Ranking of popular blues songs
Blues reached its peak from the 1960s to the 1970s and continues to be loved today.
It has a close relationship with music rooted in Black music, and its techniques are still being adopted today in various forms.
We looked into classic and popular songs by legendary artists.
In this article, we’ve selected popular tracks based on reliable feedback from blues fans submitted to our site so far.
Among them, we’ll present the most highly regarded songs in a ranking format.
Please enjoy.
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Blues Popular Song Rankings (81–90)
RespectAretha Franklin85rank/position
Known by epithets like the Queen of Soul and Lady Soul, Aretha Franklin was a legendary songstress who transcended the boundaries of soul music to shape popular music at large.
Beyond her overwhelming vocal prowess, she stood as an iconic figure of the women’s liberation movement and the civil rights movement.
Her life—marked by turbulence and far from unalloyed happiness—became a legend in itself, and her very presence influenced not only music but a wide range of cultures and even politics.
Her signature song “Respect” is a true gem—a masterpiece born of the greatness of Black music.
Originally written and composed by Otis Redding—himself, like Aretha, a legendary soul singer and a brilliant songwriter who tragically died young in an accident—the song was released as his own in 1965.
Then, in 1967, Aretha’s cover was released and became a massive hit.
“Respect,” which broke numerous records, was far more than just a hit single; because Aretha reworked it from a female perspective, it became an anthem of the civil rights and feminist movements, continuing to give courage and hope to women around the world.
The 2021 biographical film Respect, starring Jennifer Hudson, of course takes its title from this song, and Hudson’s powerful performance of it in the film is not to be missed.
CrossroadsCream86rank/position
The legendary three-piece band, Cream.
They’re known for their stylish blues rock.
Since Eric Clapton was a member, many of you are probably familiar with them.
Released in July 1968, their song Crossroads is one of their all-time classics.
It tells the story of a protagonist standing at a crossroads in life, seeking salvation and guidance from a higher power.
Its message of carving out your own path even in difficult circumstances makes it perfect for those struggling to adapt to a new environment or wrestling with life’s choices.
This work is packed with the appeal of the blues—be sure to check it out!
Have You Ever Loved A WomanFreddie King87rank/position
Freddie King, a towering figure in the blues from Texas.
Counted as one of the “Three Kings of the Blues,” he forged a style distinct from B.B.
King and Albert King.
Nicknamed the “Texas Cannonball,” Freddie’s aggressive guitar playing carried a rock-like feel that influenced countless guitarists.
His 1960s hits like “Hide Away” and “Have You Ever Loved a Woman” remain timeless classics.
He is a great artist especially recommended for fans seeking a unique sound where blues and rock converge.
Smokestack LightningHowlin’ Wolf88rank/position
One of the most brilliant masterpieces in blues history is this track, recorded by Howlin’ Wolf in 1956.
Its lyrics, symbolizing the power of a steam locomotive, are infused with loneliness, struggle, and a yearning for freedom, and Wolf’s raw vocals convey those emotions superbly.
The song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999 and selected for the Library of Congress’s National Recording Registry in 2009, reflecting its widely recognized historical significance.
It’s a must-listen for anyone who wants to experience the depth of the blues or feel the subtleties of life through music.
SpoonfulIHowlin’ Wolf89rank/position
The great blues singer Howlin’ Wolf.
As his stage name suggests, his hallmark is a deep, raspy voice, and he remains beloved among many blues fans today.
His vocal technique is said to have influenced not only the blues world but also rock.
His song “Spoonful” is passed down as one of his signature classics.
The raw, rough vocal delivery and delicate instrumentation create a richly seasoned atmosphere.
If you love gravelly voices, this is a must-check piece!
What Do You Want?Rei90rank/position
A song by singer-songwriter Rei, who started playing classical guitar at age four and made her major debut at seventeen.
Included on her second album HONEY, released in 2020, the track’s thrilling guitar work and soulful vocals really raise the energy.
Its arrangement is technical yet imbued with the distinctive melancholy of the blues—sure to impress longtime rock fans.
It’s a number that lets you enjoy classic, straight-ahead blues, a style rarely heard in today’s J-pop scene.
Blues Popular Song Rankings (91–100)
YOKOHAMA bluesSEKAI NO OWARI91rank/position
A medium-tempo number with a refreshing scent of the sea.
It portrays a love story set in Yokohama, a place closely connected to SEKAI NO OWARI.
The song overflows with a bittersweet mood.
Passionate blues are cool, but this kind of stylish, mood-rich vibe is fantastic too! The relaxed, floating sound feels so good, it makes you want to take a walk by the seaside.
I think it embraces everything—both lovely memories and bittersweet ones.
Try tracing your nostalgic memories.
