10 Most Iconic Rock Songs Named After Women

Feature Photo: Everett Collection Licensed from Shutterstock

When we first came up with the idea of creating a rock songs list about women, we were a little hesitant because we wondered how we would pull it off. If you think about it, the majority of songs written by rock musicians are about women. We don’t mean to sound sexist, but is there any other topic more written about in rock and roll than women? Sure, there are songs about having a good time, partying, driving, fighting, school, politics, wars, and protests, but none come close to the sheer volume of songs about women. There are songs written about men and a whole catalog of tunes dedicated to dead rock stars, but once again, none compare to the number of songs about women.

To tackle this, we initially thought of going with the first 10 songs that came to mind. But after some reflection, we realized that wasn’t the best approach. Then, the idea came to us to narrow it down by focusing on songs with specific women’s names, which certainly helps limit the list a bit—though there are still hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of songs using women’s names. You could probably name any female in the book, and a song is written about her. Ultimately, that’s the direction we decided to take, and here’s our list.

# 10 – Roxanne – The Police

One of the most iconic songs named after a woman, “Roxanne” by The Police, stands out as a defining moment in the band’s early career. Recorded in October 1977 at Surrey Sound Studios in Leatherhead, England, the song was produced by the band’s manager, Nigel Gray, and The Police themselves. “Roxanne” was released as part of their debut album, Outlandos d’Amour, in 1978. The track features Sting on vocals and bass, Andy Summers on guitar, and Stewart Copeland on drums, creating a minimalist yet powerful arrangement that mixes rock, reggae, and punk influences. The song was initially met with limited success, failing to chart in the UK upon its first release. However, it was re-released in 1979, after the band gained momentum, and it became a hit, reaching number 12 on the UK Singles Chart and breaking into the US Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number 32.

The song’s narrative centers around Sting’s fascination with a prostitute named Roxanne, inspired by a visit to Paris, where he saw red-light districts for the first time. The lyrics portray a man pleading with Roxanne to stop selling her body, expressing his desire for a relationship untainted by her lifestyle. The chorus, with its repeated line “Roxanne, you don’t have to put on the red light,” is a powerful, emotionally charged plea that captures the tension between love and societal judgment. Sting’s vocal delivery, filled with desperation and affection, combined with Summers’ distinctive guitar riffs and Copeland’s driving percussion, creates an unforgettable soundscape that elevates the song’s narrative. The track’s unique blend of reggae rhythms and punk attitude distinguished it from other rock songs of its era and showcased The Police’s innovative approach to blending genres.

“Roxanne” has been covered by numerous artists, demonstrating its lasting impact on the music world. Notable covers include renditions by George Michael, who infused the track with a sultry, jazz-tinged vibe during his live performances, and the American punk band Fall Out Boy, who reimagined the song with their signature high-energy style. The song has also been performed by Sting in his solo concerts, where it often evolves into a jazz improvisation, highlighting the song’s adaptability across different musical genres. “Roxanne” has appeared in various films and TV shows, most notably in the 2001 film Moulin Rouge!, where it was transformed into a dramatic tango sequence, emphasizing the song’s dark, seductive undertones.

Read More: 10 Most Underrated Police Songs

# 9 – Rhiannon – Fleetwood Mac

“Rhiannon” is one of Fleetwood Mac’s most iconic tracks, penned and performed by Stevie Nicks. The song was recorded in 1975 at Sound City Studios in Van Nuys, California, and was featured on the band’s self-titled album, Fleetwood Mac, released the same year. Produced by Fleetwood Mac alongside Keith Olsen, the track showcases the classic lineup of the band: Stevie Nicks on vocals, Lindsey Buckingham on guitar, Christine McVie on keyboards, John McVie on bass, and Mick Fleetwood on drums. The haunting melody and mystical lyrics quickly became synonymous with Nicks’ ethereal stage presence, and “Rhiannon” remains a staple of Fleetwood Mac’s live performances, capturing audiences with its enigmatic allure.

