The harmonica is an iconic instrument that has been featured in countless songs across a wide range of genres. From blues and folk to rock and country, the harmonica has the ability to add a unique and soulful sound to any song. Whether it’s a haunting melody or a raucous riff, the harmonica has the power to evoke a range of emotions in listeners.
In this article, we will explore the top 36 songs that feature the best harmonica solos, riffs, and melodies. We will dive into the history of the harmonica in music, and how it has evolved over the years to become a beloved instrument in countless songs. From classic blues tracks like “Mannish Boy” by Muddy Waters and “The Thrill Is Gone” by B.B. King to rock classics like “Love Me Two Times” by The Doors and “Thunder Road” by Bruce Springsteen, we will cover a wide range of genres and styles.
We will also highlight the artists and musicians behind these iconic harmonica moments, including legends like Sonny Boy Williamson and Little Walter, as well as contemporary artists like John Popper and Charlie Musselwhite. Whether you’re a die-hard harmonica fan or simply appreciate the soulful sounds it brings to music, this list of top 36 harmonica songs is sure to have you tapping your feet and feeling the music.
1. Love Me Do – The Beatles
“Love Me Do” is a classic Beatles tune that showcases the band’s early sound and style. With its simple harmonica riff and catchy lyrics, the song quickly became a fan favorite and helped launch the Beatles’ career to new heights. Released in 1962 as their debut single, “Love Me Do” features John Lennon and Paul McCartney’s signature vocal harmonies and Ringo Starr’s steady drumming. The harmonica, played by John Lennon, adds a playful and upbeat quality to the song, and has become one of the most recognizable harmonica riffs in music history. The song’s infectious melody and memorable harmonica riff have solidified its place in pop culture and music history.
2. Heart of Gold – Neil Young
“Heart of Gold” is a timeless folk rock classic by Neil Young that features a hauntingly beautiful harmonica melody. Released in 1972 as a single from his album “Harvest,” the song quickly became one of Young’s most beloved and enduring hits. The harmonica, played by Young himself, adds a melancholy and introspective tone to the song, perfectly complementing his soulful vocals and acoustic guitar strumming. The song’s lyrics, which speak to the search for love and meaning in life, resonate with listeners to this day. “Heart of Gold” has become a staple of classic rock radio and a fan favorite at Neil Young concerts, showcasing the enduring appeal of both the song and the harmonica melody that helped make it a classic.
3. Long Train Running – The Doobie Brothers and Tom Johnston
“Long Train Running” is a blues-rock classic by The Doobie Brothers that features a catchy harmonica riff played by lead vocalist Tom Johnston. Released in 1973 as a single from their album “The Captain and Me,” the song has become one of the band’s most recognizable and beloved hits. Johnston’s harmonica playing is a standout feature of the track, adding a soulful and bluesy element to the upbeat rhythm and catchy guitar riffs. The song’s lyrics, which tell the story of a train journey and the sense of freedom and adventure it brings, add to the overall sense of joy and exuberance that the track exudes. “Long Train Running” has remained a fan favorite and a staple of classic rock radio, showcasing the enduring appeal of both The Doobie Brothers and the harmonica melody that helped make the song a classic.
4. The Wizard – Black Sabbath
“The Wizard” is a classic heavy metal song by the British band Black Sabbath, released in 1970 as a single from their debut album. The track features a prominent harmonica solo by guitarist Tony Iommi, which adds a unique element to the band’s signature heavy sound. The harmonica melody has a haunting quality that perfectly complements the ominous lyrics about a sorcerer who travels through time and space. The song’s driving rhythm and distorted guitar riffs, combined with the harmonica, create a powerful and unforgettable sound. “The Wizard” helped establish Black Sabbath as pioneers of the heavy metal genre, and the harmonica solo has become one of the band’s most distinctive and memorable features. Despite being an unconventional instrument in the context of heavy metal music, the harmonica adds a depth and texture to the song that sets it apart from other rock classics. “The Wizard” remains a fan favorite and a testament to the enduring influence of both Black Sabbath and the harmonica in rock music.
