Our Top 10 Rod Stewart Songs list looks at a legendary singer, songwriter, musician and producer. Rod Stewart has been in the music business since the 1960s. The singer started his career in music groups before he began his solo career. He is known for his raspy singing voice. He’s one of the best-selling artists of all time. The singer has sold over 120 million records and over 46 million albums during his career. The legend has 10 number one albums and counting. He has 31 Top 10 hits in the UK and 16 Top 10 hits in the US. Some of his hits include “Maggie May,” “Never a Dull Moment,” “You Wear It Well,” “Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright),” “You’re in My Heart (The Final Acclaim),” “Have I Told You Lately,” as well as others.
Sir Roderick David Stewart was born on January 10, 1945. He grew up listening to Al Jolson. Rod Stewart was influenced by Al Jolson’s performing style and attitude towards his listeners. He was introduced to Rock and Roll music by listening to Little Richard’s single “The Girl Can’t Help It.” The singer also saw Bill Haley & His Comets in concert. The legend learned how to play the guitar when he was a teenager. He has accomplished a lot of great things during his lengthy career. He has been in different groups as well as maintained a successful solo career. Rod Stewart has released 32 albums and counting. We will list some of his albums because he has recorded a lot of albums. Every Picture Tells a Story was released in May 1971 and peaked at number one on the UK and US Billboard 200 charts. It features the singles “Reason to Believe,” “Maggie May,” “(I Know) I’m Losing You” and “Every Picture Tells a Story. The album sold over two million copies.
Never a Dull Moment dropped in July 1972. It peaked at number one on the UK and number two on the Billboard 200 charts. It features the singles “You Wear It Well,” “Angel,” “What’s Made Milwaukie Famous” and “Twistin’ the Night Away.” It sold over one million copies. Smiler was released in October 1974 and peaked at number one on the UK charts and number 23 on the US charts. It features the singles “Farewell” and “Mine for Me.” Atlantic Crossing came out in August 1975. It peaked at number one in the UK and number nine in the US. It features the singles “Sailing” and “This Old Heart of Mine.” A Night on the Town was released in June 1976. It peaked at number one in the UK and number two in the US. The album features the tracks “Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright),” “The Killing of Georgie (Part I & II),” “The First Cut Is the Deepest” and “I Don’t Want to Talk About It.” The album sold over two million copies.
Tonight I’m Yours came out in November 1981. The album peaked at number eight in the UK and number 11 in the US. It features the tracks “Tonight I’m Yours (Don’t Hurt Me),” “Young Turks,” “How Long” and “Just Like a Woman.” It sold over one million copies. Body Wishes was released in June 1983. It peaked at number five in the UK and number 30 in the US. It features the singles “Baby Jane,” “What Am I Gonna Do” and “Sweet Surrender.” Vagabond Heart came out in March 1991. It peaked at number two in the UK and number 10 in the US. It features the songs “It Takes Two,” “Rhythm of My Heart” and “The Motown Song.” He has recorded several other albums throughout his career.
Rod Stewart is a talented artist who has captivated listeners for decades. His songs are timeless and still resonate with listeners. His music can still be heard on the radio today. He proved that he can have a long career and still be relevant in music. Our Top 10 Rod Stewart Songs list will give you some of the songs we love by the iconic artist.
# 10 – If Loving You Is Wrong (I Don’t Want to Be Right)
The 10th song on our Top 10 Rod Stewart Songs list is “If Loving You Is Wrong (I Don’t Want to Be Right)” from the Foot Loose & Fancy Free album. The single was released in 1980. The song is about a married man who has an affair with another woman. He is in love, but she is wrong for him. He is a married man with children. Their relationship isn’t approved by other people, but they don’t care. They don’t want to give up the relationship they have.
He is committed to her and will stay with her even if no one approves. They are devoted to each other even though their family and friends don’t approve of them. He knows he can’t see her all the time, but he’s willing to take the risk as long as he gets to see her. They are torn because they know their relationship is morally wrong. Despite the conflict, they will stay together.
