10 Best Songs With The Word 'Thing' In The Title

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Each song on this list demonstrates a unique way that “thing” has shaped the landscape of rock music, proving that even the smallest words can carry immense weight in the right hands. Sammy Hagar’s “Things’ve Changed” reflects on the passage of time with an honest rawness that perfectly blends introspection with a driving rock rhythm. Paul McCartney’s “Get On the Right Thing” showcases his ability to craft uplifting melodies, infusing optimism into his trademark dynamic arrangements. Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell’s duet “Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing” pairs heartfelt lyrics with Motown magic, highlighting their unparalleled chemistry. The Yardbirds’ “Shapes of Things” brought a socially conscious edge to the British Invasion, fusing thought-provoking lyrics with innovative guitar work.

Electric Light Orchestra’s “Livin’ Thing” marries orchestral grandeur with a reflective look at love and life, epitomizing Jeff Lynne’s gift for storytelling through sound. The Troggs’ “Wild Thing” remains a primal anthem of rock, capturing the raw energy of youthful passion in just a few unforgettable chords. David Bowie’s “Oh! You Pretty Things” challenges listeners with its existential depth, delivering a profound commentary on human evolution through a deceptively catchy melody.

# 10 – Things’ve Changed – Sammy Hagar

Even though the song’s verse always sounded like the song “Night Moves” by Bob Seger, Sammy delivered a great one in 2002 with this very cool tune song called “Things’ve Changed.” Recorded at Red Rocker Studio in Northern California, the track was co-produced by Hagar and Bob Daspit, capturing the cohesive energy of Hagar’s band, The Waboritas. Hagar’s commanding vocals and rhythm guitar are complemented by Vic Johnson’s fiery lead guitar, Mona Gnader’s steady bass grooves, and David Lauser’s driving drum performance.

Read More: Why Rock Fans Love Sammy Hagar

# 9 – Get On The Right Thing – Paul McCartney

Paul McCartney’s “Get On The Right Thing,” featured on his 1973 album Red Rose Speedway, showcases his gift for crafting vibrant, uplifting melodies paired with emotionally resonant lyrics. Originally recorded during the sessions for Ram in 1971 at CBS Studios in New York and Abbey Road Studios in London, the song highlights McCartney’s fluid approach to integrating older material into new projects. Produced by McCartney and featuring members of Wings—Linda McCartney on keyboards and backing vocals, Denny Laine on guitar, Henry McCullough on guitar, and Denny Seiwell on drums—the track is a high-energy blend of rock and soul influences.

# 7 – Ain’t Nothing Like The Real Thing – Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell

Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell’s “Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing” is an enduring testament to the power of love and authenticity, delivered through one of Motown’s most iconic duets. Written and produced by the legendary songwriting team of Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson, the song was recorded at Hitsville U.S.A. (Motown’s iconic Detroit studio) in 1967 and released in 1968 on the album You’re All I Need. The recording features the Funk Brothers as the instrumental backbone, with James Jamerson’s signature basslines and Earl Van Dyke’s dynamic keyboard work infusing the track with soulful energy.

# 6 – Shape Of Things – The Yardbirds

The Yardbirds’ “Shapes of Things” is a groundbreaking piece of psychedelic rock that fused innovative musicianship with pointed social commentary. Released as a single in February 1966 and later included on various compilations, the song was recorded at Chess Studios in Chicago and Columbia Studios in Hollywood. Produced by Giorgio Gomelsky, it features Jeff Beck’s pioneering guitar work, Keith Relf’s evocative vocals, Chris Dreja on rhythm guitar, Paul Samwell-Smith on bass, and Jim McCarty on drums. The track’s experimental nature, combined with its thought-provoking lyrics, helped solidify The Yardbirds’ reputation as trailblazers of the 1960s rock scene.

Read More: Top 10 Yardbirds Songs

# 5 – Every Little Thing – Yes

Yes’s rendition of “Every Little Thing” transforms The Beatles’ original into an ambitious and stunning piece of progressive rock. Featured on their 1969 self-titled debut album, the track was recorded at Advision Studios in London, with production by Paul Clay and the band. The lineup included Jon Anderson on vocals, Chris Squire on bass, Tony Kaye on keyboards, Peter Banks on guitar, and Bill Bruford on drums. The band’s intricate arrangement deconstructs the simplicity of the Lennon-McCartney composition, reconstructing it into a complex and exhilarating sonic journey.

# 4 – All Things Must Pass – George Harrison

George Harrison’s “All Things Must Pass” is a poignant meditation on impermanence and renewal, serving as the title track of his acclaimed 1970 triple album All Things Must Pass. Written during Harrison’s time with The Beatles but left unreleased by the group, the song was recorded between May and October 1970 at Abbey Road Studios and Apple Studio in London. Co-produced by Harrison and Phil Spector, the recording features an impressive roster of musicians, including Eric Clapton on guitar, Billy Preston on keyboards, Klaus Voormann on bass, and Ringo Starr on drums.

# 3 – Living Thing – Electric Light Orchestra

Electric Light Orchestra’s “Livin’ Thing” is a dynamic blend of orchestral elegance and pop sensibility, showcasing the band’s knack for merging classical elements with modern rock. Released as a single in 1976 and featured on the album A New World Record, the song was recorded at Musicland Studios in Munich, Germany, under the meticulous production of ELO’s leader Jeff Lynne. The track highlights the talents of Lynne (vocals, guitar), Bev Bevan (drums), Richard Tandy (keyboards), Kelly Groucutt (bass, backing vocals), and Mik Kaminski (violin), alongside the band’s signature string ensemble. “Livin’ Thing” received widespread acclaim upon release, reaching number 4 on the UK Singles Chart and number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States.

# 2 – Wild Thing – The Troggs

The Troggs’ “Wild Thing” remains one of the most iconic and influential rock songs of the 1960s, celebrated for its primal simplicity and raw energy. Written by Chip Taylor and originally recorded by The Wild Ones, the song was transformed into a timeless classic by The Troggs when they recorded it in 1966 at Regent Sound Studios in London. Produced by Larry Page, the track features Reg Presley on lead vocals, Chris Britton on guitar, Pete Staples on bass, and Ronnie Bond on drums. The song’s minimalistic arrangement, punctuated by its unforgettable guitar riff and the use of an ocarina in place of a typical solo, gives it a unique and slightly unpolished charm.

# 1 – Oh You Pretty Things – David Bowie

David Bowie’s “Oh! You Pretty Things,” a striking blend of piano-driven melody and provocative lyrics, exemplifies his ability to weave existential themes into accessible pop music. Recorded in December 1970 and released in 1971 on the album Hunky Dory, the track was produced by Ken Scott and Bowie. Featuring Rick Wakeman’s intricate piano work alongside Bowie’s vocals and acoustic guitar, the song captures a sense of intellectual rebellion and cosmic evolution.