Rod Stewart is more than just a rock star—he’s a living legend. With a career spanning over six decades, his raspy voice, heartfelt lyrics, and genre-defying sound have made him one of the most celebrated artists in music history. From folk-rock storytelling to disco anthems, tender ballads to rebellious rock hits, Stewart has a song for every mood and moment. Whether you first heard him on vinyl, cassette, CD, or streaming, his music continues to resonate across generations.
But which of his songs stand out as the most iconic? Which tracks have defined his career, topped the charts, and become the soundtrack to millions of lives? In this list, we’re counting down the top 10 most popular Rod Stewart songs of all time—the tracks that turned him into a global sensation and still get played at full volume today.
From the youthful rebellion of Young Turks to the soul-stirring romance of Have I Told You Lately, and the unforgettable storytelling of Maggie May, these are the songs that made Rod Stewart a household name. Get ready to take a journey through some of the greatest hits in rock and pop history—because when it comes to music, nobody does it quite like Rod. 🎸🎤
1. “Maggie May” (1971)
Rod Stewart’s breakthrough hit, Maggie May, is a timeless classic that blends folk-rock storytelling with raw emotion. Released in 1971 on the album Every Picture Tells a Story, the song tells the bittersweet tale of a young man’s passionate yet complicated relationship with an older woman. Its distinctive mandolin-driven melody, combined with Stewart’s raspy, heartfelt vocals, gives the song an irresistible charm. Interestingly, Maggie May was initially released as the B-side to Reason to Believe, but it quickly stole the spotlight, soaring to No. 1 in both the U.S. and the UK. Its mix of nostalgia, youthful recklessness, and regret resonated deeply with listeners, making it one of Stewart’s most beloved tracks. The song’s autobiographical nature adds an extra layer of authenticity, as Stewart himself has hinted that it was inspired by a real-life experience. Decades later, Maggie May remains a defining moment in his career and a staple of classic rock radio, proving that great storytelling never goes out of style.
2. “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” (1978)
Rod Stewart made a bold move into the disco scene with Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?, released in 1978 on Blondes Have More Fun. Departing from his rock roots, Stewart embraced the pulsating beats, infectious synths, and danceable groove that defined the late ‘70s. The song tells the playful story of a romantic encounter on the dance floor, perfectly capturing the era’s hedonistic energy. Despite some backlash from rock purists who questioned his stylistic shift, the track became a global smash, hitting No. 1 in multiple countries. Its catchy chorus and cheeky lyrics made it an instant club favorite, and its crossover appeal cemented Stewart’s ability to evolve with changing musical trends. Though it was criticized by some as a commercialized departure, Stewart himself later admitted it was meant to be tongue-in-cheek fun. Love it or hate it, Da Ya Think I’m Sexy? remains one of his most iconic songs, a time capsule of disco fever and a testament to his versatility.
3. “Forever Young” (1988)
Few songs in Rod Stewart’s catalog carry as much heartfelt emotion as Forever Young, released in 1988 on Out of Order. Inspired by Bob Dylan’s song of the same name, Stewart co-wrote this uplifting anthem as a tribute to his children, offering them words of wisdom, encouragement, and love. With its soaring melody and poignant lyrics, the song became an anthem for parents and graduates alike, symbolizing hope, resilience, and the passing of time. While it wasn’t a chart-topping hit on the level of some of his earlier work, Forever Young has endured as one of his most cherished songs. It is frequently played at milestone events like graduations, weddings, and farewells, solidifying its place as a touching, inspirational classic. Stewart has often spoken about his deep personal connection to the track, and its heartfelt message continues to strike a chord with audiences around the world.
