Sheryl Crow is a celebrated singer-songwriter who has been a staple in the music industry for over three decades. Her unique blend of rock, pop, and country influences, combined with her soulful and raspy vocals, has earned her numerous awards and accolades. Throughout her career, Crow has released a multitude of hit songs that have become beloved classics. In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 best Sheryl Crow songs of all time, showcasing her versatility as a musician and her ability to create memorable and meaningful music. From her breakthrough hits like “All I Wanna Do” to her powerful ballads like “The First Cut Is The Deepest,” each song on this list has earned its place due to its cultural significance, commercial success, and lasting impact on the music industry. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to her music, this list is sure to highlight the best of what Sheryl Crow has to offer.
1. Strong Enough
“Strong Enough” by Sheryl Crow is a classic 90s hit that showcases Crow’s unique blend of rock, pop, and country influences. The song features Crow’s signature raspy vocals and a driving guitar riff, with lyrics about finding the strength to move on from a difficult relationship. The chorus, with its catchy melody and empowering lyrics, is a sing-along anthem that still resonates with listeners today. “Strong Enough” was a commercial and critical success, earning Crow a Grammy nomination for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance.
2. If It Makes You Happy
“If It Makes You Happy” is another popular Sheryl Crow hit, known for its infectious chorus and upbeat rock sound. The song tells the story of a woman who is searching for happiness and fulfillment, but realizes that it’s not always easy to achieve. Crow’s vocals are soulful and powerful, and the instrumentation features a mix of electric and acoustic guitars that creates a memorable sound. “If It Makes You Happy” was a huge success upon its release, topping the charts and earning Crow a Grammy for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance.
3. Steve McQueen
“Steve McQueen” is a mid-tempo ballad that showcases Crow’s storytelling abilities. The song is a tribute to the legendary actor, but also touches on themes of love, fame, and the pursuit of happiness. The instrumentation is more stripped-down than some of Crow’s other hits, with acoustic guitar and piano creating a contemplative mood. Crow’s vocals are emotive and sincere, making “Steve McQueen” a standout track on her debut album.
4. Everyday Is A Winding Road
“Everyday Is A Winding Road” is an upbeat and energetic song that features a catchy chorus and a driving rhythm. The lyrics describe the ups and downs of life, and the unpredictable journey that we all must take. Crow’s vocals are strong and confident, and the instrumentation features a mix of guitars, percussion, and horns that creates a dynamic sound. “Everyday Is A Winding Road” was a hit when it was released, and remains a popular song today thanks to its universal message and infectious sound.
5. Leaving Las Vegas
“Leaving Las Vegas” is a haunting ballad that tells the story of a woman who is trying to escape her troubled past by heading to the bright lights of Las Vegas. Crow’s vocals are emotive and vulnerable, and the instrumentation features acoustic guitar and piano that create a melancholic mood. The lyrics are introspective and poetic, touching on themes of love, loss, and redemption. “Leaving Las Vegas” was a critical success, and earned Crow a Grammy nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.
6. The First Cut Is The Deepest
“The First Cut Is The Deepest” is a cover of a Cat Stevens song that was made famous by Sheryl Crow in the early 2000s. Crow’s version features a more rock-oriented sound than the original, with a driving beat and electric guitars. The lyrics are about the pain of heartbreak and the difficulty of moving on, and Crow’s vocals are powerful and emotive. “The First Cut Is The Deepest” was a commercial and critical success, earning Crow a Grammy nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.
7. Always On Your Side
“Always On Your Side” is a duet with Sting that showcases both artists’ strong vocals and songwriting abilities. The song is a ballad about the ups and downs of a relationship, and the commitment to always be there for each other. The instrumentation is more stripped-down than some of Crow’s other hits, with acoustic guitar and piano creating a heartfelt and emotional mood. “Always On Your Side” was a hit when it was released, and remains a fan favorite to this day.
8. My Favorite Mistake
“My Favorite Mistake” is a mid-tempo rock song with a memorable guitar riff and catchy chorus. The lyrics are about a relationship that is both exciting and tumultuous, with Crow singing about the highs and lows of being with someone who is both her favorite mistake and her biggest regret. The song features Crow’s signature raspy vocals and a mix of electric and acoustic guitars that create a dynamic sound. “My Favorite Mistake” was a commercial success, and earned Crow a Grammy nomination for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance.
9. Tomorrow Never Dies
“Tomorrow Never Dies” is a theme song from the James Bond movie of the same name. The song features orchestral arrangements and a dramatic sound, with Crow’s vocals adding a touch of mystery and allure. The lyrics are about the danger and excitement of espionage, and the instrumentation features a mix of electronic and acoustic instruments that create a tense and cinematic mood. “Tomorrow Never Dies” was a hit when it was released, and remains one of Crow’s most unique and memorable songs.
10. All I Wanna Do
“All I Wanna Do” is a classic 90s hit that features a catchy chorus and a memorable guitar riff. The lyrics are about letting go and having fun, with Crow singing about the joys of hanging out with friends and enjoying life’s simple pleasures. The song features a mix of rock, pop, and country influences, with Crow’s vocals and instrumentation creating a fun and upbeat sound. “All I Wanna Do” was a huge success upon its release, and remains a beloved song that is still played on radio stations today.
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.
