With their electrifying performances and iconic sound, Aerosmith has made an indelible mark on the music industry. Over the years, the legendary rock band have captivated audiences around the world with their infectious energy and timeless rock anthems. Let’s delve into their extensive discography, and take a look at their top songs of all time, based on data from the Billboard Hot 100 charts.
“Dream On” (1973)
Their first single was also their best charting Aerosmith song. “Dream On” marked Aerosmith’s breakthrough moment. The track from their debut album showcased their unique blend of hard rock and blues. This anthem remains an enduring favorite among fans, even decades after its initial release.
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 29
- Peak Position: 6
“Cryin'” (1993)
With its emotionally charged lyrics and Steven Tyler‘s powerful vocals, “Cryin'” struck a chord with audiences worldwide. This iconic power ballad exemplifies Aerosmith’s ability to capture the essence of raw human emotions.
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 26
- Peak Position: 12
“Angel” (1988)
Charting at #3, “Angel” was Aerosmith’s best song of the 1980s. “Angel” showcases Aerosmith’s ability to balance tender ballads with their signature rock sound. With its captivating melody and heartfelt lyrics, this song resonated with fans worldwide, cementing its status as a classic.
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 25
- Peak Position: 3
“Crazy” (1994)
Featuring Alicia Silverstone and Liv Tyler in the unforgettable music video, “Crazy” was one of the biggest rock songs of the 1990s. While many Rock and Metal bands began to crumble after the popularity of Grunge, the success of “Crazy” and other songs from Aerosmith’s(Amazon link) Get A Grip album, helped prove that the band wasn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 26
- Peak Position: 6
“Amazing” (1993)
“Amazing” is a power ballad about finding love and overcoming addiction. The song’s lyrics are personal and reflective, and they speak to Tyler’s own experiences with drug abuse and turmoil with the band.
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 21
- Peak Position: 24
“Livin’ on the Edge” (1993)
“Livin’ on the Edge” addresses societal issues and serves as a reminder of Aerosmith’s social consciousness. Its hard-hitting sound and introspective lyrics showcased the band’s versatility and depth.
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 20
- Peak Position: 18
“I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” (1998)
Aerosmith’s most commercially successful single, “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing,” soared to the top of the charts thanks to its inclusion in the blockbuster film “Armageddon.”
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 20
- Top Position: 1
“Dude (Looks Like a Lady)” (1987)
With its catchy hooks and playful lyrics, “Dude (Looks Like a Lady)” became a radio staple and a concert favorite. This energetic track perfectly represents Aerosmith’s ability to combine rock ‘n’ roll with a touch of glam. As far as subject matter, it’s doubtful the band could release such a track in today’s sensitive political climate.
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 20
- Top Position: 14
“Jaded” (2001)
“Jaded” served as a reminder of Aerosmith’s ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes. With its catchy chorus and infectious hooks, this track proved that the band still had plenty of rock ‘n’ roll left in them.
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 20
- Top Position: 7
“Janie’s Got a Gun” (1989)
Combining poignant storytelling with powerful instrumentals, “Janie’s Got a Gun” tackled the sensitive issue of child abuse. The song’s thought-provoking lyrics and memorable guitar riffs earned it both critical acclaim and commercial success.
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 18
- Top Position: 4
“Walk This Way” (1975)
Teaming up with rap pioneers Run-DMC for a groundbreaking collaboration, Aerosmith revitalized their career and introduced their music to a whole new generation. “Walk This Way” remains a timeless rock anthem that transcends genres.
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 17
- Top Position: 10
“What It Takes” (1990)
With its soaring chorus and bluesy undertones, “What It Takes” became an anthem of resilience and perseverance. Aerosmith’s ability to blend rock, blues, and soul is beautifully showcased in this powerful ballad.
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 17
- Top Position: 9
“Rag Doll” (1988)
“Rag Doll” is a testament to Aerosmith’s ability to craft infectious hooks and memorable choruses. This energetic rocker perfectly captures the essence of their trademark sound, leaving a lasting impression on fans.
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 17
- Top Position: 17
“Love In An Elevator” (1989)
From the opening elevator bell to the infectious guitar riffs, “Love in an Elevator” exudes the trademark Aerosmith swagger. This hard-rocking anthem became an instant favorite and has remained a staple of their live performances.
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 16
- Top Position: 5
“Last Child” (1976)
“Last Child” showcases Aerosmith’s ability to blend gritty rock with catchy melodies. With its infectious groove and memorable guitar work, this track continues to be a fan favorite.
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 15
- Top Position: 21
“The Other Side” (1990)
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 15
- Top Position: 22
“Falling in Love (Is Hard on the Knees)” (1997)
With its punchy guitar riffs and unrelenting energy, “Falling in Love (Is Hard on the Knees)” captured the essence of Aerosmith’s hard rock roots. This track further solidified their status as rock icons.
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 15
- Top Position: 35
“Blind Man” (1994)
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 14
- Top Position: 48
“Pink” (1998)
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 13
- Top Position: 27
“Come Together” (1979)
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 12
- Top Position: 23
“Draw The Line” (1977)
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 11
- Top Position: 42
“Hole In My Soul” (1997)
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 11
- Top Position: 51
“Sweet Emotion” (1975)
An emblematic track from Aerosmith’s classic album “Toys in the Attic,” “Sweet Emotion” showcases the band’s ability to infuse their music with irresistible grooves. Its funky bassline and infectious chorus have solidified its place as one of their signature songs.
The song got a second life in 1991. Aerosmith’s record company released a compilation, Pandora’s Box, containing classic tracks from the 1970s and early 1980s after the band’s successful comeback with their Permanent Vacation (1987) and Pump (1989) albums. “Sweet Emotion” was one of those hits.
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 8
- Top Position: 36
“Back In The Saddle” (1977)
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 8
- Top Position: 38
“Remember (Walking In The Sand)” (1980)
- Billboard Chart Weeks: 6
- Top Position: 67
The Best Songs By Aerosmith
Wow. What a list. Aerosmith’s musical legacy is undoubtedly monumental, and their songs continue to resonate with generations of rock fans. From power ballads to hard-hitting rock anthems, the band has consistently pushed boundaries and remained relevant throughout their storied career. The top songs listed here reflect not only their chart success but also the enduring impact of their music.
What did you think? Any surprises with this list? Let us know in the comments.
Personally, I was shocked to see the song “Sweet Emotion” so low. I thought that “Sweet Emotion” was one of Aerosmith’s biggest hits. Also, great Aerosmith songs like “Toys In The Attic” and “Mama Kin” didn’t even make the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Hi, I’m Zack Applegate. I’m a technology writer at MethodShop. Please check out my articles on a variety of topics, including artificial intelligence, music, movies, and silly tech stuff like funny Elon Musk jokes and rock bands with weird names. If you have article ideas, please connect with me on Facebook.
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