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Whenever I hear the word “Think,” I am reminded of the old Three Stooges routine when Curly says, “I tried to think, but nothing happens.” In rock music, the word “think” has been used a little differently in countless ways, weaving through themes of desire, self-awareness, and resilience.
Fleetwood Mac’s “Think About Me” sets the tone with its polished yet emotionally resonant exploration of love and independence, a hallmark of Tusk. Stevie Nicks takes a more introspective route with “Think About It,” offering heartfelt advice and encouragement on her debut solo album, Bella Donna. Tommy James & The Shondells bring youthful urgency and secrecy with “I Think We’re Alone Now,” a timeless anthem of forbidden romance. Rod Stewart’s “Do You Think I’m Sexy” blends playful flirtation with the glitz of disco, showing how humor and sensuality can coexist in a genre-bending hit.
Linda Ronstadt and James Taylor’s duet “I Think It’s Gonna Work Out Fine” reimagines an R&B classic with warmth and chemistry, while The Partridge Family’s “I Think I Love You” captures the innocence and thrill of realizing romantic feelings. The Rolling Stones deliver sharp introspection and biting critique in “Think,” contrasting the tender optimism of other entries. George Harrison’s “Think For Yourself” calls for individuality and self-reliance, underpinned by inventive instrumentation that pushed the boundaries of Rubber Soul. Eddie Money’s “Think I’m in Love” infuses the list with a burst of 1980s energy, balancing raw passion and catchy hooks.
Finally, Aretha Franklin’s “Think” closes the list with a powerful declaration of freedom and respect, cementing its place as an anthem of empowerment.
# 10 – Think Of Me – Fleetwood Mac
Fleetwood Mac’s “Think About Me,” a Christine McVie composition, is a breezy yet emotionally charged song from the band’s iconic 1979 double album, Tusk. Recorded at the famed Village Recorder studios in Los Angeles, the track features the impeccable production of Lindsey Buckingham and the band, blending a crisp pop-rock sound with the layered instrumentation that defines Fleetwood Mac’s signature style. While not as experimental as many of the tracks on Tusk, “Think About Me” showcases McVie’s ability to craft deceptively simple melodies with underlying emotional depth.
The song’s arrangement strikes a perfect balance between pop accessibility and Fleetwood Mac’s lush sonic textures. Christine McVie handles lead vocals with her warm and effortlessly smooth delivery, while Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks contribute backing harmonies that elevate the track’s emotional resonance. Mick Fleetwood’s crisp drumming and John McVie’s understated yet grooving bassline anchor the rhythm section, giving the song a buoyant energy that contrasts with its reflective lyrics. The single’s remix subtly enhances its pop appeal, helping it reach number 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1980, solidifying its place as a fan favorite.
Lyrically, “Think About Me” is a plea for recognition and love, wrapped in McVie’s characteristically understated and conversational tone. The line, “I don’t hold you down, maybe that’s why you’re around,” captures the song’s blend of vulnerability and strength, as the narrator balances longing with independence. This lyrical balance parallels the push-and-pull dynamics often explored in Fleetwood Mac’s music, creating a thematic connection to other tracks from Tusk while standing as a self-contained gem. As part of this list, “Think About Me” adds a polished yet poignant layer, reminding listeners of the power of direct and heartfelt songwriting.
Read More: Our 10 Favorite Fleetwood Mac Songs
# 9 – Think About It – Stevie Nicks
debut solo album Bella Donna, showcases her ability to deliver heartfelt advice through poetic lyrics and captivating melodies. Recorded in 1981 at Goodnight L.A. Studios and Cherokee Studios, the song highlights Nicks’s evolution as a solo artist, with production by Jimmy Iovine and Roy Bittan’s shimmering piano work adding a tender depth to the arrangement. Supporting contributions from guitarist Waddy Wachtel and bassist Donald “Duck” Dunn bring a warmth and richness to the soundscape, reflecting the album’s polished yet emotionally resonant aesthetic.
