‘Johnny B. Goode’ — Chuck Berry
Chuck Berry released “Johnny B. Goode” in 1958. It was a semi-autobiographical song about a New Orleans “country boy” who can play the guitar “like ringing a bell,” peaking at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100. Rolling Stone called it “the first rock & roll hit about rock & roll stardom,” as well as “the greatest rock & roll song about the democracy of fame in pop music.” It was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999 as a result of its effect. On Rolling Stone’s list of the 100 Greatest Guitar Songs of All Time, the rock ‘n’ roll tune is ranked first. Ranker, on the other hand, ranked it 11th.
‘Johnny B. Goode’ — Chuck Berry
‘Smells Like Teen Spirit’ — Nirvana
Our is the only song on this list that was released in the 1990s. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” became an anthem for that disillusioned generation. It was given the brand name of a deodorant. The song went on to become an international smash in a number of nations. The Recording Industry Association of America even certified it platinum. The song also helped drive the “Nevermind” album to the top of the charts in early 1992. Unfortunately, it put Nirvana under a lot of hardship. “There are a lot of other songs I’ve written that are just as good, if not better,” Kurt Cobain commented. The song peaked at No. 9 on the Rolling Stones chart.
‘Smells Like Teen Spirit’ — Nirvana