4. “You’re in My Heart (The Final Acclaim)” (1977)
A deeply personal and romantic ballad, You’re in My Heart (The Final Acclaim) stands out as one of Rod Stewart’s most sincere love songs. Released in 1977 on Foot Loose & Fancy Free, the song showcases Stewart’s softer side, with lyrics that express unwavering devotion. While many interpret the song as a love letter to a significant other, it also famously references Stewart’s love for Celtic F.C., blending his passion for music with his enthusiasm for football. The song’s gentle acoustic arrangement and heartfelt lyrics made it an instant fan favorite, often played at weddings and sentimental occasions. Stewart’s ability to blend romance with personal nostalgia gives You’re in My Heart a timeless quality, making it one of his most enduring and emotionally resonant songs.
5. “Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)” (1976)
Few songs capture the anticipation of romance as seductively as Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright), released in 1976 on A Night on the Town. With its smooth, whispery vocals and sensual lyrics, the song became one of Stewart’s biggest hits, spending eight weeks at No. 1 on the U.S. charts. The track’s sultry atmosphere, enhanced by spoken French phrases from Stewart’s then-girlfriend Britt Ekland, made it both alluring and controversial. While some critics found the lyrics suggestive, listeners embraced its intimate, slow-burning charm. Over the years, Tonight’s the Night has remained a soft rock staple, embodying the excitement and passion of new love. Whether heard as a seductive ballad or a romantic slow jam, it continues to be one of Stewart’s most memorable and beloved songs.
6. “Have I Told You Lately” (1991)
Originally written and recorded by Van Morrison in 1989, Have I Told You Lately became one of Rod Stewart’s most celebrated love songs when he recorded his own version for his 1991 album Vagabond Heart. His heartfelt rendition, later made even more famous by his 1993 Unplugged… and Seated performance, resonated deeply with audiences, earning a Grammy nomination. With its tender lyrics and sweeping arrangement, Stewart’s version became a wedding favorite and a romantic staple. His warm, emotive delivery adds a sincerity that continues to touch listeners, proving that some love songs truly stand the test of time.
7. “The First Cut Is the Deepest” (1977)
Written by Cat Stevens in the 1960s, The First Cut Is the Deepest has been covered by many artists, but Rod Stewart’s 1977 rendition remains one of the most powerful. Released on A Night on the Town, Stewart’s version injects the song with raw emotion, bringing its tale of heartbreak and moving on to life. His raspy vocals and passionate delivery make it one of the most memorable versions of this timeless song. Its melancholic theme resonated with listeners, earning heavy radio play and becoming a fan favorite. Though many artists have covered it over the years, Stewart’s soulful interpretation remains one of the definitive versions.
8. “Reason to Believe” (1971)
Originally written by folk artist Tim Hardin, Reason to Believe was one of the standout tracks on Rod Stewart’s 1971 album Every Picture Tells a Story. The song, a poignant ballad about clinging to love despite heartbreak, was actually intended as the lead single before Maggie May unexpectedly took center stage. With its delicate instrumentation and Stewart’s emotionally charged vocals, the track remains a fan favorite. Over the years, Stewart has continued to perform Reason to Believe in live settings, where its heartfelt message continues to captivate audiences.
9. “Some Guys Have All the Luck” (1984)
Originally recorded by The Persuaders, Some Guys Have All the Luck was given new life when Rod Stewart recorded his own version for the 1984 album Camouflage. With its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, Stewart’s rendition became an instant radio hit. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man lamenting his romantic misfortunes, contrasting his bad luck with those who seem to have it all. Stewart’s playful energy and charismatic delivery make it one of his most enjoyable pop-rock tracks, proving his ability to turn any song into a signature hit.
10. “Young Turks” (1981)
A high-energy anthem of youthful rebellion, Young Turks was a standout track on Stewart’s 1981 album Tonight I’m Yours. Driven by pulsating synths and an urgent beat, the song tells the story of Billy and Patti, two young lovers chasing freedom and a new life together. The phrase “Young Turks” refers to youthful revolutionaries, and the song perfectly captures that restless spirit. Its fast-paced rhythm and exhilarating energy made it an instant hit, and it remains a fan favorite. Decades later, Young Turks still resonates with listeners who relate to its theme of chasing dreams and embracing the unknown.
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.