Lyrically, “Think About It” is a reflective ode to resilience, urging listeners to persevere even when life feels overwhelming. Lines like “Heartbreak of the moment is not endless” remind us of the fleeting nature of pain and the strength to carry forward. The song stands out for its simplicity and directness, offering encouragement to embrace challenges with grace. It resonates with the same themes of contemplation and emotional honesty found in Fleetwood Mac’s “Think About Me,” also included in this list. While the latter explores the complexities of love and freedom, “Think About It” delivers a more personal, introspective message, adding variety and depth to this exploration of songs centered on the word “Think.”
Critically, “Think About It” balances vulnerability with empowerment, making it a standout track on Bella Donna, an album that cemented Nicks’s reputation as a solo artist apart from Fleetwood Mac. Its heartfelt lyrics and gentle arrangement provide a meaningful contrast to more upbeat or experimental tracks on this list, reflecting the versatility of songs inspired by introspection and thoughtful reflection.
Read More: Top 10 Stevie Nicks Albums
# 8 – I Think We`re Alone Now -Tommy James & The Shondells
Tommy James & The Shondells’ “I Think We’re Alone Now,” released in 1967, is an enduring anthem of youthful rebellion and clandestine romance. Recorded on Christmas Eve 1966 at Allegro Sound Studios in New York City, the track was produced by Ritchie Cordell and Bo Gentry, who helped craft its distinctive bubblegum sound. The recording features studio musicians, including Artie Butler on the ondioline, Al Gorgoni on guitar, and Bobby Gregg on drums, alongside James and Shondells guitarist Eddie Gray. This meticulous layering of instruments and strategic use of dynamics—such as quiet choruses contrasted with driving verses—showcases the innovative production techniques that became the band’s signature.
The song captures the thrill of forbidden love, with its lyrics describing young lovers sneaking away to be together, far from prying eyes. Lines like “Tryin’ to get away into the night, and then you put your arms around me” convey a mix of urgency and intimacy. The whispered refrains and sound effects, like chirping crickets, create an atmosphere of secrecy and allure. Thematically, “I Think We’re Alone Now” parallels Fleetwood Mac’s “Think About Me” in its exploration of relationships, though the former leans more heavily on youthful impulsivity, while the latter reflects on the complexities of love and independence.
A commercial success, the single peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and spent an impressive 17 weeks on the charts, solidifying its place as one of the band’s most iconic hits.
Read More: Top 10 Tommy James And The Shondells Songs
# 7 – Do You Think I’m Sexy – Rod Stewart
Rod Stewart’s “Do You Think I’m Sexy,” released in 1978, represents a bold venture into the disco genre by an artist traditionally associated with rock and blues. Featured on his ninth studio album, Blondes Have More Fun, the song showcases Stewart’s willingness to experiment with his sound. Co-written by Stewart, Carmine Appice, and Duane Hitchings, the track was recorded at Cherokee Studios in Los Angeles. The production, led by Stewart and Tom Dowd, merges disco’s rhythmic pulse with Stewart’s characteristic rock sensibility. The song draws inspiration from Jorge Ben Jor’s “Taj Mahal” and features elements reminiscent of Bobby Womack’s “(If You Want My Love) Put Something Down On It,” highlighting its layered and eclectic musical foundation.
The lyrics depict a playful narrative of romantic pursuit, underpinned by an infectious groove. With its sultry chorus, “If you want my body and you think I’m sexy, come on, sugar, tell me so,” Stewart creates an anthem of flirtation and desire. Unlike Fleetwood Mac’s “Think About Me,” which balances themes of love and independence, “Do You Think I’m Sexy” leans unapologetically into its hedonistic tone, embodying the glitz and excess of the disco era. Stewart’s vocal delivery, paired with lush string arrangements and a driving bassline, ensures the track’s energy remains captivating from start to finish.
