Many legendary rock songs incorporate Susan and its variations into their titles, and it’s no coincidence. As Susan was among the most common names for girls in the mid-century, songwriters often used it to resonate with listeners who knew a Susan or were Susans themselves. The name’s prevalence is evident in its many appearances in some of rock’s most celebrated tracks, from doo-wop and rockabilly hits to pop-rock anthems. The name was not just a placeholder; it became a symbol of love, heartbreak, and storytelling.
On this list, you’ll find tracks like Buddy Holly’s “Peggy Sue,” a quintessential 1950s rock and roll hit that captures the simplicity and charm of a love song. Songs like “Suzanne” by Leonard Cohen offer a more poetic and introspective interpretation, while “Runaround Sue” by Dion tells a story of heartbreak and betrayal. Each track on this list represents a different facet of the name Susan and its variants, from longing and devotion to playful infatuation. Artists like The Buckinghams, The Everly Brothers, and Creedence Clearwater Revival all contribute to this collection, highlighting how Susan—whether it’s Sue, Susie, or Suzanne—has woven itself into the fabric of rock music history.
The following list is a tribute to the enduring influence of the name Susan in rock and roll, a name that inspired songwriters across generations to create music that resonates to this day.
# 10 – Black-Eyed Susan · Jesse Colin Young
“Black-Eyed Susan” is the first song we will explore on this list of the top 10 songs with the name “Susan” in the title. Written and performed by Jesse Colin Young, this track was released in April 1964 as part of his debut solo album The Soul of a City Boy, under Capitol Records. The album represents an early foray into Young’s career before his work with The Youngbloods, and it is marked by its acoustic folk-blues style that captures the essence of 1960s folk revival.
The recording of The Soul of a City Boy took place in a live setting with Young performing solo, stripped down to his voice and acoustic guitar, which complements the intimate nature of “Black-Eyed Susan.” This album is recorded at Capitol’s studios and reflects a raw, unpolished sound that evokes a sense of simplicity and nostalgia. The minimalistic production, likely overseen by Capitol’s in-house engineers, allows Young’s soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics to take center stage.
Lyrically, “Black-Eyed Susan” is an upbeat, catchy song that speaks to themes of love, happiness, and domestic aspirations. Young sings of his desire for a “pretty little black-eyed Susie,” with a dream of settling down and living a simple, fulfilling life. The line “All I need to make me happy is two little boys to call me pappy” suggests a longing for family and the traditional ideals of love and companionship. Throughout the song, the repeated refrain “Hey pretty little black-eyed Susie” creates a memorable hook that adds a playful yet yearning tone to the track.
“Black-Eyed Susan” is a joyful expression of love and hope, with lyrics touching on desires for personal fulfillment. Although it may come across as lighthearted, it is rooted in a deeper sense of simplicity, both lyrically and musically. As the opening song on this list, it sets a foundation for exploring the range of songs about women named Susan, from personal reflections to more complex emotional narratives. Jesse Colin Young’s folk-driven composition offers a charming start, capturing the 1960s folk spirit while introducing the theme of Susan, which will continue to develop in the following songs.
Read More: Top 10 Jesse Colin Young Songs
# 9 – Song for Susan – Crosby, Stills & Nash
“Song for Susan” by Crosby, Stills & Nash appears on the band’s 1982 album Daylight Again and was written by Graham Nash. The song stands as a beautiful testament to the harmonies and acoustic brilliance that defined the group. Released during the resurgence of Crosby, Stills & Nash, Daylight Again peaked at No. 8 on the Billboard 200, marking the last time the trio reached the top ten before the passing of David Crosby in 2023. The album itself is certified platinum and contains three Billboard Hot 100 hits. However, “Song for Susan” remains a deeper cut within the album, cherished by fans for its intimate lyrics and soulful delivery.
