Few artists have left as indelible a mark on the music world as Rod Stewart. With a voice that’s equal parts gravel and gold, Stewart has spent over five decades crafting hits that span genres—from heartfelt folk ballads to swaggering rock anthems and disco-infused chart-toppers. Whether he’s serenading us with stories of lost love or making us dance with infectious grooves, Rod’s ability to reinvent himself while staying true to his soulful roots is nothing short of legendary. His music has not only topped charts across the globe but has also become the soundtrack to countless lives, echoing through generations with timeless appeal.
In this article, we count down the Top 10 Most Popular Rod Stewart Songs of All Time—the tracks that defined his career, moved millions, and stood the test of time. From the early ’70s breakthroughs to the genre-bending hits of the ’80s and ’90s, each song on this list is a testament to his unmatched talent and enduring charisma. So turn up the volume, grab your favorite drink, and take a musical journey through the very best of Rod the Mod. These are the songs that made him a global icon—and still get stuck in our heads today.
1. “Maggie May” (1971)
Rod Stewart’s “Maggie May” isn’t just a hit—it’s a rite of passage wrapped in music. Released in 1971 on Every Picture Tells a Story, this track unexpectedly rose to stardom after being issued as the B-side to “Reason to Believe.” Yet it quickly stole the spotlight, thanks to its irresistible mandolin intro and Stewart’s raw, gravelly vocals. The song is a semi-autobiographical tale of a young man’s complicated relationship with an older woman. It captures that blurry line between youthful excitement and adult regret, and Stewart delivers it all with disarming honesty. What makes “Maggie May” even more unique is its structure: it doesn’t rely on a traditional chorus, yet it feels instantly familiar and deeply emotional. It shot to No. 1 on both the U.S. and U.K. charts, launching Stewart’s solo career into the mainstream. With its blend of folk, rock, and heartfelt storytelling, “Maggie May” not only defined Stewart’s voice but also became a definitive track of the early ’70s. It’s the kind of song that doesn’t just play—it lingers, reminding us of the bittersweet moments when we realize we’ve grown up, often too soon.
2. “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” (1978)
When Rod Stewart released “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” in 1978, he didn’t just turn heads—he spun them. Featured on the album Blondes Have More Fun, the track marked a daring departure from his rootsy rock sound and dove headfirst into the glitter and groove of the disco era. At the time, fans and critics were divided; some called it a sell-out, while others saw it as an evolution. Either way, the song’s catchy synth-driven hook, funky bassline, and cheeky, tongue-in-cheek lyrics made it irresistible on the dance floor. The song is as much a satire of the disco lifestyle as it is a full embrace of it, and Stewart played the part with theatrical flair. Despite the controversy, it rocketed to No. 1 in both the U.S. and U.K., proving Stewart’s uncanny knack for reinvention. Over the years, “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” has grown into a pop culture staple—campy, flashy, and unapologetically fun. Whether you dance to it or roll your eyes at it, there’s no denying its impact. It’s Rod Stewart at his most playful, pushing boundaries and proving that even rock legends can get down and dirty under a disco ball.
3. “Sailing” (1975)
“Sailing,” released in 1975 from the album Atlantic Crossing, is one of Rod Stewart’s most stirring and soulful ballads. Though originally written and performed by Gavin Sutherland of The Sutherland Brothers, Stewart transformed the song into a soaring anthem of longing, hope, and quiet resilience. With sweeping orchestration and his unmistakable raspy vocal delivery, Stewart infuses the track with emotional weight, turning a simple tune into something almost spiritual. In the U.K., the song struck a deep chord, spending four weeks at No. 1 and later becoming closely associated with the Royal Navy after it was featured in a BBC documentary. While its performance in the U.S. was more modest, “Sailing” has since become one of Stewart’s most beloved and frequently performed tracks. The song’s themes of journey, distance, and yearning resonate universally—whether taken literally or metaphorically. It isn’t just about crossing physical oceans; it’s about emotional voyages and the desire to return home, both literally and spiritually. “Sailing” stands out not for bombast, but for its gentle, heartfelt beauty. It’s a perfect example of how Stewart could slow things down and still command every inch of attention.
4. “Forever Young” (1988)
Released in 1988 on his Out of Order album, “Forever Young” is one of Rod Stewart’s most tender and heartfelt offerings. Inspired in part by Bob Dylan’s song of the same name—which earned Dylan a co-writing credit—Stewart’s version takes the theme of youth and hope and delivers it with a personal, almost paternal touch. The lyrics read like a prayer or a letter to a child, wishing for their happiness, safety, and unbroken spirit. Musically, the song is driven by a steady rhythm, melodic guitar lines, and an uplifting chorus that captures a sense of forward motion. Though it wasn’t a chart-topper, “Forever Young” quickly became a fan favorite, particularly for milestone moments like graduations and weddings. Stewart often includes it in live performances, and it remains one of his most enduring songs. There’s something timeless in its message, a reminder that no matter our age, the wish to protect and uplift those we love never fades. “Forever Young” showcases a softer, more reflective side of Stewart, proving that rock’s raspy bad boy had plenty of soul and sincerity beneath the surface.
5. “Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)” (1976)
“Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)” is one of Rod Stewart’s steamiest and most talked-about songs, released in 1976 on his album A Night on the Town. With its sensual lyrics, soft rock arrangement, and whispered French interlude spoken by actress Britt Ekland, Stewart’s then-girlfriend, the song oozes seduction. Its suggestive content stirred controversy, with some radio stations banning it for being too risqué, but none of that stopped its rise. It spent a remarkable eight weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of Stewart’s biggest U.S. hits. The song’s charm lies in its intimacy; Stewart sings not just to an audience but directly to a lover, creating a sense of closeness that was groundbreaking for mainstream rock at the time. “Tonight’s the Night” is a prime example of how Stewart could walk the fine line between smooth crooner and cheeky provocateur. It may have raised eyebrows in its day, but it also showed his gift for tapping into desire and vulnerability with equal ease. Even now, it stands as a sultry classic that helped define the sound—and the mood—of mid-‘70s pop rock.