The song achieved massive commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the charts in the UK, Canada, and Australia. While critics were divided over Stewart’s move into disco, the track cemented itself as a cultural touchstone of the late 1970s. The accompanying music video, with its extravagant visuals, further amplified its appeal. Notably, Stewart donated all royalties from the song to UNICEF, adding an altruistic layer to its legacy. “Do You Think I’m Sexy” remains a standout in Stewart’s discography for its audacity and its enduring ability to get audiences moving.
Read More: Carmine Appice: The ClassicRockHistory.com Interview
# 6 -Linda Ronstadt – I Think It’s Gonna Work out Fine (with James Taylor)
Linda Ronstadt’s collaboration with James Taylor on “I Think It’s Gonna Work Out Fine” is a captivating reinterpretation of Ike and Tina Turner’s 1961 R&B classic, bringing their distinctive voices and musical sensibilities to this playful duet. Featured on Ronstadt’s Get Closer album, released in 1982, the track exemplifies the dynamic versatility both artists were celebrated for during this period. Recorded at The Sound Factory in Los Angeles and produced by Peter Asher, the song blends nostalgic charm with contemporary polish. Ronstadt and Taylor’s chemistry shines through, underscored by a backing ensemble that included Russ Kunkel on drums, Bob Glaub on bass, and Waddy Wachtel on guitar. The precise interplay of their voices mirrors the affectionate banter of the original, while infusing it with a modern, laid-back groove.
The interplay between Ronstadt and Taylor’s voices carries the emotional weight of the lyrics, particularly in lines such as “If your love is half as true as the love I’m offering you.” Their delivery captures the tender yet teasing nature of the song, transforming it into a dialogue that feels both personal and universal. Critically, the song received praise for its blend of soul and pop elements, though it did not achieve significant chart success. The track remains a testament to Ronstadt’s ability to reimagine classic material while collaborating with equally formidable talents like Taylor, whose warm vocals complement her crystalline tone.
Read More: Top 10 Linda Ronstadt Songs That Leave You Breathless
# 5 – I Think I Love You – The Partridge Family
I wonder how many people viewing this list could say that this was one of the first singles that ever brought when they were around ten years old. Do you remember how big this song was? Bursting onto the music scene in 1970, “I Think I Love You” by The Partridge Family became an unforgettable pop phenomenon. Written by Tony Romeo and recorded at Western Recorders in Los Angeles, the track was produced by Wes Farrell, who crafted its lush, radio-friendly sound. David Cassidy provided the lead vocals with backing from Shirley Jones, while studio musicians from the legendary Wrecking Crew—including Hal Blaine on drums, Joe Osborn on bass, and Larry Carlton on guitar—created the vibrant instrumental foundation.
“I Think I Love You” achieved monumental success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning gold certification. Lyrically, the song captures the inner conflict of realizing newfound romantic feelings, as expressed in the opening line, “I was sleeping, and right in the middle of a good dream.” The track’s infectious chorus and Cassidy’s earnest delivery make it both relatable and irresistibly catchy. This emotional vulnerability distinguishes it from the lighthearted banter of Linda Ronstadt and James Taylor’s “I Think It’s Gonna Work Out Fine,” another song on this list, which offers a playful perspective on love. By contrast, “I Think I Love You” channels the uncertainty and excitement of falling for someone, a theme that resonates universally.
Read More: Top 10 Partridge Family Songs
# 4 – Think – The Rolling Stones
“Think” by The Rolling Stones offers a bracing blend of sharp lyricism and biting instrumentation, showcasing the band’s evolving artistry during the mid-1960s. Recorded at RCA Studios in Hollywood during December 1965 and March 1966 sessions for the Aftermath album, the track was produced by Andrew Loog Oldham. Featuring Mick Jagger’s assertive vocals and Keith Richards’ fuzz-driven guitar, the song exudes a raw energy that reflects the band’s willingness to experiment with new textures and themes. Supporting this dynamic core are Brian Jones on rhythm guitar, Bill Wyman on bass, and Charlie Watts on drums, with the rhythm section providing a tight backbone for the song’s confrontational tone.