The song’s lyrics tell the story of Rhiannon, a Welsh witch and mythical figure who is both powerful and elusive. Nicks wrote the song after reading about the character in Mary Barton’s novel Triad, although she later discovered the deeper mythological roots of the name, aligning perfectly with the mystical persona she had cultivated. “Rhiannon rings like a bell through the night / And wouldn’t you love to love her?” Nicks sings, conjuring images of a free-spirited woman who cannot be tamed. The chorus, “All your life you’ve never seen a woman taken by the wind,” captures the essence of Rhiannon as a figure who embodies freedom, mystery, and untouchable beauty. Nicks’ haunting vocals and Buckingham’s driving guitar riffs, combined with Christine McVie’s melodic keyboard lines, create a powerful soundscape that has enchanted listeners for decades.

“Rhiannon” charted successfully upon its release, reaching number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1976, solidifying Fleetwood Mac’s rise to stardom in the mid-70s. The song’s hypnotic live performances further elevated its status, with Nicks often introducing it as a song about “a Welsh witch.” The combination of the song’s enigmatic lyrics and the band’s dynamic performance made it an instant classic, resonating deeply with fans. Over the years, “Rhiannon” has been covered by several artists, including Taylor Swift, who performed the song with Nicks at the 2010 Grammy Awards, adding a contemporary twist to the timeless classic. Additionally, artists like Waylon Jennings and Mary Lou Lord have put their unique spins on the song, highlighting its universal appeal and enduring legacy.

# 8 – Roseanna – Toto

Frantogian, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

“Rosanna” is one of Toto’s most celebrated tracks, a defining song of the early ’80s that showcases the band’s blend of rock, pop, and jazz-inflected rhythms. Recorded in 1981 and released as a single in 1982, “Rosanna” was featured on Toto’s critically acclaimed album Toto IV. The song was recorded at Sunset Sound and Record One Studios in Los Angeles, with production overseen by the band members themselves alongside their longtime collaborator, engineer Al Schmitt. “Rosanna” features the quintessential Toto lineup: Steve Lukather on guitar and vocals, David Paich on keyboards and vocals, Jeff Porcaro on drums, Steve Porcaro on synthesizers, David Hungate on bass, and Bobby Kimball delivering the soaring lead vocals. This ensemble’s musical synergy is captured brilliantly on “Rosanna,” creating a track that not only defined their sound but also reached new commercial heights for the band.

The lyrics of “Rosanna” tell a tale of lost love and longing, encapsulated in lines like “Meet you all the way, Rosanna, yeah.” While many fans speculated that the song was about actress Rosanna Arquette, who was dating keyboardist Steve Porcaro at the time, songwriter David Paich clarified that the lyrics were inspired by several different women and not solely about Arquette. Musically, “Rosanna” is a masterclass in arrangement and musicianship. The song’s signature shuffle rhythm, crafted by Jeff Porcaro, is widely regarded as one of the most intricate drum patterns in rock history, blending influences from Bo Diddley and Bernard Purdie’s half-time shuffle. Paich’s piano and synthesizer work weaves seamlessly with Lukather’s guitar solos, creating a lush soundscape that complements the song’s theme of bittersweet reminiscence.

“Rosanna” was a commercial triumph, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100, where it remained for five consecutive weeks. The song won three Grammy Awards in 1983, including Record of the Year, cementing Toto’s reputation as one of the premier rock bands of the era. The accompanying music video, featuring a stylized street dance sequence that captures the song’s rhythmic pulse, became a staple on MTV and further boosted the track’s popularity. Over the years, “Rosanna” has been covered by various artists, including British jazz-funk band Incognito and pop singer Liane Foly, each bringing their unique interpretations while honoring the original’s iconic shuffle beat.

