Top 10 Poco Songs

“Keep On Tryin’” opens our list of top 10 Poco songs with a perfect blend of country-rock finesse and heartfelt sincerity. The song, released in 1975 on the Head Over Heels album, marks a quintessential moment in Poco’s history. Written by Timothy B. Schmit, who would later gain fame as an Eagles member, “Keep On Tryin’” showcases Schmit’s distinct vocal harmonies and poignant songwriting style, capturing the essence of longing and optimism. The track serves as a masterclass in the genre fusion that Poco championed throughout the 1970s, marrying folk-influenced lyrics with the lush, harmonious soundscapes of California rock.

Recorded between December 1974 and February 1975 at the Record Plant in Los Angeles, Head Over Heels was produced by Mark Harman, with engineering assistance from Paul Grupp and Rick Tarantini. The album marked a period of transition for Poco, showcasing a more refined production style and a stronger emphasis on harmonies, with “Keep On Tryin’” setting the tone. Schmit’s gentle, emotive vocals sit front and center, supported by the rich harmonies of bandmates Paul Cotton, Rusty Young, and George Grantham. The instrumentation is simple yet effective: an acoustic guitar-driven arrangement that reflects the sincerity and determination within the lyrics.

The song itself is a soft-spoken anthem of resilience and hope. With its earnest refrain—”I’ll keep on tryin’, I’m through with lyin'”—Schmit expresses a steadfast commitment to love and personal growth. The lyrics convey a man who is determined to keep pushing through life’s emotional storms to find his way back to a loved one. In many ways, “Keep On Tryin’” exemplifies Poco’s ability to write songs that resonate with universal themes of longing and perseverance, much like their earlier work on tracks such as “A Good Feelin’ to Know.”

While “Keep On Tryin’” became one of Poco’s most beloved tracks, it’s also notable for being one of the band’s most successful songs on the charts. It reached No. 50 on the Billboard Hot 100, a respectable showing that reflected the growing popularity of country-rock during the mid-1970s. The album also featured a unique cover of Steely Dan’s “Dallas,” further demonstrating the band’s willingness to explore new sonic territory and challenge genre boundaries.

In the context of Head Over Heels, “Keep On Tryin’” stands out not just as a single, but as a testament to the band’s ability to deliver deeply personal music with broad appeal. It’s a song that showcases Poco’s unique alchemy of country, rock, and folk, and one that has endured as a fan favorite over the decades. As we continue to explore the essential tracks of Poco’s career, it becomes clear that “Keep On Tryin'” remains a vital part of the band’s legacy, embodying the spirit of perseverance that defines their music.

Produced by the legendary Steve Cropper, a member of Booker T. & the M.G.’s and a staple in the Stax Records family, From the Inside saw Poco leaning into a more soulful, polished sound. Recorded at RCA’s Hollywood Studios, Cropper’s production provided a warmth and clarity that allowed the emotional resonance of “Bad Weather” to shine. The song features Rusty Young’s expressive steel guitar work, which weaves seamlessly through Cotton’s melancholy lyrics, creating an atmosphere of quiet desperation. Paul Cotton’s delivery is tender yet weary, encapsulating the forlorn sentiment of the lyrics: “Every day that passes us by / And I can’t help the feeling that you and I / We won’t get to see another day together / Looks like bad weather.”

“Bad Weather” became an essential track in Poco’s repertoire, showcasing Cotton’s knack for penning introspective, deeply personal songs that resonated with fans. The song’s lyrics speak to the pain of a relationship in decline, using weather as a metaphor for emotional turbulence. Cotton’s evocative lyrics paint a vivid picture of impending loss, matched by the song’s melodic tension and the band’s tight instrumental interplay. While it didn’t achieve mainstream chart success, “Bad Weather” quickly became a fan favorite and a staple in the band’s live performances.

What sets “Bad Weather” apart from other tracks on From the Inside is its soulful blend of country rock with blues undertones, a direction that the band was exploring more deeply with Cropper at the helm. The song’s slow burn and emotional depth set it apart from the more upbeat tracks on the album and foreshadowed the introspective direction Cotton would take in future compositions for the band. Its lyrical content and musical arrangement bear a stark contrast to other songs from the same era, such as “Keep on Tryin’,” which reflects a more optimistic tone. “Bad Weather” remains one of Poco’s most powerful and poignant tracks, a testament to Paul Cotton’s impact on the band and a key moment in their evolution as pioneers of the country rock genre.

