Rock Songs That Are Timeless
In honor of those rock songs that are timeless in nature, Audio Ink Radio presents its tally of the greatest and most timeless rock songs. – Author: Anne Erickson, Nirvana Publicity Photo
If a rock song truly stands the test of time, it means that song appeals to not just people who heard that song when it came out but is loved by generations of music listeners. Really, whether a song came out decades ago or yesterday, every song has a chance to be timeless and stand the test of time by appealing to listeners of all ages and backgrounds. But, only a handful of songs really appeal to such a broad range of people, and that’s part of what makes these songs so special. In honor of the tunes that span the generations, Audio Ink Radio is highlighting enduring rock songs that are timeless.
Timeless Rock Songs That Stand the Test of Time
Deep Purple, “Smoke on the Water”
English rockers Deep Purple delivered “Smoke on the Water” in 1972, on their studio release, “Machine Head.” While the song’s lyrics are poignant and anything but carefree, telling the tragic tale of a 1971 fire at Montreux Casino in Montreux, Switzerland, the track’s groovy, jam-driven delivery makes for a peaceful rock listen. It’s one of the greatest rock songs of all time and one that stands the test of time.
Eagles, “Hotel California”
Once in a while, there’s a song that grabs a generation so much that almost everyone can sing along. That’s what happened with the Eagles and “Hotel California.” The song, which arrived on the band’s 1977 album by the same name, marked their second single from the album, but it quickly outpaced the first. “Hotel California” is a catchy blend of rock and folk that just appeals to a lot of people.
Led Zeppelin, “Stairway to Heaven”
Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” is largely considered one of the greatest classic rock songs ever created. The song, which was released in November of 1971 on the group’s untitled fourth studio album, is a touching, moving rock ballad that sees lead singer Robert Plant wearing his heart on his sleeve. “Stairway to Heaven” topped the charts in the ’70s, and it’s still a regular on classic rock radio today. While great songs are ahead, there will never be another “Stairway to Heaven.”
Nirvana, “Smells Like Teen Spirit”
Nirvana laid the groundwork for the entire grunge explosion in the early 1990s with one song: “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” Kurt Cobain and company released the single off their 1991 studio album, “Nevermind,” and it blew up. It’s one of the best-selling songs of all time, in any genre, and continues to be a blueprint for gritty, grungy rock ‘n’ roll. If “Smells Like Teen Spirit” had never been released, it’s possible that bands such as Pearl Jam and Soundgarden would have gone unnoticed, as well as the entire Seattle scene.
Queen, “Bohemian Rhapsody”
When Queen released “Bohemian Rhapsody” off their fourth studio album, 1975’s “A Night at the Opera,” there was really nothing else like it in rock music. That opera-infused falsetto interlude was just out of nowhere, and the audience ate it up. This masterpiece of a song continues to delight audiences generation after generation. It also opened up the eyes, and ears, of many to the beauty and possibility of progressive rock music.
Pink Floyd, “Wish You Were Here”
English rockers Pink Floy released “Wish You Were Here” in 1975, and the album’s title track is one of the most celebrated rock songs ever. Guitarist and singer David Gilmour and bass player and vocalist Roger Waters worked together on this song, back when they played nice together, and Gilmour took on lead vocals. It’s a breezy, trippy, psychedelic number that allows the listener to just get lost in the music.
For more timeless rock songs and nostalgia, find Audio Ink Radio’s feature on the best classic rock songs of all time.
- Rock Songs That Are Timeless - February 9, 2025
- Small Town Drummer Lands Dream Gig With National Band - February 8, 2025
- Catchiest One-Hit Wonders Ever Created - February 6, 2025
