The Kinks were one of the most influential British rock bands of the 1960s and 70s, known for their catchy melodies, witty lyrics, and innovative use of guitar distortion.
Led by the Davies brothers, Ray and Dave, The Kinks created some of the most memorable and enduring songs of the era, and their influence can still be heard in the music of today.
In this article, we will take a look at the 10 best Kinks songs of all time, starting from number ten and counting down to their best song ever.
10 Best The Kinks Songs Ever
10. Don’t Forget to Dance
“Don’t Forget to Dance” is a song from The Kinks’ 1983 album, “State of Confusion.” It is a catchy, delicare tune that showcases the band’s signature sound, with jangling guitars and Ray Davies’ distinctive vocals.
The song’s lyrics encourage the story’s protagonist to not let the challenges of life overcome them, and still do the things in life that bring them joy.
While it may not be as well-known as some of the band’s earlier hits, “Don’t Forget to Dance” is still a fan favorite, and a testament to The Kinks’ enduring popularity.
9. Tired of Waiting for You
“Tired of Waiting for You” was released in 1965 as a single, and quickly became one of The Kinks’ biggest hits. With its unforgettable opening guitar riff and catchy melody, the song is a classic example of the band’s signature sound.
The lyrics tell the story of a man who is tired of waiting for his lover to return, and the emotional turmoil that he experiences as a result. The song’s simple yet powerful message struck a chord with audiences, and it remains one of The Kinks’ most beloved songs.
8. Shangri-La
“Shangri-La” is a song from The Kinks’ 1969 album, “Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire).” The album was a concept album that told the story of a man named Arthur, and his struggles to navigate the changing world around him.
“Shangri-La” is a highlight of the album, with its lush instrumentation and memorable chorus. The song tells the story of a man who has grown tired of the rat race, and dreams of escaping to a perfect, idyllic world called Shangri-La.
While the song’s message may be somewhat idealistic, it remains a powerful reminder of the human desire for a better world.
7. Lola
“Lola” was released in 1970 as a single, and quickly became one of The Kinks’ biggest hits. With its infectious melody and catchy chorus, the song is a classic example of the band’s ability to craft memorable pop songs.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who falls in love with a trans woman named Lola, and the confusion and uncertainty that he experiences as a result.
While the song’s subject matter was controversial at the time, it remains a fan favorite, and a testament to The Kinks’ willingness to tackle taboo subjects.
6. Sunny Afternoon
“Sunny Afternoon” was released in 1966 as a single, and quickly became one of The Kinks’ most enduring hits. With its jaunty melody and witty lyrics, the song perfectly captures the mood of a lazy, hazy summer day.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who has fallen on “hard times” due to rising tax, but in reality he still leads a comfortable life, surrounded by luxury. It showcases the band at their satirical best and why they were the masters of subtext.
5. Victoria
“Victoria” was released in 1969 as a single, and quickly became one of The Kinks’ most iconic songs. The song’s opening riff is instantly recognizable, and the lyrics tell the story of the British Empire at its height, and the pride and arrogance that came with it.
The song’s protagonist, a soldier fighting in the name of Queen Victoria, begins to question the morality of his actions, and wonders if he is fighting for a just cause.
With its powerful message and catchy melody, “Victoria” remains one of The Kinks’ most politically charged and thought-provoking songs.
4. You Really Got Me
“You Really Got Me” was The Kinks’ breakthrough hit, released in 1964. With its distorted guitar riff and driving rhythm, the song is often cited as one of the first examples of heavy metal music.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who is completely smitten with a woman, and the power that she holds over him.
With its raw energy and unforgettable riff, “You Really Got Me” remains one of The Kinks’ most iconic songs, and a touchstone for the development of rock music as we know it today.
3. All Day and All of the Night
“All Day and All of the Night” was released in 1964 as a follow-up to “You Really Got Me,” and quickly became another hit for The Kinks. With its driving beat and catchy melody, the song is a classic example of the band’s signature sound.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who is consumed with desire for a woman, and the emotional turmoil that he experiences as a result.
With its memorable guitar riff and powerful chorus, “All Day and All of the Night” remains one of The Kinks’ most enduring and beloved songs.
2. Dead End Street
“Dead End Street” was released in 1966 as a single, and quickly became one of The Kinks’ most critically acclaimed songs. With its haunting melody and bleak lyrics, the song paints a stark portrait of poverty and desperation in post-war Britain.
The song’s lyrics describe the struggles of a family living in a run-down tenement, and the sense of hopelessness that they experience as they struggle to make ends meet.
With its powerful message and haunting melody, “Dead End Street” remains one of The Kinks’ most enduring and thought-provoking songs.
1. Waterloo Sunset
“Waterloo Sunset” is widely regarded as The Kinks’ masterpiece, and one of the greatest songs of all time. Released in 1967 as a single, the song tells the story of someone watching the sunset over the Waterloo Bridge, and the sense of peace and serenity that they experience in that moment.
With its beautiful melody, evocative lyrics, and Ray Davies’ soulful vocals, “Waterloo Sunset” is a timeless masterpiece that perfectly captures the mood of its era.
It is a testament to The Kinks’ enduring legacy as one of the greatest rock bands of all time. Not only is it The Kinks’ best song, but it’s quite simply one of the best songs ever written.
Best The Kinks Songs – Final Thoughts
The Kinks were one of the most influential bands of the 1960s and 70s, and their music continues to inspire and captivate listeners today. From the raw energy of “You Really Got Me” to the haunting beauty of “Waterloo Sunset,” the band’s music has stood the test of time, and remains an essential part of the rock and roll canon.
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