5. Parchman Farm – John Mayall and the Blues Breakers
“Parchman Farm” is a classic blues song recorded by John Mayall and the Blues Breakers. The harmonica is featured prominently throughout the song, adding a haunting quality to the already dark and powerful lyrics. The song’s title refers to the notorious Mississippi State Penitentiary, also known as Parchman Farm, where inmates were subjected to hard labor and brutal living conditions. Mayall’s gritty vocals and the raw, bluesy sound of the harmonica perfectly capture the pain and desperation of those trapped behind bars. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including Mose Allison, Johnny Winter, and Cactus. “Parchman Farm” remains a powerful example of the blues tradition and the enduring appeal of the harmonica as a key component of that tradition.
6. Midnight Rambler – The Rolling Stones
“Midnight Rambler” is a blues rock song by The Rolling Stones that is widely regarded as one of their most intense and powerful tracks. Clocking in at over six minutes long, the song is known for its heavy guitar riffs and haunting harmonica solos. The lyrics tell the story of a serial killer on the loose, and Mick Jagger’s vocals add a menacing edge to the already dark subject matter. The harmonica, played by Jagger himself, features prominently throughout the song, adding to its eerie atmosphere. “Midnight Rambler” has been performed live by The Rolling Stones countless times, and is often extended into a jam session, allowing for even more harmonica solos and improvisation. Its influence can be heard in the work of many blues and rock musicians who followed in The Rolling Stones’ footsteps.
7. Whammer Jammer – The J. Geils Band
“Whammer Jammer” by The J. Geils Band is a harmonica-infused blues rock classic. The song’s driving rhythm, powerful vocals, and catchy harmonica riff make it an enduring hit that still resonates with audiences today. Frontman Peter Wolf’s dynamic vocal performance is matched by Magic Dick’s masterful harmonica playing, which adds a distinctive element to the song’s overall sound. The harmonica solo midway through the song is a standout moment, showcasing Magic Dick’s skill and elevating the energy of the track. “Whammer Jammer” has become a quintessential example of the J. Geils Band’s blues rock sound and remains a staple of classic rock radio.
8. My Babe – Little Walter
“My Babe” is a classic blues song performed by the renowned harmonica player Little Walter. The song has a driving rhythm and showcases Little Walter’s signature amplified harmonica sound. The lyrics describe the narrator’s infatuation with a woman who is his “baby” and he compares her to other natural elements like the sun, moon and stars. The harmonica is the centerpiece of the song and Little Walter’s playing is both powerful and soulful, serving as a perfect complement to the driving guitar and drums. “My Babe” is considered a blues standard and has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Elvis Presley, The Rolling Stones, and Eric Clapton. It is a perfect example of how the harmonica can be used as a lead instrument in blues music, and how it can convey emotion and feeling in a way that no other instrument can.
9. Mr. Tambourine Man – Bob Dylan
“Mr. Tambourine Man” is a classic song by Bob Dylan, released in 1965. It features a beautiful melody and poetic lyrics that have resonated with audiences for decades. The song’s opening lines, “Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me / I’m not sleepy and there is no place I’m going to,” immediately draw the listener in with a sense of wanderlust and longing. The harmonica riff that accompanies the song’s chorus adds an extra layer of emotional depth to the already powerful lyrics. “Mr. Tambourine Man” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including The Byrds, who scored a hit with their jangly, folk-rock version in 1965. The song has been praised for its vivid imagery and for capturing the spirit of the 1960s counterculture movement. It remains a timeless classic and a staple of Dylan’s extensive discography.
10. Keep on Smiling – Wet Willie
“Keep on Smiling” is a song by Wet Willie, released in 1974, which features a harmonica as a prominent instrument. The harmonica plays a cheerful melody that perfectly complements the song’s positive lyrics about perseverance and optimism in the face of adversity. The song’s upbeat tempo, lively guitar riffs, and soulful vocals create a catchy and memorable tune that will have you tapping your feet and singing along in no time. “Keep on Smiling” has become a classic rock and roll anthem, often played on the radio and at live performances. With its harmonica-infused sound, the song is a prime example of how this small but mighty instrument can add depth and character to a musical composition.
