Top 40 Soft Rock Songs

Soft rock was never an exclusive genre. It blended elements from pop, rock, country rock, and adult contemporary music. This cross-pollination allowed soft rock records to take root across a wide spectrum of genres and eras.

Emerging alongside the singer-songwriter movement in the early ’70s, soft rock quickly secured its spot on the charts. It later evolved into yacht rock and ’80s power ballads, though the foundational style remained consistent.

The list of the Top 40 Soft-Rock Songs, chosen by the UCR staff, reflects how the best of these tracks were more than just relaxing tunes. They were explorations into new musical territories and evolving forms that matured over the decade. Not surprisingly, the ’70s feature prominently, but the list also includes tracks from the ’60s, ’80s, and even the ’90s, highlighting the genre’s enduring influence.

40. Extreme, “More Than Words” (1990)

Nearing extinction by the end of the ’80s, soft rock was taking over by power ballads and adult contemporary pop. Yet, Boston’s Extreme revived a nostalgic mood with their 1990 hit “More Than Words.” Known for their hard rock style infused with glam and funk, this acoustic No. 1 showcased the band’s softer side, echoing ’70s soft rock with its delicate love declarations and gentle guitar plucking.

39. Bob Dylan, “Every Grain of Sand” (1981)

Bob Dylan’s 1981 album Shot of Love marked a partial turn towards the processed sounds of the ’80s following his gospel phase. The centerpiece, “Every Grain of Sand,” weaves through biblical imagery and complex wordplay, creating a hymn-like track that showcases Dylan’s refined lyrical prowess and reinvigorated voice.

38. Bread, “Make It With You” (1970)

With sensitive grace, Bread’s leader David Gates penned and sang “Make It With You.” Gates, who worked with Captain Beefheart, the Monkees, and Elvis Presley, crafted a dreamy melody with a contemporary message. His softly nudging delivery in “If you’re wondering what this song is leading to, I want to make it with you” resulted in soft-rock gold.

37. Neil Diamond, “Cracklin’ Rosie” (1970)

Neil Diamond’s “Cracklin’ Rosie” might be a love song to a bottle of wine or a devotion to a prostitute, but it doesn’t matter. His first No. 1 hit features backing by the Wrecking Crew and a solid hook. By the early ’70s, after writing hits for others, Diamond had solidified his solo career.

36. Carly Simon, “Nobody Does It Better” (1977)

“Nobody Does It Better” from The Spy Who Loved Me spent three weeks at No. 2 in 1977 and was the first James Bond theme not named after a movie. Written by Marvin Hamlisch and Carol Bayer Sager, it became one of the most popular 007 tracks and Carly Simon’s notable hit after her 1975 duet with James Taylor, “Mockingbird.” It also garnered her first Oscar nomination.

35. Sting, “Fields of Gold” (1993)

For his 1993 album Ten Summoner’s Tales, Sting reflected on the loss of his parents. The pastoral mood of “Fields of Gold,” mixing traditional instruments with modern ones, captures a serene snapshot of soft rock’s final stages.

34. The Beatles, “Something” (1969)

From their final recorded album Abbey Road, George Harrison’s first A-side single “Something” anticipated ’70s soft rock. The gentle vocals and delicate instrumentation set the stage for the genre’s evolution.

33. America, “Sister Golden Hair” (1975)

Produced by George Martin, America’s “Sister Golden Hair” reached No. 1 by embracing the Los Angeles singer-songwriter movement. The folk-like verses transition into radiant soft rock choruses, making it a 1975 pop highlight.

32. John Denver, “Annie’s Song” (1974)

John Denver expanded beyond country and folk to broader pop appeal with “Annie’s Song.” This three-minute love ballad toeing the line between genres became his second consecutive No. 1 hit in 1974.

31. Ace, “How Long” (1974)

Despite Ace’s short lifespan, “How Long” became a significant hit, launching Paul Carrack’s career, who later joined Squeeze and Mike + the Mechanics. The song’s famous chorus—”How long has this been going on?“—references the bassist moonlighting at other gigs.

