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Our list of the 10 Most Rocking Jackson Browne Songs showcases the rock and roll side of one of the most beloved singer-songwriters of all time. With a career that began in the early ’70s, Jackson Browne is best known for his reflective songwriting and signature soft rock sound of that era. While his music has always been rooted in the singer-songwriter genre, he has explored a variety of musical styles across his many albums. Though much of his work consists of slower-paced or mid-tempo tunes, Browne has also released a compelling selection of rockers, which we proudly present here.
# 10 – “Looking East” – Looking East
The title track from Jackson Browne’s 1996 album Looking East combines his reflective lyricism with a more robust, rock-oriented arrangement. Produced by Browne along with Scott Thurston and Kevin McCormick, the track features an inspired performance from Thurston on guitars and McCormick on bass, creating a vibrant, driving energy. Lyrically, Browne examines themes of identity and belonging, with his vocal delivery exuding a determined urgency. Though the album didn’t achieve major chart success, “Looking East” stands out as a bold statement from a veteran artist still pushing boundaries.
# 9 – “Boulevard” – Hold Out
“Boulevard,” from the 1980 album Hold Out, marked a departure for Jackson Browne with its unapologetic embrace of rock swagger. Produced by Browne and Greg Ladanyi, this hit single features prominent guitar riffs by Rick Vito and David Lindley that set the tone for its gritty, urban narrative. Reaching No. 19 on the Billboard Hot 100, “Boulevard” became one of Browne’s most commercially successful tracks. Its pointed lyrics about disillusionment in Los Angeles are backed by energetic drumming from Russ Kunkel, making it a sharp commentary wrapped in irresistible rock hooks.
# 8 – “World in Motion” – World in Motion
From the politically charged 1989 album World in Motion, the title track reflects Browne’s commitment to blending activism with his music. Co-produced with Scott Thurston and Kevin McCormick, the track features an anthemic arrangement driven by a pulsing rhythm section and passionate vocals. Browne’s lyrics tackle issues of global concern with conviction, while contributions from session musicians such as Jorge Calderón add depth to the song’s powerful message. Though not a chart-topping hit, “World in Motion” showcases Browne’s willingness to use his platform to address pressing social issues.
# 7 – “The Road and the Sky” – Late for the Sky
One of the standout tracks from 1974’s Late for the Sky, “The Road and the Sky” is a high-energy rocker that contrasts with the album’s introspective tone. I dig that piano that opens up this song. Produced by Browne and Al Schmitt, the song features soaring guitar work by David Lindley and dynamic drumming from Russ Kunkel. Its themes of freedom and resilience resonate as a celebration of life’s possibilities. The track’s relentless pace and infectious energy have made it a favorite among fans, encapsulating the spirited side of Browne’s artistry.
# 6 – “Redneck Fried” – For Everyman
When we first published this article, we failed to list this great rocker, “Redneck Friend.” It didn’t take long before we got a lot of emails and comments on our Facebook pages that this one should have been on the list. We agree entirely; we whiffed on this one. Nonetheless, we have fixed the error of our ways and are happy to include this great track from Jackson Browne’s album For Everyman.
# 5 – “For a Rocker” – Lawyers in Love
Released as part of Jackson Browne’s 1983 album Lawyers in Love, “For a Rocker” stands out for its upbeat, celebratory tone. The album was recorded at Sunset Sound and Studio 55 in Los Angeles, with production by Browne and Greg Ladanyi. This track features a dynamic band lineup, including Danny Kortchmar on guitar and Craig Doerge on keyboards. While the album peaked at No. 8 on the Billboard 200, “For a Rocker” was not released as a single but gained attention for its energetic arrangement and live performance appeal.
# 4 – “For America” – Lives in the Balance
From the politically charged Lives in the Balance (1986), “For America” was one of the standout singles, reaching No. 30 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 3 on the Mainstream Rock chart. The song, produced by Browne, Scott Thurston, and Kevin McCormick, uses its synth-driven arrangement to highlight its biting critique of U.S. politics and culture. The album, recorded at The Sound Factory in Los Angeles, marked a departure from Browne’s earlier introspective work, cementing his reputation as an artist unafraid to tackle social issues head-on.
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# 3 – “Take It Easy” – For Everyman
Co-written by Jackson Browne and Glenn Frey, “Take It Easy” first appeared on the Eagles’ debut album but found a new interpretation on Browne’s For Everyman in 1973. Browne’s version includes David Lindley’s iconic steel guitar and Russ Kunkel on drums, delivering a more relaxed, introspective feel. The album, produced by Browne, was recorded at Clover Recorders and Sunset Sound, and while it didn’t yield significant chart hits, it established Browne as a key figure in the burgeoning singer-songwriter movement.
Read More: Complete List Of Jackson Browne Albums And Discography
# 2 – “Doctor My Eyes” – Jackson Browne (Saturate Before Using)
“Doctor My Eyes” was the breakout single from Jackson Browne’s 1972 debut album, Saturate Before Using. Recorded at Crystal Sound Studios in Los Angeles and produced by Richard Sanford Orshoff, the track reached No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying Browne’s place in the industry. The song features Russ Kunkel on drums and Leland Sklar on bass, combining introspective lyrics with an irresistible pop melody. Its polished production and emotional resonance helped propel the album to critical acclaim.
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# 1 – “Running on Empty” – Running on Empty
Released in 1977, “Running on Empty” is the title track of Browne’s live album, which documents life on the road with recordings made at concert venues, hotel rooms, and even a tour bus. Produced by Jackson Browne and featuring his touring band, including David Lindley on lap steel guitar and Russ Kunkel on drums, the song became a major hit, reaching No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its unique concept and raw energy made the Running on Empty album a landmark release, peaking at No. 3 on the Billboard 200.
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10 Most Rocking Jackson Browne Songs article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024
Another song that rocks like heck, that is often overlooked, as there are so many incredible Jackson Browne compositions, is one of my personal favorites, that being the rollicking “Redneck Friend” from the (also generally underappreciated) “For Everyman” LP.
Excellent slide guitar from the late great David Lindley, Elton John’s honky-tonk/barrelhouse piano, along with guitars and harmonizing vocals from Jackson Browne and Glenn Frey, and written about Gregg Allman (which I had no idea, until mentioned during a performance of Jackson Browne I saw in the 80’s), caps it.
Added to the list to “Crank Up to 11”.