11. On the Road Again – Canned Heat
“On the Road Again” by Canned Heat is a classic blues rock tune that captures the spirit of adventure and the open road. Released in 1968, the song features Bob Hite’s gritty vocals and Alan Wilson’s impressive harmonica playing, which is a standout feature of the track. The song’s upbeat rhythm and catchy melody make it an instant crowd-pleaser, and it’s often played at sporting events and on road trips. The lyrics evoke a sense of wanderlust and freedom, as the singer looks forward to hitting the road and leaving their worries behind. The harmonica solo towards the end of the song showcases Alan Wilson’s virtuosic playing and brings the song to a satisfying climax. “On the Road Again” remains a beloved classic rock song and an ode to the joys of travel and adventure.
12. Good Morning Little Schoolgirl – The Grateful Dead
“Good Morning Little Schoolgirl” is a classic blues song originally written by Sonny Boy Williamson in 1937, but it has been covered by various artists including The Grateful Dead. Their rendition of the song features Jerry Garcia’s soulful guitar solos and Pigpen’s bluesy harmonica riffs. The song’s lyrics revolve around the desire of a man for a younger woman, with lines such as “Good morning little schoolgirl, can I come home with you?” and “I’m gonna give you, little girl, child, everything you need.” The Grateful Dead’s version maintains the original’s bluesy feel while adding their own signature psychedelic rock touch, making it a popular track among their fans. Overall, “Good Morning Little Schoolgirl” showcases the band’s ability to take classic blues songs and make them their own, and Pigpen’s harmonica playing adds a soulful element to the already captivating track.
13. Piano Man – Billy Joel
“Piano Man” is a timeless classic written and performed by Billy Joel. It was released in 1973 and has since become one of Joel’s signature songs. The song tells the story of a piano player at a bar, playing for the regulars and observing their various struggles and stories. With its distinctive melody and catchy chorus, “Piano Man” has become a staple at piano bars and sing-alongs everywhere. Joel’s soulful vocals are accompanied by his own piano playing, as well as a harmonica solo that adds to the nostalgic and reflective mood of the song. The lyrics capture the essence of the bar scene, and the struggles and dreams of everyday people. “Piano Man” is a true classic, loved by fans of all ages, and continues to be one of Billy Joel’s most beloved and enduring songs.
14. Roadhouse Blues – The Doors
“Roadhouse Blues” is a classic rock song by The Doors, featuring the soulful harmonica playing of frontman Jim Morrison. The song’s driving rhythm, gritty lyrics, and wailing harmonica solo have made it a fan favorite since its release in 1970. The harmonica takes center stage in the song’s opening bars, setting the mood for Morrison’s swaggering vocals and the band’s hard-hitting instrumentation. The harmonica’s piercing tone adds an extra layer of raw emotion to the song’s bluesy feel, evoking images of a smoky barroom and the hard-living patrons within. As the song builds to its powerful climax, the harmonica takes on a more frenzied quality, reflecting the intensity of Morrison’s delivery and the band’s driving beat. “Roadhouse Blues” remains a beloved classic of the rock and roll canon, and its harmonica solo is a standout moment in the annals of the instrument’s history.
15. Train, Train – Blackfoot
“Train, Train” is a high-energy rock song by the American band Blackfoot, released in 1979. The song features a pulsing rhythm, electrifying guitar riffs, and powerful harmonica solos, making it a classic of southern rock music. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who leaves home, jumps on a train, and heads for New Orleans in search of good times and adventure. The harmonica solos are an essential component of the song, adding a touch of blues to the hard rock sound. The harmonica’s wailing notes and the driving rhythm of the song create an intense and exhilarating musical experience. The song’s catchy chorus and high-energy performance have made it a favorite among rock fans for decades. “Train, Train” has been covered by many other artists and is considered a classic of southern rock music, with its driving beat and harmonica solos contributing to its enduring popularity.
16. Dirty Old Town – The Pogues
“Dirty Old Town” is a folk song popularized by The Pogues in 1985. The song is a tribute to the town of Salford in North West England, which has undergone many changes over the years. The song’s catchy melody and poignant lyrics paint a vivid picture of a gritty, industrial town that has seen its fair share of hardships. The harmonica adds a haunting quality to the song, complementing the vocals and acoustic guitar. The Pogues’ rendition of “Dirty Old Town” has become an anthem for working-class communities around the world and is often played at football matches and other sporting events. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Rod Stewart, Ewan MacColl, and The Dubliners. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the power of music to capture the spirit of a place and a people.
