
Feature Photo: Geoffrey Clowes / Shutterstock.com
Todd Rundgren’s career has spanned decades, covering everything from experimental production to radio-friendly pop, but at his core, he has always been a force in rock and roll. Across both his solo work and his time with Utopia, Rundgren has delivered some of the most electrifying, hard-hitting songs in his catalog—tracks that showcase his raw energy, sharp musicianship, and ability to push the boundaries of rock music.
To explore his most rocking moments, we structured this list into two parts. The first half focuses on Rundgren’s solo material, highlighting songs that define his signature approach to rock with blistering guitar work and powerful vocal performances. The second half shifts to his work with Utopia, where his collaborative energy with the band led to a different kind of intensity. To make things even more interesting, we arranged each section in chronological order, allowing a clearer picture of Rundgren’s evolution as a rock artist.
This isn’t about his biggest hits or his most experimental deep cuts—it’s about the songs that truly rock. Whether performed alone or with Utopia, these tracks capture Rundgren at his most explosive, proving that his impact on rock music is undeniable.
SOLO ALBUMS
# 10 – Devils Bite – Runt
With a raw energy that surges through its frenetic instrumentation, “Devil’s Bite” stands as one of the most electrifying moments on Runt, Todd Rundgren’s 1970 debut solo album. . Recorded at I.D. Sound Studios and Los Angeles Record Plant, the track was produced by Rundgren himself, showcasing his growing ambition as both a musician and a studio craftsman. The lineup for Runt featured Rundgren on guitars, keyboards, and vocals, with Tony Sales on bass and Hunt Sales on drums, forming a tight and energetic trio that powered through the album’s harder-edged tracks.
Lyrically, “Devil’s Bite” embraces a defiant stance against the forces of darkness, with lines like “Who’s that knockin’ on my door? / Who’s that rising up from under the floor?” framing a confrontation with an ominous figure. The song carries a sense of urgency as the narrator refuses to succumb, proclaiming, “Ain’t no power on earth can stop me now.” The battle between good and evil takes on a personal tone, reflecting themes of escape and resilience. The lyrics, paired with the song’s breakneck pace, heighten the tension, making it a perfect fit for a list dedicated to Rundgren’s most rocking moments.
Instrumentally, “Devil’s Bite” delivers one of the wildest guitar solos on Runt, with Rundgren unleashing a flurry of notes that escalate into a frenzied climax.
# 9 – Black Maria – Something/Anything?
Todd Rundgren’s Something/Anything? is an album of many moods, but “Black Maria” stands out as one of its most ferocious moments, delivering a slow-burning, blues-infused rock fury. Recorded in 1971 and released in February 1972, Something/Anything? saw Rundgren handling nearly all the instruments and production himself across three of its four sides, a testament to his studio prowess. However, “Black Maria” is one of the rare tracks that features a full band, with Mark Klingman on keyboards, John Siegler on bass, and John Siomos on drums, injecting a live energy into the song’s brooding intensity.
Lyrically, “Black Maria” exudes a sense of foreboding, with Rundgren singing, “You scare me so / I feel as though my heart stop dead.” The song reads like a desperate warning, an admission of being ensnared by something—or someone—dangerous. The line “You’re a liar, this I know / I watch you go around my head” underscores the theme of deception and emotional torment, making the song one of the more lyrically brooding entries in Rundgren’s catalog. The imagery deepens as he declares, “Gay deceiver, my eyes they burned / My insides turned, my brain it rolled,” illustrating a near-psychedelic descent into paranoia and heartbreak. Compared to other songs in this article, its lyrical weight and dark atmosphere set it apart as one of Rundgren’s most intense rock compositions.
Musically, “Black Maria” is driven by a slow, heavy groove, showcasing Rundgren’s searing guitar work. The song’s solos are among the most expressive of his early career, bending and twisting with an emotional weight that matches the song’s ominous lyrics. While other tracks in this article may highlight Rundgren’s pop instincts or his ability to craft intricate harmonies, “Black Maria” leans into raw, bluesy aggression, making it one of the most guitar-centric moments in his discography.
