Few artists have managed to fuse raspy charm, heartfelt storytelling, and genre-bending versatility quite like Rod Stewart. With a career spanning over five decades, Stewart has delivered hit after hit—from tender ballads to disco anthems and rock ‘n’ roll classics. Whether he’s belting out tales of youthful rebellion or crooning love songs that tug at the soul, his unmistakable voice has become a soundtrack for generations. But which of his many songs truly stand the test of time? In this countdown, we dive into the top 10 most popular Rod Stewart songs of all time—the tracks that defined his career, dominated charts, and captured the hearts of millions worldwide. From the anthemic rise of “Maggie May” to the smooth seduction of “Tonight’s the Night,” each song tells a story, not just of Stewart’s evolution as an artist, but of the moments we’ve all shared with his music. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering the magic of Rod Stewart, this list is a celebration of the songs that made him a legend. So turn up the volume, pour yourself a glass, and let’s take a ride through the greatest hits of one of rock’s most iconic voices.
1. “Maggie May” (1971)
Rod Stewart’s “Maggie May” is more than just a hit—it’s a landmark in 1970s rock that helped launch his solo career into the stratosphere. Released on the 1971 album Every Picture Tells a Story, the song tells the semi-autobiographical tale of a young man caught up in a complicated, possibly ill-advised affair with an older woman. What makes “Maggie May” stand out isn’t just its theme of youthful rebellion and emotional confusion, but how uniquely it’s structured. With no traditional chorus, a slow-burning narrative, and that now-iconic mandolin outro played by Ray Jackson, it defied pop norms—and triumphed. Originally released as the B-side to “Reason to Believe,” the song quickly overshadowed its companion track, climbing to No. 1 in both the U.S. and U.K. Its blend of folk storytelling, rock energy, and Stewart’s raspy vulnerability resonated deeply with listeners who saw a piece of their own coming-of-age struggles in it. “Maggie May” is timeless in its raw honesty, capturing that blurry line between love and regret. More than five decades later, it remains a rite of passage—for Stewart, for fans, and for anyone who’s ever been young and a little bit lost.
2. “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” (1978)
With “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?”, Rod Stewart unapologetically dove into the glitzy world of disco, trading in his rock and folk roots—temporarily—for dancefloor glitter and swagger. Released in 1978 on the album Blondes Have More Fun, the song was a playful departure from the sound fans had come to expect. Built on a catchy synth hook, a pulsing bassline, and a chorus meant to be shouted at full volume, it was a worldwide smash—reaching No. 1 in the U.S., the U.K., and several other countries. But beneath the flamboyant surface, the track was steeped in irony. It wasn’t just a bid for pop relevancy—it was a tongue-in-cheek jab at the era’s obsession with looks and lust. Critics were torn—some dismissed it as a sellout move, others praised its campy brilliance—but the public clearly loved it. Stewart later clarified that it was meant as satire, and in hindsight, the track’s playfulness shines through. It proved he could take risks, shift genres, and still dominate charts. Decades later, “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” remains a glittering, guilty pleasure—and a bold example of how Stewart never took himself too seriously, even at the height of his fame.
3. “Sailing” (1975)
“Sailing” represents a striking shift in Rod Stewart’s musical approach—a heartfelt ballad that trades rock swagger for reflective serenity. Originally written and recorded by the Sutherland Brothers in 1972, Stewart’s version, released in 1975 on his Atlantic Crossing album, turned the song into a major hit and a cultural moment. Slowing down the original tempo, Stewart let the emotional current carry the track, his gravelly voice lending the lyrics a poignant sincerity. “I am sailing, stormy waters, to be near you,” he sings, with a yearning that feels almost spiritual. The song struck a deep chord in the U.K., where it spent four weeks at No. 1 and was later used as a theme for a documentary about the Royal Navy, solidifying its place in British pop culture. Unlike many of Stewart’s brash rockers, “Sailing” is stripped-down and contemplative, evoking themes of distance, longing, and hope. It’s a song that transcends its era—timeless and beautifully restrained. While not flashy, “Sailing” highlights Stewart’s versatility and emotional depth, showing he could slow things down and still capture the world’s attention. It’s one of those rare covers that not only honors the original but completely redefines it.
4. “Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)” (1976)
“Tonight’s the Night” is Rod Stewart at his most seductive and controversial. Released in 1976 on A Night on the Town, this sultry ballad drips with slow-burn sensuality and a quiet confidence that only Stewart could pull off. With whispered vocals and suggestive lyrics, it walks a tightrope between romantic charm and provocative boldness—so much so that it was initially banned by some radio stations. But controversy only added to its allure. Featuring a soft-spoken French interlude by actress Britt Ekland, Stewart’s then-girlfriend, the track has an almost cinematic intimacy. It dominated the charts, spending eight consecutive weeks at No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of the decade’s defining slow jams. Musically, it’s understated—mellow guitars, gentle keys, and a relaxed groove—but its emotional impact is undeniable. “Tonight’s the Night” isn’t just a song; it’s a mood, a moment suspended in time. Stewart managed to capture the nervous excitement and tender urgency of seduction without ever tipping into cliché. Decades later, it still feels dangerously romantic and effortlessly cool.
