Top 50 Throwback Songs of All Time

Here, we’re celebrating songs that hit the charts and still stick in your head. Each single is preceded by its chart performance (e.g., peak position) as well as background info. We’ve got popular songs from every genre as well as every decade. Most were number-one singles — many others hit #1 on charts like the Billboard Hot 100 that are relevant. The songs are indexed as just in descending order of popularity. You’ll see pop, rock, R&B, disco, etc., all classic anthems that we all sing along to. Take in these vintage sounds as well as their great chart success.

Billie Jean by Michael Jackson

This killer groove from MJ’s Thriller album topped the charts in 1983. “Billie Jean” spent seven weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became one of Michael Jackson’s signature tunes. Its hook-laden bassline made it a dance floor hit, and decades later it’s still a pop standard.

Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen

Queen’s genre-bending anthem pioneered something unique in 1975. Initially, it hit as high as #9 on the U.S. charts, then its power didn’t subside. After another release (thanks to Wayne’s World), the song hit as high as #2, solidifying the spot. From operatic sections to rock riffs, “Bohemian Rhapsody” was a timeless hit. It’s widely called one of all time’s greatest songs, thanks to Freddie Mercury’s dramatic vocals and the band’s experimental nature.

Imagine by John Lennon

Lennon’s uplifting ballad was worldwide. Released in 1971, Imagine reached #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number one in most nations. Its minimalist piano theme and message of peace have allowed the song to become a perennial anthem. Long after the breakup of The Beatles, Lennon’s solo work like “Imagine” proved that his knack for sentimental, topping-the-charts tunes was still in working order.

Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey

This 1981 rock anthem was among Journey’s all-time anthems. The song hit the top 10 on the Hot 100, to number 9. Over the years, the song became a singalong hit – you can find it in sporting events as in karaoke bars. With soaring vocals as with this hook-laden guitar riff, this song’s popularity stretched far beyond time spent on charts.

Hotel California by Eagles

Eagles’ classic from 1977 climbed to #1 on the Hot 100. Its chilling guitar melody and storytelling lyrics formed for epochal success. All are inclined to interpret their own meaning into its foretelling lyrics, though all agree that it’s a great rocker. “Hotel California” also is characterized by its celebrated guitar solo and capturing the spirit of California’s 1970s lifestyle.

I Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston

Whitney’s version of Dolly Parton’s song in 1992 was a hit. November 28, 1992 marked the day when it became #1 in the Hot 100 and stayed in that position for 14 weeks, setting the first-ever record. Powerful vocals from her transformed this ballad into one of the all-time best-selling singles. We know this dramatic build-up song with Whitney’s powerful high notes as one classic emotional number from The Bodyguard soundtrack.

Sweet Child o’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses

This power ballad from 1988 was GNR’s first huge success, topping the Hot 100. Axl’s impassioned lyrics and Slash’s signature opening riff made the song stand out. This was the band’s sole #1 hit in the U.S., demonstrating how large this hit was. To this day, the chorus and power solo are recognizable, bringing “Sweet Child o’ Mine” to life as the ultimate hard-rock anthem that embodies late-’80s hard rock.

Beat It by Michael Jackson

From the 1983 Thriller album, “Beat It” mixed pop and rock to become another blockbuster hit. The song hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in late April in 1983. Featuring Eddie Van Halen’s distinctive solo on the guitar, the song made a statement about violence in characteristic Michael Jackson fashion. A hard-sounding track that showcased MJ’s versatility, the song remains one among the hit 80s anthems.

When Doves Cry by Prince and the Revolution

Prince’s 1984 song became his first American #1 hit. Interestingly, it doesn’t have any bass line – all very bold, still memorable. The song topped pop as well as R&B charts (even #1 on R&B) due to the funk-infused beat as well as Prince’s emotional vocals. The song topped the Hot 100 charts for several weeks, making “When Doves Cry” one of the most groundbreaking as well as memorable tunes from the 80s.

Eye of the Tiger by Survivor

This Rocky III theme song is an ’80s staple. Released in 1982, it hit #1 on the Hot 100 and stayed there from late July through early September. Its driving guitar riff and motivational lyrics about rising up made it an instant pump-up classic. Even today, “Eye of the Tiger” is synonymous with determination and still fires up listeners whether they’re at the gym or getting ready for a challenge.