# 8 – Heavy Metal Kids – Todd
With Todd, released in February 1974, Todd Rundgren expanded his sonic palette into even more experimental and theatrical territory. The double album, recorded at Secret Sound Studios in New York, showcased his increasing willingness to blend raw rock energy with eccentric production. “Heavy Metal Kids” is one of the album’s most aggressive moments, a ferocious, distortion-fueled track that embraces chaos both musically and lyrically. Rundgren not only produced the album but also played the majority of the instruments himself, reinforcing his reputation as a one-man creative force.
The lyrics of “Heavy Metal Kids” capture an anarchic, rebellious energy that fits the song’s unhinged instrumental approach. Lines like “I feel like trashing some windows and crunching some feet / I watch society crumble and I just laugh” tap into a restless, destructive attitude, a sentiment amplified by the relentless guitar work and unrestrained vocal delivery. The protagonist seems to embrace nihilism, escalating to the defiant declaration, “Blow your stupid heads off, see if I could care,” embodying a volatile mix of frustration and recklessness. The song’s final lines, “I was a sweet little kid once / Now I’m a full-grown crank / And when I die I’ll probably come back as a Sherman tank,” suggest an inevitable transformation into something even more destructive, reinforcing the track’s aggressive undercurrent.
Musically, “Heavy Metal Kids” stands apart from other songs on Todd due to its raw intensity. While the album explores everything from lush progressive rock to electronic experimentation, this track is an unfiltered blast of hard rock. The relentless pace, heavily distorted guitar riffs, and frenzied vocals make it one of Rundgren’s most blistering performances. Compared to other songs in this article, its sheer force and rebellious spirit make it a prime example of why Rundgren, despite his genre-hopping tendencies, could still deliver hard-hitting rock songs with the best of them.
# 7 – Determination – Hermit of Mink Hollow
Todd Rundgren’s “Determination,” was featured on his 1978 album Hermit of Mink Hollow. Recorded at his Utopia Sound Studios in Lake Hill, New York, Rundgren performed all instruments and vocals himself, underscoring his multifaceted talent as a musician and producer.
The song’s lyrics delve into themes of resilience and the quest for unwavering commitment. Lines such as “Show me some determination, show me the measure of your dedication” reflect a plea for steadfastness and authenticity. This sentiment is further emphasized in the verse, “I’m looking for someone, someone strong enough to believe in,” highlighting the universal desire to find individuals who embody strength and reliability. The recurring refrain, “Don’t you break down on me,” serves as both a personal appeal and a broader commentary on the importance of perseverance.
Musically, “Determination” stands out with its driving rhythm and assertive guitar riffs, capturing the essence of Rundgren’s rock sensibilities. This track shares a thematic kinship with “You Cried Wolf” from the same album, as both songs explore the complexities of trust and the consequences of emotional vulnerability. While “You Cried Wolf” delves into themes of betrayal and skepticism, “Determination” offers a counterpoint by emphasizing the need for commitment and inner strength.
# 6 – The Want Of A Nail – Nearly Human
Todd Rundgren’s “The Want of a Nail,” the opening track from his 1989 album Nearly Human, exemplifies his dynamic fusion of rock and soul. Recorded live in the studio between June 1988 and February 1989 at Fantasy Studios in Berkeley and The Plant in Sausalito, California, the song features a collaboration with soul legend Bobby Womack, whose powerful vocals complement Rundgren’s energetic performance. The ensemble of musicians includes guitarists Lyle Workman and Vernon Black, bassists Larry Tagg, Randy Jackson, and Kasim Sulton, keyboardists Roger Powell, Brent Bourgeois, Vince Welnick, Byron Allred, and Nate Ginsberg, percussionists Michael Pluznick and Mingo Lewis, drummer Prairie Prince, and a vibrant horn section comprising Bobby Strickland, Peter Apfelbaum, Jim Blinn, and Mike Rose. Rundgren himself took on the roles of lead vocalist, guitarist, arranger, and producer for the track.
Lyrically, “The Want of a Nail” draws inspiration from the proverbial rhyme that illustrates how small actions can lead to significant consequences. The chorus emphasizes this theme: “For the want of a nail, the world was lost.” Rundgren personalizes this concept in lines like “I’ve been wrong, I had plans so big, but the devil’s in the details,” reflecting on personal shortcomings and the importance of attention to detail. The verse “You’re askin’, ‘What’s all this talk about horses and war?'” addresses the listener directly, bridging the gap between the traditional proverb and contemporary life lessons.
