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Crafting a list of the 10 Best Songs With the Word ‘Heart’ in the Title was both a rewarding and formidable challenge. With millions of songs to consider, this particular theme stands out as one of the most diverse and evocative in rock and roll history. The word “heart” has inspired artists to explore themes ranging from undying love and longing to heartbreak and resilience, providing the foundation for countless timeless classics. Narrowing these options down was no easy feat, but the result is a collection that spans genres, decades, and emotional landscapes, offering something for every music lover.
Huey Lewis & The News brought infectious energy to the list with “The Heart of Rock and Roll,” a tribute to music’s universal pulse, and “Heart and Soul,” a pop-rock anthem steeped in pure romantic yearning. Neil Young captures both love’s fragility and its unyielding power with his dual entries, “Only Love Can Break Your Heart” and “Heart of Gold,” reflecting his lyrical genius and musical versatility. Janis Joplin’s raw, soul-stirring rendition of “Piece of My Heart” with Big Brother and the Holding Company immortalized the song as a rallying cry for love’s emotional highs and lows.
Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes’ “Hearts of Stone,” penned by Bruce Springsteen, brings a poignant, blue-collar perspective to love and loss, while Rush’s “Closer to the Heart” offers a philosophical take, encouraging unity and compassion. Maria McKee’s original version of “A Good Heart” shines as a powerfully emotive ballad of vulnerability and resilience. Dionne Warwick’s iconic delivery of “Anyone Who Had a Heart” showcases Burt Bacharach and Hal David’s songwriting brilliance, pairing intricate melodies with heartfelt lyrics. Tom Waits and Crystal Gayle’s “This One’s From the Heart” embodies melancholic beauty, capturing the essence of love through its cinematic arrangement.
Taylor Dayne’s “Tell It to My Heart” electrifies the list with its pulsing 1980s dance-pop energy, a testament to love’s fiery intensity. Finally, closing the list, The Beatles cement their legacy with the monumental “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band,” a song that not only revolutionized music but also serves as a fitting conclusion to this exploration of “heart” in rock and roll.
This list celebrates the extraordinary range of emotions and styles that songs with “heart” in the title have inspired. From soulful ballads to anthemic rockers, these tracks remind us of music’s unmatched ability to capture the complexities of the human experience—proving once again why the “heart” remains such a timeless and universal theme.
# 10 – The Heart Of Rock And Roll / Heart And Soul – Huey Lewis & The News
Kicking off this list of songs with “heart” in the title are two tracks that pulse with the energy and spirit of their namesakes. Huey Lewis & The News introduced “The Heart of Rock and Roll” and “Heart and Soul” on their groundbreaking Sports album in 1983, both songs becoming cornerstones of their enduring legacy. Recorded at Fantasy Studios in Berkeley, California, with production by Huey Lewis, the band, and Bob Brown, the album skyrocketed the band to stardom, earning multiple platinum certifications and capturing the vibrant essence of 1980s rock.
“The Heart of Rock and Roll” serves as a passionate anthem, celebrating the timeless vitality of rock music across America’s cities. With its driving beat and Johnny Colla’s electrifying saxophone solo, the song captures the genre’s unrelenting heartbeat. On the other hand, “Heart and Soul” brings a playful yet magnetic energy, built on a lively keyboard riff and a hook-laden chorus that echoes themes of love and connection. Both tracks reached the upper echelons of the Billboard Hot 100, with “The Heart of Rock and Roll” peaking at No. 6 and “Heart and Soul” at No. 8, securing their places in rock and pop history.
Lyrically, “The Heart of Rock and Roll” pays homage to the enduring pulse of music, while “Heart and Soul” explores the thrill of romantic chemistry. As the opening selections for this list, these songs embody the multifaceted symbolism of the word “heart”—from the rhythm that fuels music to the emotions that drive human connection. Together, they set the tone for a collection of songs that demonstrate the many ways “heart” resonates in rock and roll.