Jack & Diane by John Cougar (Mellencamp)

A heartland rock classic from the early ’80s, this was the Hot 100’s #1 from October 2 to 29, 1982. Its narrative lyrics concerning young love evolved from John Mellencamp’s heartland beginnings. Its hooky chorus and melody (refrain: “life goes on…”) appealed to listeners. Its best-known song, this demonstrated Mellencamp’s marriage of rock power to American themes that resonated.

Another Day in Paradise by Phil Collins

Phil Collins’ powerful 1989 ballad became a #1 hit single and held number one on the Hot 100 for four weeks. Its lyrics about homelessness from a pop artist were unexpected, thus giving it credibility to stand behind. Its smooth vocal from Collins and emotional melody transpired to bigtime pop and Adult Contemporary hit single. It is still one of Collins’ all-time solo singles as well as one of the great emotional ballads from the 90s.

Livin’ on a Prayer by Bon Jovi

The ultimate sing-your-lyrics-with-us hit from 1986 by Bon Jovi also became number one (#1, their second in a row). The recording is celebrated for the talk box pedal steel sound and soaring chorus vocals from Jon Bon Jovi. The recording hit number one on the Hot 100 as their signature tune. Long after decades gone by, “Livin’ on a Prayer” is still the fan fave in the stadium that carries the positive, working class spirit in their lyrics.

Dancing Queen by ABBA

This became ABBA’s sole 1977 U.S. #1. Its unavoidable beat and bright vocals from Agnetha and Frida enabled this to become the trend-setting dance floor hit. “Dancing Queen” was enormous worldwide, and this success in the U.S. (#1 after slowly ascending all summer) is indicative of how much this appealed to broad-based demographics. To this day, this is one of the most popular ABBA songs and one that is most identified with the age of the disco.

Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright) by Rod Stewart

This 1976 ballad spent eight weeks at #1 on the Hot 100, one of the longest in the decade. Its sentimental, romantic mood (including breathy background vocals) made this compulsively popular. Rod Stewart’s second solo to reach #1. To this day, years later, this is remembered for its smooth, sexy style and for placing Stewart’s raspy voice in the ideal position.

Maggie May by Rod Stewart

Rod Stewart’s great big hit came in 1971 and soared to their first-ever #1 on the Hot 100. A rocker-song tale, this is all about the summer romance between this young guy and this older woman named Maggie. The catchy mandolin hook and raw-throated vocals from Stewart appeared to captivate listeners. Rod Stewart’s signature tune became that EPIC hit from early ’70s radio rock legend that brought him into stardom in the good ol’ US of A.

Bette Davis Eyes by Kim Carnes

This 1981 pop-rock hit topped the Hot 100 for nine weeks, one of the year’s hottest songs. A raspy vocal by Kim Carnes provided bite to the hook-infused melody and lyrics about a mysterious, elusive female. It took Record of the Year honors at the Grammy Awards too. “Bette Davis Eyes” characterized the new wave sound of the early ’80s and remains Kim Carnes’ signature song.

Hey Jude by The Beatles

One of The Beatles’ all-time classics, “Hey Jude” was released in 1968 and instantly became a #1 hit. It spent two months at the top of the charts, making it the Beatles’ longest-running Hot 100 #1. Its sing-along “na-na-na” chorus and Paul McCartney’s heartfelt vocals have made it a universal anthem. Even without a modern citation above, its status as a chart-topping hit and lasting popularity are legendary.

Let It Be by The Beatles

The final studio album’s title track became in 1970 a #1 single. Its gospel-influenced piano, reassuring message, and soothing vocals by Paul McCartney, as well as the uplifting chorus line (“Let it be, let it be…”), made this song a worldwide beacon of hope in the time of the Beatles’ breakup. The song rapidly topped charts across as well as across the Atlantic Ocean, sealing its position among the band’s all-time greats.

The Twist by Chubby Checker

Made popular in 1960, this hit became a dance craze. The recording climbed to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in that September and then in 1962 (after another popularity boost). Chubby Checker is thus the only recording artist to have the same recording reach #1 in two separate years. Its easy “twist” dancing motions and memorable beat worked to produce an all-time dance-floor classic that defined early rock ‘n’ fun.