WITH UTOPIA
# 5 – Another Life – Another Live
Marking the transition to the second half of our list, which highlights Todd Rundgren’s collaborations with his band Utopia, “Another Life” serves as a compelling introduction. Featured as the opening track on Utopia’s 1975 live album Another Live, this song exemplifies the band’s progressive rock prowess. The album was recorded in August 1975 during performances at venues such as Wollman Rink in Central Park, New York, and the Cape Cod Coliseum. The lineup for this recording included Todd Rundgren on electric guitar and lead vocals, Mark “Moogy” Klingman and Ralph Schuckett on keyboards and vocals, Roger Powell on synthesizers and vocals, John Siegler on bass and vocals, and John “Willie” Wilcox on drums. Rundgren also took on the role of producer for the album.
Lyrically, “Another Life” delves into themes of reincarnation and destiny. The opening line, “Well I could be wrong, but I swear that I knew you in another life,” suggests a deep, pre-existing connection between individuals. This notion is further explored in the chorus, where Rundgren reflects, “And I could be dreaming but I swear that I knew you in another life,” emphasizing a sense of déjà vu and timeless familiarity. The song’s narrative invites listeners to ponder the mysteries of past lives and the bonds that transcend time.
Musically, “Another Life” is characterized by its intricate arrangements and dynamic shifts, hallmarks of Utopia’s progressive rock style. The track’s complex structure and instrumental virtuosity set it apart from Rundgren’s solo work, such as “Determination” from Hermit of Mink Hollow, which leans more towards power pop. The live recording captures the band’s energy and cohesion, offering a raw and authentic listening experience. Critically, Another Live showcases Utopia’s evolution as a band, blending new original compositions with reinterpretations of existing material. The album reached number 66 on the Billboard 200 chart.
# 4 – Love In Action – Oops! Wrong Planet
Continuing our exploration of Todd Rundgren’s collaborations with Utopia, “Love in Action” is a no-holds-barred rock anthem that drives forward with raw energy and biting social commentary. Featured on their 1977 album Oops! Wrong Planet, the song captures the band’s transition into a harder-edged rock sound, packed with aggressive guitar riffs and an unrelenting rhythm section. Recorded at Utopia Sound Studios with Rundgren at the helm as producer, the track showcases the combined force of Rundgren on guitars and lead vocals, Roger Powell on keyboards and vocals, Kasim Sulton on bass and vocals, and John “Willie” Wilcox on drums and vocals.
Lyrically, “Love in Action” doesn’t pull any punches. The opening line, “Alright, no place to hide and nowhere to run,” sets the stage for a song that barrels forward without hesitation. Rundgren’s scathing critique of materialism and societal indifference comes through in the verse, “You got your tail in the air, your head in the ground, money, money, money makes your world go ’round.” The song’s repeated refrain, “You can’t stop love in action,” serves as both a declaration and a warning—change is coming whether you like it or not. The urgency in Rundgren’s delivery, combined with the song’s relentless momentum, makes it one of the most forceful tracks on Oops! Wrong Planet.
Musically, “Love in Action” is built on a foundation of tight, driving riffs and pounding drums, bringing a straightforward rock intensity that contrasts with the expansive, progressive sound of earlier Utopia tracks like “Another Life” from Another Live. While that song leaned into complex arrangements, “Love in Action” is direct and visceral, designed to hit hard and fast. The band’s performance here is lean and focused, a testament to their ability to craft powerful rock songs that cut straight to the core.
Critically, Oops! Wrong Planet marked a shift for Utopia, embracing a rawer, more immediate rock sound. While the album reached number 77 on the Billboard 200, “Love in Action” took on a life of its own as a concert staple, solidifying its reputation as one of Utopia’s hardest-hitting tracks. In the context of this list, the song stands as one of Rundgren’s most electrifying rock moments, proving that his ability to create high-energy, uncompromising rock and roll was just as strong with Utopia as in his solo work.
# 3 – The Road To Utopia – Adventures in Utopia
Released in 1979 as the opening track of Adventures in Utopia, “The Road to Utopia” was recorded at Utopia Sound Studios, with Todd Rundgren producing. The album was intended to tie into a proposed television series that never came to fruition. Instead, Adventures in Utopia became one of the band’s most commercially successful albums, reaching number 32 on the Billboard 200. The band lineup for this recording included Rundgren on guitars and vocals, Roger Powell on keyboards and vocals, Kasim Sulton on bass and vocals, and John “Willie” Wilcox on drums and vocals.