Lyrically, “Think” is a critique of immaturity and self-delusion, as Jagger pointedly admonishes a former lover to “retrace your steps” and reflect on the faults in their shared history. The repeated exhortation to “think back” anchors the song’s structure, building a sense of urgency that mirrors the unresolved tension of its subject. Compared to the playful optimism of The Partridge Family’s “I Think I Love You,” this track occupies a darker space, using reflection as a means of casting blame rather than expressing romantic vulnerability. The lyrics, such as “Take a look inside yourself, you’re not really someone else,” underscore a biting critique that feels deeply personal.
Musically, “Think” aligns with the gritty, rebellious spirit of the Aftermath album while incorporating elements of fuzz rock and blues that would become hallmarks of The Rolling Stones’ sound. Richards’ fuzz guitar riffs and Jones’ rhythm work create a layered interplay of aggression and restraint, complementing the song’s lyrical bite. This contrasts with the spirited duet of Linda Ronstadt and James Taylor in “I Think It’s Gonna Work Out Fine,” which uses a conversational style to convey affection. “Think” instead weaponizes its call-and-response elements, driving home its themes of accountability and unresolved conflict.
Read More: Top 10 Rolling Stones Album Covers
# 3 – Think For Yourself – The Beatles
“Think For Yourself,” penned by George Harrison for Rubber Soul (1965), represents a pivotal moment in Harrison’s songwriting evolution, signaling his emergence as a creative force alongside Lennon and McCartney. Recorded at Abbey Road Studios on November 8, 1965, under the production of George Martin, the track is distinguished by its innovative use of tonal ambiguity and unconventional instrumentation. Paul McCartney’s dual bass lines—one clean and the other distorted through a fuzzbox—add a unique texture, marking one of the earliest instances of a fuzzbox being used on a bass guitar. This experimental approach complements the song’s message of independent thought, a theme that resonates throughout its sharp and reflective lyrics.
The song’s lyrical content, with lines like “Although your mind’s opaque, try thinking more if just for your own sake,” urges listeners to reject conformity and embrace individuality. While this could be interpreted as a critique of societal norms or a disillusioned lover, the tone evokes the introspective ethos of Rubber Soul. This is a sentiment that contrasts with the playful optimism of The Partridge Family’s “I Think I Love You” and the pointed critique of The Rolling Stones’ “Think.” Where “Think For Yourself” finds strength in its measured wisdom, The Rolling Stones deliver their message with more direct aggression, offering a fascinating dichotomy between introspection and confrontation.
Musically, the song is rooted in rich harmonic textures, with Lennon, McCartney, and Harrison’s layered vocals adding depth and complexity. The fuzz bass line drives the track with an urgency that underscores Harrison’s assertive stance, giving it a distinct edge within the album’s softer folk-rock palette. This bold sonic experimentation aligns with the innovative spirit seen in other songs on this list, such as Linda Ronstadt and James Taylor’s duet “I Think It’s Gonna Work Out Fine,” which reimagines a classic through a modern lens. Harrison’s ability to blend lyrical sophistication with musical daring makes “Think For Yourself” an essential entry in this exploration of songs with “think” in the title.
The track’s inclusion in Rubber Soul solidified its place in The Beatles’ legacy as a turning point toward more complex and mature songwriting. Its inventive use of instrumentation and thought-provoking lyrics ensure its continued relevance, standing as a testament to Harrison’s growing confidence as a songwriter and the band’s collaborative brilliance. “Think For Yourself” not only holds its own among the best songs on this list but also underscores the importance of challenging convention—both musically and thematically.
Read More: Top 10 Beatles Love Songs
# 2 – Think I’m In Love – Eddie Money
Eddie Money’s “Think I’m in Love,” a standout track from his 1982 album No Control, marked a pivotal moment in the artist’s career, rejuvenating his presence on the charts. Recorded in Los Angeles with producer Tom Dowd, the song brought together Money’s gritty vocals and a polished rock arrangement. Written by Money and Randy Oda, the track’s irresistible hooks and dynamic instrumentation captured the energy of early 1980s rock. The song features Randy Jackson on bass, Gary Ferguson on drums, and Jimmy Lyon on guitar, creating a tight musical foundation that perfectly complements Money’s emotive delivery.
