A classic of Southern rock. Recommended popular songs.
There are many subgenres of rock, but so-called “Southern rock” is, as the name suggests, a genre characterized by sounds influenced by music with strong roots in the American South.
Blending country, blues, and old-school R&B, Southern rock boasts many hugely popular bands in the United States.
In Japan, however, it’s honestly a less familiar genre, and even those who know the name might feel it’s somehow a bit hard to get into.
This article introduces classic tracks recommended for beginners to help spark your interest in Southern rock.
Experience the deep appeal of Southern rock for yourself!
Classic songs of Southern rock. Recommended popular tracks (1–10)
Can’t You SeeThe Marshall Tucker Band
This song is known as a quintessential classic of Southern rock.
Its candid lyrics about heartbreak and its wistful melody resonate deeply.
Included on the self-titled debut album The Marshall Tucker Band released in 1973, it didn’t make a big splash at the time, but later reached the top five on the country charts and has since become beloved by many.
It’s a track that fully showcases The Marshall Tucker Band’s musicality, recommended not only for rock fans but also for anyone looking to heal the wounds of a broken heart.
La GrangeZZ Top
A Southern rock classic known for its blues-infused guitar riff and memorable lyrics about a brothel in Texas.
Released in July 1973 on ZZ Top’s album “Tres Hombres,” it reached No.
41 on the Billboard Hot 100 and made waves on charts around the world.
Its distinctive sound, influenced by John Lee Hooker’s “Boogie Chillen,” has been so popular that many artists have covered it.
The song is a hallmark of ZZ Top, famed for energetic live performances that captivate audiences.
It’s also a great pick when you want a change of pace or a soundtrack for a drive.
Ramblin’ ManAllman Brothers Band
A quintessential Southern rock track that gives voice to a wanderer’s feelings.
Carried by a melody with strong country flavors, it vividly portrays the protagonist’s way of life with emotional depth.
Released in June 1973, it became a major hit, reaching No.
2 on the Billboard chart.
As the lead single from the album “Brothers and Sisters,” it remains one of The Allman Brothers Band’s signature songs, its appeal undimmed by time.
Perfect for lovers of freedom and travel.
Play it on a drive and you’ll feel the exhilaration of racing across the vast American landscape.
Free BirdLynyrd Skynyrd
This popular number is a landmark of Southern rock, with lyrics about the inner conflict of parting from a loved one to seek freedom that deeply resonate with many.
Included on their 1973 debut album (Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd) and released as a single the following year, it became a major hit.
Its aggressive guitar solo is regarded as a symbol of rebellion and individualism.
Long cherished as one of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s signature songs, it remains a staple of their live shows.
Listen to it when your desire for freedom swells, and it’s sure to strike a chord.
Keep Your Hands To YourselfTHE GEORGIA SATELLITES
A signature song by a band that represents Georgia, packed with the charms of Southern rock.
Its simple yet catchy melody and blues-tinged guitar sound are striking.
The lyrics—“Don’t touch me until we’re married”—are full of humor and are sure to bring a smile.
Released in September 1986, it became a massive hit, reaching No.
2 on the Billboard charts in February the following year.
It was also featured on the soundtrack of the film Cocktail, making it a favorite across a wide audience.
Perfect for lifting your spirits—on a drive after work or at a party with friends.
Caught Up In You38 Special
Released in April 1982, this song is a classic packed with the appeal of Southern rock and is known as one of 38 Special’s signature works.
It earned the band their first No.
1 on Billboard’s Top Tracks rock chart and reached No.
10 on the Hot 100.
Featured on the album “Special Forces,” it solidified the band’s popularity.
It’s a great pick for listening while driving or spending time with a loved one.
You can fully enjoy the charm of Southern rock, and its refreshing tone makes it approachable even for newcomers to the genre.
Mississippi QueenMountain
This song is known as a Southern rock classic, distinguished by its powerful guitar riff and memorable cowbell.
It appears on Mountain’s 1970 debut album “Climbing!” and became a major hit, reaching No.
21 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The lyrics, which express passion for a dancer met aboard a Mississippi riverboat, capture the soul of ’70s rock.
Its unique sound—melding hard rock and blues rock—lets you fully savor the appeal of Southern rock.
Highly recommended for those who want to feel the atmosphere of the American South and for fans of classic rock.