Lyrically, “The Road to Utopia” explores themes of uncertainty and self-determination. The line “I blink my eyes and then it happens again, I lose my way but I discover a friend” suggests unexpected turns in life, while “The road to Utopia is paved with good intentions” references the well-known phrase about unintended consequences. The verse “I had no choice but to choose my own direction” reinforces the idea of navigating life’s challenges despite uncertainty.
Musically, the track features synthesizers, layered guitars, and harmonized vocals. Compared to “Love in Action” from Oops! Wrong Planet, which is more direct and aggressive, “The Road to Utopia” includes more melodic elements and a structured arrangement. The song opens Adventures in Utopia with a dynamic approach that blends rock and progressive influences.
# 2 – One World – Swing To The Right
“One World” is the closing track on Utopia’s sixth studio album, Swing to the Right, released on February 24, 1982. The album was recorded at Utopia Sound Studios, with Todd Rundgren and Utopia handling production duties. The band consisted of Todd Rundgren (vocals, guitar), Roger Powell (keyboards, synthesizer, vocals), Kasim Sulton (bass, keyboards, vocals), and John “Willie” Wilcox (drums).
Lyrically, “One World” emphasizes unity and shared human experience. The chorus, “One world, whoa, it’s our world,” reinforces the song’s message of global togetherness. In the verse, “Politicians and dictators and the guys with the dough, they think they run the world but they just don’t know,” the lyrics take a critical stance against those in power, arguing that real influence belongs to the people. Another line, “When you live in our world everything’s all right,” conveys a sense of optimism and collective strength.
Musically, the song delivers a driving rock rhythm with an anthemic feel, blending energetic guitar riffs with a steady beat. Its straightforward approach contrasts with more complex tracks like “The Road to Utopia” from Adventures in Utopia, which leaned into progressive influences. “One World” became a staple in Utopia’s live performances and saw success in Canada, where it reached number 34 on the charts.
# 1 – Welcome to My Revolution – Oblivion
“Welcome to My Revolution” is a track from Utopia’s 1984 album, Oblivion. The album marked a shift in the band’s musical direction, incorporating more electronic elements, including synthesizers and drum machines. It was recorded at Utopia Sound Studios, with Todd Rundgren handling production. The lineup consisted of Todd Rundgren on vocals and guitar, Kasim Sulton on bass and vocals, Roger Powell on keyboards and vocals, and John “Willie” Wilcox on drums and vocals. Oblivion was released on January 23, 1984, and reached number 74 on the Billboard 200 chart.
Lyrically, “Welcome to My Revolution” explores themes of societal collapse and personal isolation. The line “There’s too much music, too much light, these endless broadcasts into the night” critiques the overwhelming saturation of media and its numbing effect. The verse, “Every morning they confer with the press, just to point a few fingers, fix the blame for this mess,” reflects the disillusionment with political rhetoric and scapegoating. Another key line, “Then it got so bad I couldn’t breathe the air, so I became my own church and begged for sanctuary,” conveys a desperate withdrawal from a world in chaos. The song’s lyrics paint a dystopian vision, questioning the direction of society and the individual’s role within it.
Musically, “Welcome to My Revolution” reflects the polished, synth-heavy sound of Oblivion, contrasting with earlier Utopia tracks like “One World” from Swing to the Right, which had a more straightforward rock sound. The song’s production leans into the electronic influences of the mid-1980s while retaining Utopia’s rock foundation. Though not released as a single, Oblivion produced songs such as “Crybaby” and “Love with a Thinker” that gained some attention during the era.
Read more Todd Rundgren articles on our site….
Todd Rundgren Skips Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony
Top 10 Todd Rundgren Cover Songs
10 Best Covers Of Todd Rundgren Songs
Top 10 Todd Rundgren Albums
Top 10 Todd Rundgren Produced Songs
Ramblings Of A Rock Star And Individualist: Todd Rundgren’s Book The Individualist – Digressions, Dreams & Dissertations.
10 Most Rocking Todd Rundgren Songs article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2025
Great List! Might I add these other rocking tracks:
Is It My Name
SLUT
Everybody’s Going to Heaven
Rock Love (Utopia)
Secret Society
Love Science
Little Red Lights
Death of Rock and Roll
Tin Soldier