Carole King Popular Song Rankings [2026]

Child Of MineCarole King8rank/position

Carole King – Child of Mine (Official Audio)

A classic song that gently sings of deep parental love and trust is included on American singer-songwriter Carole King’s solo debut album, Writer.

Released in May 1970, the work is notable for its warm melodies that weave together elements of soft rock and folk.

Its simple, piano-centered arrangement blends beautifully with King’s gentle vocals, conveying a child’s purity, hopes for the future, and a parent’s unconditional love.

Performed as well at her first solo concert at Carnegie Hall in June 1971—where it moved the audience—this piece is perfect not only for those raising children but for anyone who wishes to reflect on the bonds between parent and child.

It Might As Well Rain Until SeptemberCarole King9rank/position

It Might as Well Rain Until September

A single released by Carole King in 1962.

After “Take Good Care of My Baby” brought Bobby Vee a No.

1 hit in the U.S., Carole King and Gerry Goffin wrote this song for Vee in 1962.

However, Vee’s management refused to release it as a single.

Don Kirshner of Aldon Music, who compared Vee’s recorded version with King’s demo, fell in love with King’s demo and decided to release her version as the single as-is—making this a song that came with some complications.

New Year’s DayCarole King10rank/position

Carole King – New Year’s Day

Carole King, an artist who gained popularity in the United States.

In the 1960s, she worked as a songwriter, and from the 1970s she began her career in earnest as a singer-songwriter.

Her full-fledged shift to being a singer-songwriter paid off, and by the late 1970s she was known as a national artist.

Among her songs, the one themed around January that we’re introducing here is “New Year’s Day.” It’s a catchy track, so be sure to check it out.

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So Far AwayCarole King11rank/position

Carole King – So Far Away (BBC In Concert, February 10, 1971)

Carole King’s song “So Far Away,” a jewel of ballads that colored the 1970s, resonated with many through its beautiful melody and lyrics that evoke a sense of emotional distance.

Included on her second album, “Tapestry,” released in 1971, it topped the Billboard 200 and earned four Grammy Awards, cementing its place in music history.

In Japan, it’s also known by the title “SarIyuku Koibito” (“Departing Lover”).

Even with the passage of time, the song retains a fresh resonance, conveying deep love and the loneliness of parting.

At its core is King’s sincere piano performance, exquisitely balanced by James Taylor’s warm acoustic guitar.

The lyrics, filled with longing for a distant loved one, still pierce the heart today.

Sweet SeasonsCarole King12rank/position

Sweet Seasons – Carole King

Singer-songwriter Carole King began her career as an artist at 16 and has produced numerous classic songs.

Early in her career, she worked as a composer and music producer, and from the 1970s she became active in earnest as a singer-songwriter.

One of her notable songs, Sweet Seasons, was released in 1971.

Although it didn’t become a major hit among her catalog, it has gained popularity among fans as a hidden gem themed around spring.

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Will You Love Me TomorrowCarole King13rank/position

Carole King – Will You Love Me Tomorrow? (Official Audio)

Composed by Carole King and released in 1960 as a song by The Shirelles, this piece delicately portrays the anxieties and hopes of romance.

Carole King’s own version appears on the album Tapestry, sung at a relaxed tempo from the perspective of a mature woman.

With Joni Mitchell and James Taylor providing background vocals, it resonates with a rich, deep tone.

Her June 1971 performance at Carnegie Hall touched the hearts of many.

It’s the perfect song for gazing up at the night sky and reflecting on someone dear.

Listen on a quiet night, and it may bring back nostalgic memories of your youth.