Read More: 10 Most Rocking Huey Lewis And The News Songs
# 9 – Closer To The Heart – Rush
Rush’s “Closer to the Heart” is a shining example of how the word “heart” can transcend its literal meaning to convey profound ideals of unity and hope. This track, featured on the band’s fifth studio album, A Farewell to Kings (1977), was recorded at Rockfield Studios in Wales and produced by Terry Brown. Co-written by Alex Lifeson, Geddy Lee, Neil Peart, and lyricist Peter Talbot, “Closer to the Heart” became Rush’s first hit single in the UK and a perennial favorite in their live performances, showcasing the band’s masterful blend of technical musicianship and philosophical lyricism.
The song’s lyrics emphasize the need for individuals to work together to create a better world, urging blacksmiths, artists, and philosophers alike to build lives closer to the ideals they cherish. Musically, Lifeson’s acoustic guitar intro flows seamlessly into powerful electric instrumentation, while Lee’s evocative vocals deliver a balance of intensity and reflection. Peart’s drumming, always a hallmark of Rush’s sound, adds dynamic complexity to the arrangement, making the track both inspiring and musically intricate.
Positioned on this list of “heart” songs, “Closer to the Heart” stands as a call to action, contrasting beautifully with more intimate or romantic interpretations of the word. The song’s universal message of change and its enduring appeal as a concert staple highlight the emotional depth Rush brought to progressive rock, making it an essential entry for a list that celebrates the many ways the word “heart” resonates in music.
Read More: Alex Lifeson of Rush: The ClassicRockHistory.com Interview
# 8 – A Good Heart – Maria Mckee
Maria McKee’s original rendition of “A Good Heart” offers a raw and deeply personal take on the song she penned, reflecting her emotional vulnerability during a turbulent period in her life. Written about her relationship with Benmont Tench of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, the song captures McKee’s longing and the bittersweet complexities of love. Although McKee never officially released the track as a single, her version serves as the emotional blueprint for Feargal Sharkey’s polished 1985 hit, bringing a sense of intimacy and authenticity to the heartfelt lyrics.
McKee’s version carries a distinctly different energy compared to Sharkey’s more pop-oriented production. Her stripped-down delivery emphasizes the song’s lyrical weight, showcasing her ability to infuse every word with emotion. The haunting melody and understated arrangement highlight the song’s themes of fragility and resilience, making it a standout piece in McKee’s extensive songwriting repertoire. While Feargal Sharkey’s rendition brought the song international acclaim, McKee’s interpretation resonates on a more personal level, giving listeners a glimpse into the pain and passion behind its creation.
Read More: 10 Maria McKee Songs That Will Leave You Mesmerized
# 7 – Anyone Who Had a Heart – Dionne Warick
“Anyone Who Had a Heart” is a masterclass in emotive songwriting and vocal delivery, brought to life by the unparalleled Dionne Warwick. Written by the iconic team of Burt Bacharach and Hal David, the song was recorded in November 1963 at Bell Sound Studios in New York City. It quickly became one of Warwick’s signature tracks, released as a single in 1964 and featured on her album of the same name. The track’s orchestration, guided by Bacharach’s innovative arrangements, blends complex time signatures with sweeping melodies, creating a timeless appeal.
Lyrically, Hal David captures the raw pain of unreciprocated love, while Warwick’s voice carries the emotional weight with incredible nuance. Her heartfelt delivery of lines like, “Anyone who ever loved could look at me and know that I love you,” strikes a delicate balance between longing and vulnerability. The song’s layered structure, moving effortlessly between lush verses and a soaring chorus, exemplifies the intricate synergy of Bacharach and David’s collaborative genius. Warwick’s ability to connect with the listener, paired with the sophisticated arrangement, elevates this track to a classic status.