“If Loving You Is Wrong (I Don’t Want to Be Right)” looks at forbidden love. It depicts the message of what a couple will do to be together. The song is ideal for anyone who’s in a forbidden romance. You know it’s morally wrong, but you can’t help yourself. Your desire for the person outweighs your sense of morality. This song details what it’s like to be with someone you shouldn’t have. The sincerity of the lyrics makes you sympathize with the couple even though they are the villains of the song.
The lyrics play out like a soap opera. The song has been covered by different artists. Luther Ingrams’s version is arguably the most recognized track. He had big shoes to fill because Luther Ingrams’s version is very popular. Rod Stewart made the song his own. He may not have the same soul as Luther Ingram, but he sings it passionately.Rod Stewart takes chances with the harmony, and it paid off.
# 9 – People Get Ready – Jeff Beck ft. Rod Stewart
The ninth song on our Top 10 Rod Stewart’s Song list is “People Get Ready” from Jeff Beck’s Flash album and it came out in 1985. The song is about hope and redemption. The song inspires listeners to get ready for the metaphorical train to Jordan. The train represents the journey to heaven. This journey would lead to a better existence. We shouldn’t waste time. We must be ready to get on the train when it comes. You don’t need any money or possessions to be on the train. All you need is faith in something bigger. People who live good lives with good intentions have a place waiting for them in heaven. People who are selfish and hurt others won’t make it to heaven.
“People Get Ready” is a spiritual song about reaping what you sow. It’s open to everyone who has faith. The song has a positive and informative message about the way you should live your life. If you live your life in a good way, you will get into heaven. If you don’t walk the straight and narrow, you won’t make it to heaven. This song will make you have a different outlook on the way you live your life. It’s more than just a song. It’s a way of life. It will have you examine how you treat people.
We applaud Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart for recording a song with a meaningful message that won’t get old. They covered The Impressions song and made it their own. The Impressions’ version is soulful while their version is rock friendly. Jeff Beck’s guitar riffs are heavenly. He made the melody sound different from the Impressions’ version of it. Rod Stewart’s vocals are raspy while Curtis Mayfield’s vocals are smooth and soulful. Rod Stewart’s vocals are different from Curtis Mayfield’s, but he did an excellent job. He belts in the song. He uses his raspy voice to his advantage.
# 8 – The Killing of Georgie (Parts I and II)
The eighth song on our Top 10 Rod Stewart Songs list is “The Killing of Georgie (Parts I and II)” and appears on the album From the Night on the Town. The single was released in 1976. The song is about the life and death of a man named Georgie. Georgie is a gay man. The song is set during a time when his lifestyle wouldn’t have been accepted. In the first verse, Georgie wants acceptance from his family, but he’s rejected by them. In the second verse, Georgie leaves home because of his family’s rejection. He went through discrimination and prejudice over the years. He moves to New York and finds love and acceptance. One night he gets attacked by strangers. He ended up passing away.
“The Killing of Georgie (Parts I and II)” is a story-driven song about love and acceptance. Georgie longed to be loved and accepted for who he was as a person. The powerful song has a message that is still relevant to this day. The LGBTQ+ community have gone through a lot to be accepted in the world so this song is timely. The sentimental lyrics will have you empathizing with Georgie’s situation.
This song will hit close to home for listeners who are like Georgie or know someone like Georgie. You will feel the lyrics deep in your soul. Everyone wants to be loved and accepted, but it’s hard when people don’t approve of your lifestyle. The song was recorded in 1976, but the message is still relevant today. Rod Stewart sings his heart out on this song. You can tell this song means something to him. He dedicated this song to a friend. His voice was perfectly suited for the melody. He sings the song with simplicity. He doesn’t do any vocal acrobatics which might have taken away from the message of the song.
#7 – Infatuation
The seventh song is “Infatuations” from the Camouflage album. The song came out in 1984. The track is about a man who is captivated by someone. The way he feels about the woman is starting to affect his daily life. He is feeling restless because of his “infatuation” with the woman he loves. His emotions changed. He turns into Jekyll and Hyde because of his “infatuation.” He knows” infatuation” is taking a toll on his body. He can’t get through a day without her in his life. She is the only person he needs to be happy.
