11 Underrated Aerosmith Songs: Aerosmith Deep Cuts

Hey everyone, TBone here from Level Tunes! As a DJ and a die-hard music enthusiast, I’ve always had a special place in my heart for Aerosmith.

Their hits have rocked the charts, but today, I want to dive into something a bit different – their underrated gems. I’ve put together a list of 11 Aerosmith songs that, in my opinion, didn’t get the spotlight they deserved.

These tracks showcase the band’s versatility and depth, elements that often get overshadowed by their more famous songs. I believe every DJ and music lover should give these tunes a listen.

They’re not just songs; they’re hidden treasures waiting to be rediscovered. So, let’s turn the volume up and explore the less-traveled roads of Aerosmith’s musical journey!

Here are the Underrated Aerosmith songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Aerosmith Songs

Underrated Aerosmith songs in a list format:

“No Surprize” (Night in the Ruts, 1979, Columbia Records)

From the album “Night in the Ruts,” “No Surprize” is a song that tells the story of Aerosmith’s early days. Released in 1979 under Columbia Records, this track is a quintessential example of their gritty rock roots. Written by Steven Tyler and Joe Perry, it showcases the band’s raw energy and authenticity. The powerful guitar riffs by Perry and Brad Whitford, combined with Joey Kramer’s dynamic drumming and Tom Hamilton’s steady bass, create a backdrop for Tyler’s distinctive vocals. I chose this song for its autobiographical lyrics, giving fans a peek into the band’s rise to fame.

“Lick and a Promise” (Rocks, 1976, Columbia Records)

“Lick and a Promise,” featured on the 1976 album “Rocks,” is an energetic track that embodies Aerosmith’s rock spirit. The song, penned by Tyler and Perry, is a nod to the band’s relentless pursuit of stardom. With its catchy guitar licks and memorable chorus, it’s a surprise that this song isn’t as celebrated as others on the album. The interplay between Perry’s lead guitar and Whitford’s rhythm guitar, along with Hamilton’s bass and Kramer’s drums, creates a vibrant soundscape. This song made my list for its representation of Aerosmith’s dedication and passion for music.

“Kings and Queens” (Draw the Line, 1977, Columbia Records)

“Kings and Queens,” from the album “Draw the Line” (1977), is a departure from Aerosmith’s typical rock sound, delving into a more complex, almost medieval melody. The song, written collectively by the band with additional input from Jack Douglas, is a lyrical journey into history and fantasy. It stands out for its atmospheric quality, highlighted by Tyler’s evocative storytelling. The song’s rich instrumentation, including a notable performance by Whitford on lead guitar, adds to its unique charm. I included it for its bold experimentation and lyrical depth, showcasing a different side of Aerosmith.

“Get It Up” (Draw the Line, 1977, Columbia Records)

Another gem from “Draw the Line,” “Get It Up” is a raw, high-energy track. Written by Tyler and Perry, it’s characterized by its aggressive guitar riffs and driving rhythm section. The song’s relentless pace and edgy vibe capture the essence of classic Aerosmith. Despite its strong composition, it tends to be overshadowed by other tracks on the album. The synergy between the band members, especially Perry’s fiery guitar solo, makes this song a must-listen. It’s on my list for its undiluted rock energy and the way it encapsulates the band’s signature sound.

“Seasons of Wither” (Get Your Wings, 1974, Columbia Records)

From their 1974 album “Get Your Wings,” “Seasons of Wither” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad. Steven Tyler, the sole writer, shows his versatility as a songwriter with this track. The song’s melancholic melody, complemented by its poetic lyrics, creates a stark contrast to Aerosmith’s usual hard rock style. The gentle guitar work by Whitford and Perry adds to its ethereal quality. This song is a testament to the band’s ability to create emotive and profound music. I chose it for its lyrical beauty and the way it showcases a softer, more introspective side of Aerosmith.

“Adam’s Apple” (Toys in the Attic, 1975, Columbia Records)

“Adam’s Apple,” from the iconic album “Toys in the Attic” (1975), is a classic Aerosmith track that often gets overlooked. Written by Tyler, it features witty lyrics and a catchy rhythm. The song is driven by Perry’s distinctive guitar riffs and Kramer’s solid drumming, perfectly complementing Tyler’s dynamic vocals. The track’s blend of humor and rock ‘n’ roll grit makes it a standout. I included it for its playful energy and as a representation of the band’s ability to infuse humor into their music.

“Combination” (Rocks, 1976, Columbia Records)

“Combination” is a hidden gem from the “Rocks” album. This song, primarily written by Perry, who also takes on lead vocals alongside Tyler, offers a raw and unfiltered sound. The dual vocal performance adds a unique layer to the track, complemented by the robust instrumentation. Perry’s lead guitar work, paired with Whitford’s rhythm guitar, creates a rich, rock-driven soundscape. This song made my list for its edgy vibe and the rare showcase of Perry’s vocal talents, highlighting the band’s collaborative spirit.

“Remember (Walking in the Sand)” (Night in the Ruts, 1979, Columbia Records)

From “Night in the Ruts,” “Remember (Walking in the Sand)” is Aerosmith’s rendition of The Shangri-Las’ classic. This cover stands out for its blend of nostalgia and rock flair. Tyler’s emotive interpretation of the lyrics, along with the band’s powerful musical accompaniment, breathes new life into the song. The track is a testament to Aerosmith’s ability to reinterpret and revitalize older songs, making them their own. I chose it for its emotional resonance and the band’s skill in transforming a classic into a rock masterpiece.