The recording of Daylight Again initially began without David Crosby, as Nash and Stephen Stills collaborated on the project in the early 1980s. The song’s composition reflects the emotional pull within Nash’s songwriting, and his evocative lyrics in “Song for Susan” channel a deep sense of trust and peace found in love. The recording sessions included contributions from musicians such as Timothy B. Schmit, Mike Finnigan, and even Art Garfunkel before Crosby was brought back later. With its warm acoustic arrangement and intricate vocal harmonies, the track embodies the group’s classic sound, even in the absence of Crosby’s immediate involvement during early production stages.
Lyrically, “Song for Susan” carries a sense of vulnerability and solace as Nash sings of finding refuge in a love that offers comfort and trust. The lyrics, “If anyone wants to know where to find me, I’ll be right here in the warmth of your arms,” express the safety that love provides, capturing the song’s emotional core. Throughout the song, Nash reflects on the struggles of living in isolation and finding redemption through love, as demonstrated in lines like, “You came and showed me what happiness is.” This narrative of personal revelation and emotional awakening sets “Song for Susan” apart as an introspective and heartfelt piece within Daylight Again.
“Song for Susan” is a gentle love ballad that sits comfortably among other deeply emotional songs about women named Susan. The track’s tender lyrics and delicate musical arrangement highlight Graham Nash’s talent for crafting personal, introspective love songs. As the opening song on this list, it introduces the theme of love and relationships with a focus on the warmth and healing that companionship brings. It paves the way for further exploration of the name “Susan” in rock songs, each offering a unique perspective on love, loss, and human connection.
Read More: Top 10 Crosby, Stills & Nash Songs
# 8 – Oh No Not Susan – Electric Light Orchestra
“Oh No Not Susan,” a track from Electric Light Orchestra’s On the Third Day, is a poignant and biting commentary on the emptiness of wealth and high social status. Released in 1973, the album was the band’s third studio effort and marked a significant evolution in their sound, moving away from their earlier symphonic rock leanings under the leadership of Jeff Lynne, following the departure of founding member Roy Wood. The album saw the band drop “The” from their name, becoming simply Electric Light Orchestra, and On the Third Day reflects this new era of ELO, marked by a more cohesive vision centered around Lynne’s songwriting.
Recorded at De Lane Lea Studios in London and produced by Jeff Lynne, On the Third Day was an ambitious blend of classical music influences and rock, epitomized in songs like “Oh No Not Susan.” The song’s bitter and satirical lyrics explore the life of Susan, a woman trapped in the hollowness of aristocratic life. The vivid imagery in the lyrics depicts her disillusionment with her wealth, as she spends her time “crying at the lions on the garden wall” and “sneaking away,” highlighting her internal struggles. This emotional conflict is contrasted with the polished and melodic delivery that typifies ELO’s sound, creating an ironic dissonance that deepens the song’s impact.
Musically, “Oh No Not Susan” showcases the lush arrangements for which Electric Light Orchestra became known. The track features Jeff Lynne’s multi-layered production, blending classical instrumentation with rock and pop elements, including vibrant strings and a driving rhythm section. As with many of their songs from this period, Lynne’s production style on this track is meticulous and symphonic. Lyrically, the song offers a biting critique of high society, with Susan expressing disdain for her privileged world, lamenting how her money and position “just don’t mean a f***ing thing.” The frankness and directness of the lyrics are unusual for ELO, making it one of the edgier and more lyrically provocative songs in their catalog.
As the first song on this list, “Oh No Not Susan” introduces the theme of women named Susan in rock music, offering a unique perspective by critiquing the superficiality of wealth and high society. The song sets a sharp tone for the exploration of other tracks featuring the name “Susan,” providing a glimpse into the complexities and emotions that these songs will unravel. Its melancholic yet biting narrative, paired with ELO’s innovative sound, stands as a distinct entry in this collection of Susan-themed songs, leading the listener into a world of personal reflection and societal discontent.
