Steppenwolf is a legendary rock band from the late 1960s and early 1970s, known for their hard-driving sound, powerful lyrics, and unforgettable stage presence. Their music embodied the spirit of rebellion and freedom that defined the counterculture of the era, inspiring a generation of young people to challenge the status quo and pursue their dreams. With hits like “Born to be Wild” and “Magic Carpet Ride,” Steppenwolf helped to define the sound of rock and roll during one of the most transformative periods in music history.
In this list, we will take a look at the 10 best Steppenwolf songs of all time. These songs have stood the test of time, inspiring new generations of rock fans with their raw energy, emotional power, and timeless themes. From the anthemic “Born to be Wild” to the haunting “Desperation,” each of these songs represents a unique facet of Steppenwolf’s sound and legacy, showcasing the band’s incredible talent and enduring influence on the world of rock and roll.
So turn up the volume, grab your leather jacket, and get ready to rock out with the best of Steppenwolf.
1. Born to be Wild
“Born to be Wild” is a classic rock song by Steppenwolf, released in 1968. The iconic opening riff and driving beat immediately grab the listener’s attention, setting the tone for the song’s rebellious and free-spirited message. The lyrics celebrate the freedom of the open road, urging the listener to “get your motor running” and “head out on the highway.”
The song’s catchy chorus, “Born to be wild,” has become a rallying cry for generations of rockers and motorcycle enthusiasts alike. With its raw energy and unapologetic attitude, “Born to be Wild” has become a timeless anthem of youth and freedom, inspiring countless listeners to embrace their inner rebel and hit the road in search of adventure.
2. Magic Carpet Ride
“Magic Carpet Ride” is a psychedelic rock classic by Steppenwolf, released in 1968. The song’s opening bass riff immediately draws the listener in, and the pulsing beat and swirling organ create a hypnotic, otherworldly atmosphere. The lyrics describe a mystical journey through time and space, with singer John Kay exhorting the listener to “close your eyes, girl, look inside, girl” and “let the sound take you away.”
The chorus, “You don’t know what we can find, why don’t you come with me on a magic carpet ride,” is an invitation to join in the adventure and explore the unknown. With its heady mix of psychedelic rock and mystical imagery, “Magic Carpet Ride” has become a beloved classic of the era and a perennial favorite on classic rock radio.
3. The Pusher
“The Pusher” is a powerful and gritty rock song by Steppenwolf, released in 1968. The song’s heavy guitar riffs and driving rhythm create a tense, almost menacing atmosphere, fitting for its subject matter.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a drug dealer, or “pusher,” who preys on the vulnerable and desperate, luring them into addiction with promises of escape and euphoria. Singer John Kay’s raw, passionate vocals convey a sense of anger and urgency as he denounces the pusher and the destructive impact of drugs on society.
With its uncompromising stance against drug use and its raw, unapologetic sound, “The Pusher” has become an anthem of the counterculture and a powerful statement against the drug epidemic that plagued America in the late 1960s.
4. Don’t Step On The Grass, Sam
“Don’t Step On The Grass, Sam” is a socially conscious rock song by Steppenwolf, released in 1968. The song’s bluesy guitar riffs and groovy rhythm create a laid-back, yet intense atmosphere, underscoring its message about the dangers of drug prohibition and the need for social change.
The lyrics criticize the government’s drug policies, warning against the hypocrisy and corruption that often accompany such measures. Singer John Kay’s raspy vocals lend a sense of urgency to the song’s message, as he implores the listener to “get together, young and old, and fight the powers that be.”
With its potent blend of social commentary and blues-rock swagger, “Don’t Step On The Grass, Sam” has become a classic of the era, speaking truth to power and inspiring generations of listeners to question authority and seek a better world.
5. Desperation
“Desperation” is a haunting rock ballad by Steppenwolf, released in 1968. The song’s melancholy guitar riff and plaintive vocals create a sense of foreboding and emotional intensity, fitting for its subject matter.