# 7 – Beth – Kiss

“Beth” stands out as one of the most unexpected hits in Kiss’s career. Originally released on the 1976 album Destroyer, “Beth” marked a significant departure from the band’s typical sound. This ballad, featuring delicate piano and orchestration, showcased the softer side of a group more often associated with pyrotechnics and face paint. The song was recorded at Electric Lady Studios in New York City during the Destroyer sessions, with legendary producer Bob Ezrin at the helm. Unlike most Kiss tracks dominated by the voices of Paul Stanley or Gene Simmons, “Beth” was sung by drummer Peter Criss, whose heartfelt vocals became a defining element of the song.

Lyrically, “Beth” tells the story of a musician torn between his dedication to his band and the longing of his partner left waiting at home. Lines like “Beth, I hear you calling, but I can’t come home right now” capture the tension and melancholy of a life spent on the road. The song was originally penned as “Beck” by Criss and his former bandmate Stan Penridge, inspired by a phone call Criss overheard between a bandmate and his wife, Becky. However, the name was changed during the recording process to “Beth” to better suit the melody. The track is marked by its simple yet emotive arrangement, with orchestral strings adding a layer of depth that sets it apart from the typical Kiss catalog. Ezrin’s decision to include an orchestra and strip away the electric guitars was bold but paid off, transforming “Beth” into an unforgettable power ballad.

“Beth” became one of the band’s biggest hits, reaching number seven on the Billboard Hot 100, and it remains Kiss’s highest-charting single in the United States. The song was instrumental in broadening the band’s audience beyond hard rock fans, demonstrating their versatility and Criss’s unexpected vocal prowess. The track’s success also earned Kiss their first and only People’s Choice Award for “Favorite New Song” in 1977. Despite initial hesitations from other band members about including such a soft song on a Kiss album, “Beth” proved to be a defining moment in the band’s career, helping Destroyer achieve multi-platinum status.

Over the years, “Beth” has been covered by numerous artists, each bringing their own interpretation to the song’s tender narrative. Notable versions include a rendition by Garth Brooks, who performed the song live with Criss at a Kiss reunion show, and a cover by alternative rock band The Smashing Pumpkins.

# 6 – Jessica – The Allman Brothers Band

“Jessica” by The Allman Brothers Band is one of rock’s most iconic instrumentals, a lively, uplifting piece that showcases the band’s musical prowess without a single word being sung. Released on their 1973 album Brothers and Sisters, “Jessica” was composed by guitarist Dickey Betts, who sought to capture the carefree spirit of his daughter, Jessica, after whom the song is named. The track was recorded at Capricorn Sound Studios in Macon, Georgia, in late 1972 and early 1973, during a period of transition and emotional turbulence for the band following the deaths of founding member Duane Allman and bassist Berry Oakley. Produced by Johnny Sandlin, Betts, and the band, “Jessica” is often seen as a triumphant, joyous anthem that helped redefine the band’s sound in the wake of tragedy.

Musically, “Jessica” is a masterclass in melody and rhythm. Betts composed the song to be played entirely with two fingers, inspired by the fingerstyle technique of Django Reinhardt, a legendary jazz guitarist who lost the use of two fingers in a fire. The song’s signature galloping rhythm was brought to life by the band’s new lineup, including Betts on lead guitar, Chuck Leavell on piano, Jaimoe and Butch Trucks on drums, and Lamar Williams on bass. Leavell’s piano solo, recorded in one take, adds a layer of complexity and joy that complements Betts’s guitar work beautifully. The song’s structure, built around a recurring guitar theme, evokes a sense of perpetual motion, much like the spirit of young Jessica running around the yard, which inspired Betts.

“Jessica” became a cornerstone of The Allman Brothers Band’s live performances and has been a fan favorite since its release. While the song did not chart as a single, it received significant airplay and critical acclaim, helping Brothers and Sisters reach number one on the Billboard 200, marking a commercial high point for the band. “Jessica” also won a Grammy Award for Best Rock Instrumental Performance in 1996 when it was included in their album An Evening with the Allman Brothers Band: 2nd Set.

