With a raspy voice that’s instantly recognizable and a swagger that’s defined decades of rock ‘n’ roll, Rod Stewart is nothing short of a living legend. From his early days with The Faces to his globe-conquering solo career, Stewart has delivered hit after hit, blending rock, soul, pop, and even a touch of folk into a sound that’s uniquely his own. His songs are anthems of love, rebellion, heartbreak, and celebration—stories told with grit, charm, and undeniable charisma. Whether he’s belting out a power ballad or grooving through a dancefloor-ready hit, Rod connects with audiences in a way few artists ever have. This list of the top 10 most popular Rod Stewart songs of all time takes you on a thrilling journey through his most iconic and beloved tracks. These are the songs that made generations sing along, slow dance, and roll down the windows just to crank up the volume. From heartfelt classics like “Sailing” to the irresistible energy of “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?”, each tune is a testament to Stewart’s enduring appeal and musical brilliance. So grab your mic, strike a pose, and get ready to rock—because Rod’s greatest hits are calling.
1. “Young Turks” (1981)
“Young Turks” brought a fresh, new wave-inspired sound to Rod Stewart’s catalog when it was released in 1981 on Tonight I’m Yours. With its pulsating synthesizers, upbeat tempo, and rebellious spirit, the song captures the excitement and uncertainty of young love. The lyrics tell the story of two young lovers who run away to chase their dreams, embodying the restless energy of youth. The track’s driving rhythm and anthemic chorus made it a radio favorite, showcasing Stewart’s ability to evolve with the times while maintaining his distinctive style. Decades later, “Young Turks” still resonates as an electrifying anthem of youthful freedom.
2. “Reason to Believe” (1971)
Another standout from Every Picture Tells a Story, “Reason to Believe” is a tender ballad that explores themes of heartbreak and resilience. Originally written by Tim Hardin, Stewart’s version features a hauntingly beautiful piano arrangement and one of his most moving vocal performances. The song’s bittersweet lyrics and introspective tone made it a fan favorite, and it was later re-released as a successful single in the early ’90s. The stripped-down production allows Stewart’s voice to take center stage, highlighting the emotional weight of the lyrics. “Reason to Believe” remains a deeply affecting song that continues to resonate with listeners.
3. “Some Guys Have All the Luck” (1984)
Rod Stewart put his signature stamp on “Some Guys Have All the Luck” in 1984, transforming Robert Palmer’s original into a vibrant, playful pop-rock hit. Featured on the album Camouflage, Stewart’s version is filled with slick production, catchy hooks, and an upbeat energy that makes it irresistible. The song humorously laments the fortunes of men who seem to have everything go their way, making it both relatable and fun. With its infectious melody and Stewart’s charismatic performance, “Some Guys Have All the Luck” quickly became a fan favorite and a staple in his live shows. Even today, it remains a joyful and lively addition to his extensive catalog.
4. “Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)” (1976)
Rod Stewart turned up the romance with “Tonight’s the Night”, a sultry ballad from his 1976 album A Night on the Town. With its whispery, seductive delivery and smooth instrumentation, the song created an intimate atmosphere that resonated with listeners. Despite some controversy over its suggestive lyrics, it became a massive hit, spending weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard charts. The song’s soft, sensual melody and Stewart’s effortless charm made it one of the most memorable love songs of the era. Even today, it remains a classic for slow dances and romantic moments.
5. “The First Cut Is the Deepest” (1977)
Originally written by Cat Stevens in 1967, “The First Cut Is the Deepest” was reimagined by Rod Stewart in 1977 as a soulful, country-tinged ballad. Featured on A Night on the Town, Stewart’s version captures the deep heartache and vulnerability of lost love. His impassioned vocal delivery and the song’s poignant lyrics struck a chord with audiences, making it one of his most beloved renditions. The track’s rich arrangement, blending acoustic guitar and warm harmonies, enhances its emotional depth. Stewart’s take on the song remains one of the most recognized and celebrated versions to date.
6. “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” (1978)
Rod Stewart fully embraced the disco era with his 1978 hit “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” from the album Blondes Have More Fun. With its infectious groove, synth-heavy production, and flirtatious lyrics, the song became a massive success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. While some rock purists criticized Stewart for straying from his folk-rock roots, the song showcased his ability to adapt and evolve with changing musical trends. Its playful energy and danceable beat turned it into an anthem of the late ’70s club scene. Over the years, it has remained a party favorite, proving that Stewart’s charisma and showmanship translate across genres and generations.
7. “Have I Told You Lately” (1991)
Originally written and recorded by Van Morrison in 1989, Rod Stewart’s 1991 rendition of “Have I Told You Lately” breathed new life into the romantic ballad. Featured on his live album Unplugged…and Seated, Stewart’s stripped-down acoustic version enhances the song’s warmth and sincerity. His raspy, soulful vocals add an extra layer of emotion, making it a go-to choice for weddings and anniversaries. The intimate arrangement, featuring soft piano and gentle guitar, allows the song’s message of love and gratitude to take center stage. Stewart’s heartfelt interpretation turned this already beautiful song into one of his most memorable covers.
8. “You Wear It Well” (1972)
Following the success of “Maggie May”, Stewart continued his streak of folk-rock brilliance with “You Wear It Well” from the 1972 album Never a Dull Moment. The song tells the story of a man reflecting on a past love with a mix of nostalgia and longing. Featuring a dynamic blend of violin, acoustic guitar, and Stewart’s expressive vocals, the track carries an irresistible energy. Though it didn’t achieve the same level of fame as “Maggie May”, “You Wear It Well” remains one of Stewart’s finest works, showcasing his ability to combine vivid storytelling with compelling melodies.
9. “Maggie May” (1971)
Rod Stewart’s “Maggie May” is a timeless classic that helped define the sound of the early 1970s. Released on the album Every Picture Tells a Story, this folk-rock masterpiece tells the poignant tale of a young man’s complicated romance with an older woman. The song’s distinctive mandolin intro, paired with Stewart’s signature raspy vocals, creates a raw and emotional listening experience. What makes “Maggie May” truly special is its unconventional storytelling—blurring the lines between love, regret, and youthful rebellion. Originally considered a B-side, the track became an unexpected hit, soaring to No. 1 on both the U.S. and U.K. charts. Decades later, it remains one of Stewart’s most beloved songs, resonating across generations.
10. “Forever Young” (1988)
“Forever Young” is one of Rod Stewart’s most heartfelt and inspiring songs, capturing the universal emotions of love, hope, and encouragement. Featured on his 1988 album Out of Order, the song was inspired by Bob Dylan’s track of the same name, though Stewart crafted his own uplifting version. With its anthemic chorus and heartfelt lyrics, “Forever Young” has become an enduring favorite at graduations, weddings, and milestone celebrations. Though it wasn’t a chart-topping hit upon release, its emotional weight and timeless message have solidified its place as one of Stewart’s most cherished songs. The track’s soaring instrumentation and Stewart’s passionate vocals make it a moving tribute to the journey of life.
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.
