There’s something special about a song that everybody knows.
It becomes almost like a national anthem, unifying people from all walks of life.
These 20 songs are some of the most well-known in the world, and for good reason.
They’re catchy, timeless, and just downright enjoyable to listen to.
Whether you’re driving in your car or out at a bar with friends, these tunes are sure to get everyone singing along.
So put on your dancing shoes and get ready to have some fun!
By the way, if you’re searching for songs that everybody knows, you may also like some of our other playlists, like songs about houston, songs about magic, songs about music and singing, songs about piano, and songs about schools.Bohemian Rhapsody – Queen
Bohemian Rhapsody is one of the most iconic songs of all time.
With its complex, multi-part structure and blend of styles, from hard rock to opera, the song is a true musical masterpiece.
What’s more, it was also a major success on the charts, topping charts across the globe and reaching Number One in several countries at once.
Written by Freddie Mercury and released by Queen in 1975, Bohemian Rhapsody has become one of the defining songs of an entire generation.
And for good reason: its range and creativity set it apart from all other music of its time, and it’s a powerful reminder that even within popular music, anything is possible.
So if you’re looking for a song that truly redefines what music can be, look no further than Bohemian Rhapsody.
This hauntingly beautiful classic will stay with you forever.
Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey
Don’t Stop Believin’ is one of the most iconic songs in pop music history.
Released by the band Journey in 1981, it became an instant hit, charting at number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remaining in the top 10 for 10 weeks.
The song was a true game changer, introducing many new elements to the sound of popular music at that time, from flashy guitar solos to rhythmically complex piano riffs.
And despite its enduring popularity over the last few decades, Don’t Stop Believin’ still retains its fresh and energetic feel, with lyrics that encourage listeners not to give up on their dreams.
Whether you’re an old school fan or someone just discovering Journey’s classic tune, Don’t Stop Believin’ will always be a timeless masterpiece that never stops inspiring us all.
We are the Champions – Queen
We are the Champions is a classic rock anthem that has captured the hearts and minds of music fans around the world.
The song was written and recorded by British rock band Queen in 1977, and since then it has come to symbolize the sheer energy and bold spirit of rock music.
Whether you’re belting out the driving melodies as you pump your fist in the air at a concert, or just humming along to the catchy harmonies as your windows roll down on a sunny day,
We are the Champions captures an essence of optimism and triumph that is truly inspiring.
So if you love rock music and you want to feel invincible, be sure to press play on this legendary track whenever you need a dose of unbeatable confidence!
Africa – Toto
Africa by Toto is a classic song about one of the most beautiful and intriguing places on Earth.
With soaring vocals and infectious rhythms, this timeless hit captures the beauty and wonder of the African landscape.
From sprawling savannas to majestic waterfalls to brilliant stars against a dark night sky, this beloved song invites listeners on a magical journey to Africa.
Whether you are exploring it in person or simply reminiscing about past trips, this upbeat anthem will evoke feelings of happiness and awe for years to come.
So if you’re looking for a musical escape to Africa, look no further than Africa by Toto!
I Will Always Love You – Whitney Houston
The song “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston is one of the most popular and beloved love songs of all time.
The song was written and originally recorded by Dolly Parton, and it was later made famous by Houston when she released it as a single from her 1992 album The Bodyguard.
The romantic lyrics and famous vocal melodies combine to make this song a true masterpiece; its power to move and inspire has captivated millions of people over the years.
Whether it’s sung at a wedding or played during an intimate moment, “I Will Always Love You” will always be a beautiful expression of love that transcends time and space.
And for that reason, this song will always hold a special place in our hearts.
The Sign – Ace of Base
The song “The Sign” was released in 1993 by the band Ace of Base, and it quickly became one of the most popular songs of that decade.
With its incredibly catchy chorus and instantly recognizable melody, this beloved pop song has stood the test of time and remains one of the most recognizable and enduring pieces of music from that era.
The lyrics are simple yet meaningful, touching on themes such as love, friendship, and self-confidence, making “The Sign” a perfect pick-me-up when you’re feeling down or need a burst of inspiration.
Whatever your mood or situation may be, this iconic song is sure to put a spring in your step and make you feel like anything is possible.
Smooth Criminal – Michael Jackson
Smooth Criminal is one of Michael Jackson’s greatest hits, and it has become a true pop classic over the years.
This immensely catchy song features an upbeat tempo and an infectious melody, making it impossible to resist dancing along or singing along.