Numerous artists have covered and performed ” Jessica, “further cementing its legacy. Notable covers include performances by British guitarist Eric Johnson, who has praised the song’s melodic and technical sophistication, and country guitarist Brad Paisley, who brought his own flair to the piece in live settings. The song has also been featured in various films and TV shows, including Top Gear, where it served as the show’s opening theme and in many commercials.

# 5 – My Sharona – The Knack

“My Sharona” dominated the charts in a way few songs have managed, marking a high point in The Knack’s career. Upon its release in June 1979, the single quickly climbed to the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100, where it held its position for six consecutive weeks. This impressive run made “My Sharona” the best-selling single of 1979 in the United States. The song also made a strong impact internationally, reaching the top ten in countries like Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. Its infectious hook and unforgettable riff helped propel The Knack to instant fame, and the track’s success played a significant role in pushing the album Get the Knack to the top of the Billboard 200, where it remained for five weeks.

The song’s lyrical narrative is unmistakable, driven by lines like “Ooh, my little pretty one, pretty one / When you gonna give me some time, Sharona?” that set the tone for an anthem of youthful lust and longing. As the article focuses on songs named after women, “My Sharona” stands out not only because of its memorable title but also due to its inspiration from a real person—Sharona Alperin—who graced the song’s cover art and became a pop culture icon in her own right.

Read More: Top 10 Songs From The Knack

# 4 – Lola – The Kinks

Lola Versus Powerman And The Moneygoround, Part One [2 CD][Deluxe Edition]

“Lola” by The Kinks stands as one of rock music’s most iconic tracks for its infectious melody and groundbreaking lyrical content. Written by Ray Davies, the song was recorded at Morgan Studios in Willesden, North London, in April 1970. Produced by Ray Davies himself, “Lola” featured the classic Kinks lineup with Ray on vocals and guitar, his brother Dave Davies on lead guitar, Mick Avory on drums, John Dalton on bass, and John Gosling on keyboards. The track was released as a single in June 1970 and appeared on the album Lola Versus Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One, which was a commercial and critical success. It reached number two on the UK Singles Chart and number nine on the Billboard Hot 100, making it one of the band’s most successful singles.

“Lola” is celebrated for its daring narrative about a young man’s encounter with a woman who turns out to be a man, set against the backdrop of a London nightclub. The lyrics, “Well, I’m not dumb, but I can’t understand / Why she walked like a woman but talked like a man,” capture the song’s playful yet revolutionary approach to themes of identity and sexuality, which were rarely addressed in mainstream rock at the time. With its repetitive and catchy “L-O-L-A, Lola,” the chorus creates a memorable hook that solidifies the song’s place in music history and cleverly masks the deeper, subversive message beneath its surface. The story unfolds with wit and sincerity, exploring the complexities of gender fluidity in a way that is both groundbreaking and accessible, wrapped in the catchy melodies and rock rhythms characteristic of The Kinks.

# 3 – Sweet Caroline – Neil Diamond

Brother Love's Travelling Salvation Show

It’s amazing how this song continues to find a new audience every year and has so infiltrated pop culture on so many levels. “Sweet Caroline” was recorded in 1969 at American Sound Studio in Memphis, Tennessee. It was produced by the legendary Tommy Cogbill and Chips Moman. The track featured a stellar lineup of session musicians, including Reggie Young on guitar, Bobby Emmons on organ, and Gene Chrisman on drums. The song was released as a single in May 1969 and later included in Diamond’s Brother Love’s Travelling Salvation Show album. It quickly climbed the charts, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of Diamond’s most iconic songs.

