Rod Stewart is a true rock ‘n’ roll legend, a singer whose unmistakable raspy voice and electrifying stage presence have captivated audiences for over five decades. From heartfelt ballads to high-energy rock anthems, Stewart’s music spans multiple genres, proving his enduring influence in the world of music. Whether he’s belting out a soulful love song or delivering a foot-stomping hit, his ability to connect with fans remains unmatched.
With a career that kicked off in the late ‘60s and skyrocketed in the ‘70s and ‘80s, Stewart has delivered some of the most iconic tracks in rock history. Songs like “Maggie May”, “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?”, and “Forever Young” have stood the test of time, continuing to be played on radios, in movies, and at concerts worldwide. His music tells stories of love, loss, youth, and rebellion—making his songs timeless anthems for generations of fans.
In this list, we’re counting down the top 10 most popular Rod Stewart songs of all time—tracks that defined his career and cemented his status as one of the greatest artists in rock history. Get ready to relive the magic of Rod Stewart’s greatest hits! 🎶🔥
1. Maggie May (1971)
Rod Stewart’s “Maggie May” is more than just a breakup song—it’s a timeless coming-of-age story set to an unforgettable folk-rock melody. Released in 1971 as part of Every Picture Tells a Story, the song is loosely based on Stewart’s own youthful romance with an older woman. The track opens with an instantly recognizable mandolin riff before Stewart’s signature raspy vocals take over, blending nostalgia, regret, and raw emotion. Although originally intended as a B-side, “Maggie May” took on a life of its own, soaring to No. 1 on both the U.S. and UK charts. The song’s mix of folk, rock, and storytelling cemented Stewart’s status as a rock icon, and its enduring popularity proves that great storytelling never fades.
2. Do Ya Think I’m Sexy? (1978)
In the late 1970s, Rod Stewart surprised fans by diving headfirst into disco with “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?”, a glossy, danceable track from Blondes Have More Fun (1978). With its pulsating beat, hypnotic synth line, and undeniably catchy hook, the song became a global sensation. While some rock purists scoffed at Stewart’s disco flirtation, the song’s infectious energy won over audiences, topping charts worldwide. Beyond its dancefloor appeal, the track also satirizes the superficiality of the disco scene, adding a layer of irony beneath the glitz. Despite the initial controversy, “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy?” remains one of Stewart’s most enduring anthems and a must-play at his concerts.
3. Forever Young (1988)
A heartfelt ode to his children, “Forever Young” (from Out of Order, 1988) blends rock and folk influences with a message of love, guidance, and hope. Inspired by Bob Dylan’s song of the same name, Stewart reworked the lyrics to reflect his own experiences as a father. With its uplifting melody and earnest lyrics, the song became an instant favorite among fans, often played at graduations, weddings, and other milestone events. Its universal themes of parental love and wishing the best for the next generation have made it one of Stewart’s most cherished songs.
4. Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright) (1976)
Smooth, sultry, and undeniably romantic, “Tonight’s the Night” became one of Stewart’s most seductive ballads upon its release in 1976 as part of A Night on the Town. Featuring whispered backing vocals and suggestive lyrics, the song courted controversy for its overt sensuality, but that didn’t stop it from climbing to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its slow-burning melody and intimate delivery have helped it stand the test of time, making it a staple in Stewart’s repertoire of love songs.
5. You Wear It Well (1972)
Following the massive success of “Maggie May,” Stewart continued his folk-rock storytelling with “You Wear It Well” in 1972. This song revisits the themes of lost love and nostalgia, wrapped in a vibrant mix of acoustic and electric instrumentation. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man reminiscing about a past romance, and Stewart’s passionate delivery makes it all the more poignant. While it didn’t quite reach the heights of “Maggie May,” it remains one of his finest compositions, showcasing his ability to turn personal reflections into universally relatable music.
6. Have I Told You Lately (1991)
Originally written and recorded by Van Morrison in 1989, “Have I Told You Lately” became a signature love ballad when Stewart released his own version on Vagabond Heart (1991). With its sweeping orchestral arrangement and Stewart’s warm, passionate vocals, the song found new life as a romantic classic. It later became even more beloved when he performed an acoustic version for his 1993 live album, Unplugged… and Seated. Whether played at weddings or candlelit dinners, this tender love song remains one of Stewart’s most touching performances.
7. The First Cut Is the Deepest (1977)
Cat Stevens originally wrote and recorded “The First Cut Is the Deepest”, but Rod Stewart’s 1977 rendition turned it into a major hit. Featured on A Night on the Town, Stewart’s version adds a rich orchestral backing and an emotional depth that makes the heartbreak feel even more profound. His gravelly vocals bring a raw vulnerability to the song, making it one of the most memorable interpretations of this timeless classic. Decades later, it remains a standout ballad about love and loss.
8. Young Turks (1981)
A shift from Stewart’s classic rock roots into new wave and synth-pop, “Young Turks” (from Tonight I’m Yours, 1981) is a high-energy anthem about youthful rebellion and the thrill of running away for love. The song’s pulsating beat, bright synthesizers, and uplifting chorus capture the essence of restless, impulsive youth. With lyrics following a young couple breaking free from convention, “Young Turks” perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the early ‘80s and remains one of Stewart’s most electrifying tracks.
9. Some Guys Have All the Luck (1984)
Originally recorded by The Persuaders, “Some Guys Have All the Luck” got a rock makeover when Stewart released it in 1984 on Camouflage. The song’s upbeat tempo, playful lyrics about romantic misfortune, and Stewart’s charismatic delivery made it an instant fan favorite. It resonated with listeners who could relate to the song’s tongue-in-cheek take on love and luck, turning it into one of his most popular hits of the decade.
10. Reason to Believe (1971)
Closing out this list is “Reason to Believe”, a folk ballad originally written by Tim Hardin but made famous by Stewart’s heartfelt rendition on Every Picture Tells a Story (1971). While “Maggie May” became the breakout hit, “Reason to Believe” remains one of Stewart’s most touching performances, showcasing his ability to bring raw emotion and depth to a song. His raspy voice perfectly conveys the bittersweet lyrics about holding on to hope in the face of heartbreak. The song has endured as a fan favorite, proving that Stewart’s ability to tell a story through song is unmatched.
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.