Smooth by Santana ft. Rob Thomas

From 1999, “Smooth” is a Latin-rock track that became Carlos Santana’s biggest hit. It held the #1 spot on the Hot 100 for 12 weeks (passing #11 the previous year and into 2000). Rob Thomas’s vocals and Santana’s signature guitar riff gave it mainstream appeal. This retro-sounding, upbeat tune won multiple Grammys and proved that Santana could top the charts across generations.

Mack the Knife by Bobby Darin

Released in 1959 by Bobby Darin, this classic rendition of this catch-all jazz standard was the first version to hit number 1 on the Hot 100 in 1960. Its upbeat, carefree sound (singing about this crime boss character) made the recording very popular. Darin even won Record of the Year for it. It’s remembered as one of the most popular and fun versions of “Mack the Knife,” and as kicking off Darin’s career as a pop legend.

We Are the Champions by Queen

A 1977 single that became the anthem of the band Queen. It topped the charts in most countries, including the UK among others. Back home in the States, it reached #4 on the Hot 100 (not #1, though very popular). Its anthemic chorus gained popularity in sporting events. Next to “We Will Rock You,” this’s one among those songs that prove the suitability of Queen to compose sing-along, arena-styled tracks.

Every Breath You Take by The Police

Released in 1983, this Sting-penned song was the biggest hit for The Police, reaching #1 on the Hot 100. Many radio listeners didn’t realize it’s a song about obsession, given its smooth melody and melody. The unforgettable guitar riff and repetitive lyrics made it an earworm. It topped the charts for several weeks and even won the Grammy for Song of the Year, showing its massive popularity.

I Want to Hold Your Hand by The Beatles

It shot to #1 on the Hot 100 in 1964, in the midst of the peak of Beatlemania. It became the first American charts success for the Beatles and topped the charts for seven weeks. Its catchy “oh yeah, I’ll tell you something” intro verse made everyone fall in love with the group in one night. Its simple, happy melody captured the innocence and spontaneity of early 60s pop to the core, and remains one of the most resilient Beatles’ chart-toppers.

Shadow Dancing by Andy Gibb

Gibb Andy Gibb’s 1978 disco hit spent two weeks at #1 on the Hot 100. Composed by the Gibb brothers (of the Bee Gees), with shimmering production and smooth vocals by Andy Gibb, it was a dance-floor hit. It cemented him as a pop star in his own right. Its hook-laden, sing-songy chorus (“shadow dancing, all night long” best exemplifies the late-70s dance-pop style) spent weeks on top of charts globally.

Candle in the Wind (1997) by Elton John

Initially penned as a tribute to Marilyn Monroe, Elton John’s 1997 version was rewritten to pay tribute to Princess Diana’s funeral. The song became a global #1 hit. Stateside, it introduced his album The Big Picture and topped the Hot 100. Its poignant lyrics and piano beat resonated after Diana’s death. It’s one of all time’s best-selling singles, therefore rendering it not just a number-one single, yet also a ’90s cultural phenomenon.

No One by Alicia Keys

This 2007 soul-pop ballad hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, staying at the top for five weeks. Alicia Keys’ smooth vocals and simple piano riff made it a romantic favorite. Its message of strong, undying love resonated with listeners, earning it multiple awards. “No One” became Keys’ signature hit, proving her crossover appeal from R&B to mainstream pop radio.

Perfect by Ed Sheeran

A 2017 romantic ballad that became Ed Sheeran’s third Hot 100 #1. Its sentimental lyrics and smooth guitar earned “Perfect” worldwide wedding popularity. Weeks at number one on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart were only the beginning; the song became a streaming sensation as well. Its popularity cemented Sheeran as a modern hitmaker, marrying sentimental songcraft with radio-friendly production.

Let Me Love You by Mario

Mario’s 2004 R&B single reached #1 on the Hot 100 for two weeks. Written by Ne-Yo and produced by Scott Storch, it has a smooth, memorable chorus and a pleading love theme. The song’s clean, radio-friendly sound and Mario’s strong vocals made it a late summer smash. It helped define early-2000s R&B/pop crossover hits, topping both pop and R&B charts.