The genesis of “Sweet Caroline” is famously tied to Diamond’s admiration for Caroline Kennedy, although he later admitted that the inspiration was more about capturing a feeling of innocence and happiness rather than a direct connection to the Kennedy family. With their now-legendary chorus of “Sweet Caroline, good times never seemed so good,” the lyrics resonate with a universal sense of nostalgia and joy. The song’s infectious “hands, touching hands, reaching out, touching me, touching you” creates a communal experience, drawing listeners in with its anthemic quality and evoking a sense of togetherness. Diamond’s vocal delivery—rich, warm, and filled with genuine affection—cements the track’s status as a singalong classic that has found its way into countless public celebrations, from sports stadiums to wedding receptions.

“Sweet Caroline” has been covered by various artists, including Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, and even the Boston Red Sox, who adopted it as their unofficial anthem, playing it during games at Fenway Park to the delight of fans.

# 2 – Angie – The Rolling Stones

“Angie” by The Rolling Stones is one of the band’s most loved songs. The song was recorded in November and December 1972 at Dynamic Sound Studios in Kingston, Jamaica, and later at Olympic Studios in London. It was produced by Jimmy Miller, who was behind the boards for many of the Stones’ most iconic records during their golden era. The track featured on the 1973 album Goat’s Head Soup, and stands out with its gentle acoustic guitar, soulful piano, and Mick Jagger’s introspective lyrics that capture the bittersweet end of a relationship. Guitarist Mick Taylor’s delicate acoustic work and Nicky Hopkins’ evocative piano play a crucial role in shaping the song’s melancholic tone, with Charlie Watts’ subdued drumming adding a subtle but powerful undercurrent.

Released as a single in August 1973, “Angie” shot to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and peaked at number five on the UK Singles Chart, marking a significant commercial success for the band during the early 1970s. The song’s plaintive lyrics—”Angie, Angie, when will those clouds all disappear?”—and Jagger’s heartfelt delivery reflect the complex emotions of love, loss, and resignation. The lyrics have often been speculated to be about various real-life figures, including David Bowie’s wife, Angela, and even Keith Richards’ newborn daughter, Dandelion Angela. However, Richards has clarified that “Angie” was a name chosen simply because it fits the song’s melancholic vibe and wasn’t directly inspired by any specific person.

# 1 – Layla – Derek and the Dominos

The Layla Sessions: Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs by Derek and the Dominos

We had no choice. We had to close out this list with one of the most iconic songs in classic rock history. Layla was produced by the legendary Tom Dowd and recorded at Criteria Studios in Miami between August and September 1970. The track was released on Derek And The Dominos’ only studio album, Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs, released in November 1970. The song’s driving force was Clapton’s unrequited love for Pattie Boyd, then married to his close friend George Harrison, which lent the song its urgency and aching sentiment.

Musically, “Layla” is a masterclass in rock guitar. The collaboration between Eric Clapton and slide guitar virtuoso Duane Allman still blows my mind every time I hear it. Allman’s contribution, particularly during the song’s explosive opening riff, is often credited as one of the finest moments in rock guitar history. Clapton’s searing vocals capture the desperation of unreturned love, with lines like, “Layla, you’ve got me on my knees / Layla, I’m begging, darling please,” which perfectly embody the song’s pleading, almost painful emotion. The track is uniquely structured, with a poignant piano coda written by drummer Jim Gordon, which shifts the song from its initial hard-rocking intensity to a melancholic, almost dream-like finish, creating a dramatic contrast that makes “Layla” unforgettable.

Upon its release, “Layla” did not initially achieve the chart success that would match its critical acclaim. It peaked at number ten on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1972 after a re-release and reached number seven on the UK Singles Chart in 1972 and again in 1982. The song’s enduring appeal has led to numerous covers, including Clapton’s own stripped-down acoustic version for his 1992 Unplugged album, which won the Grammy Award for Best Rock Song. Other notable renditions include those by artists like John Mayer, who often performs it live with a bluesy twist, and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, which has reinterpreted the song’s poignant coda in orchestral form.