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!
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Southern rock masterpieces. Recommended popular songs (21–30)
The Souths Gonna Do It AgainCharlie Daniels Band
A song by the Charlie Daniels Band, who worked with many Southern rock bands that defined the Southern rock sound.
Grinderswitch, a Southern rock band formed in central Georgia that toured with the Allman Brothers Band and the Marshall Tucker Band in the early 1970s, is mentioned in the opening line of the lyrics.
I’m No AngelGregg Allman
The title track of Gregg Allman’s fourth solo album, released in 1987.
It was written by Phil Palmer and Tony Colton.
It was inspired by words printed on a T-shirt worn by a toddler Phil saw.
The album was certified Gold in the United States.
A classic of Southern rock. Recommended popular songs (31–40)
Ronnie and NeilDrive-By Truckers
A song about the friendship between Ronnie Van Zant, the lead singer of Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Canadian singer-songwriter Neil Young.
It was included on the alternative country/southern rock band Drive-By Truckers’ 2001 album Southern Rock Opera.
Gator CountryMolly Hatchet
A song about preferring Florida over the state where the Southern rock band originated.
The title “Gator Country” refers to the state of Florida.
It’s a track by Molly Hatchet, included on their self-titled debut album released in 1978.
Train, TrainBlackfoot
A song written by “Shorty” Medlocke, a musician of bluegrass and Delta blues.
It features a harmonica intro that imitates the sound of a steam locomotive.
The track has been covered by the hard rock band Warrant and by Dolly Parton.
Take It Off The TopDixie Dregs
A song written by Steve Morse, who is also known as the guitarist for Deep Purple.
It is included on the 1978 album “What If” by Dixie Dregs, a jazz fusion band formed in 1970.
Their sound is characterized by a unique style that blends hard rock, Southern rock, and progressive metal.
There Goes Another Love SongOutlaws
A song by the American Southern rock band the Outlaws, released as a single in 1975.
It was written by drummer Monte Yoho and lead guitarist and vocalist Hughie Thomasson.
The track became a hit in countries such as the United States and the Netherlands.