The lyrics of “Think I’m in Love” convey the all-encompassing thrill of new romance, as Money sings, “Something’s got a hold on me now, it’s a feelin’ burnin’ like a lover on fire.” This burning passion is reinforced by the soaring chorus, where he declares, “I think I’m in love, and my life’s lookin’ up.” The theme of emotional surrender in the song shares a thread with The Partridge Family’s “I Think I Love You,” but while the latter takes a more innocent, introspective tone, Money’s track leans into raw energy and sensuality. The visceral imagery in lines like “It surrounds me, over me like a sea of madness” underscores the intense emotions tied to falling headfirst into love.
Musically, “Think I’m in Love” is driven by an infectious blend of propulsive rhythm guitar and Money’s commanding vocal performance. The track’s success on the charts, reaching number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 and claiming the top spot on the Top Rock Tracks chart, highlighted its broad appeal. Compared to the more experimental “Think For Yourself” by The Beatles, which challenges listeners with tonal ambiguity, “Think I’m in Love” opts for a direct and accessible approach. This clarity, coupled with its energetic instrumentation, made it a perfect fit for early MTV, where its vampire-themed video became one of the platform’s most popular.
As an anthem of romantic revelation, “Think I’m in Love” brought Eddie Money back into the spotlight, solidifying his place in rock history. Its timeless combination of catchy melodies, evocative lyrics, and powerful production ensures its enduring presence on classic rock playlists and secures its rightful spot among the best songs with “think” in the title.
Read More: Top 10 Eddie Money Songs
# 1 – Think – Aretha Franklin
Aretha Franklin’s “Think” is a commanding anthem of empowerment and independence, written by Franklin and her then-husband Ted White. Originally recorded for the Aretha Now album in 1968, the track epitomizes Franklin’s unmatched ability to blend social commentary with irresistible grooves. Produced by Jerry Wexler at Atlantic Records’ studios in New York, the song features an outstanding lineup of musicians, including Franklin herself on piano, Jerry Jemmott on bass, Roger Hawkins on drums, and Spooner Oldham on Hammond organ. The vibrant horn section, led by Willie Bridges and Wayne Jackson, and the soulful harmonies of The Sweet Inspirations add depth and power to the arrangement.
Lyrically, “Think” is a call for freedom and respect, as Franklin demands that her partner “think about what you’re trying to do to me.” This bold declaration of autonomy aligns with the themes of empowerment central to Franklin’s body of work. The refrain, “Freedom, freedom, freedom,” resonates as both a personal and political rallying cry, tying the song to the larger civil rights movement of the era. Compared to George Harrison’s reflective “Think For Yourself,” which advocates personal accountability with a subdued tone, Franklin’s “Think” bursts with urgency and passion, making its message impossible to ignore.
The track’s chart success—peaking at number seven on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the R&B charts—underscores its cultural significance. Its electrifying arrangement and Franklin’s commanding vocal performance helped solidify her status as the Queen of Soul. The song’s enduring legacy was reinforced when Franklin re-recorded it for The Blues Brothers soundtrack in 1980, where its infectious energy stole the scene, and again for her 1989 album Through the Storm. In contrast to Eddie Money’s “Think I’m in Love,” a track driven by romantic infatuation, Franklin’s “Think” is a fiery anthem of self-reliance and agency, showcasing the power of music as a tool for personal and societal expression.
Closing this list, “Think” encapsulates the spirit of reflection, passion, and creativity that has defined these songs. Its timeless message of freedom and its vibrant execution leave an indelible mark, making it the perfect conclusion to this exploration of the best songs with the word “think” in their titles. Aretha Franklin’s “Think” is not only a highlight of her illustrious career but also a testament to the enduring power of soul music to inspire and provoke.
Read More: 10 Essential Aretha Franklin Songs
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10 Best Songs With The Word ‘Think’ In The Title article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024