Read More: Electric Light Orchestra’s Best Song On Each Of Their Studio Albums
# 7 – Oh Susie – Secret Service
Released in 1979, “Oh Susie” by Secret Service became an unexpected international sensation, catapulting the Swedish band into the global spotlight. Written by Tim Norell and lyricist Björn Håkanson, the song is an iconic synth-pop track that dominated charts, hitting number one in 29 countries. The song’s nostalgic and bittersweet lyrics about love and missed opportunities struck a chord with listeners worldwide. Ola Håkansson’s vocals, paired with atmospheric synth arrangements, helped define the song’s signature sound.
In terms of composition, Oh Susie stands out with its synth-heavy instrumentation, which was pivotal in shaping the European pop sound of the late 1970s. The band’s decision to transition from Swedish to English lyrics played a major role in broadening their appeal outside of Sweden. The song’s infectious chorus and catchy melody are balanced by a melancholic narrative about the loss of young love, demonstrated in lines like “We’ve got nowhere to run / We were much too young.” The contrast between the upbeat sound and the introspective lyrics adds depth to what could otherwise be seen as a straightforward pop song.
When comparing “Oh Susie” to earlier tracks on this list, such as Black-Eyed Susan by Jesse Colin Young, both songs touch on romantic themes, but they diverge stylistically. Black-Eyed Susan leans heavily into folk and country influences, offering a more organic, acoustic sound, while Oh Susie is more reflective of the electronic, synth-driven direction that characterized late 1970s European pop. Additionally, while both songs discuss the end of a relationship, Oh Susie takes on a more reflective tone about missed opportunities, whereas Black-Eyed Susan is more upbeat, celebrating life’s simplicity.
Compared to Song for Susan by Crosby, Stills & Nash, Oh Susie also explores romantic disillusionment, but in a very different musical context. Song for Susan is grounded in folk-rock, with rich harmonies and an acoustic-based sound, making it feel intimate and personal. In contrast, Oh Susie feels more distant due to its synthesizer-driven production, capturing a more expansive and universal sense of loss.
Lastly, Oh Susie differs significantly from Oh No Not Susan by Electric Light Orchestra. While ELO’s track has a progressive rock flavor with orchestral elements, Secret Service keeps their arrangement tightly within the pop sphere, relying heavily on electronic sounds. Both songs, however, feature a female figure named Susan, but their depictions are quite different: ELO’s Susan is portrayed as disconnected from wealth and societal expectations, whereas Secret Service’s Susie is trapped in a failed romance. This contrast in narrative further highlights how the same name can inspire vastly different lyrical approaches.
In summary, “Oh Susie” is a poignant yet catchy track that adds a pop-driven dynamic to this list, contrasting with the folk-rock influences of other songs about Susan. Its global success speaks to its universal theme of lost love, and it serves as a bridge between the organic sounds of the 1970s and the rising prominence of electronic music that defined the next decade.
# 6 – Suzanne – Leonard Cohen
First published as a poem in 1966 and later recorded for his debut album Songs of Leonard Cohen in 1967, “Suzanne” stands as one of Leonard Cohen’s most iconic compositions. The song marked Cohen’s transition from a renowned poet and novelist to a celebrated singer-songwriter. With its haunting lyrics and delicate melody, “Suzanne” has been widely covered by numerous artists, making it a cornerstone in Cohen’s extensive catalog. Judy Collins was among the first to record it before Cohen’s own version became a definitive rendition.
The song was recorded during sessions for Songs of Leonard Cohen, produced by John Simon, and showcases Cohen’s signature acoustic sound with subtle arrangements. The recording captures Cohen’s intimate vocal delivery and delicate guitar playing, set against minimalistic backing instrumentation. This stripped-back approach allows the weight of the lyrics to take center stage, something Cohen was known for throughout his career.
