The word “Cherry” carries a versatile charm in rock and roll, evoking sweetness, boldness, and even rebellion, depending on its context. From tender ballads to explosive anthems, “Cherry” has found its way into titles that showcase the creative breadth of the genre. Garbage brought a sassy, electro-rock edge to the word with “Cherry Lips,” while John Mellencamp wrapped nostalgia and small-town warmth into his reflective hit “Cherry Bomb.” Deftones explored emotional vulnerability with “Cherry Waves,” layering their sound with haunting atmospherics. Warrant’s “Cherry Pie” delivered unapologetic glam-metal fun, while Lita Ford’s “Cherry Red” showcased her hard-rock virtuosity.
Foghat channeled their bluesy roots in “Wild Cherry,” and The Beach Boys captured their early surf-rock whimsy in “Cherry Cherry Coupe.” The Rolling Stones gave reggae flair to “Cherry Oh Baby,” adding yet another layer to their genre-spanning catalog. The Runaways, with “Cherry Bomb,” ignited a rebellious anthem for punk and glam enthusiasts, while Neil Diamond’s “Cherry Cherry” launched his career with an infectious slice of pop-rock brilliance.
# 10 – “Cherry Lips” – Garbage
“Cherry Lips,” featured on Garbage’s third studio album Beautiful Garbage (2001), exemplifies the band’s ability to merge pop sensibilities with alternative rock edge. Written by band members Shirley Manson, Duke Erikson, Steve Marker, and Butch Vig, and produced by Vig, the track is a vibrant ode to individuality and empowerment. Recorded at Smart Studios in Madison, Wisconsin, it features a playful mix of electronic beats, fuzzy guitars, and Manson’s captivating vocals. Though it didn’t achieve major chart success in the U.S., it became a Top 10 hit in Italy and a fan favorite for its infectious energy and catchy hook.
Read More: Top 10 Garbage Songs
# 9 – “Cherry Bomb” – John Mellencamp
John Mellencamp’s nostalgic anthem “Cherry Bomb,” from his critically acclaimed album Scarecrow (1985), is a poignant reflection on youthful innocence and small-town life. Produced by Mellencamp and Don Gehman, the song features Kenny Aronoff’s crisp drumming and Mellencamp’s signature storytelling. Recorded at Belmont Mall Studios in Indiana, the track’s warm acoustic guitar and subtle accordion create a timeless vibe. Peaking at number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100, “Cherry Bomb” remains a standout in Mellencamp’s extensive catalog, capturing the bittersweet essence of looking back on simpler times.
Read More: Top 10 John Mellencamp Songs
# 8 – “Cherry Waves” – Deftones
Deftones’ “Cherry Waves,” from their 2006 album Saturday Night Wrist, is a haunting exploration of vulnerability and trust. Produced by Bob Ezrin and Terry Date, and recorded in Seattle and Los Angeles, the song features ethereal guitar work by Stephen Carpenter and Chino Moreno’s evocative vocals. Abe Cunningham’s drumming and Chi Cheng’s bass add depth to the atmospheric arrangement. Though not released as a single, it has become a fan favorite for its layered instrumentation and emotional resonance, showcasing the band’s ability to blend heaviness with melody.
Read More: Top 10 Deftones Songs
# 7 – “Cherry Pie” – Warrant
We all remember this video! Warrant’s “Cherry Pie,” the title track from their 1990 album, is a hard-rock anthem dripping with glam-metal swagger. Written by frontman Jani Lane and produced by Beau Hill, the song was recorded at various studios in Los Angeles. With Joey Allen’s searing guitar riffs and Erik Turner’s infectious rhythm work, the track became synonymous with late ’80s and early ’90s hair metal excess. Peaking at number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, “Cherry Pie” remains a guilty pleasure and a staple of rock radio playlists.