17. Whoopin’ the Blues – Sonny Terry
“Whoopin’ the Blues” is a classic blues song performed by harmonica virtuoso Sonny Terry. The song features Terry’s signature playing style, which incorporates a variety of techniques such as wailing, moaning, and fluttering notes. The lyrics are simple, with Terry singing about his love for the harmonica and how it helps him express his emotions. The song is notable for its high-energy tempo and driving rhythm, which showcases Terry’s skill as a performer. “Whoopin’ the Blues” has been covered by many other blues artists over the years, but it remains one of Sonny Terry’s most beloved and iconic songs.
18. When the Levee Breaks – Led Zeppelin
“When the Levee Breaks” is a blues rock song by Led Zeppelin, featuring a haunting harmonica riff that sets the mood for the track. The song is inspired by a 1929 blues tune by Kansas Joe McCoy and Memphis Minnie, which tells the story of the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927. Led Zeppelin’s version, however, focuses more on the emotions of people who were affected by the disaster. The harmonica is played by frontman Robert Plant and provides a powerful accompaniment to Jimmy Page’s heavy guitar riffs and John Bonham’s thunderous drums. The harmonica’s wailing, melancholic sound gives the song a mournful quality that adds to the overall atmosphere of the track. “When the Levee Breaks” is considered one of Led Zeppelin’s most iconic songs, and its use of the harmonica has influenced many other musicians and genres since its release in 1971.
19. Mary Jane’s Last Dance – Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
“Mary Jane’s Last Dance” by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers is a classic rock song that features the harmonica prominently in its instrumentation. The song tells a story of a man who is reminiscing about a past lover named Mary Jane, who has passed away. As the song progresses, it becomes apparent that the man is not entirely over Mary Jane, and he wishes he had one last dance with her. The harmonica provides a soulful and bluesy undertone to the song, enhancing the emotion of the lyrics. The harmonica solo towards the end of the song is particularly poignant and serves as a highlight of the song. The combination of Petty’s distinctive vocals and the harmonica’s mournful wail creates a memorable and evocative listening experience. “Mary Jane’s Last Dance” is a timeless classic that showcases the versatility and emotional range of the harmonica in rock music.
20. For Once in My Life – Stevie Wonder
“For Once in My Life” by Stevie Wonder is a soulful and upbeat song that celebrates love and joy. With its catchy melody and uplifting lyrics, the song has become a classic and is one of Wonder’s most popular hits. Released in 1968, it features Wonder’s signature harmonica playing and showcases his powerful vocals. The song’s message of living in the moment and cherishing the good times resonates with listeners of all ages, making it a timeless and enduring piece of music. The track has been covered by many artists over the years, but none can match the energy and soul that Wonder brings to the original recording. “For Once in My Life” is a true masterpiece of Motown and a testament to Wonder’s talent and artistry.
21. Mannish Boy – Muddy Waters
“Mannish Boy” is a blues song by legendary musician Muddy Waters, released in 1955. The song has a distinctive, pounding rhythm that drives the energy of the track forward. With its boastful lyrics, the song exudes a sense of confidence and swagger. Waters’ gritty vocals and blistering harmonica solos are accompanied by a steady bassline and percussion, making for a dynamic and powerful sound. “Mannish Boy” has become a quintessential blues standard and has been covered by many artists, including Jimi Hendrix and The Rolling Stones. The song’s lyrics have also been referenced in popular culture, appearing in films and TV shows such as “Goodfellas” and “The Sopranos.” It remains a beloved and influential blues classic, highlighting the enduring impact of Muddy Waters on the world of music.
22. The Promised Land – Bruce Springsteen
“The Promised Land” by Bruce Springsteen is a powerful song that conveys the hope and struggle of the American Dream. The song features Springsteen’s signature raspy vocals, along with a driving beat and soaring harmonica solos. With lyrics that speak to the experience of working-class Americans, the song explores themes of perseverance, resilience, and the search for a better life. The harmonica, played by Springsteen’s longtime collaborator Clarence Clemons, adds a haunting and mournful quality to the song, while also providing a sense of urgency and determination. “The Promised Land” is a quintessential Springsteen anthem that captures the heart and soul of the American spirit.
