The Clash are one of rock music’s most classic groups, and songs like this one are the reason why. While one other song they released in this year I remember the most, this one has since grown on me and is more recognizable today than the other. It has hence earned a place in this countdown, at #19 it’s Should I Stay or Should I Go by The Clash.
Starting of the countdown of the top 20 songs that turn 40 years old is a song that was in, then out, and then back into this countdown – just to show how competitive this year was. In the end this song’s incredibly recognizable riff, sampled on numerous tracks, and the fact it’s still being used to this day make it a worthy addition to this countdown. We begin at #20 of this 1982 countdown with Edge of Seventeen by Stevie Nicks.
Just like last year, we have our annual countdown coming up for My Top 20 songs that turn 40 years old this year, 2022. If you want to know about my criteria for this countdown, view this post. This proved to be a very tough year and as we wait for April 1st, here are the list of songs that were considered, but did not make the countdown, including six (marked by *) that almost made it: AC/DC – For Those About to Rock Alan Parson Project – Sirius/Eye In The Sky Asia – Heat Of The Moment Billy Idol – White Wedding Billy Joel – Allentown* …..more →
We now come to #1 and for all songs released in 1981, there could only be one top song. It has never lost its popularity over the years, the meaning of its lyrics are still debated to this day, and it contains one of if not the most famous drum riffs in all of pop/rock music – the kind that will make you stop whatever you’re doing when it comes up and air drum it. The #1 song that turns 40 years old this year is In the Air Tonight by Phil Collins.
We’re almost to the end and the last song before the top has managed an unbelievable longevity. While initially popular, the song faded away but regained notoriety in a few noted movie scenes and then became hugely popular again thanks to The Sopranos. Since then, it can be heard at sporting events and has since become the band’s biggest song. Coming in at #2 is Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey.
If you wonder why this band has been able to tour stadiums for years, you can thank the next song in my 1981 countdown. My mom loved this song so I heard it quite a bit growing up, and today it ranks up there along with Satisfaction as one of the band’s ultimate staples. Coming in at #3 is Start Me Up by The Rolling Stones.