The 250+ Best Songwriters Of All Time, Ranked
Songwriting teams/groups are featured, but only vote on individual songwriters based on their solo works.
- 1Pop music, Rock music, Experimental rock
Master of melody and lyrical perfection, Sir Paul McCartney has earned his place among the greats with an astonishing career spanning over six decades. From his early days in The Beatles to his successful solo ventures, McCartney's unrivaled talent for crafting unforgettable tunes has elevated him into the pantheon of legendary songwriters. With classics such as "Yesterday" and "Blackbird" under his belt, it's no wonder his genius continues to resonate with music lovers from all walks of life.
More Paul McCartney
- Dig Deeper...The Best Paul McCartney Songs
- And Deeper...The 365+ Most Famous Geminis
- #98 of 227 onThe Most Trustworthy Celebrities In The World
The dynamic duo of Lennon-McCartney revolutionized popular music in the 1960s, their creative partnership ushering in the golden age of rock 'n' roll. Their diverse range of styles, from heart-wrenching ballads like "Hey Jude" to the psychedelic ingenuity of "Strawberry Fields Forever," cemented their status as groundbreaking songwriters. To this day, their collaborative brilliance remains unparalleled, inspiring countless musicians to follow in their transcendent footsteps.
votes needed!NEW TO THE LIST
NEW#136Bert Jansch- NEW#101Graham Nash
- 3Blues-rock, Pop music, Rock music
As an integral part of the most influential band in history and a successful solo artist, John Lennon's lasting impact on the musical landscape is immeasurable. A natural storyteller, Lennon's songs encompass profound themes of love, peace, and human struggle, with the timeless anthem "Imagine" remaining the ultimate ode to unity. His courageous exploration of the world beyond the confines of popular music has etched his name into the annals of musical genius.
More John Lennon- Dig Deeper...28 Facts You Didn't Know About John Lennon
- And Deeper...15 Conspiracies About John Lennon's Death That People Truly Believe
- And Deeper...The Best John Lennon Songs
- 4Blues-rock, Rock music, Folk music
It's rare to find an artist who can single-handedly reshape the art of songwriting, but Bob Dylan's poetic prowess and literary mastery have made him just that. His genre-defying approach to music over the past 60 years has yielded an incomparable body of work, exploring universal human truths with a unique blend of folk, blues, and rock. Dylan's mercurial musings on love, politics, and societal change have solidified his status as the quintessential musical poet laureate.
More Bob Dylan- Dig Deeper...The Best Bob Dylan Songs
- And Deeper...The 365+ Most Famous Geminis
- #109 of 251 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked
- 5Pop music, Worldbeat, Rock music
The serene harmonies and introspective lyrics of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel's timeless partnership remain a cornerstone of American popular music. From the poetic elegance of "The Sound of Silence" to the tender beauty of "Bridge Over Troubled Water," their songs strike an indelible chord within the depths of the human spirit. Simon and Garfunkel's enduring legacy as masterful songsmiths has left an everlasting mark on the cultural fabric of multiple generations.
More Simon and Garfunkel- Dig Deeper...The Best Simon And Garfunkel Songs
- #46 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #103 of 239 onRank the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame Inductees
- 6Opera, Ballet, Art song
In the realm of classical music, few figures loom as large as the prodigious genius of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. He effortlessly composed some of the most sublime symphonies, concertos, and operas the world has ever known, his musical brilliance transcending the barriers of time. Mozart's boundless creativity and unparalleled mastery of form, harmony, and counterpoint remain essential pillars of the Western musical tradition.
- Dig Deeper...17 Bizarre, Mind-Blowing Facts and Stories About Mozart
- And Deeper...16 Famous Bodies From History Found In Inconspicuous Places
- #37 of 559 onPeople We Wish Were Still Alive
- 7Rock music, Pop music, Glam rock
As the enigmatic frontman of Queen, Freddie Mercury bewitched the world with his soaring vocals, magnetic stage presence, and unyielding dedication to pushing musical boundaries. His songwriting prowess was as diverse as it was legendary, from operatic rock anthems like "Bohemian Rhapsody" to the infectious pop grooves of "Don't Stop Me Now." Mercury's singular talent not only made him one of the greatest rock icons but also ensured his place among the finest composers in modern music history.
More Freddie Mercury- Dig Deeper...Regular People Who Met Freddie Mercury Describe What He Was Like
- And Deeper...Secrets Behind Freddie Mercury's Wardrobe
- #13 of 559 onPeople We Wish Were Still Alive
- 8Opera, Classical music
Arguably the most iconic figure in Western classical music, Ludwig van Beethoven was a trailblazer whose symphonies, sonatas, and chamber works redefined the art of composition. Never one to shy away from experimenting, Beethoven's bold innovation and fearless exploration of form and harmony revolutionized how future generations would approach music. His heart-stirring compositions, such as the Ninth Symphony's "Ode to Joy," continue to captivate listeners and serve as a testament to his enduring artistic genius.