Although the lyrics themselves are a bit mysterious and ambiguous, Smooth Criminal is widely recognized as a misunderstood hero who takes justice into his own hands, fighting against domestic abuse and other injustices in society.
In addition to its powerful message about social justice, Smooth Criminal also showcases Jackson’s unique musical style, incorporating elements of funk and rock into his signature dance-pop sound.
Stairway to Heaven – Led Zeppelin
Stairway to Heaven is perhaps one of the most iconic songs in all of rock music.
This classic tune, written by Led Zeppelin frontman Robert Plant and guitarist Jimmy Page, has been covered by countless artists over the years and remains one of the band’s best-loved songs.
The song itself is a masterpiece of classic rock, combining elements of blues, folk, and metal with a driving rhythm section and soaring guitar melodies.
The song gradually builds up from a simple acoustic ballad to an epic climax full of heavier riffs and bombastic power chords.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Led Zeppelin, Stairway to Heaven is an essential track that should be familiar to anyone with even the slightest interest in classic rock.
My Heart Will Go On – Celine Dion
My Heart Will Go On is without a doubt one of the most successful songs in modern music history.
Written by legendary composer/lyricist duo Will Jennings and James Horner, this sweeping ballad has been hailed as a timeless classic and is still as popular today as it was when it first came out over 20 years ago.
The song’s lyrics evoke themes of love and loss, while the soaring melody and powerful vocals strike a deep emotional chord with listeners of all ages.
Inspired by the tragic story of the sinking of the Titanic back in 1912, My Heart Will Go On perfectly captures both the devastating impact of tragedy and the unbreakable human spirit that endures through it all.
Whether you are listening to this moving ballad for the first time or singing along to its beloved chorus once again, there is no doubt that My Heart Will Go On will always be close to our hearts.
Sweet Child O’ Mine – Guns N’ Roses
Sweet Child O’ Mine is one of the widely recognized songs in all of rock music.
With its iconic intro, epic guitar solos, and addictively catchy chorus, the song has become a staple of rock radio.
The lyrics tell the story of a young couple’s relationship from their first meeting to their final breakup, painting a heartfelt portrait of young love.
The song has been covered countless times by artists across many different genres and remains an enduring testament to its timeless quality and universal appeal.
So whether you’re an old-school fan or a new listener just discovering this groundbreaking track, Sweet Child O’ Mine is sure to leave you humming along long after it finishes playing.
The Final Countdown – Europe
Released in 1986, The Final Countdown by Europe was one of the first songs to truly capture the spirit of the 80s.
With its huge synth melodies and anthemic chorus, this song perfectly captured the energy and rebelliousness of that decade.
It was a huge hit upon its release, quickly climbing charts around the world, all while as becoming a staple on radio stations all over the globe.
Today, The Final Countdown remains just as iconic as it was over 30 years ago; it is regularly featured in TV shows, commercials, and video games, and is still beloved by fans everywhere.
Whether you’re looking for a nostalgia trip or simply want to relive your favorite decade, you’ll love listening to this timeless classic!
Let It Be – The Beatles
Let It Be is without a doubt, one of the most beloved songs in music history.
Written by Paul McCartney, this beautiful track has become an enduring classic, cherished by music fans around the world.
Part of what makes Let It Be so memorable is its simple and relatable lyrics – McCartney conveys universal feelings of peace, comfort, and acceptance through his words.
But perhaps even more important than the lyrics are the hauntingly beautiful melodies that accompany them.
With its simple three-chord progression and gorgeous harmonies, Let It Be perfectly captures the spirit of The Beatles and their unique sound.
Whether you’re new to The Beatles or a long-time fan, this iconic song will always have a special place in your heart.
Never going out of style, Let It Be is truly timeless.
Imagine – John Lennon
Imagine is widely recognized as one of the most important and influential songs of the 20th century.
With its poignant lyrics and simple melody, it tells the story of a world filled with peace and love. John Lennon, the song’s author and performer, was known for his pacifist beliefs and his commitment to promoting global harmony.
He often spoke out against war and social inequality, drawing on his own experiences as an immigrant in the United States to highlight these issues.
As such, the message of Imagine resonates with countless people from all walks of life.
Whether you are young or old, rich or poor, this song speaks to our common humanity and encourages us to envision a brighter future for all mankind.
In that sense, it truly is a masterwork that will continue speaking to people for generations to come.
Hotel California – The Eagles
Hotel California is one of the most well known songs in rock history, and is the Eagles biggest hit from their entire back catalog.
The song tells the story of a group of weary travelers who check into a mysterious hotel that they will never be able to leave.