In terms of lyrical content, Suzanne is often interpreted as a meditation on love, trust, and spirituality. The narrator describes a woman named Suzanne who leads him to a place near the river, where they share a deeply introspective and almost mystical connection. The mention of “Jesus was a sailor when he walked upon the water” intertwines religious imagery with the personal narrative, elevating the song into the realm of existential reflection. Suzanne’s role as a muse is both physical and metaphysical, offering a form of salvation, but one that transcends traditional romantic love. Cohen’s lyrical complexity and symbolic references add layers of meaning, allowing listeners to find new interpretations with each listen.
When compared to the other songs on this list, Suzanne stands out for its poetic elegance and its portrayal of a deeply emotional and cerebral connection. While songs like “Black-Eyed Susan” by Jesse Colin Young and “Song for Susan” by Crosby, Stills & Nash evoke themes of longing or affection, Suzanne delves into a more nuanced space, blending themes of love, spirituality, and human frailty. It’s a reflective piece that contemplates not only human relationships but also our relationship with the divine.
Chart-wise, “Suzanne” has continued to resonate with audiences long after its initial release. It re-entered international charts in 2016 following Cohen’s death, peaking at number 3 in France and charting in several other countries, underscoring its enduring influence and the profound connection audiences have with the song.
Read More: Top 10 Leonard Cohen Songs And Fan Favorites
# 5 – Wake Up Little Susie – The Everly Brothers
“Wake Up Little Susie,” written by Felice and Boudleaux Bryant, is a 1957 hit single by The Everly Brothers that became one of the duo’s most well-known tracks. Released on Cadence Records, the song soared to number one on the Billboard Pop chart and stayed at the top of the country charts for seven weeks. Despite its upbeat sound and innocent premise, the song was banned from Boston radio stations due to its suggestive implications—a reflection of the more conservative cultural standards of the time. Nevertheless, it became a massive success, cementing the Everly Brothers’ status as one of the leading acts of 1950s rock and roll. In 2017, the song was honored with an induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
Recorded in 1957, “Wake Up Little Susie” features Don and Phil Everly’s distinctive harmonies, which became the hallmark of their sound. The simplicity of the song’s structure, with its infectious rhythm and catchy chorus, was paired with the driving accompaniment of guitars and Floyd “Lightnin’” Chance’s double bass. Produced by Archie Bleyer, the recording sessions took place in Nashville, capturing the energetic and seamless vocal interplay that made the song a radio favorite.
Lyrically, “Wake Up Little Susie” tells the story of a teenage couple who fall asleep during a movie date and wake up late into the night, well past Susie’s curfew. The lyrics detail their panic as they realize they’ll have to explain their lateness to her parents and friends, fearing that their reputations are at stake. The humorous tone of the song masks the anxiety of the situation, playing into the innocence of teenage relationships in the 1950s. Though playful, the song taps into the underlying cultural norms of the era, where reputation and parental approval held significant weight.
This song, with its catchy tune and relatable storyline, can be seen as a lighthearted contrast to other more serious or emotional songs with the name “Susan” in the title, such as “Suzanne” by Leonard Cohen. Where Cohen’s song delves into philosophical and existential territory, “Wake Up Little Susie” embraces the charm and simplicity of young love and the consequences of innocent mistakes.
Read More: Top 10 Everly Brothers Songs Decade By Decade
# 4 – Susan – The Buckinghams
“Susan” by The Buckinghams is a 1967 sunshine pop track that showcased the band’s unique fusion of pop and experimental influences. Released as a single ahead of their Portraits album in 1968, the song became a hit, reaching number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and peaking at number 2 in Canada and the Philippines. “Susan” is a quintessential 1960s pop love song, with its catchy melody and romantic lyrics. Yet, it stands out for an unexpected avant-garde musical interlude—a brief, jarring excerpt from Charles Ives’ Central Park in the Dark—that momentarily disrupts the song’s otherwise upbeat and melodic tone.
