Johann Strauss II Popular Song Ranking [2026]

batJohann Strauss II8rank/position

Johann Strauss II: from the operetta 'Die Fledermaus'

Among Johann Strauss II’s Viennese operettas, this work is known as the “king of operettas.” In Vienna and other German-speaking countries, it is traditionally performed on New Year’s Eve at opera houses, often featuring star singers.

Emperor WaltzJohann Strauss II9rank/position

Johann Strauss (Sohn) – Kaiserwalzer | WDR Funkhausorchester

Composed in 1889, this piece is distinguished by its brilliant orchestration and rich instrumentation.

It begins with a grand introduction, passes through a variety of expressively characterized movements, and builds toward a moving climax.

It was reportedly written under the title “Hand in Hand” to celebrate the friendship between the Austrian Emperor and the German Emperor.

Seamlessly blending a Prussian-style march with a Viennese waltz, the work transcends its political intent and continues to captivate many listeners today.

Highly recommended for those interested in Viennese music and culture.

Champagne PolkaJohann Strauss II10rank/position

Champagne Polka, composed by Johann Strauss II

This piece was composed in a short period of time in Saint Petersburg, Russia.

Its original title was “Champagne at the Ball,” but it was later changed to the current title.

The sound of a champagne bottle being opened appears multiple times throughout the piece, making it a lively number.

Viennese TemperJohann Strauss II11rank/position

Vienna Philharmonic – Strauss: Wiener Blut, Walzer, Op. 354 (SNC 2021)

The waltz composed by Johann Strauss II in 1866 is a masterpiece that expresses the charm of Vienna through music.

It is characterized by a light, lively rhythm and a brilliant melody, vividly capturing the atmosphere of Viennese high society.

It begins with the tense sounds of clarinet and pizzicato in the introduction, then unfolds into a stately first waltz theme.

In the latter half, cheerful sections are contrasted with gentle melodies, captivating the listener.

Celebrating the spirit and life of Vienna, this piece is recommended for anyone who wants to experience the atmosphere of a glittering ball.

Roses of the TropicsJohann Strauss II12rank/position

Strauss “Roses from the South” | Waltzes and Polkas | Full Orchestra Performance [Conducted by Hiroshi Yoshida] Bologna Opera House Philharmonic

A masterpiece by Johann Strauss II, known as the “Waltz King,” where elegance and pathos coexist.

Reworked from songs in his own operetta The Queen’s Lace Handkerchief, it is a concert waltz first performed in November 1880.

The “southern” in the title symbolizes Italy, with which Austria enjoyed friendly relations at the time, and it is famously said to have been dedicated to King Umberto I of Italy.

From the melancholic timbre of the introduction, the piece gradually gathers heat and unfolds toward a dazzling climax—truly breathtaking.

Give it a listen when you want to forget the everyday and bask in elegance, or when you wish to create an atmosphere of refined grace.

The Blue and Beautiful DanubeJohann Strauss II13rank/position

Waltz “The Blue Danube” Vienna Philharmonic New Year’s Concert 2014

Here is a Viennese waltz composed by Johann Strauss II in 1867.

The Viennese waltz is a style of waltz that was popular in 19th-century Vienna, characterized by uneven lengths within the three beats, with the second beat played slightly early.

Along with “Tales from the Vienna Woods” and the “Emperor Waltz,” it is regarded as one of the three great waltzes by Johann Strauss II and is affectionately known in Austria as a second national anthem.

It was originally written as a choral work, but its lyrics have been rewritten several times to suit the times.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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Annen PolkaJohann Strauss II14rank/position

Annen-Polka, a polka composed by Johann Strauss II

It is said that Johann Strauss II had something of a mother complex, and this piece is also said to have been secretly dedicated to his mother, Anna.

His father, Johann Strauss I, also composed a piece with the same title, the Annen-Polka, in 1842, which is also well known, but it has an entirely different musical character.