Many people have interpreted the lyrics as symbolic of addiction, depression, or some other form of psychological captivity, but no one knows for sure what exactly inspired the song.
Some fans have noted that the song was written around the time when The Eagles were living in a luxury hotel called Beverly Hills Hotel, and others believe that it reflects singer Don Henley’s feelings about fame and success.
Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd
Sweet Home Alabama was written and recorded by the southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd, and it is widely regarded as one of the greatest examples of their unique musical style.
The track was released in 1974, amid rising tensions between the northern and southern states in America, and it quickly became a hit among southern listeners.
Despite its title, the song is not actually about Alabama – it was actually written as a response to Neil Young’s song, “Southern Man,” which criticized racism and segregation in the American South.
With its catchy melody and upbeat sound, Sweet Home Alabama quickly became one of the band’s biggest hits, propelling Lynyrd Skynyrd to stardom.
The lyrics are a blend of celebration and satire, praising the beauty of southern towns while poking fun at their down-home stereotypes.
Over the years, Sweet Home Alabama has become a familiar tune for countless music lovers around the world, cementing its legacy as one of the great classics of rock ‘n’ roll.
American Pie – Don McLean
Written and recorded by Don McLean, American Pie was released in 1971 and went on to become a massive success around the world.
The popularity of the song can be attributed to several factors: its catchy melody, its meaningful lyrics, and the cultural commentary it provided at a pivotal moment in history.
The song tells the story of the increasingly turbulent ’60s, paying particular attention to the tragic deaths of Buddy Holly and other famous musicians.
But it also reflects on larger themes such as love, loss, and change over time.
Whether you’re a fan of American Pie or simply enjoy timeless music from bygone eras, this enduring classic is sure to capture your imagination.
So sit back, relax, and take a trip down memory lane with American Pie!
Unchained Melody – The Righteous Brothers
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Unchained Melody was a 1965 smash hit for The Righteous Brothers, loaded with emotional vocals and sweeping instrumental arrangement.
This song has captured the hearts and imaginations of listeners around the world for more than 50 years.
The song was originally released as a single in 1965 by The Righteous Brothers, and it quickly shot to the top of the charts, staying there for a number of weeks.
It had a second wind of popularity due to its use in the soundtrack of the 1986 blockbuster, Top Gun.
Today, Unchained Melody remains one of the best-known songs in all of pop music, thanks to its timeless appeal and haunting beauty.
At once soulful and uplifting, it is an absolute must-listen for any music lover.
Smells Like Teen Spirit – Nirvana
Smells Like Teen Spirit is one of the most well recognized songs in the history of rock music.
This highly influential track was released by the band Nirvana in 1991, at a time when grunge was at the peak of its popularity.
With its hard-hitting guitars and guttural vocals, Smells Like Teen Spirit set the bar high for rock music, ushering in a new era of alternative sounds that have shaped popular music to this day.
The song’s title itself has become legendary in its own right, with many musicians and fans citing it as a major influence on their own work.
As such, Smells Like Teen Spirit stands as not only a groundbreaking achievement for Nirvana and grunge music at large, but also as a vital piece of rock history that continues to captivate listeners from all walks of life.
Girls Just Want to Have Fun – Cindi Lauper
Girls Just Wanna Have Fun is a classic pop anthem that is beloved by many generations of music fans.
The song was released in 1983 by American singer-songwriter Cindi Lauper, and it quickly became a huge hit.
Featuring upbeat lyrics and an infectiously catchy melody, Girls Just Wanna Have Fun is the ultimate “feel good” song, with its message of female empowerment resonating with listeners around the world.
Since its release, the song has become a staple of both radio playlists and karaoke sessions, and it regularly tops all-time lists for best chick-centric tunes.
Whether you’re setting off for a night out on the town or getting ready to belt out your favorite track at karaoke night, Girls Just Wanna Have Fun is guaranteed to get your heart pumping and put you in a great mood!
Old Time Rock n Roll – Bob Seger
Old Time Rock n Roll by Bob Seager is truly a legendary track, and served as the feature on the soundtrack of ‘80s classic, Risky Business.
This rousing track was released in 1978 and has since become a timeless anthem for rock fans around the world.
With its pounding beats and driving guitar melodies, Old Time Rock n Roll perfectly encapsulates the energy and power of rock ‘n’ roll music at its best.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or an avid newcomer, this track is guaranteed to get your blood pumping and leave you wanting more.
So hit play, turn up the volume, and get ready to dance the night away with Old Time Rock n Roll!
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