30. Bonnie Raitt, “Angel From Montgomery” (1974)

Bonnie Raitt’s take on John Prine’s “Angel From Montgomery” is the definitive version. Covering themes of shattered dreams and lingering melancholy, Raitt’s weary voice adds depth, despite her being only 24 at the time.

29. Carole King, “So Far Away” (1971)

Carole King’s album Tapestry ignited the ’70s singer-songwriter movement. “So Far Away” stands out for its mournful lyrics and beautiful melody, showcasing King’s emotional songwriting prowess.

28. Eagles, “Take It to the Limit” (1975)

“Take It to the Limit,” sung by bassist Randy Meisner, became a signature song for the Eagles. The track, which blended their country rock roots with soft rock elements, eventually led to Meisner’s departure from the band.

27. REO Speedwagon, “Keep on Loving You” (1980)

REO Speedwagon’s 1980 album Hi Infidelity hit No. 1, propelled by the soft-rock lead single “Keep on Loving You.” Written and sung by Kevin Cronin, this track helped cement the band’s early-’80s arena-rock status.

26. Eric Clapton, “Tears in Heaven” (1991)

Eric Clapton’s “Tears in Heaven” was written after the tragic death of his son in 1991. Initially included in the soundtrack for the movie Rush, it gained wider recognition through Clapton’s MTV Unplugged performance. The touching tribute remains powerful and heartfelt.

25. Kansas, “Dust in the Wind” (1977)

Kansas’ acoustic soft-rock favorite “Dust in the Wind,” from their 1977 album Point of Know Return, became their only Top 10 hit. Reflecting on the fleeting nature of life, the song marked a softer turn in their progressive rock sound.

24. Fleetwood Mac, “You Make Loving Fun” (1977)

Fleetwood Mac’s “You Make Loving Fun,” from their landmark album Rumours, delves into the turmoil of band member relationships. Christine McVie’s song about her affair with the band’s lighting director became a cornerstone of the band’s success.

23. Rod Stewart, “Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)” (1976)

Rod Stewart’s “Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)” from his 1976 album A Night on the Town combined impassioned soul with soft rock undertones. Recorded at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio and produced by Tom Dowd, the track was a commercial hit.

22. Gary Wright, “Dream Weaver” (1975)

Gary Wright’s ethereal “Dream Weaver” was inspired by John Lennon and George Harrison. The 1975 hit, driven by keyboards, vocals, and Jim Keltner’s drums, reached No. 2, cementing Wright’s place in the soft-rock world.

21. Bob Seger & the Silver Bullet Band, “Night Moves” (1976)

Bob Seger’s reflective “Night Moves” about his teenage years finally gave him chart success after a decade. Inspired by “Me and Bobby McGee,” the song’s nostalgic story won Seger a Top 10 hit and a lasting career.

20. Looking Glass, “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” (1972)

New Jersey’s Looking Glass scored a No. 1 hit with “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” in 1972. The song’s tale of a harbor-town barmaid’s longing for a long-gone sailor has remained a pop classic.

19. Christopher Cross, “Sailing” (1979)

Christopher Cross’ debut album in late 1979 brought “Sailing,” a No. 1 hit. With help from Don Henley and Michael McDonald, Cross captured the soft-rock essence that won him multiple Grammy Awards.

18. Foreigner, “I Want to Know What Love Is” (1984)

Foreigner’s “I Want to Know What Love Is” blurred the lines between soft-rock and power ballads in the early ’80s. Featuring the New Jersey Mass Choir and Jennifer Holliday, the song became the band’s biggest hit.

17. Daryl Hall & John Oates, “Sara Smile” (1975)

Before their ’80s pop success, Daryl Hall & John Oates made a name for themselves with their blue-eyed soul. “Sara Smile,” a heartfelt ballad inspired by Hall’s girlfriend, became their first Top 10 hit.