Read More: Steve Cropper: The ClassicRockHistory.com Interview

Recorded at Crystal Sound and Sound Labs Studios in Los Angeles, Legend saw Poco moving toward a smoother, more polished production style under the guidance of Richard Sanford Orshoff. The album marked a shift from their earlier country-rock roots to a more radio-friendly sound that blended pop sensibilities with their trademark harmonies and instrumental finesse. “Heart of the Night” stands as a highlight of this period, driven by Cotton’s evocative lyrics and the band’s tight, cohesive musicianship. The song’s arrangement features Rusty Young’s poignant pedal steel guitar lines, which perfectly complement the sultry, wistful mood that Cotton sets with his rich vocal delivery.

The lyrics to “Heart of the Night” paint a vivid picture of the Crescent City, reflecting Cotton’s affection for New Orleans and its unique atmosphere. The opening lines—“In the heart of the night, in the cool southern rain / There’s a full moon in sight, shining down on the Pontchartrain”—set the stage with evocative imagery that places the listener right in the midst of a warm Louisiana night, the kind where the moon casts a reflective glow on the river and the air is filled with a sultry tension. Cotton’s use of geographical references, like Lake Pontchartrain, lends authenticity and a sense of place, capturing a romanticized view of the city.

As the song progresses, Cotton’s lyrics delve deeper into his emotional connection to New Orleans. He sings, “I trust in your love, never falling down / I trust in your love, just like I do in this town.” Here, Cotton draws a parallel between the stability of a lover’s affection and his unwavering love for New Orleans, suggesting that both the city and the beloved offer comfort, security, and a sense of belonging. It’s a poignant sentiment that resonates with anyone who has ever felt a profound connection to a place.

The chorus—“In the heart of the night, in the heart of the night, in the heart of the night, oh, down in New Orleans”—repeats like a mantra, emphasizing the song’s central theme of yearning and attachment. There is an almost hypnotic quality to the repetition, mirroring the cyclical nature of nostalgia and the way memories can loop endlessly in the mind. Cotton’s vocal delivery is both gentle and passionate, capturing the emotional weight of returning to a place that feels like home, even if it’s only in one’s dreams.

Chart-wise, “Heart of the Night” became one of Poco’s most successful singles, peaking at No. 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1979 and gaining significant airplay on both pop and adult contemporary radio stations. Its warm reception helped Legend achieve gold certification, a testament to its broad appeal and the band’s ability to evolve while staying true to their core sound. The song’s imagery—of moonlit nights and the rising Mississippi River—paints a vivid picture of New Orleans, weaving a sense of longing and nostalgia that resonated with listeners.

Comparatively, “Heart of the Night” aligns with the reflective tone of other tracks from the same era, like “Bad Weather,” which also showcased Paul Cotton’s lyrical introspection and emotional depth. However, while “Bad Weather” embraced a more stripped-down, melancholic vibe, “Heart of the Night” leans into a more polished, romantic sentimentality, further enhancing the band’s versatility. This ability to shift between different moods and styles, while maintaining their distinct sound, is what set Poco apart and allowed them to carve a niche in the ever-changing landscape of late ’70s rock.

“Pickin’ Up the Pieces,” the title track from Poco’s 1969 debut album Pickin’ Up the Pieces, serves as the perfect introduction to the band’s innovative blend of country and rock, a sound that would go on to define the genre of country rock in the years to follow. Written by Richie Furay, a former member of Buffalo Springfield, “Pickin’ Up the Pieces” is a spirited anthem that captures the essence of a group determined to carve out a unique identity in the musical landscape of the late 1960s.

Furay’s lyrics in “Pickin’ Up the Pieces” tell the story of resilience and renewal, themes that resonate not only with the band’s journey but also with the turbulent socio-political climate of the time. Lines like “Well there’s just a little bit of magic in the country music we’re singin’ / So let’s begin” reflect a desire to start anew and to forge something different from the ashes of past experiences, particularly for Furay, who had left Buffalo Springfield to form Poco. This spirit of creation and hope pervades the entire song, making it not just a piece of music, but a declaration of intent.

