7 Songs Like Old Time Rock and Roll: Rock’s Golden Age

Hey there, fellow music lovers, TBone here! There’s something timeless about the rhythmic thrills of old-time rock ‘n’ roll, isn’t there? I’ve been spinning tracks from every era, and nothing quite gets the crowd moving like those classic rock anthems.

So, I decided to dive into my vast vinyl collection to bring you a list of seven gems that embody the true spirit of rock ‘n’ roll.

These songs will take you on a journey through rollicking riffs and heart-stirring lyrics that have stood the test of time. Strap in, friends—it’s time to turn back the clock and rock!

Here are the songs like Old Time Rock and Roll that you can check out:

List Of Songs Like Old Time Rock and Roll

Songs like Old Time Rock and Roll in a list format:

1. “Johnny B. Goode” by Chuck Berry

From the album “Chuck Berry Is on Top” (1959), released under Chess Records, “Johnny B. Goode” is a must-have on any old-time rock ‘n’ roll list. This classic tells the tale of a country boy who could “play a guitar just like a ringing a bell.” The song’s vibrant guitar riffs were played by Berry himself, setting a new standard for rock guitar solos. The catchy rhythm and spirited performance make it an irresistible hit that’s sure to get your feet tapping. I chose this because it encapsulates the energy and essence of the genre like few others.

2. “Roll Over Beethoven” by The Beatles

Off their second UK album, “With The Beatles” (1963), released under Parlophone, “Roll Over Beethoven” was The Beatles’ tribute to the pioneers of rock ‘n’ roll. With George Harrison on lead vocals and guitar, this song’s playful vibe pays homage to the era while highlighting the band’s unique style. It’s a testament to the influence of rock ‘n’ roll on a generation of musicians. I selected this track for its fun, infectious energy and The Beatles’ legendary charm.

3. “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” by The Rolling Stones

Hailing from “Out of Our Heads” (1965), released under Decca Records, “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” remains one of The Rolling Stones’ most famous tracks. The iconic guitar riff from Keith Richards coupled with Mick Jagger’s passionate vocals delivers an anthemic rock ‘n’ roll experience. The song’s raw energy and rebellious spirit make it a timeless classic. I’ve picked this because it encapsulates the Stones’ classic sound and the rebellious spirit of the era.

4. “Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin

From their second album “Led Zeppelin II” (1969), released under Atlantic Records, “Whole Lotta Love” is a masterpiece of hard-hitting rock ‘n’ roll. Led by Robert Plant’s powerful vocals and Jimmy Page’s heavy guitar riffs, this song continues to influence rock musicians today. I chose this for its embodiment of Zeppelin’s electrifying sound and its standing as an archetype for the harder edge of rock ‘n’ roll.

5. “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen

Off the album of the same name (1975), released under Columbia Records, “Born to Run” is a Springsteen anthem. Its thunderous rhythm, combined with Springsteen’s poetic lyricism, captures a feeling of youthful ambition and longing. The song’s expansive sound, created with the E Street Band, makes it an enduring classic. I selected this song because it symbolizes the freedom and escape that rock ‘n’ roll often represents.

6. “Sweet Child o’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses

From the album “Appetite for Destruction” (1987), released under Geffen Records, “Sweet Child o’ Mine” is a defining track of the late ’80s rock scene. Slash’s memorable guitar riff and Axl Rose’s heartfelt vocals cemented the song as a rock ‘n’ roll classic. I picked this track because it showcases the seamless blend of hard rock and tender lyricism that characterized this era.

7. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana

Off their second album, “Nevermind” (1991), released under DGC Records, “Smells Like Teen Spirit” became an anthem for disaffected youth. Kurt Cobain’s raw, anguished vocals paired with the aggressive guitar riffs marked a shift in rock ‘n roll

Fun Facts: Best J Cole Songs

1. “Johnny B. Goode” by Chuck Berry

“Johnny B. Goode” is one of the most covered rock ‘n’ roll songs in history, with artists from Elvis Presley to Jimi Hendrix taking on the classic. Fun fact, the song was also included in the ‘Golden Record’ aboard the Voyager spacecrafts – a time capsule meant to represent Earth’s culture to extraterrestrial beings!

2. “Roll Over Beethoven” by The Beatles

“Roll Over Beethoven” was originally a Chuck Berry song, and The Beatles’ version was one of their earliest covers. A fun tidbit is that this song was also the opening track on The Beatles’ second American album, “The Beatles’ Second Album”.

3. “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” by The Rolling Stones

Keith Richards reportedly came up with the song’s iconic riff in his sleep! He woke up, played the riff, and recorded it on a cassette player beside his bed. The next morning, he listened to the recording – 40 minutes of snoring followed by the iconic riff and a mumbled, “I can’t get no satisfaction”.

4. “Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin

Did you know “Whole Lotta Love” was the first song Led Zeppelin allowed to be released as a US single? The song ended up reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100, marking a turning point for the band’s popularity in the States.

5. “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen

Bruce Springsteen spent six months perfecting the title track of “Born to Run”. He was reportedly so unsatisfied with the initial recording that he threw it into a hotel swimming pool! But his persistence paid off, and the song became his first worldwide release.

6. “Sweet Child o’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses

Interestingly, “Sweet Child o’ Mine” was initially a joke! It started as a simple string-skipping exercise for Slash, but the band liked the catchy rhythm and decided to write a song around it, which ended up being their only number-one single in the U.S.

7. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana

Kurt Cobain came up with the title “Smells Like Teen Spirit” after his friend, Kathleen Hanna, spray-painted “Kurt Smells Like Teen Spirit” on his wall. But Cobain didn’t know at the time that Teen Spirit was a brand of deodorant that his then-girlfriend used. He interpreted it as a revolutionary slogan!

That wraps up our rock ‘n’ roll journey, folks! These seven songs are cornerstones of the genre, each offering a unique perspective on what makes rock ‘n’ roll timeless.

Until next time, keep those speakers booming and the spirit of rock alive!

Thanks for reading.

TBone