End of the Road by Boyz II Men

Another Boyz II Men all-timer, this 1994 slow jam spent the top spot on the Hot 100 as well as held for 14 weeks. Composed by Babyface, this became one among the most successful tunes from the 90s. Thanks to the smooth sound as well as promises to commit, this’s an all-time R&B slow jam. This followed closely after “End of the Road,” giving the group back-to-back long-lasting #1 singles.

I’ll Make Love to You by Boyz II Men

Another Boyz II Men all-timer, this 1994 slow jam spent the top spot on the Hot 100 as well as held for 14 weeks. Composed by Babyface, this became one among the most successful tunes from the 90s. Thanks to the smooth sound as well as promises to commit, this’s an all-time R&B slow jam. This followed closely after “End of the Road,” giving the group back-to-back long-lasting #1 singles.

American Pie by Don McLean

McLean’s folk-rock epic in 1971 became a dual-sided #1 single across the width of the Atlantic. Its lengthy narrative lyrics reference American 60s culture (the “Day the Music Died”), and appeared to strike a sentimental chord. Ten weeks afterwards, still topping the Hot 100. Its chorus even to this day is un-mistaken when you recognize the opening notes (e.g. “bye bye Miss American Pie” is one of the most identifiable song writing pieces of all time.

Killing Me Softly (with His Song) by Fugees

The Fugees’ 1996 reinterpretation of Roberta Flack’s hit rose to #1 on the Hot 100. The soulful lead vocals from Lauryn Hill, accompanied by the group’s hip-hop accent, opened the song to an entirely new audience. Its combination of R&B and reggae-inflected beats was groundbreaking for the period. The reinterpretation became one of the best-selling singles in 1996, illustrating that the appropriate reinterpretation can reach the number one spot years after its first release.

No Scrubs by TLC

This 1999 R&B girl-group anthem spent four weeks at #1 on the Hot 100. Its memorable chorus and defiant lyrics involving railing against “no scrubs” (lazy men) made it extremely popular. Produced by Dallas Austin, the summer anthem spent time in our hearts. A Grammy winner, the song became TLC’s signature hit, defining the late-90s R&B/p-pop sound in bold, memorable hooks.

Say My Name by Destiny’s Child

Released in 1999, this became the group’s first song to reach #1 on the Hot 100 (for three weeks). Its pop/R&B sound, plus polished harmonies, marked the group’s confidence. Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland, and Michelle Williams sang about the gossip in their relationship. “Say My Name” garnered two Grammy Awards and propelled Destiny’s Child to one of the top feminine groups of the period.

The Boy Is Mine by Brandy & Monica

This 1998 duet was one of the decade’s catchiest songs, reigning over the Hot 100 for 13 weeks. Brandy and Monica trade verses singing back and forth about two gals fighting over the same dude. Its hook-laden R&B/Pop chorus and singers’ camaraderie made the slot a radio staple. Then the longest-reigning #1 single in Billboard history, later it won a Grammy for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group.

Genie in a Bottle by Christina Aguilera

This breakthrough January 1999 single shot to #1 on the Hot 100. The powerful vocals from Aguilera combined with sultry pop-R&B production made this recording an overnight success. The shrewd metaphors in the lyrics for teenage love bestrode Top 40 radio. Aguilera broke big in this song, and the infectious chorus (“I’m a genie in the bottle…`) created this late-90s pop anthem.

God’s Plan by Drake

Drake’s 2018 track debuted at #1 on the Hot 100 and stayed there for 11 weeks. Its upbeat, Caribbean-influenced rhythm and Drake’s charismatic delivery won listeners over. The lyrics focus on Drake’s success and giving back (the viral video featured him handing out money to people). It became one of 2018’s biggest songs, showing how Drake continued blending rap with pop-chart appeal.

Moves Like Jagger by Maroon 5 ft. Christina Aguilera

This 2011 pop-rock anthem topped the Hot 100. Its catchiest vocals immediately by Adam Levine, coupled with the whistle hook, clinched the deal. Coupled with Christina Aguilera’s belt-out choruse lines, the dance-disco feel of the song brought radio listeners something new. Its title is in reference to Mick Jagger’s signature dance moves. The collaboration shot it to world-wide number-one spots as Maroon 5’s second American #1 single.