“Infatuation” tells a story about an intense love. “Infatuation” can affect you emotionally and physically. This song captures the feeling of falling in love. New love can be intense to a point where you become “infatuated” with the person. This song also warns you of the dangers of “infatuation.” It may have you feeling obsessed over the person you love. The lyrics are introspective so you can take what you want from them. If you love feeling “infatuated” with someone, it will be a good thing for you. It can also be borderline obsessive. The music is synth and guitar heavy. It has the classic 1980s sound. The music keeps the song from sounding creepy. The musical pause adds to the intensity of the song. It’s an excellent blend of pop and rock music. The memorable song will stay in your head.
# 6 – Tonight I’m Yours (Don’t Hurt Me)
“Tonight I’m Yours (Don’t Hurt Me)” is featured on the Tonight I’m Yours album. The single was released in 1981. The song is about two people who need a change in their lives. They want an exciting encounter. They want a casual fling with someone who needs love and affection. He’s not looking for a long relationship. He wants a break from the monotony of his life. The singer wants to be intimate with her. He doesn’t want her to hurt. He wants to please her. When the night is over they will go their separate ways. He doesn’t want to waste her time. He wants her to remember him this way. He wants her to think of him as a permanent friend who loved her like a storm but disappeared.
The lyrics remind us that love can be temporary or permanent. Rod Stewart wants listeners to live in the moment and do whatever you want. He wants us to forget about the consequences of our actions and do what makes us happy. The song paints an enticing picture of a no-strings attached relationship. If you have been bored and wanted to get together with someone for one night, this is your theme song.
This song is relatable to men and women. Some women may want a break from the monotony of their lives and want to try something new. The music is upbeat and breezy. It will get you on the dance floor. The song has a classic 1980s sound. The guitars and drums drive the beat. Rod Stewart sings the song in a higher key. He doesn’t utilize the rasp in his voice. He proves that he can sing in his upper register as well as his lower register without missing a beat.
# 5 – Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)
The next song on our Top 10 Rod Stewart Love Songs list is “Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)” and is on the A Night on the Town album. The song is about passion between a couple. He wants to be alone with the woman he loves, and he wants to disconnect from everyone else. He wants them to focus on each other. He can’t resist her charm. He wants her to let go of her inhibitions and trust him. They have incredible chemistry with each other. He wants her to give in to their desires. Throughout the song he sets the scene of what they’re going to do when they are in the bedroom.
“Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)” tells a story about giving in to passion. It urges listeners to give in to their inhibitions when they are with the person they love. You shouldn’t let outside forces keep you from enjoying your time with the person you love. The song isn’t just about giving in to desire. It’s about giving the person you love the respect they deserve.
It’s a reminder that love should be taken seriously. If you have ever been in love, you will be able to relate to the lyrics. The music is seductive and may put you in a romantic mood. When you hear the first guitar riff you will be hooked immediately. The track has a bluesy and rock sound. Rod Stewart’s raspy vocals blend well with this music. You may be tempted to sing along with the legend while you’re listening to this song.
# 4 – Hot Legs
“Hot Legs” is from the Foot Loose & Fancy Free album. The track was released in 1976/1977. The song is about a man being with a seductive woman. She’s not interested in him for love. She wants to have a physical relationship with him. She always comes to see him late at night. They agree not to spend the night together. He wants her with him for the night. He told her that she turned him on. He references her “hot legs” which represents her attractiveness.
“Hot Legs” depicts a story of a man who gives in to temptation. He finds her irresistible. He can’t resist her charm. The message behind the song is to give in to your desires. Rod Stewart wants listeners to let go of their fears and give in to their desires. The song isn’t just about giving in to your feelings. It has a deeper meaning. The legend is attracted to her confidence and independence.
He is just as attracted to her independence and confidence as he is to her beauty. We applaud Rod Stewart for wanting her for more than just her body. The song has a classic 70s country and rock beat. The guitarists are the standout musicians on the song. They perform incredible riffs that are infectious. There is an instrumental pause that is worth checking out. Rod Stewart’s charisma shines throughout the song. This is a song that may get stuck in your head.
