A classic of Southern rock. Recommended popular songs.
There are many subgenres of rock, but so-called “Southern rock” is, as the name suggests, a genre characterized by sounds influenced by music with strong roots in the American South.
Blending country, blues, and old-school R&B, Southern rock boasts many hugely popular bands in the United States.
In Japan, however, it’s honestly a less familiar genre, and even those who know the name might feel it’s somehow a bit hard to get into.
This article introduces classic tracks recommended for beginners to help spark your interest in Southern rock.
Experience the deep appeal of Southern rock for yourself!
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Southern rock masterpieces. Recommended popular songs (21–30)
Black BettyRam Jam
A 20th-century African American work song.
It was originally recorded and popularized in 1939 by folk singer Lead Belly.
This version by Ram Jam is characterized by a powerful beat and aggressive tempo, and it became their only hit.
The track is frequently used at sporting events.
Hard To HandleThe Black Crowes
A soulful sound that fuses blues and rock! Featured on The Black Crowes’ debut album Shake Your Money Maker, this track was released in February 1990 and became one of the band’s signature songs.
It’s characterized by Chris Robinson’s powerful vocals and rich guitar tones.
The lyrics depict a confident man showing off his charm to his partner, conveying the masculinity and free spirit typical of Southern rock.
It’s also acclaimed in live performances, letting you fully savor the appeal of Southern rock.
Highly recommended when you want an energetic vibe—perfect for driving or hanging out with friends.
The Night They Drove Old Dixie DownThe Band
A song released as a single by The Band in 1969.
It is set against the backdrop of the American Civil War.
It was covered by Joan Baez in 1971, and her version reached No.
1 on the U.S.
charts and was also a hit in the UK, Canada, Australia, and elsewhere.
Green RiverCreedence Clearwater Revival
A song written by the group’s leader, John Fogerty.
The title “Green River” refers to Putah Creek near Winters, California, where he used to play as a child.
It was released in 1969 by the American rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival.
Gimme Three StepsLynyrd Skynyrd
A song inspired by an incident Ronnie Van Zant experienced at a bar called The Little Brown Jug on Edison Avenue in Jacksonville, Florida.
It is one of the few songs Lynyrd Skynyrd released as a single, and it came out in 1973.
Railroad BoyGov’t Mule
A track included on By a Thread, the ninth album released in 2009 by the American Southern rock jam band Gov’t Mule.
It features a Celtic-tinged sound blended with traditional folk songs and Delta blues.
4th of JulyShooter Jennings
A song by Shooter Jennings, an American outlaw country and Southern rock singer-songwriter.
It’s about a road trip he actually took.
Released on the 2005 album “Put the ‘O’ Back in Country,” it has become one of his most popular tracks.