Rod Stewart is one of the most iconic voices in rock and pop music, with a career that spans over five decades and a catalog of unforgettable hits. From raspy rock anthems to tender ballads, Stewart’s ability to blend raw emotion with catchy melodies has made him a beloved figure in the world of music. Whether he’s belting out a soulful story of love, loss, or youthful rebellion, his unique blend of folk, rock, and pop has left an indelible mark on generations of fans. But with such a vast and varied discography, which songs truly stand out as the greatest? In this countdown, we’ll take a look at the top 10 most popular Rod Stewart songs of all time. These are the tracks that defined his career, topped charts, and continue to resonate with fans both old and new. From the foot-stomping energy of “Maggie May” to the seductive grooves of “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?,” this list celebrates the very best of Rod Stewart’s musical legacy. So, sit back, turn up the volume, and get ready to dive into the songs that made Rod Stewart a living legend!
1. Maggie May (1971)
Released in 1971, Rod Stewart’s “Maggie May” quickly became an iconic anthem, launching him into international fame. Featured on his Every Picture Tells a Story album, the song blends folk-rock with Stewart’s signature raspy vocals to tell the tale of a young man’s romantic entanglement with an older woman. Initially, the song faced resistance from record executives, who originally released it as the B-side to “Reason to Believe.” However, its raw, autobiographical storytelling and unforgettable mandolin outro struck a chord with listeners, propelling it to the top of the charts in both the US and the UK. The combination of vulnerability and defiance in Stewart’s voice, paired with the acoustic instrumentation, made “Maggie May” a defining anthem of youthful confusion and heartache. Its success marked the beginning of Stewart’s transformation into a global superstar.
2. Sailing (1975)
“Sailing,” released in 1975 on the Atlantic Crossing album, remains one of Rod Stewart’s most enduring ballads. With its sweeping orchestration and deeply heartfelt vocals, the song conveys a profound sense of yearning for freedom and peace. Originally written by Gavin Sutherland of the Sutherland Brothers, Stewart’s soulful rendition of “Sailing” imbued it with universal appeal, turning it into a massive hit. The song’s success in the UK, where it topped the charts, was further bolstered by its use in a British documentary about the Royal Navy. Stewart’s emotional delivery, along with the lush orchestral production, made “Sailing” a fan favorite and a staple at his live performances. Its soaring chorus, filled with themes of hope and emotional release, has ensured that “Sailing” continues to resonate with listeners seeking solace and inspiration.
3. Do Ya Think I’m Sexy? (1978)
In 1978, Rod Stewart made a bold shift in his musical style with “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?,” a catchy, disco-infused track that became a global sensation. Featured on his Blondes Have More Fun album, the song’s pulsating rhythm, infectious chorus, and playful lyrics captured the hedonistic spirit of the late ’70s. Stewart’s confident, swaggering vocal delivery combined with the irresistible dance beats helped “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?” top the charts in the US and other countries. Despite initial criticism from some fans for abandoning his rock roots, the song’s immense success demonstrated Stewart’s ability to adapt to the changing musical landscape. Over time, “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?” has become a defining track of the disco era, showcasing Stewart’s versatility and his knack for producing songs that make people move.
4. Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright) (1976)
Released in 1976 as the lead single from A Night on the Town, “Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)” became one of Rod Stewart’s biggest hits. This sultry, seductive track captures the excitement and anticipation of a romantic evening, with Stewart’s smooth, laid-back vocals adding to the song’s allure. Despite its controversial, suggestive lyrics at the time, “Tonight’s the Night” topped the charts, spending an impressive eight weeks at No. 1 in the US. Its breezy melody, coupled with Stewart’s magnetic charisma, made it an instant classic, perfect for slow dances and late-night listening. The song’s success solidified Stewart’s place as a master of pop hits, effortlessly blending catchy melodies with adult themes. Over the years, it has remained a timeless favorite, continuing to captivate listeners with its charm.
