Music

Best-selling rock and roll songs of all time

Explore the iconic tracks that have defined the rock and roll genre across decades. Discover the top-selling songs that have captivated millions of fans worldwide, from pioneering hits to contemporary chart-toppers. This list celebrates the enduring influence of rock music, highlighting singles that have achieved extraordinary sales figures and become generational anthems. Delve into the history of popular music and relive the moments that rocked the planet. It's an opportunity to learn about the artists and melodies that have left an indelible mark on musical culture.

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  1. 1

    Back in Black (1980)

    258 Global Votes
    • Second best-selling album in music history

      (+4)

    This AC/DC single has sold over 13 million copies in the US, with its album surpassing 26 million units, making it one of the highest-selling rock songs and albums ever. Its raw power and iconic riff resonate with millions.

  2. 2

    Hotel California (1977)

    206 Global Votes
    • Signature song of Eagles' biggest album

      (+3)

    A legendary rock ballad, 'Hotel California' is one of the Eagles' most famous and best-selling singles, known for its intricate guitar work and enigmatic lyrics.

  3. 3

    Smells Like Teen Spirit (1991)

    22 Global Votes
    • One of the best-selling songs of all time

      (+4)

    This Nirvana song is credited with bringing alternative rock to the mainstream, achieving massive commercial success and consistently ranking among the greatest rock songs ever.

  4. 4

    Sweet Child O' Mine (1988)

    19 Global Votes
    • Second highest selling digital song from the 80s

      (+4)

    From its iconic opening riff, 'Sweet Child O' Mine' became a Billboard #1 hit and one of Guns N' Roses' most beloved and best-selling tracks. Its commercial success is undeniable.

  5. 5

    Another Brick in the Wall, Pt. 2 (1979)

    14 Global Votes
    • Sold over four million copies worldwide

      (+4)

    Pink Floyd's politically charged 'Another Brick in the Wall (Part II)' was a massive global hit, demonstrating significant commercial success and becoming an essential track for classic rock fans.

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  7. 6

    Livin' on a Prayer (1986)

    11 Global Votes
    • Certified Diamond by RIAA for ten million sales and streams

      (+4)

    Bon Jovi's 'Livin' on a Prayer' was a massive commercial success, dominating both rock and pop radio and MTV. Its enduring popularity and status as an arena rock anthem confirm its best-selling status.

  8. 7

    Bohemian Rhapsody (1975)

    10 Global Votes
    • 5th most successful song of all-time

      (+4)

    Freddie Mercury's masterpiece has sold over 17 million copies worldwide, showcasing its immense commercial success. Its innovative structure and groundbreaking music video also redefined music promotion.

  9. 8

    Hound Dog (1956)

    10 Global Votes
    • Topped charts and sold millions

      (+4)

    Elvis Presley's 'Hound Dog' was a seminal rock and roll track and one of his earliest chart-topping hits, establishing him as a rock icon and achieving significant sales for its era.

  10. 9

    Hey Jude (1968)

    9 Global Votes
    • Sold approximately eight million copies

      (+4)

    This iconic Beatles song was a major chart-topper and is consistently listed among the top rock songs of all time, reflecting its immense commercial success and lasting cultural impact.

  11. 10

    We Are the World (1985)

    7 Global Votes
    • Eighth-best-selling single of all time

      (+4)

    This charity single, featuring significant contributions from rock artists, sold over 20 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling singles ever. Its global impact and sales figures are undeniable.

  12. 11

    How You Remind Me (2001)

    7 Global Votes
    • Achieved top single of 2002 by Billboard

      (+4)

    This Nickelback track reached No. 24 on Billboard's Top 100 Songs of the 21st Century, highlighting its significant commercial performance and enduring popularity.

  13. 12

    Don't Stop Believin' (1981)

    1 Global Votes
    • Best-selling digital track from the 20th century

      (+4)

    This iconic anthem has achieved double diamond certification, selling over 25 million units in the US alone, making it a monumental best-seller. Its enduring popularity was significantly boosted by its memorable use in *The Sopranos* finale.

  14. 13

    House of the Rising Sun (1964)

    1 Global Votes
    • Hit #1 on UK and US charts

      (+4)

    The Animals' rock arrangement of 'House of the Rising Sun' became a transatlantic hit, achieving significant sales and becoming a staple of classic rock radio.

  15. 14

    Wind of Change (1991)

    0 Global Votes
    • One of the best-selling singles of all time

      (+3)

    Scorpions' 'Wind of Change' sold over 14 million copies globally, becoming a powerful symbol of political change. Its massive sales and cultural significance make it a standout best-selling rock song.

  16. 15

    Sail (2010)

    0 Global Votes
    • Signature sleeper hit

      (+4)

    Awolnation's 'Sail' achieved RIAA Diamond certification and estimated sales of nine million singles globally, demonstrating its significant commercial success in the 21st century. Its widespread use in media boosted its sales.

  17. 16

    (I Can't Get No) Satisfaction (1965)

    0 Global Votes
    • Groundbreaking hit upon release

      (+4)

    This classic Rolling Stones track is one of the most recognizable and defining rock songs ever recorded, achieving massive sales and becoming a global hit upon its release.

  18. 17

    Seven Nation Army (2003)

    0 Global Votes
    • Surpassed 2 billion streams on Spotify

      (+4)

    Known for its distinctive guitar riff, 'Seven Nation Army' became a global hit and a popular sports anthem, demonstrating continued commercial success for rock music in the 21st century.