Johann Strauss II Popular Song Ranking [2026]

Indigo and the Forty ThievesJohann Strauss II15rank/position

Indigo und die vierzig Räuber: Ouvertüre

In 1870, misfortunes struck Johann’s family one after another, and Johann Strauss II, who had a morbid fear of death, was utterly devastated mentally.

Having lost his creative drive, Strauss was passionately urged by those around him to compose an operetta.

Encouraged by Offenbach as well to try his hand at operetta, Johann decided to pursue that path.

This was his first operetta, a work based on One Thousand and One Nights.

Egyptian MarchJohann Strauss II16rank/position

Ägyptischer Marsch op. 335 – Johann Strauss II

Originally, it was called the Circassian March, named after the Circassian people, a minority in the Caucasus region.

With the opening of the Suez Canal, various composers contributed pieces.

The canal’s inauguration inspired Europeans and stoked their interest in the Orient.

In this atmosphere, Johann Strauss II also changed the title of his Circassian March to Egyptian March in honor of the Suez Canal’s opening and dedicated it to Grand Duke Frederick I of Baden.

However, since modern-day Egypt is not in the Caucasus, the piece feels, if anything, more Russian in character.

Orpheus QuadrilleJohann Strauss II17rank/position

Kendlingers K&K Philharmoniker: »Orpheus-Quadrille« op. 236 | Johann Strauß

Orpheus Quadrille by Johann Strauss II is a quadrille inspired by Offenbach’s opera.

Comprising six sections, it skillfully weaves in melodies from the opera, enchanting audiences of the time.

When it premiered in Vienna in 1860, it likely enjoyed immense popularity as accompaniment for social dancing.

Showcasing Strauss II’s brilliance, this piece is recommended not only for classical music enthusiasts but also for anyone who wants to savor the atmosphere of a glittering ballroom.

Champagne PolkaJohann Strauss II18rank/position

Strauss – Polka Champagne Op. 211

Composed by Johann Strauss II in 1858, this lively and humorous piece is distinguished by its effects that imitate the pop of a champagne cork, brilliantly capturing the atmosphere of high society and ballroom culture of the time.

Written during his visit to Russia, it premiered near Saint Petersburg.

Its cheerful polka rhythm conveys the bustle of celebrations and parties.

It’s a perfect choice for anyone seeking a festive mood or interested in Vienna’s musical culture.

The Gypsy BaronJohann Strauss II19rank/position

Johann Strauß II: Ouvertüre »Der Zigeunerbaron« · Kendlinger

It is the most famous operetta after Die Fledermaus.

Johann Strauss II’s work premiered in Vienna the day before his 60th birthday.

Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria was so taken with The Gypsy Baron that he summoned Strauss to the imperial box and praised him.

In Japan, the Takarazuka Revue staged a modern musical remake of the work in September 2010.

Spanish MarchJohann Strauss II20rank/position

J. Strauss II: Spanischer Marsch, Op. 433

A somewhat lengthy march that opens with a bright, confident fanfare; the melody is distinctly Spanish in character, yet it is entirely Johann Strauss II’s original.

It is still occasionally performed today, for example at New Year’s Concerts.

Long live Hungary!Johann Strauss II21rank/position

Johann Strauss II: Éljen a Magyar, Op. 332

Johann Strauss II composed “Hail to Hungary!” to celebrate the second anniversary of Hungarian autonomy.

The coda quotes the “Rákóczi March,” which honors a hero of Hungarian independence.

It has also been performed several times at the New Year’s Concert.