5. You Wear It Well (1972)
“You Wear It Well,” released in 1972, stands as a prime example of Rod Stewart’s skill in blending rock, folk, and blues into captivating narrative songs. Featured on Never a Dull Moment, the track tells the story of a man reflecting on a past relationship with affection and regret. With a style and theme similar to his earlier hit “Maggie May,” “You Wear It Well” shines on its own, thanks to its infectious melody and Stewart’s heartfelt delivery. The song was a massive hit in the UK, where it reached No. 1, solidifying Stewart’s reputation as one of the best storytellers in popular music. Its upbeat tempo, combined with bittersweet lyrics, creates a dynamic listening experience, making it a long-time fan favorite and a defining moment in Stewart’s early career.
6. The First Cut Is the Deepest (1976)
Rod Stewart’s 1976 cover of “The First Cut Is the Deepest” breathed new life into Cat Stevens’ original song. Released as part of his A Night on the Town album, Stewart’s rendition became a hit, especially in the UK, where it soared into the top 10. The song’s poignant lyrics about heartbreak are delivered with raw emotion, making it a standout among Stewart’s many ballads. The simplicity of the arrangement allows Stewart’s voice to take center stage, amplifying the song’s emotional depth and the vulnerability of love lost. Stewart’s version of “The First Cut Is the Deepest” remains one of his most beloved covers, showing his ability to transform an already great song into something uniquely his own.
7. Have I Told You Lately (1991)
Originally written and recorded by Van Morrison in 1989, Rod Stewart’s 1991 version of “Have I Told You Lately” became a massive hit. Featured on his Vagabond Heart album, Stewart’s rendition, especially his live performance on Unplugged…and Seated, brought a new level of intimacy and warmth to the song. With its tender lyrics expressing love and gratitude, the song became a favorite at weddings and romantic occasions, resonating deeply with listeners worldwide. Stewart’s heartfelt delivery, combined with lush arrangements, elevated this version to new heights, showcasing his incredible ability to interpret songs in a way that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable.
8. Reason to Believe (1971)
“Reason to Believe,” originally written by folk singer Tim Hardin, gained widespread recognition when Rod Stewart released his version in 1971. Featured on Every Picture Tells a Story, Stewart’s rendition brought the song new attention, especially after it became the B-side to his massive hit “Maggie May.” The track’s introspective lyrics, combined with Stewart’s gritty vocals, create a raw emotional depth that resonated with listeners. Its gentle, acoustic arrangement contrasts beautifully with Stewart’s voice, giving the song a unique, haunting quality. Over the years, “Reason to Believe” has become a staple in Stewart’s live performances, where it continues to showcase his ability to blend folk influences with rock sensibilities.
9. Young Turks (1981)
Released in 1981, “Young Turks” marked a new era for Rod Stewart as he embraced the synth-pop and new wave sounds of the early ’80s. From his Tonight I’m Yours album, the song tells the story of two rebellious teenagers, Billy and Patti, who run away from their small-town lives in search of freedom. With its infectious beat, driving synth lines, and Stewart’s powerful vocals, “Young Turks” became a top 5 hit in the US, capturing the spirit of youthful rebellion and the desire for escape. The song’s energetic vibe made it a fan favorite and a defining track of Stewart’s early ’80s career.
10. Rhythm of My Heart (1991)
Released in 1991 as part of the Vagabond Heart album, “Rhythm of My Heart” is a stirring anthem that blends Rod Stewart’s Celtic roots with his pop sensibilities. Written by Marc Jordan and John Capek, the song features stirring bagpipes and a rousing melody that evokes themes of love, nostalgia, and resilience. Stewart’s raw, raspy voice imbues the song with emotional depth, making it a commercial success, particularly in the UK and the US. The song’s universal appeal, combined with its folk-inspired arrangement, made it one of the standout tracks of the early ’90s, cementing Stewart’s reputation as a musical chameleon capable of evolving with the times.
Samuel Moore 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.