23. On the Road Again – Willie Nelson
“On the Road Again” is a classic country song written by Willie Nelson. It was released in 1980 as part of the album Honeysuckle Rose and became one of Nelson’s signature tunes. The song features Nelson’s distinctive, relaxed vocal style and his signature acoustic guitar playing. It has a catchy melody and simple yet memorable lyrics that perfectly capture the wanderlust spirit of the open road. The song is a celebration of the touring lifestyle and the joys and hardships of being a musician. It has been covered by numerous artists over the years and remains a favorite among country music fans. The song’s timeless appeal has made it a mainstay on classic country radio stations and it continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.
24. Hey Baby – Bruce Channel
Bruce Channel’s “Hey Baby” is an upbeat, energetic song that is instantly recognizable from its distinctive harmonica riff. The song was a massive hit in 1962, reaching the top ten in both the US and UK charts. The harmonica solo, played by Delbert McClinton, is the standout element of the song, adding a playful and joyful feel to the track. The song itself is a classic example of early ’60s pop, with catchy hooks and simple, repetitive lyrics that are easy to sing along to. Despite its simplicity, “Hey Baby” has stood the test of time, remaining a popular choice for weddings, parties, and other events. It’s a feel-good song that is sure to put a smile on your face and get you tapping your feet.
25. Work Song – The Paul Butterfield Blues Band
“Work Song” is a blues standard originally written and performed by Nat Adderley and Oscar Brown Jr. in 1960, and later recorded by numerous artists, including The Paul Butterfield Blues Band. This version features a powerful harmonica riff by Butterfield, which drives the song’s gritty and soulful sound. The lyrics tell the story of a man who has been working all day and just wants to go home and rest, but the demands of life keep him going. The song’s energy and intensity make it a standout in the blues genre and a testament to the Paul Butterfield Blues Band’s skill as musicians.
26. Harvest Moon – Neil Young
Neil Young’s “Harvest Moon” is a beautifully serene love song that captures the essence of true romance. The mellow guitar riffs and Young’s soft, soulful voice create a soothing atmosphere that is perfect for slow dancing. The song’s lyrics speak of an enduring love that has lasted through the years, and the need to cherish and appreciate it while it lasts. With its nostalgic tone and tender sentiment, “Harvest Moon” is the perfect song to play at a wedding or anniversary celebration, or simply to serenade a loved one.
27. Groovin’ – The Young Rascals
“Groovin'” is a soulful song by the American rock band, The Young Rascals. It was released in 1967 and quickly became a hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song features a smooth melody and catchy lyrics that speak to the joy of love and the simple pleasures of life. It is known for its laid-back vibe and the use of a harmonica as a prominent instrument in the song. The song’s lyrics describe the feeling of walking around on a warm summer day with someone special, taking in the sights and sounds of the city, and enjoying each other’s company. The song has become a classic of the era and has been covered by many artists over the years. It remains a beloved song that captures the spirit of the 1960s and the joy of being in love.
28. Christo Redemptor – Charlie Musselwhite
“Christo Redemptor” is a soulful and powerful blues track by harmonica virtuoso Charlie Musselwhite. The slow, mournful melody is accompanied by Musselwhite’s mournful harmonica playing and sparse guitar backing, evoking a sense of spiritual yearning and melancholy. The song features Musselwhite’s emotive vocals, conveying a deep sense of pain and longing. The title “Christo Redemptor” refers to the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and the lyrics allude to the image of Christ as a savior and comforter. This haunting and beautiful song is a testament to the emotional power of the blues and Musselwhite’s skill as a musician and storyteller.
29. Inside Looking Out – Grand Funk Railroad
“Inside Looking Out” by Grand Funk Railroad is a hard-rocking track that showcases the band’s signature sound of heavy guitar riffs and pounding drums. The song starts with a strong guitar intro before launching into a driving rhythm section and gritty vocals. The lyrics depict a sense of feeling trapped and wanting to break free from a stagnant life, with the protagonist looking out at the world from inside. The track features powerful solos and dynamic shifts in tempo, making it a standout track in the band’s discography and a beloved classic in the genre of hard rock.