16. Jackson Browne, “The Pretender” (1976)

Jackson Browne’s The Pretender, written after his wife’s suicide, examines life’s lost dreams amid ’70s materialism. This title track’s slow build and introspective lyrics make it a signature soft-rock masterpiece.

15. Eagles, “Best of My Love” (1974)

Eagles’ “Best of My Love,” from 1974’s On the Border, marked their first No. 1 hit. Though a throwback to their early sound, it highlights the era’s penchant for harmonies and gentle guitar strumming.

14. Harry Chapin, “Cat’s in the Cradle” (1974)

Harry Chapin’s poignant “Cat’s in the Cradle,” about a father’s regret over missed moments with his son, was inspired by his wife’s poem. Chapin’s calm delivery and touching melody earned him a Grammy nomination and reached No. 1.

13. 10cc, “I’m Not in Love” (1975)

10cc’s “I’m Not in Love” blends progressive and art-pop elements into a slow-boiling soft-rock classic. The track’s whispered intro and layered production led to its No. 2 peak in the U.S.

12. Gordon Lightfoot, “Sundown” (1974)

Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot hit his stride in the ’70s. “Sundown,” his only U.S. No. 1 hit, combines folk and soft-rock influences with an easygoing feel.

11. Gerry Rafferty, “Baker Street” (1978)

Gerry Rafferty’s “Baker Street” is best known for its iconic saxophone riff. The 1978 hit, with its soothing tone and rolling percussion, became an enduring soft-rock favorite.

10. Elton John, “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” (1974)

Elton John was a major star in 1974, and “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me,” from his album Caribou, reached No. 2. Although unconventional, the song’s grand, harmonious buildup showcases John’s theatrical style.

9. Carly Simon, “You’re So Vain” (1972)

Carly Simon’s “You’re So Vain,” backed by Mick Jagger, is marked by speculation about its subject. Despite the gossip, its melody and Simon’s confident performance made it a ’70s classic.

8. Carole King, “It’s Too Late” (1971)

From her influential album Tapestry, Carole King’s “It’s Too Late” reached No. 1 as a shared A-side with “I Feel the Earth Move.” King’s introspective lyrics and melody became a template for ’70s singer-songwriters.

7. Al Stewart, “Year of the Cat” (1976)

Al Stewart’s 1976 hit “Year of the Cat” broke through with its wordy narrative and long instrumental break. The song’s success made Stewart a key figure in soft rock.

6. England Dan & John Ford Coley, “I’d Really Love to See You Tonight” (1976)

“I’d Really Love to See You Tonight” became England Dan & John Ford Coley’s biggest hit. Written by Parker McGee, the song’s seamless pop chorus epitomizes ’70s soft rock perfection.

5. James Taylor, “Fire and Rain” (1970)

James Taylor’s “Fire and Rain,” from his 1970 album Sweet Baby James, candidly addresses his struggles with heroin and a friend’s suicide. The song’s raw introspection helped Taylor’s breakthrough in the music industry.

4. Peter Frampton, “Baby, I Love Your Way” (1976)

Peter Frampton’s “Baby, I Love Your Way,” especially the live version from Frampton Comes Alive!, remains a stripped-down soft-rock classic. The song, though mostly free of gimmicks, epitomizes Frampton’s peak musical period.

3. Seals and Crofts, “Summer Breeze” (1972)

“Summer Breeze” by Seals and Crofts became a summertime anthem and soft-rock classic in 1972. The Isley Brothers’ 1974 cover brought out the song’s inherent sensuality.

2. Bee Gees, “How Deep Is Your Love” (1977)

The Bee Gees’ “How Deep Is Your Love,” from the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack, epitomized their successful disco and soft-rock fusion. The song’s timeless melodies and harmonies earned the Gibb brothers enduring acclaim.

1. Fleetwood Mac, “Dreams” (1977)

Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams,” from their seminal album Rumours, epitomizes ’70s soft rock. Born from band turmoil, the song became Fleetwood Mac’s only No. 1 hit. Stevie Nicks’ performance solidified her star status, and the song’s legacy continues to resonate.