# 3 – I Know (I’m Losing You)
Coming in at number three on our list is “I Know (I’m Losing You)” from the Every Picture Tells a Story album. The single came out in 1971. It’s about losing someone you love. He can feel her slipping away from him. Her touch has become cold. It’s as if someone is taking over her soul. He believes another man is in her life. He has fooled himself into believing everything is okay, but he can tell she’s involved with another man. Her love is fading away emotionally and physically. He is afraid that she will be gone. He tries to hold onto her, but he feels like she’s slipping away.
“I Know (I’m Losing You)” captures the feeling of a lost love. It describes how a person’s gut feeling can be right. If you sense that something isn’t right, it probably isn’t. This song will help you keep your guard up especially if you think your relationship is in trouble. The song will speak to you if you feel as if the person you love is about to leave you. It’s a terrible feeling to know that the person you love is about to walk out of your life. The song captures the fear and worry people have when they’re about to lose the people they love. The song will make you feel so many emotions especially if you can relate to the lyrics.
It may make you remember what happened in your relationship. The song is a cover of The Temptations’ track. Rod Stewart took another bold risk covering a song by another established group. This time he covered a song by The Temptations. Rod Stewart changed the melody of the beat slightly. His version has more of a rock and soul edge while the original has a soulful sound. David Ruffin was a brilliant singer and there probably aren’t too many people who could cover one of his songs. With that said, Rod Stewart gave it his all. His raspy vocals gave him a soulful sound. You may not forget the original version, but this is a good version of the track.
# 2 – Maggie May
“Maggie May” is from his Every Picture Tells a Story album. The song came out in 1971. The song tells a story about a man who is involved with an older woman. It’s about a love affair that takes a turn for the worst and comes to an end. He is frustrated with “Maggie May” because she took him from school and stole his heart. She ended up pushing him aside when she was finished with him. He realized she used him, and he should have gone back to school. He loves her, but he’s hurt and betrayed.
She has flaws, but he loves her. She didn’t have to force him to love her because he loved her anyway. Initially, he wanted to be friends with her but she turned into his lover. She became demanding and expected a lot from him. He blames himself for not being able to see that she was using him. The song ends with him declaring his love for her despite the way she treated him.
“Maggie May” tells a story about heartbreak. He has fallen for a woman who used him. He is rightfully upset that she wasted his time being with her when she used him. No one wants to be used when they are in love. “Maggie May” will be relatable to anyone who has ever taken a leap of faith on love only to have their hearts broken. You can’t help feeling sorry for Rod Stewart in the song because this is something that could happen in real life.
The music is surprisingly upbeat despite the theme of the song. You can move around to this song and get your frustrations out while you hear it. Rod Stewart sings his heart out in this song. He gave an epic performance. You can hear the pain and anger in his voice as he recalls his story. He sings the song as if it’s a personal situation for him. If you weren’t a fan of Rod Stewart before, this song may change your opinion of him. Everything about the song works.
# 1 – You Wear It Well
The number one song on our Top 10 Rod Stewart Songs list is “You Wear It Well” and appears on the album Never a Dull Moment and it was released in 1972. The song is about a man who still has feelings for his former lover. The song opens with him writing a letter to his ex-lover. He tells her how he feels. He reveals that it’s been a long time since they talked to each other. He reminisces about the times they spent together. The singer acknowledges the mistakes he made by blowing their relationship without even trying. He regrets what he did and wants to make amends. As the song concludes, he hopes she’s still at the same address so they can rekindle their old love.
“You Wear It Well” tells a story about someone wishing for a second chance at love. He regrets the mistakes he made and wants another chance. The humbling song is a lesson about making amends with the people you hurt. It takes a big person to admit when they are wrong and want to make amends. If you have broken up with someone and want to get them back, this song is for you. It may give you the motivation to pursue a former love. You may feel like Rod Stewart wrote this song about your life.
He gave us an inside look at his personal life. The song is like a diary entry to music. The music has a somber beat which coincides with the theme. The drums keep the song from being too depressing. The organ and violin add to the sound. Rod Stewart is at the top of his game vocally. His raspy tone sets the song on fire. He sings with the right amount of emotion needed for the song. We’re not surprised this song is one of his hits because he does everything right with it.
Top 10 Rod Stewart Songs article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2023
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