Musically, “Pickin’ Up the Pieces” is a vibrant and energetic number that marries Furay’s bright, jangling guitar riffs with Rusty Young’s steel guitar work, creating a sound that was fresh and unlike anything else at the time. The harmonies, featuring Furay alongside bandmates Jim Messina, Rusty Young, George Grantham, and Randy Meisner, are tight and buoyant, providing a sense of unity and shared purpose. The song’s upbeat tempo and melodic hooks are instantly catchy, drawing listeners into Poco’s world of optimistic soundscapes and forward-looking lyrics.

Critically, “Pickin’ Up the Pieces” was lauded for its seamless blending of rock and country elements, setting the stage for what would become a signature sound for Poco. The album itself was described by some as one of the defining moments of the country-rock movement, influencing a host of future artists, including the Eagles, who would build upon the foundations laid by Poco.

Comparatively, “Pickin’ Up the Pieces” is more optimistic and anthemic than some of the other songs on our list, like “Bad Weather” or “Heart of the Night,” which delve into more melancholic themes. However, its inclusion is essential, as it showcases the genesis of the band’s sound and highlights the creative ambitions that would fuel their music for decades to come.

In the context of Poco’s debut, “Pickin’ Up the Pieces” is both a mission statement and a promise of what was to come, capturing the spirit of a band eager to pick up where the greats before them had left off and to push the boundaries of what country rock could be.

“Just For Me and You,” the closing track from Poco’s 1971 album From the Inside, stands as a compelling example of Richie Furay’s skillful songwriting and emotional depth. As the final note of the album, the song encapsulates a sense of reflection and longing that resonates with listeners, marking it as a standout piece in the band’s catalog. Recorded at RCA Studios in Los Angeles and produced by Steve Cropper—legendary guitarist of Booker T. & the M.G.’s—the album represents a period of transition and evolution for Poco. The song is steeped in the country-rock fusion that the band is celebrated for, yet it also hints at the introspective and contemplative direction that would come to characterize much of their later work.

“Just For Me and You” is musically rich, featuring the hallmark harmonies and instrumental interplay that defined Poco’s sound. Richie Furay, on vocals and rhythm guitar, delivers a heartfelt performance that is both earnest and engaging. Rusty Young’s steel guitar work provides a mournful backdrop that complements Furay’s warm, emotive vocal delivery, while Paul Cotton’s lead guitar lines add depth and complexity to the arrangement. The rhythm section, anchored by George Grantham on drums and Timothy B. Schmit on bass, maintains a steady groove that enhances the song’s reflective mood. The track’s subtle arrangement showcases the band’s ability to create a textured, layered sound while maintaining a sense of simplicity and intimacy.

Lyrically, “Just For Me and You” captures the bittersweet essence of yearning and reflection on a relationship that has come to an end. Furay’s lyrics speak to the universal longing for connection and the hope for a love that transcends the ordinary: “And I still can see those bright eyes / When you said goodbye.” The song’s themes echo those found in “Here We Go Again,” another emotionally charged track by Timothy B. Schmit from the Crazy Eyes album. However, while “Here We Go Again” deals with the cyclical nature of relationships, “Just For Me and You” feels more like a heartfelt plea for understanding and reconciliation. The narrative quality of the lyrics and the poignant delivery makes it a deeply moving track that resonates with listeners on a personal level.

“You Better Think Twice,” a defining moment in Poco’s early career, comes from their self-titled second album, Poco, released in 1970. Written by Jim Messina, the song stands out as one of the band’s most memorable tracks, effectively capturing the essence of their unique country-rock sound that would later influence countless artists. Recorded at CBS Studios in Hollywood, California, the album marked a turning point for Poco as it set the stage for the group’s future in blending rock with roots music. Under the production of Jim Messina and the guidance of David Crosby, who contributed to some of the sessions, the song offers a perfect balance of catchy melody, lyrical sincerity, and instrumental prowess.

