Most Trending Heartland Rock Songs from the Last 6 Months, updated on Nov 2,2024
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Last updated on Oct 6,2024, updated monthly. |
1 . Cheap Trick - The Flame"The Flame" by Cheap Trick, produced by Richie Zito—who also worked with The Cult and Eddie Money—came out in 1988 and revived the band's career by hitting number one on the Billboard Hot 100. Initially offered to other artists like Elkie Brooks, Cheap Trick accepted the song with some reluctance. Rumor has it Rick Nielsen disliked the song so much he stomped on the demo tape. The music video is directed by Jim Yukich. Featured on the 1988 album Lap of Luxury 47.02% / 2.35% |
2 . Don Henley - The Boys Of SummerProduced by Henley and Mike Campbell, "The Boys of Summer" by Don Henley was released in 1984. The song emerged from a collaboration between Henley, a former Eagle, and Campbell, guitarist for Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. Campbell initially recorded an instrumental demo, to which Henley added lyrics. The song addresses themes of nostalgia and loss of innocence. "The Boys of Summer" was critically acclaimed, reaching number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and winning the Grammy for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance in 1985. Fans of "Friends" will remember "The Boys of Summer" from the episode "The One With Two Parts (2)" in season 1, during a hospital scene with Ross and Marcel. The music video is directed by Jean-Baptiste Mondino. Writer(s) : Donald Hugh Henley, Michael W Campbell Publisher(s) : Wild Gator Music, Woody Creek Music 43.12% / 1.91% |
3 . Bryan Adams - Have You Ever Really Loved A Woman?Created for the film "Don Juan DeMarco" starring Marlon Brando, Johnny Depp, and Faye Dunaway (1995), this song is penned by Bryan Adams, Michael Kamen, and Robert John "Mutt" Lange. It features a recurring melody throughout the movie. Recorded in Jamaica, it includes a guitar performance by Paco de Lucía. The song topped the charts in the US and Canada. "Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman?" was even nominated for an Oscar for Best Original Song but lost to "Colors of the Wind" from Pocahontas. The corresponding music video was shot by Anton Corbijn in a bar in Marbella, Spain. The music video is directed by Anton Corbijn. Writer(s) : Bryan Adams, Robert John Lange, Michael Arnold Kamen, Rudy Perez Publisher(s) : Out Of Pocket Publishing Co, Badams Music Limited, New Line Music Corp, Rubet Music, K Man Corp 42.29% / 3.60% |
4 . Eagles - Hole In The WorldThe Eagles' first track without guitarist Don Felder since 1974, "Hole in the World," was penned by Don Henley and Glenn Frey in response to the September 11, 2001 attacks. Henley began crafting the song on the evening of the attacks, with the composition evolving amidst American reactions and the onset of the Iraq War. The single peaked at number 69 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 5 on the Adult Contemporary chart. Produced by the Eagles and Bill Szymczyk, known for his work on classic Eagles albums like "Hotel California," the song received a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals in 2004. Writer(s) : Glenn Lewis Frey, Don Henley Publisher(s) : Privet Songs, Red Cloud Music Featured on the 2003 album The Very Best Of Eagles 40.34% / 1.74% |
5 . Bob Seger - Hollywood NightsReleased in 1978, "Hollywood Nights" was recorded at Criteria Studios in Miami. Produced by Seger and Punch Andrews, it captures the raw energy of Los Angeles nightlife. The song reached the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100. The music video is directed by Wayne Isham. Writer(s) : Robert Clark Seger Publisher(s) : Gear Publ 20.39% / 1.34% |
6 . Bryan Adams - Here I AmWritten for the animated film "Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron" in 2002, Bryan Adams collaborated with Hans Zimmer and Gretchen Peters to compose this piece. Recorded in Los Angeles, it was produced by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis for Flyte Tyme Productions. The song was well-received, charting in Canada and Europe. The music video is directed by Mike Lipscombe. Writer(s) : John F Adams, Sharon A Bryant Publisher(s) : Universal Music Publishing International Ltd 36.09% / 1.69% |
7 . Steve Miller Band - AbracadabraReleased in 1982, "Abracadabra" became one of Steve Miller Band's biggest hits, reaching number one in the US and Australia. Written and produced by Steve Miller, it's known for its catchy synth riff and benefitted from the band's popularity in the '70s and '80s alongside other hits like "The Joker" and "Fly Like an Eagle." The music video is directed by Peter Conn. Writer(s) : Steve Miller Publisher(s) : Sailor Music Featured on the 1982 album Abracadabra 25.14% / 0.39% |
8 . The Black Crowes - Jealous AgainReleased in 1990, "Jealous Again" by The Black Crowes was recorded at Soundscape Studios in Atlanta and produced by George Drakoulias. It helped establish The Black Crowes as a major rock band, reaching the top 5 on the US mainstream rock charts. The music video is directed by Pete Angelus. Writer(s) : Richard Curti S Robinson, Chris Robison Publisher(s) : Enough To Contend With Songs Featured on the 1990 album Shake Your Money Maker 24.82% / 1.85% |