Chart success further cemented its place in music history. “Anyone Who Had a Heart” reached No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and climbed to No. 6 on the R&B chart, becoming Warwick’s first major crossover hit. It has since been covered by numerous artists, but Warwick’s rendition remains definitive, embodying the universal heartbreak and yearning at the song’s core. As a vital addition to this list, the track serves as a powerful reminder of the emotional depth that “heart” songs can convey, making it a benchmark of romantic expression in popular music.
Read More: Top 20 Burt Bacharach Songs
# 6 – This One’s from the Heart – Tom Waits and Crystal Gayle
“This One’s from the Heart” is a hauntingly beautiful duet between Tom Waits and Crystal Gayle, showcasing their contrasting yet complementary vocal styles. The song is a centerpiece of One from the Heart, the 1982 soundtrack album for Francis Ford Coppola’s film of the same name. Waits composed and produced the entire album, which remains a unique and celebrated project in his discography, blending elements of jazz, blues, and orchestral arrangements to reflect the film’s melancholic, romantic themes.
Recorded at Coppola’s Zoetrope Studios in San Francisco, One from the Heart features an intimate musical landscape crafted by Waits. The album’s lush arrangements are brought to life by accomplished musicians, including Jack Sheldon on trumpet, Shelly Manne on drums, and Greg Cohen on bass. Crystal Gayle’s ethereal voice pairs seamlessly with Waits’ gravelly baritone, creating a striking emotional depth. Their duet in “This One’s from the Heart” captures a bittersweet longing, with the lyrics painting vivid, almost cinematic images of love, regret, and yearning.
Lyrically, the song delves into the narrator’s vulnerability, expressed through poignant metaphors like “The shadows on the wall look like a railroad track” and “The moon’s a yellow stain across the sky.” These evocative lines, paired with the tender refrain of “Oh baby, this one’s from the heart,” illustrate an aching sincerity that resonates deeply. The interplay between Waits’ gritty delivery and Gayle’s tender phrasing amplifies the song’s emotional power, making it an unforgettable listening experience.
Though the film itself was not a commercial success, the soundtrack received widespread critical acclaim, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Score. As a rare collaborative project for Waits and Gayle, “This One’s from the Heart” stands as a testament to the emotional depth music can bring to storytelling, making it an essential inclusion on this list of “heart” songs. Its heartfelt exploration of love and longing leaves a lasting impression, much like the deep grooves of the album it calls home.
Read More: The Heroines In Tom Waits Songs
Read More: Top 10 Crystal Gayle Songs
# 5 – Tell It to My Heart – Taylor Dayne
“Tell It to My Heart” was the electrifying debut single that launched Taylor Dayne into the pop stratosphere in 1987. Written by Seth Swirsky and Ernie Gold, the song became an instant dance anthem, showcasing Dayne’s powerhouse vocals and magnetic presence. Produced by Ric Wake, the track was recorded in New York City and included on her debut album, Tell It to My Heart, released in 1988. Its pulsating beat, bold synth-driven production, and Dayne’s commanding vocal delivery established her as a breakout star of the late 1980s.
Chart-wise, “Tell It to My Heart” was a massive success, reaching number seven on the Billboard Hot 100 and climbing to number one on charts in multiple countries, including Germany and the Netherlands. The song’s crossover appeal resonated with fans of pop, dance, and even adult contemporary music, solidifying its place as a defining track of its era. Its music video, directed by Doug Dowdle, added to its impact, featuring Dayne’s vibrant performance style and embodying the neon-soaked aesthetic of the late ’80s.
Lyrically, the song is a passionate plea for clarity in a romantic relationship, with Dayne delivering lines like “Tell it to my heart / Tell me I’m the only one” with unrelenting intensity. The urgency in her voice adds an emotional edge to the infectious dance rhythm, making it a timeless anthem of desire and vulnerability. Over the decades, “Tell It to My Heart” has remained a staple of ’80s retrospectives and playlists, marking the start of Taylor Dayne’s enduring career and securing its place as a quintessential “heart” song in pop music history.