The addition of this avant-garde section was the idea of producer James William Guercio, who was known for his experimental touch. Although Guercio’s decision gave the track a moment of dissonance that starkly contrasts with its sunny pop sound, it wasn’t universally embraced. The Buckinghams themselves were displeased with the insertion, and many radio stations chose to edit it out when playing the song. Despite this artistic contention, “Susan” still became a commercial success and earned its place as one of the band’s signature hits.
Lyrically, the song tells the story of a young man grappling with heartbreak and confusion over his love for Susan, who seems to be pulling away from him. His love remains steadfast, even as he questions her intentions and struggles to understand why she’s saying goodbye. The vulnerability in the lyrics, coupled with the upbeat rhythm, creates a juxtaposition that mirrors the lighthearted yet emotionally charged nature of the track. The repeated “I love you” chorus, while simple, underscores the protagonist’s emotional turmoil, making the song relatable to anyone who has experienced unrequited love. This emotional narrative connects it thematically with other songs on this list, such as Suzanne by Leonard Cohen, which also explores complicated emotions tied to a woman’s influence on the protagonist’s life.
Compared to other songs on the list, Susan leans more toward a commercial pop sound, while Suzanne by Leonard Cohen is steeped in poetry and philosophy. Yet both songs reflect the deep emotional attachment the singers have for a woman named Susan, highlighting the varied emotional tones that artists can explore while centered around the same name.
# 3 – Runaround Sue – Dion
“Runaround Sue” by Dion is a quintessential rock and roll hit from 1961 that combines elements of doo-wop with a driving rhythm, making it one of the most recognizable songs of the early ’60s. Written by Dion DiMucci and Ernie Maresca, the track reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and number four on the Hot R&B chart. The song’s catchy melody and infectious beat helped establish Dion as a solo artist after his split from the Belmonts, while also securing “Runaround Sue” as a staple of the rock and roll era.
Recorded in the classic pop and rock style of the time, “Runaround Sue” features Dion’s powerful lead vocals supported by a rhythmic doo-wop chorus. The song was produced in 1961 by Gene Schwartz and recorded at Bell Sound Studios in New York City, a hub for many rock and roll recordings of the time. The production is polished yet maintains an energy that propels the narrative forward. The use of vocal harmonies, hand claps, and simple yet effective instrumentation creates an upbeat, danceable track that resonated with audiences, and continues to evoke nostalgia for that golden era of rock music.
Lyrically, the song tells the tale of heartbreak and betrayal. The narrator recounts his experience with “Runaround Sue,” a girl who captured his heart only to break it by running around with other guys. The moral of the story, as Dion warns the listener, is to “keep away from-a Runaround Sue.” Although the lyrics express sadness and frustration over unrequited love, the upbeat melody masks the bitterness, resulting in a song that is as fun to listen to as it is emotionally relatable. Compared to other songs on this list, such as Susan by The Buckinghams, “Runaround Sue” is more lighthearted and direct, with a focus on a broken-hearted yet upbeat reflection, while Susan delves deeper into emotional confusion.
“Runaround Sue” stands out not only for its infectious rhythm but also for how it captures a universal experience of young love and betrayal. Its simplicity in storytelling and dynamic arrangement made it a major success and cemented Dion’s place in rock and roll history. Even decades after its release, the song continues to be a favorite among rock and roll enthusiasts, and it fits well among other “Susan”-themed songs on this list, offering a more playful take on lost love than many of its counterparts.
Read More: Top 10 Dion And The Belmonts Songs
# 2 – Suzie Q – Creedence Clearwater Revival
“Suzie Q,” originally written by Dale Hawkins and co-credited to Stan Lewis and Eleanor Broadwater, became a major hit when Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR) released their version in 1968. The song, which first achieved commercial success in 1957 in the hands of Hawkins, was a classic rockabilly hit before CCR transformed it into a long, psychedelic-infused jam session. The CCR rendition, produced by Saul Zaentz and recorded in January 1968, was featured on their self-titled debut album Creedence Clearwater Revival. The track became CCR’s first major hit, peaking at number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and helping the band gain widespread recognition.