30. I’m a Man – The Yardbirds
“I’m a Man” by The Yardbirds is a high-energy, blues-influenced rock song that features Eric Clapton’s impressive guitar work and Keith Relf’s gritty vocals. The song is a cover of a 1955 hit by Bo Diddley and has been covered by many other artists over the years. The Yardbirds’ version stands out for its driving rhythm, powerful guitar riffs, and catchy vocal hooks. It’s a perfect showcase for the band’s raw talent and musical prowess, and it remains a classic example of the British blues-rock sound of the 1960s.
31. Traintime – Cream
“Traintime” is a blues rock track by the legendary supergroup, Cream. Released in 1968, the song features Eric Clapton’s masterful guitar work, Jack Bruce’s dynamic bass playing, and Ginger Baker’s powerful drumming. The track opens with a slow and steady rhythm that gradually builds into a driving blues rock groove, punctuated by Clapton’s blistering guitar solos. Bruce’s vocal delivery adds to the song’s intensity, as he sings about the pain and longing of lost love. “Traintime” showcases Cream’s prowess as a tight-knit band and their ability to create dynamic and engaging blues rock tracks.
32. Absolutely Sweet Marie – Bob Dylan
“Absolutely Sweet Marie” is a lively and upbeat song by Bob Dylan that features a mixture of blues and country influences. The song’s driving rhythm and catchy guitar riff are complemented by Dylan’s distinctive vocals, which deliver lyrics that are full of wit and wordplay. The song’s lyrics explore themes of identity, love, and self-discovery, with Dylan’s character expressing a desire to find a partner who understands him and to break free from societal expectations. The song’s energy and lyricism make it a standout track on Dylan’s landmark album “Blonde on Blonde” and a testament to his skill as a songwriter and performer.
33. He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother – The Hollies
“He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” is a powerful ballad that speaks of brotherhood and unity in times of hardship. The song features lush orchestration, soulful vocals, and poignant lyrics that have resonated with listeners for decades. Written by Bobby Scott and Bob Russell, the song gained popularity with The Hollies’ cover version in 1969. The lyrics, “The road is long with many a winding turn / That leads us to who knows where, who knows where” speak to the challenges of life’s journey, while the chorus proclaims a message of love and solidarity: “He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother.” The song remains a classic example of uplifting and heartfelt music.
34. Runaway – Bonnie Raitt
“Runaway” by Bonnie Raitt is a blues-rock song with a strong female vocal performance. The song features gritty guitar riffs and powerful drumming, creating a driving rhythm that perfectly complements Raitt’s raw vocals. The lyrics tell the story of a woman who is struggling to move on from a relationship that has ended, and the pain and longing in Raitt’s voice make it easy to feel the emotion behind the words. With its catchy melody and memorable chorus, “Runaway” is a standout track in Raitt’s discography and a great example of her talent as a singer and guitarist.
35. Oh Girl – The Chi-Lites
“Oh Girl” is a soulful ballad by The Chi-Lites that was released in 1972. The song features a slow, mellow melody with a simple arrangement of strings, piano, and bass. The lyrics express a man’s deep feelings for his love interest, promising to treat her with care and respect. The smooth and emotive vocals of lead singer Eugene Record, along with the harmonies of the group, create a captivating and romantic atmosphere. The song’s popularity has endured over the years, with numerous cover versions by various artists, making it a timeless classic in the soul and R&B genres.
36. Man with a Harmonica (from Once Upon a Time in the West) – Ennio Morricone
“Man with a Harmonica” is a captivating instrumental piece by Ennio Morricone that was featured in the classic Western movie, Once Upon a Time in the West. The song is primarily driven by a haunting harmonica melody that is both melancholic and suspenseful. The orchestration of the piece, which includes electric guitar, percussion, and a choir, contributes to its epic quality. The song has a cinematic quality to it that makes it feel like the perfect accompaniment to a dramatic and suspenseful scene. Overall, “Man with a Harmonica” is a beautifully composed and evocative piece of music that stands out as one of Morricone’s most iconic works.