The lineup on “You Better Think Twice” includes Jim Messina on lead vocals and guitar, Richie Furay on rhythm guitar and backing vocals, Rusty Young on steel guitar and dobro, George Grantham on drums and backing vocals, and Randy Meisner on bass and backing vocals. Together, they create a rich, layered sound that is both smooth and dynamic, with Messina’s distinctive lead guitar and Young’s steel guitar flourishes providing the song’s signature twang. The vocal harmonies, a hallmark of Poco’s style, add depth and emotion to the track, making it a standout not only on the album but also in the band’s catalog. The song’s instrumentation combines the twang of country with the rhythmic drive of rock, exemplifying Poco’s unique approach to genre fusion.

Lyrically, “You Better Think Twice” reflects a classic theme of love and uncertainty, with Messina delivering lines that blend vulnerability with assertiveness: “You better think twice about leaving me behind / Make up your mind about what you’re gonna do.” The song’s narrative of a relationship on the brink mirrors the emotional weight found in other tracks on the Poco album, such as “Just for Me and You,” where the tension between hope and heartache is a recurring motif. The lyrics are direct yet introspective, providing a glimpse into the complexity of personal connections, a theme that resonates throughout much of Poco’s work.

“Call It Love” stands out as a late-era gem in Poco’s discography, capturing a moment of rejuvenation for the band with their 1989 album, Legacy. This track is particularly significant as it marks a reunion of the original members—Richie Furay, Rusty Young, George Grantham, Randy Meisner, and Jim Messina—who had not recorded together since the early 1970s. Produced by David Cole and recorded at Capitol Studios in Hollywood, California, “Call It Love” became a symbol of the band’s return to their roots while also embracing a contemporary rock sound that resonated with late 1980s audiences.

Musically, “Call It Love” is built around a hook-laden chorus and a driving beat, providing a perfect backdrop for the smooth vocal harmonies that have always been a hallmark of Poco’s sound. Rusty Young’s distinctive steel guitar work shines throughout, adding a layer of authenticity to the polished production that distinguishes the track from other pop-rock songs of the era. The lineup for this song featured Rusty Young on lead vocals and steel guitar, Jim Messina on guitar, Richie Furay on rhythm guitar and backing vocals, Randy Meisner on bass and vocals, and George Grantham on drums, contributing to a well-rounded and full-bodied sound that highlighted the collective chemistry that Poco had honed over decades.

Lyrically, “Call It Love” explores the complexities of relationships, questioning the nature of love and the choices that drive people toward—or away from—one another. The lyrics, co-written by Billy Crain, Rick Lonow, and Ronnie Guilbeau, delve into themes of desire and doubt, reflecting the uncertainty and passion of romantic entanglements. Lines like “Do we tell the truth, do we live our lives / Is the feeling good, is that what makes you fly?” encapsulate the ambivalence that often accompanies deep emotional connections. The lyrics are direct yet nuanced, allowing for multiple interpretations—a characteristic that aligns “Call It Love” with the introspective and earnest songwriting that defines many of Poco’s greatest hits.

“Call It Love” performed well on the charts, reaching No. 18 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 2 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart. This success underscored the band’s ability to remain relevant in a music landscape that had shifted dramatically since their early days as pioneers of country rock. The track’s popularity is comparable to earlier hits such as “Heart of the Night,” from the Legend album, where the band’s affinity for crafting infectious melodies combined with thoughtful lyricism is also evident. However, “Call It Love” reflects a more mature perspective, with its polished production and radio-friendly arrangement, tailored to the tastes of the late ’80s audience.

The song’s video, featuring the band performing intercut with narrative elements of a love story, further cemented its place in popular culture. Unlike the more experimental visuals of their earlier years, this video embraced a straightforward approach, focusing on the band’s performance and emotional delivery of the song’s themes.

“Call It Love” also serves as a bridge between the band’s classic sound and their later work, illustrating how they successfully adapted to the changing music scene while retaining their unique identity. Compared to the raw emotion of “Bad Weather” or the upbeat optimism of “Keep on Tryin’,” “Call It Love” embodies a seasoned confidence, reflecting both a return to form and a step forward. It stands as a testament to Poco’s resilience and their ability to evolve while staying true to their core sound, making it a deserving entry in the top ten Poco songs.