“Sick as a Dog” (Rocks, 1976, Columbia Records)

“Sick as a Dog,” from the “Rocks” album, is an Aerosmith classic that deserves more recognition. Co-written by Tyler and Hamilton (who also plays guitar on the track), it’s a testament to the band’s cohesive musical chemistry. The song’s driving beat and catchy melody, combined with a blend of Hamilton and Perry’s guitar work, create an energetic rock anthem. Its straightforward, no-frills rock approach exemplifies Aerosmith’s core sound. I included this track for its infectious energy and as a showcase of Hamilton’s songwriting and musical talents.

“Chip Away the Stone” (Live! Bootleg, 1978, Columbia Records)

“Chip Away the Stone” may not have appeared on a studio album, but its inclusion in “Live! Bootleg” (1978) captures the raw energy of Aerosmith’s live performances. Written by Richie Supa, a friend of the band, this song is an underrated classic with its infectious chorus and lively rhythm. The live version highlights the band’s onstage charisma, particularly Tyler’s dynamic vocal performance and the engaging guitar work from Perry and Whitford. It’s on my list for its representation of Aerosmith’s live show prowess and the song’s catchy, enduring appeal.

“Critical Mass” (Draw the Line, 1977, Columbia Records)

Lastly, “Critical Mass” from “Draw the Line” is a deep cut that showcases Aerosmith’s experimental side. Co-written by Tyler, Hamilton, and Jack Douglas, the song combines quirky lyrics with a complex musical arrangement. The track features an intriguing blend of instruments, including a horn section, adding a unique texture to their rock formula. The song’s playful and inventive nature highlights the band’s willingness to explore different sounds and styles. I chose this track for its creative composition and as an example of Aerosmith’s adventurous musical spirit.

Fun Facts: Underrated Aerosmith Songs

“No Surprize”

• Recording Challenges: The recording of “No Surprize” was part of a tumultuous period for Aerosmith, marked by internal strife and substance abuse issues. This challenging atmosphere, however, contributed to the raw and authentic feel of the song.
• Autobiographical Lyrics: Steven Tyler’s lyrics for “No Surprize” are a candid portrayal of the band’s early struggles with fame and the music industry, offering fans a rare glimpse into Aerosmith’s history.

“Lick and a Promise”

• Rock ‘n’ Roll Lifestyle: This song is a celebration of the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle, encapsulating the band’s early ambitions and dreams. It reflects Aerosmith’s journey and their relentless pursuit of success in the music world.
• Energetic Live Performances: “Lick and a Promise” was a staple in Aerosmith’s live performances during the 1970s, known for its high energy and ability to electrify audiences.

“Kings and Queens”

• Unique Musical Direction: Diverging from their usual hard rock sound, “Kings and Queens” features a more complex, almost medieval melody, showcasing the band’s versatility and willingness to experiment with different genres.
• Instrumental Variety: The song includes a wide range of instruments, such as harmonium and banjo, adding to its unique, atmospheric sound.

“Seasons of Wither”

• Fan Favorite: Despite not being a commercial hit, “Seasons of Wither” has remained a fan favorite over the years, often cited as one of the band’s best ballads.
• Inspiration from Nature: The song was inspired by the bleak winter landscape surrounding the band’s rehearsal space in Massachusetts, influencing its melancholic tone.

“Adam’s Apple”

• Witty Storytelling: The song is known for its clever lyrics, which playfully interpret the biblical story of Adam and Eve, showcasing Steven Tyler’s skills as a lyricist.
• Guitar Work: Joe Perry’s distinctive guitar riffs on “Adam’s Apple” are a highlight, showcasing his unique style and contribution to the band’s sound.

“Sick as a Dog”

• Multi-Instrumental Talents: “Sick as a Dog” is notable for featuring bassist Tom Hamilton on rhythm guitar and Steven Tyler on bass, highlighting the members’ versatility as musicians.
• Collaborative Songwriting: The song is one of the few Aerosmith tracks co-written by Hamilton, showcasing his songwriting abilities alongside Tyler’s.

“Chip Away the Stone”

• Non-Album Single: Originally released as a non-album single, “Chip Away the Stone” gained popularity through its inclusion in the “Live! Bootleg” album, showcasing the band’s live energy.
• Richie Supa Collaboration: The song was written by Richie Supa, a longtime friend of the band, and is a testament to the collaborative relationships Aerosmith maintained with other artists.

“Critical Mass”

• Jack Douglas’ Input: Co-writer Jack Douglas, Aerosmith’s producer, played a significant role in shaping the song’s unique sound, adding a creative edge to the band’s music.
• Experimenting with Horns: The inclusion of a horn section in “Critical Mass” was a departure from Aerosmith’s typical sound, adding a new layer to their rock-based style.

And there you have it, folks! A journey through some of Aerosmith’s most underrated but truly spectacular tracks. Each song tells a unique story, showcasing the depth and diversity of this legendary band. Remember, great music doesn’t always top the charts, but it always captures the heart.

Thanks for reading.

TBone