9 . America - You Can Do MagicReleased in 1982, "You Can Do Magic" was written by British songwriter Russ Ballard and produced by himself, highlighting '80s keyboard and guitar arrangements. Departing from their usual folk-rock sound for a more pop and contemporary style, "You Can Do Magic" marked a return to success for America, reaching the top 10 in the US. Ballard is also known for his work with Argent and Rainbow. Writer(s) : Russell Glyn Ballard Publisher(s) : Ballard Russell Limited Featured on the 1982 album View from the Ground 23.01% / 1.53% |
10 . Bryan Adams - Back To YouRecorded in 1997 for the "MTV Unplugged" album with students from Juilliard School under Michael Kamen's direction, "Back To You" was produced by Adams and Patrick Leonard. The live acoustic performance gave a new dimension to the song. Patrick Leonard is known for his work with Madonna and Pink Floyd. "Back To You" was well-received by critics and audiences, reaching the top 20 in Canada and Europe. The music video is directed by Steve Barron. Writer(s) : Bryan Adams, Eliot Kennedy Publisher(s) : Badams Music Limited, Sony Music Publishing 22.64% / 1.08% |
11 . Bonnie Raitt - Nick Of TimeWritten in 1989, "Nick Of Time" by Bonnie Raitt was produced by Don Was, known for his work with The Rolling Stones and Bob Dylan. Recorded at Ocean Way Recording in Los Angeles, it featured on the eponymous album that won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 1990. The song, which addresses themes of aging and redemption, was widely acclaimed upon release. The music video is directed by Tamra Davis. Writer(s) : Bonnie Raitt Publisher(s) : Kokomo Music Featured on the 1989 album Nick of Time 22.54% / 0.85% |
12 . Bob Seger - Night MovesWritten in 1976, "Night Moves" captures the nostalgia of adolescence. Recorded at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in Alabama, this song marked a turning point in Seger's career, becoming a major hit in the US. Produced by Jack Richardson, who had worked with The Guess Who, it features renowned musicians from the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section. The official video, released in 1994, features Matt LeBlanc (yes, Joey from Friends) and Daphne Zuniga (yes, Jo from Melrose Place) in a '60s drive-in. The music video is directed by Wayne Isham. Writer(s) : Robert Clark Seger Publisher(s) : Gear Publ Featured on the 1976 album Night Moves 22.20% / 1.04% |
13 . Todd Rundgren - Bang The Drum All DayTodd Rundgren’s "Bang The Drum All Day," released in 1983, has become an anthem for anyone preferring fun over work. Rundgren played all the instruments, mainly electronic ones, a novelty at the time. Football fans know it as the celebratory tune for Green Bay Packers' touchdowns at Lambeau Field since 1995. Writer(s) : Todd Harry Rundgren Publisher(s) : Fiction Music Inc Featured on the 1983 album The Ever Popular Tortured Artist Effect 21.16% / 0.88% |
14 . The Knack - My Sharona"My Sharona" by The Knack, released in 1979 and produced by Mike Chapman, known for his work with Blondie and Pat Benatar, became an instant hit, reaching gold status in eight weeks and topping the Billboard Hot 100 for five weeks. The song, inspired by Sharona Alperin, Doug Fieger's girlfriend, remains emblematic of the power pop sound. Sharona, now a successful realtor in Los Angeles, is the woman on the iconic cover. The music video is directed by Alan Miller. Writer(s) : Douglas Lars Fieger, Berton L Averre Publisher(s) : Eighties Music, Wise Brothers Music Llc, Small Hill Music Featured on the 1979 album Get The Knack 20.12% / 1.69% |
15 . Lindsey Buckingham - TroubleReleased in 1981, "Trouble" is a solo song by Lindsey Buckingham of Fleetwood Mac. Recorded in Los Angeles, it was self-produced by Buckingham. The song is notable for its distinctive guitar riff and vocal harmonies, with contributions from Mick Fleetwood on drums. It reached the top 10 in the US. The music video is directed by Jerry Watson. Writer(s) : Lindsey Buckingham Publisher(s) : Kobalt Music Copyrights Sarl, Now Sounds Music Featured on the 1981 album Law and Order 19.53% / 1.18% |
16 . Steve Winwood - Roll With ItReleased in 1988, "Roll With It" was written by Winwood and Will Jennings. Recorded in London, it was produced by Winwood and Tom Lord-Alge, also known for his mixes with U2 and The Rolling Stones. The song reached number one in the US. The music video is directed by David Fincher. Writer(s) : Will Jennings, Lamont Herbert Jr Dozier, Eddie Holland, Brian Holland, Steve Winwood Publisher(s) : Hipgnosis Sfh I Limited Featured on the 1988 album Roll with It 16.95% / 1.10% |
17 . Kenny Loggins - Footloose"Footloose" is the title track of the 1984 film directed by Herbert Ross, starring Kevin Bacon. Produced by Kenny Loggins and Peter Wolf, it was recorded with seasoned session musicians: Dean Parks on guitar, Nathan East on bass, Michael Boddicker on keyboards, and Tris Imboden on drums. The song topped the Billboard Hot 100 and was nominated for an Oscar for Best Original Song. The music video is directed by Brian Grant. Writer(s) : Kenneth Clark Loggins, Dean Pitchford Publisher(s) : Sony Atv Melody, Milk Money Music Featured on the 1984 album Footloose : Soundtrack 16.42% / 0.98% |
