Rod Stewart is the ultimate rock ‘n’ roll showman—a voice that’s as raspy as it is soulful, a performer who can make you dance one moment and bring you to tears the next. With a career spanning over five decades, Stewart has gifted the world with anthems of love, heartbreak, rebellion, and celebration. From his early days as a scruffy folk-rock troubadour to his glamorous foray into disco and his timeless ballads, Rod Stewart’s music has transcended genres and generations. His songs are a soundtrack to life itself, blending raw emotion, unforgettable melodies, and that unmistakable swagger.
In this article, we’re taking a deep dive into the top 10 most popular Rod Stewart songs of all time. These tracks aren’t just hits; they’re cultural milestones that have stood the test of time. Whether it’s the heartbreak of “Maggie May”, the hopeful nostalgia of “Forever Young”, or the dance-floor energy of “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?”, each song tells a story that resonates with audiences around the globe. So, let’s turn up the volume, take a stroll through Stewart’s legendary discography, and celebrate the songs that made him a rock icon and a master storyteller.
1. “Maggie May” (1971)
Rod Stewart’s breakthrough hit, “Maggie May,” is a timeless anthem of youthful rebellion, love, and regret. Released in 1971 as part of Every Picture Tells a Story, this semi-autobiographical track tells the story of a young man caught in a complicated romance with an older woman. Its blend of folk-rock and blues, combined with Stewart’s raspy, heartfelt vocals, gives the song an unmistakable charm. The jangly mandolin outro, played by Ray Jackson, adds a unique texture that sets it apart. Originally considered a B-side, the song quickly gained momentum, topping charts worldwide. Its conversational lyrics make it feel deeply personal, as if Stewart is sharing a private confession with the listener. Decades later, “Maggie May” remains one of Stewart’s most beloved songs, embodying the restless spirit of youth and the lessons of love gained along the way.
2. “Sailing” (1975)
One of Rod Stewart’s most emotional and enduring ballads, “Sailing” was released in 1975 on Atlantic Crossing. Originally written by the Sutherland Brothers, Stewart transformed it into a soaring, deeply moving anthem about longing, freedom, and the search for solace. His impassioned vocals, combined with the song’s swelling orchestration, create a sense of vastness—like drifting across an endless sea. While it wasn’t as big in the U.S., “Sailing” became a massive hit in the UK, where it took on deeper meaning over time, often associated with themes of perseverance and homecoming. Its emotional depth and universal message have cemented it as one of Stewart’s most cherished performances, evoking feelings of both melancholy and hope with every note.
3. “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” (1978)
With “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?”, Rod Stewart fully embraced the disco era, delivering an infectious groove that dominated dance floors in the late ’70s. Featured on Blondes Have More Fun (1978), the song’s pulsating beat, funky bassline, and playful lyrics made it an instant party anthem. Some critics questioned Stewart’s shift from rock to disco, but fans embraced it wholeheartedly, sending the song to the top of the charts. Beyond its flirtatious charm, “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” showcased Stewart’s willingness to evolve with the times while keeping his signature charisma intact. Even today, the track remains a nostalgic favorite, a high-energy staple in pop culture, and a reminder of Stewart’s undeniable ability to entertain.
4. “You Wear It Well” (1972)
Following the success of “Maggie May”, Stewart released “You Wear It Well” in 1972 as part of Never a Dull Moment. A folk-rock gem, the song tells the tale of a man reflecting on a past love, balancing nostalgia, regret, and admiration in equal measure. Its lively rhythm and heartfelt lyrics, paired with Stewart’s raw, emotive delivery, make it one of his most touching ballads. The song’s vivid storytelling and clever wordplay highlight Stewart’s gift for narrative-driven songwriting. “You Wear It Well” became a fan favorite, proving that Stewart wasn’t a one-hit wonder but a true storyteller with a voice that could bring life to any song.
5. “Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)” (1976)
Few songs capture romance and seduction quite like “Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)”, released in 1976 on A Night on the Town. With its slow, sultry melody and whispered lyrics, the track oozes intimacy. It was an instant success, spending eight weeks at the top of the U.S. charts, making it one of Stewart’s biggest hits. While the song’s sensual tone sparked some controversy upon release, its smooth delivery and heartfelt sentiment won over listeners. Over time, “Tonight’s the Night” has become a classic love song, a testament to Stewart’s ability to balance vulnerability with confidence, making romance sound both exciting and effortless.
6. “Forever Young” (1988)
Inspired by Bob Dylan’s song of the same name, “Forever Young” was released in 1988 on Out of Order and quickly became one of Stewart’s most heartfelt anthems. Written as a tribute to his children, the song radiates warmth, wisdom, and unconditional love. Its uplifting lyrics and soaring melody make it a standout in Stewart’s catalog, offering a message of encouragement and hope to future generations. Stewart himself has called “Forever Young” one of his proudest songwriting moments. The song’s blend of rock and folk influences gives it a timeless quality, making it a cherished favorite among fans.
7. “The First Cut Is the Deepest” (1976)
Originally written by Cat Stevens, “The First Cut Is the Deepest” was reimagined by Rod Stewart in 1976 for A Night on the Town. Stewart’s version turns the song into an emotionally charged ballad about heartbreak and the lingering pain of lost love. His soulful, raspy voice adds a raw vulnerability, making it one of the most poignant renditions of the song. The acoustic arrangement keeps things simple yet powerful, allowing the lyrics to take center stage. Over the years, “The First Cut Is the Deepest” has remained a staple of Stewart’s live performances and a fan favorite for its universal themes of love and loss.
8. “Young Turks” (1981)
A high-energy anthem of youthful rebellion, “Young Turks” was released in 1981 on Tonight I’m Yours. Driven by pulsating synths and a relentless beat, the song tells the story of two young lovers determined to carve out their own future. Its infectious melody and optimistic lyrics perfectly capture the spirit of the early ’80s, marking a shift in Stewart’s sound as he embraced the new wave movement. “Young Turks” remains one of Stewart’s most electrifying tracks, a song that still resonates with those chasing dreams and defying expectations.
9. “Reason to Believe” (1971)
Originally released as the B-side to “Maggie May”, “Reason to Believe” became a standout track on Every Picture Tells a Story. A deeply introspective ballad, it explores themes of trust, disillusionment, and the lingering hope that love might not be lost. Stewart’s raspy, soulful vocals give the song an aching sincerity, making it one of his most moving performances. The stripped-down arrangement allows the raw emotion in his voice to shine, leaving listeners with a song that feels deeply personal and universally relatable.
10. “Have I Told You Lately” (1993)
Rod Stewart’s 1993 live rendition of “Have I Told You Lately”, originally written by Van Morrison, is one of his most touching performances. Featured on his Unplugged…and Seated album, Stewart’s version transforms the song into a tender, deeply emotional ballad. With its warm acoustic arrangement and heartfelt lyrics, the track became a wedding favorite and a romantic classic. Stewart’s sincere, soulful delivery adds an extra layer of depth, turning “Have I Told You Lately” into one of his most beloved love songs, celebrated by fans around the world.
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.