CCR’s version of “Suzie Q” stands out for its swampy, blues-infused rock style. John Fogerty’s extended guitar work on the track is one of the most distinctive aspects of their rendition, particularly on the album version, which clocks in at 8:37. This length was intentional, as Fogerty wanted the song to be played on progressive rock radio stations like KMPX in San Francisco. The band’s performance breathes new life into the rockabilly original, adding a hypnotic, jam-heavy coda that makes their version of “Suzie Q” stand apart from other covers.
Lyrically, “Suzie Q” is a straightforward love song where the narrator expresses his admiration for a woman named Suzie Q. With lines like “I like the way you walk, I like the way you talk,” the song is simple but effective in conveying infatuation. Creedence Clearwater Revival’s delivery adds a sense of raw desire through Fogerty’s gritty vocals and the song’s repetitive, driving rhythm. Compared to other songs on this list, such as Susan by The Buckinghams, which explores more complex emotional territory, Suzie Q is more playful and direct in its expression of affection.
The song’s legacy is bolstered by its continued relevance, as it has been covered by many artists and even earned a place on the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s “500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll” list. CCR’s version was certified Platinum in 2019, highlighting its enduring popularity. The way CCR adapted the song to their swamp rock style helped cement their place in rock history and made “Suzie Q” a defining track of both their career and the late 1960s rock scene.
Read More: Creedence Clearwater Revival’s Best Song On Each Studio Album
# 1 – Peggy Sue – Buddy Holly
“Peggy Sue” is a timeless rock and roll classic, recorded by Buddy Holly and released as a single on September 20, 1957. Written by Holly, Jerry Allison, and producer Norman Petty, the song achieved major success, peaking at number three on the Billboard Top 100 chart and becoming one of Holly’s signature songs. Its infectious rhythm, simple yet emotive lyrics, and memorable guitar riff helped “Peggy Sue” become a defining track of the 1950s rock and roll era. The song was initially titled “Cindy Lou,” named after Holly’s niece, but was changed to “Peggy Sue” in honor of Allison’s girlfriend, Peggy Sue Gerron, with whom he had temporarily broken up.
Recording for “Peggy Sue” took place at Petty’s studio in Clovis, New Mexico, where the real-time engineering techniques gave the song its distinctive rhythmic fade in and out on the drums, played by Jerry Allison. This technique contributed to the song’s unique sound and highlighted Allison’s drumming, a central feature throughout the track. Bassist Joe B. Mauldin added to the track’s rockabilly groove with his bass lines, complementing Holly’s rhythm guitar. The song was produced by Norman Petty, who worked closely with Holly and the Crickets to develop their groundbreaking sound.
Lyrically, “Peggy Sue” is a straightforward expression of longing and love. The repetitive lines, such as “Peggy Sue, Peggy Sue, Oh how my heart yearns for you,” give the song a simplicity that made it relatable and catchy. Holly’s smooth vocal delivery and upbeat tempo keep the song lighthearted despite the underlying theme of heartache. The song stands out on this list as a clear love song, contrasting with more complex or emotionally turbulent tracks like “Susan” by The Buckinghams. With its rock and roll roots, “Peggy Sue” remains a key example of the genre’s ability to blend emotional simplicity with innovative sound techniques.
Over the years, “Peggy Sue” has earned critical acclaim and recognition for its impact on rock and roll history. It was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999 and has appeared on several prestigious lists. Buddy Holly’s lasting influence as a pioneering figure in early rock and roll is perfectly encapsulated in “Peggy Sue,” a track that resonates with fans and musicians alike.
Read More: Top 10 Buddy Holly Songs
Updated March 2, 2025
Top 10 Songs With The Name “Susan” In The Title article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2025