Read More: Top 10 Warrant Songs
# 6 – “Cherry Red” – Lita Ford
Lita Ford’s fiery track “Cherry Red,” from her 1984 album Dancin’ on the Edge, is a testament to her prowess as one of rock’s premier guitarists. Produced by Lance Quinn and recorded in New York City, the song features Ford’s scorching guitar solos and commanding vocals. Randy Castillo’s pounding drums and Hugh McDonald’s bass anchor the track’s driving rhythm. Though it wasn’t a charting single, “Cherry Red” showcases Ford’s raw energy and helped solidify her reputation in the male-dominated world of hard rock.
Read More: Top 10 Lita Ford Songs
# 5 – “Wild Cherry” – Foghat
I love Roger Earl’s solo drum opening on this one. Foghat’s “Wild Cherry” comes from their 1974 album Energized, an LP that showcased the band’s blues-rock edge with a heavier, more electric twist. The album was recorded at Rockfield Studios in Wales and was produced by Tom Dawes, a key figure in refining the band’s sound during this era. “Wild Cherry” is a high-energy track that features Rod Price’s signature slide guitar work, paired with Lonesome Dave Peverett’s gritty vocals, and a driving rhythm section courtesy of Tony Stevens and Roger Earl. Though not a major chart hit, Energized peaked at No. 34 on the Billboard 200, cementing Foghat’s place as one of the premier rock bands of the 1970s.
Read More: Top 10 Foghat Songs
# 4 – “Cherry Cherry Coupe” – The Beach Boys
The Beach Boys’ “Cherry Cherry Coupe,” from their 1963 album Little Deuce Coupe, is a lighthearted ode to car culture. Written by Brian Wilson and Roger Christian, the song features Wilson’s vibrant harmonies and Mike Love’s upbeat lead vocals. Recorded at Western Studios in Los Angeles, it showcases the group’s signature surf-rock style. While it wasn’t released as a single, it remains a fun and nostalgic piece of the Beach Boys’ early discography.
Read More: Top 10 Beach Boys Songs
# 3 – “Cherry Oh Baby” – The Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones’ reggae-inspired “Cherry Oh Baby,” from their 1976 album Black and Blue, is a unique addition to their catalog. Written by Eric Donaldson and originally a reggae hit in 1971, the Stones’ version was produced by the band and Keith Harwood, recorded at Musicland Studios in Munich. Mick Jagger’s playful vocals and Keith Richards’ rhythmic guitar add their distinct flavor to the track. While it didn’t achieve significant chart success, it stands as an example of the Stones’ willingness to experiment with different genres.
Read More: Our 10 Favorite Rolling Stones Songs Of The 1970s
# 2 – “Cherry Bomb” – The Runaways
The Runaways’ “Cherry Bomb,” from their 1976 self-titled debut album, is a punk-glam anthem that epitomizes youthful rebellion. Written by Joan Jett and producer Kim Fowley, the track features Cherie Currie’s commanding lead vocals, Ford and Jett’s gritty guitar riffs, and Sandy West’s pounding drums. Recorded at Fidelity Studios in Los Angeles, it became the band’s defining hit, reaching international audiences and influencing countless female rockers. Though it only charted modestly, “Cherry Bomb” remains a cultural milestone. What I have always found interesting about this video, besides the obvious, is that during Lita Ford’s guitar solo, the camera focuses on Joan Jett’s rhythm playing.
Read More: Top 10 Runaways Songs
# 1 – “Cherry Cherry” – Neil Diamond
Neil Diamond’s “Cherry Cherry,” from his 1966 debut album The Feel of Neil Diamond, is a pop-rock classic. Produced by Jeff Barry and Ellie Greenwich, the track was recorded at Mirasound Studios in New York City. Featuring Diamond’s infectious vocals and a lively rhythm section, it reached number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100, cementing his place as a rising star. Its simple, upbeat energy and memorable hooks make “Cherry Cherry” a timeless favorite and the perfect way to wrap this one up.
Read More: 10 Most Underrated Neil Diamond Songs
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