The Kinks are one of the most influential and iconic British bands of the 1960s and 70s. The band’s sound blended elements of rock, pop, and folk music to create a unique style that would become a major influence on later artists. Led by the Davies brothers, Ray and Dave, The Kinks produced a string of hits throughout their career, including several timeless classics. Their songs often touched on themes of social commentary, British culture, and personal experiences.
This list compiles the 10 best Kinks songs of all time, showcasing the band’s incredible range of styles and influences. From hard-edged rockers to introspective ballads, each song on this list represents a unique aspect of The Kinks’ legacy and showcases the band’s enduring appeal. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to their music, these songs are sure to inspire and captivate you with their timeless melodies and poignant lyrics.
1. You Really Got Me
“You Really Got Me” is a classic rock song by The Kinks, released in 1964. The song is known for its heavy and distorted guitar riff, which is often cited as one of the first examples of hard rock or heavy metal music. The simple but effective riff was played by Dave Davies on his guitar and has been covered by countless other bands over the years. The song’s lyrics describe the speaker’s infatuation with a woman who has a strong hold on him and has left him “so blind” that he can’t see anything else. “You Really Got Me” was a huge hit for The Kinks and has become a rock classic that is still widely played and enjoyed today.
2. Waterloo Sunset
“Waterloo Sunset” is a classic song by British rock band The Kinks, released in 1967. It’s a romantic ballad that describes the beauty of London at sunset, with references to two lovers meeting at Waterloo Station. The song’s poetic lyrics and Ray Davies’ heartfelt vocals, combined with the haunting melody and lush orchestration, create a dreamy and nostalgic atmosphere. “Waterloo Sunset” is widely regarded as one of The Kinks’ finest and most enduring songs, and it’s often cited as a masterpiece of British pop music.
3. Lola
“Lola” is a classic rock song by the English rock band The Kinks, released in 1970. The song tells the story of a young man who meets a transgender woman named Lola in a club in Soho, London. The catchy guitar riff and Ray Davies’ distinctive vocals make “Lola” an instantly recognizable and enduring hit. The lyrics were controversial for their time, as they openly addressed themes of gender and sexuality that were often considered taboo. Despite this, the song became a commercial success and has since been covered by numerous artists, cementing its place in music history.
4. Sunny Afternoon
“Sunny Afternoon” is a song by The Kinks that was released in 1966. The song is known for its distinctive and catchy melody, and its satirical lyrics about a wealthy man who is forced to deal with financial struggles. The song features a unique musical arrangement that combines elements of rock, pop, and music hall. The opening guitar riff and bassline are particularly memorable and have been covered and sampled by many artists over the years. “Sunny Afternoon” was a commercial success, reaching number one in the UK charts and becoming one of The Kinks’ most popular songs.
5. All Day and All of the Night
“All Day and All of the Night” is a classic song by the British rock band, The Kinks. Released in 1964, it is known for its powerful guitar riff and catchy melody. The song features lead singer Ray Davies’ distinctive vocals and was written by him along with the other members of the band. “All Day and All of the Night” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in both the UK and US charts. It has since become a rock and roll standard, covered by numerous artists and featured in several films and television shows. With its driving beat and memorable chorus, “All Day and All of the Night” remains one of The Kinks’ most popular and enduring songs.
6. A Well Respected Man
“A Well Respected Man” is a popular song by British rock band The Kinks, released in 1965. It was written by the band’s lead vocalist and guitarist, Ray Davies, and is notable for its catchy melody, witty lyrics, and distinctive harmonies. The song’s lyrics satirize the British class system and the social pressures to conform and fit in with the expectations of society. The catchy chorus, with its memorable repetition of the phrase “he’s a well-respected man about town,” has become one of The Kinks’ most recognizable and enduring hits. The song’s upbeat and jangly guitar riff, paired with Davies’ wry delivery, perfectly captures the British invasion sound of the mid-1960s.
7. Tired of Waiting for You
“Tired of Waiting for You” is a song by the English rock band The Kinks, released in 1965. The song’s catchy guitar riff and upbeat melody make it a classic example of the band’s distinctive sound. The lyrics express the frustration of waiting for someone who never seems to show up, and the chorus features a memorable sing-along section that has made it a fan favorite. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in the UK and the US, and remains a popular track in The Kinks’ discography.
8. Victoria
“Victoria” is a high-energy, guitar-driven rock song by British band The Kinks. The track was released in 1969, as part of their album “Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire).” “Victoria” is a satirical commentary on the British Empire and the lingering sense of superiority that came with it, particularly during the Victorian era. Ray Davies, the band’s lead vocalist and songwriter, mocks the British obsession with tradition and the past, singing about “the glory of the past when Britain stood alone” and “the rise and fall of the great British Empire.”
9. Days
“Days” is a melancholic and sentimental ballad by British rock band The Kinks, released in 1968 as a single from their album “The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society”. The song, written by lead vocalist Ray Davies, features a gentle acoustic guitar melody and emotional lyrics about the passing of time and the beauty of memories. Davies’ voice is tender and introspective, adding to the song’s nostalgic feel. “Days” is widely regarded as one of The Kinks’ greatest and most beloved songs, with its haunting melody and poignant lyrics capturing the essence of 1960s British pop music.
10. Dedicated Follower of Fashion
“Dedicated Follower of Fashion” is a hit single released by The Kinks in 1966. The song, written by lead vocalist Ray Davies, is a satirical commentary on the fashion-conscious culture of the time. The track features catchy lyrics, a driving rhythm, and a distinctive melody that has become synonymous with the band’s sound. The song’s success helped to establish The Kinks as one of the leading bands of the British Invasion and cemented their reputation for clever songwriting and incisive social commentary. “Dedicated Follower of Fashion” remains one of The Kinks’ most popular and enduring songs, and its message about the shallowness of fashion trends continues to resonate with audiences today.
Simon Robinson 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.
