Far Out 40: the 40 best songs produced by Todd Rundgren
Within the expansive realm of the music industry, there exist artists who follow prevailing trends and others who carve their unique trajectories, leaving an unparalleled mark in music history. Todd Rundgren unquestionably belongs to the latter category. His multifaceted career spans over five decades, marked not only by his incredible musicianship but also by his innovative production techniques and fearlessly eclectic approach to music.
Rundgren’s solo debut, Runt, released in 1970, hinted at his boundless potential. Then, his sophomore album, The Ballad of Todd Rundgren, marked a departure from the conventional singer-songwriter genre, showcasing his experimental side and setting the stage for the unpredictability that would define his career.
One of Rundgren’s defining characteristics is his refusal to be confined to a single genre. He effortlessly transitions from rock to pop, from soul to electronic music, and from ballads to experimental compositions, each time leaving his unique mark on the musical landscape. His 1972 album, Something/Anything?, exemplified this versatility, featuring a diverse range of musical styles and earning critical acclaim.
Beyond his prowess as a musician, Rundgren’s impact as a producer can also not be overstated. He has helmed many iconic albums and songs for high-profile artists such as Meat Loaf, including their most popular album, Bat Out of Hell. This collaboration birthed a rock opera masterpiece that defied conventions and resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. Rundgren’s innovative production techniques elevated the album to legendary status, solidifying his reputation as a producer capable of bringing out the best in artists and pushing musical boundaries.
His production style wasn’t just about technical expertise; it was also about artistic collaboration and elevating the essence of the music. Rundgren’s work with artists such as The New York Dolls, XTC, and Patti Smith also demonstrated his adaptability across various genres, showcasing his ability to capture the essence of each artist’s vision while infusing his distinctive sonic imprint.
Beyond merely engineering sound, Rundgren’s innovative spirit also led him to experiment with studio techniques that were ahead of their time. His exploration of synthesizers, drum machines, and sampling in the 1980s foreshadowed the direction of electronic music production. Albums like Hermit of Mink Hollow and Healing stand as testaments to his trailblazing use of studio technology.
What’s more, the remarkable command of sound is paralleled only by the whirlwind of Rundgren’s introspective reflections. From the emotionally resonant balladry found in ‘Can We Still Be Friends’ to the sheer beauty of ‘The Individualist’, Rundgren consistently welcomed his audience into his inner world.
The 1980s and 1990s marked a relatively quieter period for Rundgren. However, as the millennium approached, the artist persisted in creating and exploring new realms of artistic growth. In his most recent collection of work, notably his 2022 album Space Force, he once again showcased his determination to progress and move ahead.
Thus, taking into consideration Rundgren’s vast expanse of musical accomplishments, we’ve compiled 40 of the best songs he’s ever produced. Check it out below.
The 40 best songs produced by Todd Rundgren:
- ‘Bat Out of Hell’ – Meat Loaf
- ‘Baby Blue’ – Badfinger
- ‘Big Day’ – XTC
- ‘Dear God’ – XTC
- ‘Flying’ – Badfinger
- ‘Frederick’ – Patti Smith
- ‘Grass’ – XTC
- ‘I Can Love You’ – Badfinger
- ‘It’s Over’ – Badfinger
- ‘Love My Way’ – The Psychedelic Furs
- ‘The Meeting Place’ – XTC
- ‘Name of the Game’ – Badfinger
- ‘Walk Like A Man’ – Grand Funk Railroad
- ‘Love is the Answer’ – Utopia
- ‘You Took The Words Right Out Of My Mouth’ – Meat Loaf
- ‘Dancing The Night Away’ – The Motors
- ‘Dancing Barefoot’ – Patti Smith
- ‘Heaven Can Wait’ – Meat Loaf
- ‘All Revved Up With No Place To Go’ – Meat Loaf
- ‘Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad’ – Meat Loaf
- ‘Paradise by the Dashboard Light’- Meat Loaf
- ‘For Crying Out Loud’ – Meat Loaf
- ‘I Can’t Take It’ – Cheap Trick
- ‘I’m An Adult Now’ – The Pursuit of Happiness
- ‘Whispering Your Name’ – Jules Shear
- ‘The Locomotion’ – Little Eva
- ‘Finger Poppin’ Time’ – Hank Ballard & The Midnighters
- ‘Sweet Tuesday Morning’ – Badfinger
- ‘Ballet For A Rainy Day’ – XTC
- ‘I’d Die Babe’ – Badfinger
- ‘Trash’ – New York Dolls
- ‘We’re An American Band’ – Grand Funk Railroad
- ‘Perfection’ – Badfinger
- ‘Earn Enough For Us’ – XTC
- ‘Money’ – Badfinger
- ‘No Good At All’ – Badfinger
- ‘Season Cycle’ – XTC
- ‘Sing For The Song’ – Badfinger
- ‘Sometimes’ – Badfinger
- ‘That’s Really Super, Supergirl’ – XTC