The lyrics describe a sense of loneliness and desperation, with the narrator expressing a desire to escape from his troubles and find some kind of peace. Singer John Kay’s emotive vocals add to the song’s emotional power, conveying a deep sense of longing and vulnerability.
With its introspective lyrics and moody atmosphere, “Desperation” stands out as a departure from Steppenwolf’s more well-known anthems of rebellion and freedom, offering a glimpse into the darker corners of the human psyche and the struggles we all face in trying to find our place in the world.
6. It’s Never Too Late
“It’s Never Too Late” is an uplifting rock song by Steppenwolf, released in 1969. The song’s bright guitar riff and upbeat tempo create a sense of optimism and forward momentum, underscoring its message about the power of perseverance and the potential for change.
The lyrics encourage the listener to seize the moment and pursue their dreams, no matter their age or circumstances. Singer John Kay’s enthusiastic vocals convey a sense of hope and possibility, inspiring the listener to take action and make the most of their life.
With its catchy melody and motivational message, “It’s Never Too Late” has become a beloved classic of the era, encouraging generations of listeners to believe in themselves and pursue their passions with courage and determination.
7. Hoochie Coochie Man
“Hoochie Coochie Man” is a classic blues rock song by Steppenwolf, released in 1970. The song’s bluesy guitar riffs and driving rhythm create a hypnotic, almost trance-like atmosphere, underscoring its message about the power of magic and mysticism.
The lyrics describe a mysterious figure, the “Hoochie Coochie Man,” who possesses supernatural abilities and casts a spell over his audience. Singer John Kay’s gritty vocals add to the song’s sense of raw power and mystery, invoking a sense of wonder and awe.
With its potent blend of blues tradition and psychedelic rock experimentation, “Hoochie Coochie Man” has become a classic of the era, celebrating the power of music and the enduring appeal of magic and mysticism.
8. Sookie, Sookie
“Sookie, Sookie” is an energetic and funky rock song by Steppenwolf, released in 1968. The song’s groovy guitar riff and driving rhythm create a lively, danceable atmosphere, perfect for its party-oriented lyrics. The song describes a girl named Sookie, who’s the life of the party and has everyone grooving to her rhythm.
Singer John Kay’s playful vocals add to the song’s fun-loving vibe, encouraging the listener to let loose and enjoy the moment.
With its infectious beat and carefree lyrics, “Sookie, Sookie” has become a favorite of fans of 60s rock, representing a time of youthful exuberance and carefree living.
9. Hey Lawdy Mama
“Hey Lawdy Mama” is a high-energy rock song by Steppenwolf, released in 1970. The song’s heavy guitar riffs and pounding rhythm create a sense of urgency and excitement, fitting for its message about the joys of living and the power of rock and roll.
The lyrics describe the transformative power of music, urging the listener to let go of their inhibitions and embrace the moment. Singer John Kay’s impassioned vocals add to the song’s sense of liberation and empowerment, expressing a deep sense of joy and freedom.
With its electrifying energy and unapologetic celebration of life, “Hey Lawdy Mama” has become a classic of the era, embodying the spirit of rebellion and rock and roll that defined the 60s and 70s.
10. Berry Rides Again
“Berry Rides Again” is an upbeat and energetic instrumental track by Steppenwolf, released in 1968. The song’s driving rhythm and electrifying guitar riffs create a sense of excitement and anticipation, showcasing the band’s technical skill and mastery of their craft.
The song is named after Chuck Berry, one of the pioneers of rock and roll, and pays tribute to his legacy with its rollicking, bluesy sound. With its infectious beat and catchy melody, “Berry Rides Again” has become a favorite of fans of 60s rock, representing a time of innovation and experimentation in the world of music.
Despite being an instrumental track, the song is bursting with energy and enthusiasm, demonstrating Steppenwolf’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of rock and roll and creating something truly special.
Simon Robinson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