More Ludwig van Beethoven- Dig Deeper...18 Grim Facts About The Life Of Beethoven You Never Learned As A Kid
- And Deeper...195+ Famous Sagittarius Celebrities
- #72 of 559 onPeople We Wish Were Still Alive
As the driving force behind The Rolling Stones, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards crafted an indelible legacy with their raw, blues-infused rock 'n' roll. From soulful ballads like "Wild Horses" to the rebellious swagger of "Jumpin' Jack Flash," their songs exude the maverick spirit that defines their quintessential partnership. When taking into account their staggering catalog and incalculable influence on countless artists, it's clear that Jagger and Richards are true titans in the realm of songwriting.
- 10Pop music, Rock music, Experimental rock
Though often overshadowed by Lennon and McCartney, George Harrison's contribution as The Beatles' lead guitarist and songwriter is nothing short of extraordinary. His introspective compositions, such as "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" and "Here Comes the Sun," showcase his profound emotional depth and melodic ingenuity. Beyond The Beatles, Harrison's prolific solo career demonstrated his exceptional prowess as a songwriter and solidified his place among the greatest musical talents of all time.
More George Harrison- #51 of 251 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked
- #29 of 385 onThe Greatest Lead Guitarists Of All Time
- #20 of 559 onPeople We Wish Were Still Alive
- 11Outlaw country, Christian music, Americana
The Man in Black's poignant storytelling and gravelly voice carved out a unique niche in the world of country music, his songs an unforgettable fusion of Americana, blues, and gospel. Tackling themes of love, heartbreak, and redemption, Johnny Cash's songwriting was as brutally honest as it was deeply moving, with "I Walk the Line" and "Ring of Fire" remaining iconic examples of his unparalleled talent. Few artists have managed to captivate listeners and influence generations quite like Johnny Cash.
More Johnny Cash- Dig Deeper...The Best Johnny Cash Songs of All Time
- #1 of 69 onFamous Film Actors From Arkansas
- #18 of 251 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked
- 12Country pop, Rock music, Folk rock
From sun-soaked Southern California emerged The Eagles, a band whose soaring harmonies and masterful songcraft helped define the 1970s. Their impeccably crafted tunes, from the wistful yearning of "Desperado" to the philosophical musings of "Hotel California," epitomized the essence of the West Coast sound. As one of the most successful bands of all time, The Eagles' timeless contributions to American popular music remain an indelible part of our collective consciousness.
More The Eagles- #15 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #35 of 239 onRank the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame Inductees
- #30 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists of All Time
- 13Pop music, Rock music, Piano rock
Few artists can match the sheer creative output and longevity of Sir Elton John, whose five-decade career boasts a dazzling array of hit songs and albums. His flamboyant stage presence and remarkable songwriting partnership with lyricist Bernie Taupin have yielded gems such as "Your Song" and "Rocket Man." With a seemingly endless wellspring of melodic and lyrical brilliance, Elton John's impact on the world of music is nothing short of legendary.
More Elton John- Dig Deeper...The Best Elton John Albums of All Time
- And Deeper...250+ Famous Aries Celebrities
- #106 of 227 onThe Most Trustworthy Celebrities In The World
- 14Blue-eyed soul, Pop music, Rock music
With a career spanning over five decades, Billy Joel's timeless compositions and soulful piano playing have etched his name into the annals of pop music history. He effortlessly combined elements of rock, jazz, and classical music to craft unforgettable hits such as "Piano Man" and "New York State of Mind." Joel's enduring appeal as a master storyteller has cemented his status as one of the most influential songwriters of our time.
More Billy Joel- Dig Deeper...The Best Billy Joel Songs of All Time
- And Deeper...335+ Famous Taurus Historical Figures
- #25 of 251 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked
- 15Classical music
Considered one of history's most prolific and gifted composers, Johann Sebastian Bach remains the epitome of Baroque mastery. His complex compositions, such as the Brandenburg Concertos and St. Matthew Passion, showcase a breathtaking command of counterpoint, harmony, and polyphony. With an unwavering dedication to musical innovation and craftsmanship, Bach's timeless genius continues to inspire composers and musicians across all genres.
- Dig Deeper...Surprising Facts About Johann Sebastian Bach
- #135 of 559 onPeople We Wish Were Still Alive
- #137 of 536 onThe 540+ World's Greatest Guitarists Of All Time, Ranked
- 16Opera, Musical theatre, Film score
A true pioneer in American music, George Gershwin brilliantly bridged the gap between classical and popular styles. His works, such as "Rhapsody in Blue" and "An American in Paris," brought jazz elements into the classical realm, establishing a foundation for modern orchestral music while still enchanting audiences with his catchy melodies. Gershwin's ability to effortlessly meld disparate genres makes him a vital contributor to the evolution of American songwriting.