18 . The Black Crowes - She Talks To AngelsAn acoustic ballad that stands out from the band's more energetic rock style, "She Talks To Angels" was written by brothers Chris and Rich Robinson and released in 1990. Recorded at Soundscape Studios in Atlanta, it was produced by George Drakoulias, known for his work with Tom Petty. The song is acclaimed for its poignant lyrics about a woman struggling with addiction and reached the top 30 on the Billboard Hot 100. The music video is directed by Matt Mahurin. Writer(s) : Richard Curti S Robinson, Chris Robison Publisher(s) : Enough To Contend With Songs Featured on the 1990 album Shake Your Money Maker 15.85% / 0.72% |
19 . Robert Plant - Big LogBorn from experimentation with a TR-808 drum machine, which inspired the drum pattern and handclaps, "Big Log" by Robert Plant, released in 1983, showcases a softer, introspective side of the former Led Zeppelin singer. With melodic guitar and a dreamy ambiance, the song stands out for its melancholic atmosphere. The music video was filmed in California and Nevada, at iconic locations like the Amargosa Opera House and Hotel and the Calico Ghost Town. The music video is directed by Storm Thorgerson.. Writer(s) : Robert William Blunt, Robert Plant, Jezz Woodroffe Publisher(s) : Hit And Run Music Ltd (Publishing), Bay Music Blunt Ltd, Sons Of Einion Ltd Featured on the 1983 album The Principle of Moments 14.22% / 1.05% |
20 . Bryan Adams - [Everything I Do] I Do It For YouCreated for the film "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves" in 1991, "[Everything I Do] I Do It For You" by Bryan Adams was written by Bryan Adams, Michael Kamen, and Robert John "Mutt" Lange. Recorded in London, it achieved phenomenal international success, topping the charts in at least 19 countries, including the US and UK, and selling over 15 million copies worldwide. The music video is directed by Julien Temple. Writer(s) : Michael Arnold Kamen, Michael Arnold Kamen Publisher(s) : Out Of Pocket Publishing Co, Zachary Creek Music Inc, Miracle Creek Music Inc, 2855 Music, Almo Music Corporation Featured on the 1991 album Waking Up the Neighbours 13.62% / 1.32% |
ABOUT HEARTLAND ROCKWhat is Heartland Rock ?Born from a combination of rock and roll, country, and folk music influences, Heartland Rock blended the raw, driving energy of rock with the storytelling tradition. This fusion transcended into powerful, sing-along choruses designed to resonate with a wide audience. The Sound of Heartland RockThe genre prominently features electric and acoustic guitars, often with memorable riffs and solos. The guitar work is typically straightforward and melodic, supporting the storytelling nature of the songs. In addition to guitars, Heartland Rock commonly incorporates piano, harmonica, and occasionally horns. The instrumentation enhances the narrative and emotional impact of the songs, often creating a rich, layered sound. The production tends to be clean and polished, yet retains a raw, live feel. The most well-known producers of the genre include: – Jimmy Iovine who worked on several Bruce Springsteen albums, including “Born to Run” and “Darkness on the Edge of Town.” – Jon Landau, known for producing and managing Bruce Springsteen, notably on the album “Born in the U.S.A.” – Don Gehman who produced several John Mellencamp albums, including “Scarecrow” and “The Lonesome Jubilee.” – T-Bone Burnett who, although more often associated with Americana, has also worked with Heartland Rock artists. – Bob Clearmountain who collaborated with Bruce Springsteen on “Born in the U.S.A.” and albums by Bryan Adams. The words of Heartland RockThe lyrics are deeply rooted in everyday experiences, simple and honest feelings. They often reflect a sense of nostalgia and a longing for simpler times. The vocal delivery in Heartland Rock is typically direct and unadorned, earnest and unpretentious, aiming to convey sincerity and authenticity.
Further Reading and ViewingBooks: 2. “Born in the U.S.A.: Bruce Springsteen and the American Tradition” by Jim Cullen examines Springsteen’s role in the development of Heartland Rock and how his songs reflect the American experience. 3. “Mellencamp: Paintings and Reflections” John Mellencamp, although it is a mix of music and visual art, provides insights into Mellencamp’s work, including reflections on his recurring themes. Documentaries: 2. “John Mellencamp: Plain Spoken” (2016) on Netflix features John Mellencamp reflecting on his career and work, sharing personal insights on the influences and messages in his songs. 3. “Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers: Runnin’ Down a Dream” (2007) by Peter Bogdanovich traces Tom Petty‘s career, showing how his work reflects the characteristics of Heartland Rock. Magazines: 2. Uncut, known for its detailed rock music analysis, regularly features articles on Heartland Rock artists. 3. MOJO provides interviews and retrospectives on key figures in Heartland Rock, particularly Springsteen, Mellencamp, and Petty. |
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