5. “Forever Young” (1988)
Rod Stewart’s “Forever Young,” released in 1988 on Out of Order, is a stirring blend of rock sincerity and parental love. Though inspired by Bob Dylan’s song of the same name, Stewart’s version stands tall as a distinct and heartfelt anthem. Co-written as a tribute to his own children, the song touches on themes of protection, growth, and enduring hope. With soaring guitar lines, an anthemic melody, and lyrics that read like a blessing—“May the good Lord be with you down every road you roam”—it quickly became a favorite for life’s milestone moments, from graduations to weddings. Stewart even reached an agreement with Dylan to share royalties, acknowledging the similarities while giving his version its own soul. “Forever Young” resonates because it feels so personal and universal at once. There’s a warmth and wisdom in Stewart’s delivery that elevates the track from a rock ballad to a timeless message of encouragement and unconditional love. It’s not just a song—it’s a promise to hold on to what’s good, even as the years pass by.
6. “Young Turks” (1981)
With “Young Turks,” Rod Stewart charged into the ‘80s with an adrenaline rush of synth-pop energy and youthful defiance. Released in 1981 on Tonight I’m Yours, the track marked a bold stylistic pivot—trading in his familiar rock textures for sleek new wave sounds and electronic rhythms. At its core, the song is a story of young love and rebellion, following Billy and Patti as they run away from their old lives to chase freedom and their dreams. The phrase “Young Turks” refers to passionate, rebellious youth, and Stewart captures that spirit with urgency and heart. The pulsing beat, infectious synth hook, and Stewart’s impassioned vocals create a sense of forward momentum that mirrors the couple’s journey. It’s a song about risk and resolve, about breaking free from societal expectations and finding your own way. Though it was a sonic departure, fans embraced the shift—it became a Top 5 hit in the U.S. and proved that Stewart could evolve without losing the soul of his storytelling. “Young Turks” remains one of his most electrifying and emotionally charged tracks.
7. “Have I Told You Lately” (1993)
When Rod Stewart recorded “Have I Told You Lately” for his Unplugged…and Seated album in 1993, he breathed new life into Van Morrison’s 1989 classic. Stripped of electric flourishes and studio polish, the unplugged arrangement placed Stewart’s expressive voice front and center, allowing the gentle emotion of the lyrics to shine through. Backed by acoustic guitar, soft strings, and a delicate piano line, Stewart transforms the song into an intimate, soulful declaration of love and gratitude. His slightly weathered tone lends the track a lived-in warmth, making every word feel personal and sincere. The live version became a massive hit, even outperforming the original on U.S. charts, and quickly earned a place as a wedding and anniversary staple. It’s a reminder that sometimes, simplicity speaks loudest—just a heartfelt lyric, a tender melody, and a voice that truly believes the words it’s singing. Stewart didn’t just cover “Have I Told You Lately”—he inhabited it, turning it into one of the most beloved love songs of the ‘90s.
8. “The First Cut Is the Deepest” (1977)
Rod Stewart’s 1977 take on “The First Cut Is the Deepest” remains one of the most aching, emotionally resonant versions of the classic tune. Originally written and recorded by Cat Stevens in 1967, the song had already been interpreted by several artists before Stewart made it his own on A Night on the Town. His version strips the track to its emotional core, pairing acoustic guitar and sparse orchestration with his distinctively raspy vocals. It’s in that raspy texture that the heartbreak truly lands—every word sounds like it’s being pulled from deep within. Stewart doesn’t over-sing or over-dramatize; he simply tells the truth of the song, and that honesty is devastatingly effective. The track became a Top 40 hit and has endured as one of his most beloved ballads. It’s a reminder of Stewart’s uncanny ability to interpret songs with raw feeling, turning someone else’s lyrics into something deeply personal. Many have sung “The First Cut Is the Deepest,” but few have delivered it with the tender pain Stewart brings to each line.
9. “You’re in My Heart (The Final Acclaim)” (1977)
Released in 1977 on Foot Loose & Fancy Free, “You’re in My Heart” showcases Rod Stewart’s romantic side with sincerity and poetic charm. A lush, string-laced ballad, the song is both a love letter and an ode to enduring devotion. While it’s widely believed to have been written about his then-girlfriend, Swedish actress Britt Ekland, Stewart also cleverly weaves in references to his beloved Celtic Football Club—proving that love, in his world, extends to both people and passions. The arrangement is tender and elegant, with acoustic guitars and gentle orchestral touches supporting Stewart’s heartfelt vocals. What makes the song so resonant is its warmth—it’s not a flashy declaration, but a steady, unwavering tribute to someone who’s become part of your very being. The line “You’re in my heart, you’re in my soul” became instantly iconic and continues to capture listeners across generations. “You’re in My Heart” stands as one of Stewart’s finest love songs—deeply personal, universally relatable, and emotionally timeless.
10. “Reason to Believe” (1971)
“Reason to Believe,” first released in 1971 on Every Picture Tells a Story, may have been overshadowed by the surprise success of its B-side, “Maggie May,” but it remains one of Rod Stewart’s most poignant performances. A cover of Tim Hardin’s 1965 folk ballad, the song explores the emotional paradox of loving someone even when logic—and heartache—says you shouldn’t. Stewart’s interpretation captures that emotional tug-of-war beautifully. Accompanied by sparse piano, soft violin, and acoustic guitar, his voice moves between strength and fragility, embodying the pain of holding on to hope despite repeated disappointment. Though “Maggie May” took the spotlight, “Reason to Believe” gained its own following, especially in live performances where Stewart’s stripped-down delivery brought new depth to the song. Over time, it’s become a quiet classic—proof that even the most unassuming tracks can carry deep emotional weight. Stewart didn’t just sing the song; he felt it, and in doing so, gave listeners something they could hold onto when reason alone wasn’t enough.
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.