Read More: Top 10 Taylor Dayne Songs
# 4 – Hearts Of Stone – Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes
“Hearts of Stone,” written by Bruce Springsteen, is a stirring ballad from Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes’ 1978 album Hearts of Stone. The album, widely regarded as one of the group’s finest, was produced by Miami Steve Van Zandt, Springsteen’s longtime collaborator, and recorded at Secret Sound Studios in New York City. The track epitomizes the heartache and yearning that defined much of Springsteen’s songwriting during this period, while Southside Johnny’s soulful delivery brings the song’s emotional depth vividly to life.
The lyrics of “Hearts of Stone” delve into themes of regret, nostalgia, and the inevitability of change. Lines such as “You cry because things ain’t like before / Well don’t you know they can’t be that way anymore” resonate with a bittersweet realism that captures the struggles of moving on from a love that has faded. The song’s structure, driven by a gentle rhythm and poignant horn arrangements typical of the Jukes’ sound, underscores the raw vulnerability in Southside Johnny’s vocal performance. This synergy between lyrics and melody creates a timeless narrative of love and loss.
Critics have praised Hearts of Stone as a masterful blend of rock and soul, with the title track often highlighted as a standout piece. Although the album was not a commercial blockbuster, it earned immense critical acclaim and has since been celebrated as an essential entry in the Asbury Park music legacy. The song also carries historical significance, as Bruce Springsteen later performed his own version during live shows, further cementing its place in the canon of songs that connect his artistry with that of Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes. In this list of “heart” songs, “Hearts of Stone” represents a deeply reflective and emotionally resonant exploration of love’s complexities.
Read More: Best Songs Bruce Springsteen Wrote For Southside Johnny
# 3 – Tie – Only Love Can Break Your Heart/ Heart Of Gold – Neil Young
Neil Young’s poetic lyricism and unmistakable sound make his contributions to this list a perfect pairing. Both “Only Love Can Break Your Heart” and “Heart of Gold” highlight different facets of his songwriting genius, offering two perspectives on love, longing, and the human experience. These songs remain emblematic of his ability to capture raw emotion with simplicity and depth.
“Only Love Can Break Your Heart,” from Young’s 1970 album After the Gold Rush, stands as one of his most introspective and tender compositions. Written during a period of emotional upheaval, the song reflects on vulnerability and heartbreak with a melancholy that is universal. Its understated arrangement, featuring gentle acoustic guitar and harmonies, enhances the sincerity of the lyrics, such as, “Only love can break your heart / Try to be sure right from the start.” This introspective gem resonated with listeners, earning Young his first Top 40 hit in the United States and solidifying his reputation as a master of emotive songwriting.
Meanwhile, “Heart of Gold,” from his 1972 album Harvest, showcases a different tone—optimistic yet wistful, with its yearning for authenticity and genuine love. The song’s iconic harmonica riff and country-inspired instrumentation, featuring James Taylor and Linda Ronstadt on backing vocals, contributed to its warm, approachable feel. “Heart of Gold” became Young’s only No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, making it a cultural touchstone and a symbol of the Harvest album’s wide appeal. Lines like “I want to live, I want to give / I’ve been a miner for a heart of gold” embody Young’s pursuit of connection and meaning, echoing sentiments that continue to resonate with audiences decades later.
Together, these two tracks demonstrate Neil Young’s versatility in exploring love’s complexities—its ability to both uplift and devastate. As early entries in his storied career, they highlight his profound impact on music and his unique voice in rock’s golden era. Placed side by side on this list, “Only Love Can Break Your Heart” and “Heart of Gold” offer a rich and compelling juxtaposition of love’s joys and sorrows.
