17 Best Songs by the Kinks: 17 Songs You Need to Hear

Get ready to dive into the timeless classics of The Kinks with our curated list of their 17 best songs! Join us on this melodic journey as we explore their distinctive sound, iconic riffs, and unforgettable lyrics that have inspired generations. Let’s rock ‘n’ roll!

Here are the best songs by the Kinks that you can check out:

List Of Best Songs by the Kinks

Best songs by the Kinks songs in a list format:

1. You Really Got Me

This hard-hitting track, written by Ray Davies, is from their debut album, Kinks (1964). It features a driving guitar riff that helped establish The Kinks as a major force in the British Invasion.

2. Waterloo Sunset

Ray Davies penned this beautifully introspective song, which is a part of Something Else by The Kinks (1967). It masterfully combines storytelling with dreamy, timeless melodies.

3. Sunny Afternoon

Also written by Ray Davies, this laid-back tune is featured on their album Face to Face (1966). Its playful lyrics and catchy melody capture the essence of a lazy summer day.

4. Lola

This iconic song, written by Ray Davies, comes from their album Lola Versus Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One (1970). Its controversial lyrics, combined with an infectious chorus, have made it a classic.

5. All Day and All of the Night

Another Ray Davies composition, this energetic track is from the album Kinks-Size (1964). Its raw guitar sound and catchy riff make it an enduring favorite.

6. Tired of Waiting for You

This song, written by Ray Davies, can be found on the album Kinda Kinks (1965). Its melancholic tone and heartfelt lyrics resonate with anyone who’s ever been in love.

7. Days

Featured on The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society (1968), this nostalgic track, penned by Ray Davies, is an ode to cherished memories and lost love.

8. Victoria

This anthemic song, also written by Ray Davies, is part of the concept album Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire) (1969). It showcases the band’s unique ability to blend satire and catchy melodies.

9. Apeman

From the album Lola Versus Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One (1970), this Ray Davies composition is a light-hearted, tongue-in-cheek reflection on the human condition.

10. Dedicated Follower of Fashion

This satirical track by Ray Davies is from the album Kinda Kinks (1965). It humorously pokes fun at the world of fashion and its fickle nature.

11. Dead End Street

Featured as a single in 1966, this Ray Davies song is a gritty, upbeat social commentary on the struggles of working-class life in Britain.

12. Shangri-La

This introspective song by Ray Davies can be found on the album Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire) (1969). It’s a poignant examination of suburban life and the desire for escape.

13. Celluloid Heroes

Part of the album Everybody’s in Show-Biz (1972), this Ray Davies composition pays tribute to the stars of Hollywood’s Golden Age with its heartfelt lyrics and cinematic atmosphere.

14. Set Me Free

This emotionally charged song by Ray Davies is from the album Kinks-Size (1964). It features a compelling melody that perfectly captures the desire for freedom and release.

15. Till the End of the Day

Written by Ray Davies, this upbeat track is from the album The Kink Kontroversy (1965). Its infectious energy and catchy hooks make it a timeless rock ‘n’ roll classic.

16. Picture Book (Continued)

to preserve memories. With its catchy melody and reflective lyrics, it’s a heartwarming reminder of the importance of cherishing the past.

17. A Well Respected Man

This satirical, tongue-in-cheek song by Ray Davies is from the album Kinkdom (1965). It provides a witty commentary on the hypocrisy and pretentiousness of middle-class society, all while maintaining a catchy and memorable melody.

Fun Facts: Best Songs by the Kinks

You Really Got Me Fun Fact

When recording “You Really Got Me,” Dave Davies famously sliced his guitar speaker cone with a razor blade to create the song’s signature distorted guitar sound. This innovative technique helped lay the groundwork for heavy rock and punk music.

Waterloo Sunset Fun Fact

Ray Davies originally intended to call the song “Liverpool Sunset,” as a tribute to the city of Liverpool. However, he changed it to “Waterloo Sunset” after being inspired by the view from Waterloo Bridge in London, where the River Thames flows beneath.

Lola Fun Fact

“Lola” was based on a real-life encounter between the band’s manager and a transvestite in a Paris nightclub. The song’s controversial lyrics initially caused the BBC to ban it from airplay, but the controversy only fueled its popularity and success.

Dedicated Follower of Fashion Fun Fact

The song’s inspiration came from an argument Ray Davies had with a fashionable man in a Carnaby Street clothing store. The disagreement prompted Ray to write this satirical song, highlighting the frivolous and ever-changing world of fashion.

Apeman Fun Fact

“Apeman” was released during a time of growing environmental concerns and anti-war sentiments. The song’s light-hearted tone and humorous lyrics resonated with listeners, making it a hit and reflecting the public’s increasing desire to escape modern society’s problems.

Shangri-La Fun Fact

The term “Shangri-La” was popularized by James Hilton’s novel “Lost Horizon,” where it referred to a fictional, idyllic paradise. Ray Davies used the concept to explore the disillusionment and monotony that can come with suburban life and the pursuit of materialistic goals.

Celluloid Heroes Fun Fact

The Hollywood Walk of Fame, where stars’ names are embedded in the sidewalk, served as the inspiration for “Celluloid Heroes.” Ray Davies was captivated by the idea of immortalizing famous actors and actresses in this way and created a touching tribute to the glamour and tragedy of Hollywood’s Golden Age.

As we wrap up our journey through The Kinks’ greatest hits, we hope you’ve enjoyed this trip down memory lane. Keep rocking and cherishing these timeless classics!

Thanks for reading.

TBone