the Sex Pistols’ response to the Queen of England a year later and their song which of course is completely different, but also called “God Save the Queen.” That’s rock and roll my friends.

Prev Article Next Article

One Response

Baybluesman November 9, 2024

A highly overlooked, but kick-ass song is “Queen Of My Dreams” from the Edgar Winter Group’s (equally underappreciated) 1974 LP “Shock Treatment”.

Featuring the late, great Dan Hartman as singer and a songwriter, combining wicked dueling guitars between Rick Derringer and Dan Hartman on the studio recording (Hartman also played the bass parts on the mixed recording), along with power drumming from Chuck Ruff – if you didn’t know better, one might think it is a Led Zeppelin, or early Aerosmith, album cut.

“Queen Of My Dreams” packs about the most classic rock hooks into a 2:15 recording I have ever heard.

Ideally, played on a high quality audio system, I would bet it would make any CRH reader think they are sitting in the Maxell “Blown Away Guy” cassette tape advertisement of the early 1980’s.