Read More: Top 10 Neil Young Songs
# 2 – Piece Of My Heart – Big Brother & The Holding Company feat Janis Joplin
Few songs in rock history channel raw emotion and vocal intensity like Janis Joplin’s rendition of “Piece of My Heart” with Big Brother and the Holding Company. Originally written by Jerry Ragovoy and Bert Berns and recorded by Erma Franklin in 1967, the song reached new heights when Joplin and her band reimagined it for their 1968 album Cheap Thrills. Joplin’s electrifying performance transformed it into an anthem of heartbreak, empowerment, and unfiltered soul, securing its place as one of the defining tracks of the 1960s.
Big Brother and the Holding Company’s version of “Piece of My Heart” was recorded at Columbia Records’ studios and produced by John Simon. The track’s gritty, psychedelic instrumentation perfectly complements Joplin’s powerhouse vocals. James Gurley and Sam Andrew deliver searing guitar lines, underscoring the emotional weight of the lyrics, while Peter Albin’s bass and Dave Getz’s drums drive the track’s hypnotic rhythm. Joplin’s vocal delivery, alternately tender and ferocious, captures the anguish and resilience of a lover willing to give everything, even at the cost of their own pain. Lines like “Take another little piece of my heart now, baby!” resonate with an intensity that is impossible to ignore, as Joplin’s voice soars with cathartic force.
The song became a massive hit, peaking at No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and helping Cheap Thrills reach No. 1 on the Billboard 200, where it stayed for eight weeks. Critics praised the song for its emotional authenticity and Joplin’s unparalleled vocal performance, cementing her status as a rock icon. Decades later, “Piece of My Heart” remains a cultural touchstone, emblematic of the countercultural spirit of the 1960s.
As the embodiment of heartbreak and defiance, “Piece of My Heart” is a cornerstone of Joplin’s legacy. Her ability to turn vulnerability into strength made the song not just a chart success, but a timeless expression of human emotion, ensuring its continued reverence among music lovers.
Read More: Top 10 Janis Joplin Songs
# 1 – “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” – The Beatles
Closing this list with “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” feels nothing short of perfect, as it highlights the unparalleled artistry of the greatest musical band of all time—The Beatles. Written primarily by Paul McCartney with contributions from John Lennon, the song serves as the bold and theatrical opening track for their groundbreaking 1967 album Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. Widely regarded as a revolutionary work in rock history, the album not only defined an era but also showcased The Beatles’ ability to continually push the boundaries of popular music.
The track was recorded at Abbey Road Studios between February and March 1967, with George Martin at the helm as producer. The song’s brass-heavy arrangement, performed by session musicians, was inspired by McCartney’s love for brass bands and delivers a rousing introduction to the fictitious band for which the album is named. Instrumentally, McCartney’s driving bass, Lennon and George Harrison’s intricate guitar work, and Ringo Starr’s sharp drumming create a vivid soundscape. The lyrics invite listeners into a fantastical world, presenting the titular band as a colorful alter ego for The Beatles themselves. It’s an imaginative concept that broke conventional album structures and helped pioneer the idea of the concept album.
While not released as a single, “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” has achieved legendary status, earning praise for its innovation and energy. Its live-performance aesthetic, complete with applause and cheering effects, gives listeners the sensation of attending a concert. McCartney’s dynamic lead vocals, combined with Lennon and Harrison’s harmonies, create a sense of grandeur befitting the track’s role as both an introduction and, later in the reprise, a thematic closure to the album. The song’s influence resonates to this day, solidifying Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band as one of the most iconic albums ever recorded.
Ending the list with this track underscores the monumental contributions The Beatles made to music. With their unmatched creativity and technical prowess, they redefined what a band could achieve, making it only fitting that the final word on this list belongs to them.
Read More: Beatles Albums In Order Of Original UK And US Studio Issues
10 Best Songs That Feature The Word ‘Heart’ In The Title article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024
Sorry for the shameless plug, but this was a song I wrote for the group I was working with many years ago in the 80s called Phase IV. It got a little buzz, but not much more than that.
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