Rock may no longer dominate the charts like it did up until the mid-2000s. That said, there are still incredible rock songs—some timeless classics—that have surpassed the remarkable milestone of 1 billion streams on Spotify. Since its humble beginnings as a Swedish start-up in 2008, Spotify has grown into the world’s largest streaming platform.
With over 600 songs reaching one billion or more streams on Spotify, the genre makes up about 10 percent of that elite group. When we talk about “classic rock,” we’re referring to rock music from the mid-1960s through the mid-1990s. From iconic tracks by legendary bands like AC/DC, The Beatles, and Queen to modern classics by Guns N’ Roses and Metallica, we’ve selected our favorite ten classic rock songs that have crossed the one billion stream mark on Spotify. Check out the ranked list below.
10. “Sweet Home Alabama” – 1,351,523,777 Streams on Spotify
Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Sweet Home Alabama” is among the most recognizable Southern rock anthems ever. Released in 1974 on their Second Helping album, the song responded to Neil Young’s critiques of the South in his songs “Southern Man” and “Alabama.” Its catchy guitar riff and sing-along chorus quickly made it a fan favorite and an enduring part of rock history. More than just a regional hit, “Sweet Home Alabama” has transcended its roots to become a global classic, amassing over 1.3 billion streams on Spotify.
9. “We Will Rock You” – 1,354,676,252 Streams on Spotify
Few songs can match the cultural impact of Queen’s “We Will Rock You.” Released in 1977 as part of their News of the World album, it became an anthem with its powerful stomping rhythm and chant-like lyrics, making it a favorite at sporting events and rallies for decades. Despite being under two minutes long, “We Will Rock You” proves that sometimes the most straightforward tracks can have incredible longevity. More than 40 years after its release, it inspires and unites fans worldwide, accumulating over 1.3 billion streams on Spotify.
8. “Here Comes The Sun” – 1,399,525,872 Streams on Spotify
One of the most beloved tracks by The Beatles, “Here Comes The Sun,” was written by George Harrison and released on their 1969 album Abbey Road. This song represents a moment of hope and renewal, with Harrison reflecting on the end of a long, dark English winter. The song’s timeless, uplifting message makes it one of the most streamed Beatles songs. With over 1.3 billion streams on Spotify, it remains a staple in classic rock and a reminder of The Beatles’ lasting influence.
7. “Under The Bridge” – 1,457,154,871 Streams on Spotify
Red Hot Chili Peppers’ “Under The Bridge” is an emotional journey highlighting the band’s softer side. Released in 1992 as part of their album Blood Sugar Sex Magik, this song details frontman Anthony Kiedis’ feelings of loneliness and alienation in Los Angeles. It’s one of the band’s most successful songs and has garnered over 1.4 billion streams on Spotify.
6. “Fortunate Son” – 1,461,702,854 Streams on Spotify
Few protest songs have had the staying power of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Fortunate Son.” Released in 1969 at the height of the Vietnam War, this track became an anthem for those opposed to the conflict, criticizing the inequalities between the rich and the poor. Its raw energy and John Fogerty’s impassioned vocals helped “Fortunate Son” become an enduring symbol of anti-establishment sentiment. Today, with over 1.4 billion streams on Spotify, it remains as relevant as ever.
5. “Enter Sandman” – 1,468,254,078 Streams on Spotify
Metallica’s Black Album is one of the best-selling albums ever, and “Enter Sandman” is undoubtedly its most iconic track. Released in 1991, this song helped the band cross over into mainstream success with its heavy yet accessible sound. With over 1.4 billion plays on the streaming service, “Enter Sandman” is a testament to Metallica’s ability to bridge the gap between underground and mainstream rock.
4. “Back In Black” – 1,632,389,963 Streams on Spotify
AC/DC’s Back In Black is a rock ‘n’ roll masterpiece. The title track, “Back In Black,” released in 1980, was a tribute to the band’s former frontman, Bon Scott, who passed away earlier that year. With Brian Johnson stepping in as the new lead vocalist, the song’s electrifying riff and Johnson’s gritty vocals cemented AC/DC’s place as rock legends. The track became one of the best-selling singles in history and continues to pump life into stadiums, sports events, and playlists worldwide. With over 1.6 billion streams on Spotify, it remains one of the most enduring rock anthems ever made.
3. “Hotel California” – 1,675,619,557 Streams on Spotify
“Hotel California” by The Eagles is a rock classic wrapped in mystery and metaphor. Released in 1976 on the album of the same name, the song tells the story of a traveler’s eerie experience at a luxurious but inescapable hotel, which has been widely interpreted as an allegory for excess and self-destruction. The song’s haunting guitar solos, performed by Don Felder and Joe Walsh, are often called one of the greatest in rock history. With over 1.6 billion plays on Spotify, “Hotel California” is one of the best songs ever. Period.
2. “Dreams” – 1,764,632,127 Streams on Spotify
Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams” is a smooth and ethereal masterpiece from their legendary 1977 album Rumours. Written by Stevie Nicks, the song reflects the emotional turmoil surrounding the band’s relationships at the time. Its laid-back, hypnotic rhythm and introspective lyrics make it one of Fleetwood Mac’s signature tracks. Decades later, “Dreams” experienced a resurgence in popularity thanks to viral social media moments, propelling it past 1.7 billion streams on Spotify. The song’s dreamy vibe and Nicks’s soulful vocals are one of the keys to its popularity.
1. “Sweet Child O’ Mine” – 1,973,935,222 Streams on Spotify
No list of classic rock hits would be complete without Guns N’ Roses’ “Sweet Child O’ Mine.” Released in 1987 as part of their debut album Appetite for Destruction, the song’s iconic opening riff by Slash is instantly recognizable. Combining elements of hard rock with a tender love song, “Sweet Child O’ Mine” became the band’s first and only No. 1 single in the U.S. With nearly 2 billion streams on Spotify, it is probably the greatest song by the band.