6. “Have I Told You Lately” (1993)
Rod Stewart’s 1993 version of “Have I Told You Lately” breathes new life into Van Morrison’s 1989 original, transforming it into a deeply personal, emotionally charged love ballad. Recorded live for his Unplugged…and Seated album, Stewart strips away any studio polish to deliver a raw and heartfelt performance that highlights the song’s quiet power. With gentle piano, acoustic guitar, and a soft orchestral backdrop, his soulful interpretation turns this already tender song into something almost sacred. Stewart’s gravelly yet vulnerable voice lends the lyrics an added sincerity, making it feel less like a cover and more like a genuine declaration of love. The track resonated deeply with listeners and became a favorite at weddings, anniversaries, and intimate moments, earning him a Grammy nomination. More than just a romantic song, “Have I Told You Lately” is about expressing gratitude and affection in the most direct, unguarded way. In Stewart’s hands, it feels timeless. It’s a masterclass in emotional restraint—never overdone, never overstated, but always deeply felt. The song’s continued popularity is a testament to Stewart’s ability to take someone else’s words and infuse them with his own soul, making them unforgettable.
7. “You Wear It Well” (1972)
Released in 1972 on Never a Dull Moment, “You Wear It Well” captures Rod Stewart in peak storytelling form. Following the massive success of “Maggie May,” this track struck a similarly poignant chord, blending folk-rock instrumentation with heartfelt lyrics that unfold like a letter to a lost love. Stewart’s raspy, conversational vocals are full of wistful charm, reminiscing about a past relationship with both affection and melancholy. Musically, it features a rich arrangement of acoustic guitar, violin, and piano that gives the song a warm, lived-in feel. The lyrics are full of vivid imagery and clever lines, delivered with Stewart’s trademark swagger and vulnerability. “You Wear It Well” topped the U.K. charts and became another standout in Stewart’s early solo catalog, proving he wasn’t just a one-hit wonder riding the wave of “Maggie May.” Instead, it confirmed his gift for turning personal experiences into universally relatable songs. The tune balances regret and fondness in a way that feels deeply human. It’s the kind of song you return to years later and still find yourself smiling at how perfectly it captures the bittersweet ache of love remembered.
8. “The First Cut Is the Deepest” (1977)
Rod Stewart’s rendition of “The First Cut Is the Deepest,” released in 1977 as part of A Night on the Town, stands as one of the most emotive interpretations of Cat Stevens’ classic heartbreak song. Stewart trades in bombast for subtlety, letting his signature rasp carry the weight of the song’s sorrow. The lyrics speak to the pain of trying to love again after a profound emotional wound, and Stewart’s delivery feels genuine, never forced. The arrangement is lush but restrained, built around acoustic guitar and strings that gently swell behind the vocals, creating a tender atmosphere that enhances the emotional gravity. Though many artists have covered the song, Stewart’s version is one of the most enduring, striking a balance between polished production and emotional rawness. It charted well in both the U.S. and U.K., and has since become a staple on soft rock and classic hits radio. What makes his version so special is the feeling that he truly understands the heartbreak he’s singing about. “The First Cut Is the Deepest” isn’t just a sad song—it’s a shared experience, and Stewart delivers it like someone who’s lived it.
9. “Young Turks” (1981)
“Young Turks,” released in 1981 on Rod Stewart’s Tonight I’m Yours album, is a high-energy departure from his earlier folk and rock roots. Embracing the synth-driven sound of the ‘80s, the song tells the story of a young couple running away to chase love and freedom, embodying the spirit of rebellion and possibility. The title doesn’t appear in the lyrics but refers to youthful boldness and nonconformity. With its driving beat, bright keyboards, and Stewart’s urgent vocals, “Young Turks” captures the restless optimism of youth in a way that still feels fresh. It was a Top 5 hit in the U.S. and became a danceable favorite, showing Stewart’s ability to adapt to changing musical trends without losing his identity. Lyrically, it’s a celebration of independence and the courage to break away from convention. The track stands as a time capsule of early ‘80s pop-rock, with just the right blend of sentiment and rhythm. More than just a catchy tune, “Young Turks” is an anthem for anyone who’s ever dared to take a leap into the unknown. It’s Rod Stewart’s tribute to the dreamers—and it still inspires new ones today.
10. “Reason to Believe” (1971)
Though it was originally intended as the A-side to “Maggie May,” Rod Stewart’s rendition of “Reason to Believe,” from the Every Picture Tells a Story album, is far more than just a footnote. Written by Tim Hardin, the song is a delicate meditation on trust, betrayal, and the quiet resolve to keep hoping despite heartbreak. Stewart’s version is beautifully understated, with his raspy voice imbuing each line with a weary vulnerability that makes the song all the more poignant. Accompanied by gentle piano, violin, and acoustic guitar, the arrangement creates an atmosphere of introspection and emotional depth. Though it didn’t initially receive the spotlight it deserved, “Reason to Believe” has grown in stature over the years, often performed live as a powerful companion piece to “Maggie May.” Its enduring appeal lies in its subtlety—there’s no grand chorus or dramatic climax, just a simple, heartfelt expression of pain and perseverance. Stewart’s interpretation captures the bittersweet nature of human connection and the strange comfort of still wanting to believe in love, even when it hurts. It’s a quietly devastating gem in Stewart’s early catalog and a reminder of his storytelling prowess.
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.