Come On Eileen by Dexys Midnight Runners

Released in 1982, this pop gem that combined Celtic folk style topped the UK and American charts as a #1 hit. Its upbeat fiddle riff and impassioned chorus (“Come on Eileen, oh swear…”) became a singalong phenomenon overnight. Its unique combination of blue-eyed soul and pop broke hearts around the globe, and the recording remains one of the most instantly identifiable tracks from the early ’80s.

Umbrella by Rihanna ft. Jay-Z

Rihanna’s 2007 hit song debuted at #1 on the Hot 100 and spent seven weeks in the number-one position. It was a breakthrough in her life. Its catchy hook (”ella, ella, eh, eh, eh”)/combination of pop/R&B/dance influences made the song worldwide. The song featured Jay-Z rapping in the intro/has a catch beat. “Umbrella” got so large that the song is commonly credited to sending Rihanna to superstardom.

Candle in the Wind (1973) by Elton John

Elton’s duet version (tribute to Marilyn Monroe) was from 1973 and became the #1 single in the U.S. The soft piano ballad and Elton’s powerful vocals won the hearts of listeners. As Elton’s first #1 single, later in life it became that much more iconic. The memorable chorus (“Goodbye Norma Jean…”) and Elton’s emotive vocals made the song the signature song of Goodbye Yellow Brick Road. (Its later version from 1997 was written as a tribute to Princess Diana and is individually renowned.)

Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It) by Beyoncé

This 2008 hit reached #1 on the Hot 100 for four weeks. Its dancing beat and Beyoncé’s powerful vocals made this song an overnight empowerment anthem. Its lyrics that state knowing your worth and the signature dance moves in the video clip made this song viral. It won numerous awards and became one of Beyoncé’s signature tracks still being played in clubs and events globally.

Livin’ la Vida Loca by Ricky Martin

Ricky Martin’s late-1999 hit’s English title is “livin’ the crazy life”. Five weeks on top, it reached #1 on the Hot 100. Its Latin pop-rock style and flashy aesthetic were an enormous departure from American radio. Its driving horns and memorable hook sparked the late-90s Latin pop phenomenon. Its party atmosphere and Martin’s charismatic delivery established the song as a global dance-pop anthem.

Stayin’ Alive by Bee Gees

This 1977 disco classic reached #1 on the Hot 100 for four weeks. Boasting the Bee Gees’ signature high harmonies and insistent, timeless beat, it’s unmistakable (thanks in large part to Saturday Night Fever). Its defiant lyrics of perseverance complemented the upbeat period of the disco era. It became one of the period’s signature tracks and is still a reference point for the cultural phenomenon of the 1970s disco craze.

I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor

Gloria Gaynor’s 1978 Disco hit climbed to #1 on the Hot 100 for three weeks. It’s celebrated for bearing an empowering message of survival through heartbreak. Through its driving rhythm and dynamic vocals by Gaynor, it became the rallying cry for independence and survival (especially in the LGBT community as well as among feminists). This interpretation of a ballad became one of all-time’s best dance anthems, still bringing people to their feet to dance as well as sing along.

You Light Up My Life by Debby Boone

This popular hit from 1977 stayed as a #1 for 10 weeks and became one all time’s best-selling single. Romantic lyrics as well as Boone’s soothing voice rendered this song popular among everyone. Having originated from the sound track from a movie, the success evidenced the public’s liking for something romantic as well as pure. The Grammy awarded it Song of the Year and remains to this day the embodiment of late-70’s pop ballad icons.

Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go by Wham!

Released in 1984, this upbeat pop song shot to #1 on the Hot 100. Its catchee funked-out bass line and anthemic George Michael vocals created the ultimate dance-floor anthem. Its goofy chorus and upbeat personality called to mind the upbeat glee of 80s pop. Wham! became an entity to reckoned with globally thanks in great part to this song, which is still a fun, catch-you-in-the-moment dance hit.

Kiss from a Rose by Seal

This hit single in 1994 was the largest hit for Seal. Featured on the Batman Forever soundtrack, the hit single rose to #1 on the Hot 100. Its richly orchestrated sound and soulful rendering by Seal on the operatic chorus (“kiss from a rose…”) produced an indelible ballad. The song won many Grammys. Its darkly foreboding lyrics combined with lush melody in the 90s produced an unparalleled signature sound that topped the charts in pop-adult contemporary.