More George Gershwin- #59 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists of All Time
- #37 of 252 onThe Best Classical Composers
- #69 of 205 onThe Greatest Rock Songwriters Of All Time
- 17Adult contemporary music, Blue-eyed soul, Pop music
A trailblazer in the world of pop and rock music, Carole King has penned an astounding number of timeless classics that have captured the hearts and minds of generations. From her early days as a songwriter for other artists to her breakthrough solo album, Tapestry, King's exceptional talent for crafting deeply personal and emotive songs has made her an icon in the industry. Her unwavering passion for melody and storytelling continues to resonate with listeners worldwide.
More Carole King- #37 of 341 onThe Best Female Vocalists Ever
- #55 of 251 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked
- #7 of 203 onThe Greatest Living Rock Songwriters
- 18Hip hop music, Synthpop, New Wave
Synonymous with innovation and artistic expression, Prince transformed the landscape of popular music with his unparalleled fusion of funk, rock, and soul. A multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, and composer, his songs dripped with passionate intensity, exemplified by tracks like "Purple Rain" and "When Doves Cry." Prince's restless creative spirit and daring approach to genre boundaries solidified his status as one of the most visionary and prodigious talents in music history.
More Prince- Dig Deeper...The Best Prince Songs of All Time
- And Deeper...Musicians You May Not Know Are Republican
- #6 of 251 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked
- 19Lubbock sound, Rock music, Rockabilly
A pioneer of rock 'n' roll, the prodigious talent of Buddy Holly came to life through his infectious melodies, innovative guitar work, and influence on future generations of musicians. Despite his tragically short career, Holly left an indelible mark on the world of music with classics like "Peggy Sue" and "That'll Be the Day." His groundbreaking approach to songwriting and performance cemented Holly's status as a trailblazer and icon.
More Buddy Holly- #118 of 385 onThe Greatest Lead Guitarists Of All Time
- #79 of 559 onPeople We Wish Were Still Alive
- #57 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- 20Motown Sound, Psychedelic soul, Pop music
Blessed with a voice that could stop time in its tracks, Stevie Wonder has been captivating listeners with his innovative fusion of R&B, soul, pop, and jazz since he was a child prodigy. His masterful compositions, such as "Superstition" and "Isn't She Lovely," have transcended boundaries and brought people together across cultures and generations. As a tireless advocate for love, peace, and social justice, Wonder's remarkable songwriting has made him a vital force in the world of music.
More Stevie Wonder- Dig Deeper...The Best Stevie Wonder Songs of All Time
- And Deeper...335+ Famous Taurus Historical Figures
- #76 of 227 onThe Most Trustworthy Celebrities In The World
- 21Adult contemporary music, Blue-eyed soul, Disco
The unmistakable falsetto harmonies and infectious melodies of the Bee Gees helped shape the sound of the disco era, their timeless compositions bridging the divide between pop and dance music. With hits like "Stayin' Alive" and "How Deep is Your Love," the brothers Gibb rode a wave of success that few others could match. Their uncanny knack for crafting unforgettable hooks and genre-defying tunes etched their names in the pantheon of legendary songwriters.
More Bee Gees- #94 of 239 onRank the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame Inductees
- #11 of 69 onThe Best Musical Trios Of All-Time
- #650 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists of All Time
- 22Rock music, Folk music, Folk rock
As one half of the legendary duo Simon & Garfunkel and a renowned solo artist, Paul Simon's poetic lyrics and sophisticated melodies have left an indelible mark on the world of popular music. Drawing inspiration from diverse genres such as folk, world music, and rock, Simon's songs like "Graceland" and "You Can Call Me Al" demonstrate his uncanny ability to tell vivid stories while pushing musical boundaries. A consummate craftsman, Paul Simon's songwriting genius continues to enchant and inspire.
More Paul Simon- Dig Deeper...The Best Paul Simon Solo Songs of All Time
- #57 of 251 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked
- #6 of 203 onThe Greatest Living Rock Songwriters
- 23Pop music, Rock music, Outsider music
Often hailed as the architect of the California sound, Brian Wilson's groundbreaking work with The Beach Boys helped redefine the possibilities of popular music. From lush vocal harmonies to intricately arranged compositions like "God Only Knows" and "Good Vibrations," Wilson's visionary approach to songwriting pushed the envelope of what was possible within the confines of pop music. His timeless contributions to the American musical landscape remain as captivating today as they were decades ago.
More Brian Wilson- Dig Deeper...The True Story Behind The Film 'Love And Mercy'
- And Deeper...The 365+ Most Famous Geminis
- #3 of 203 onThe Greatest Living Rock Songwriters
- 24
David Gilmour and Roger Waters
As the creative forces behind Pink Floyd, Roger Waters, Richard Wright, and David Gilmour crafted some of the most mesmerizing and enigmatic songs in rock history. Their majestic compositions, such as "Shine on You Crazy Diamond" and "Comfortably Numb," displayed a stunning level of musicianship and songwriting prowess, transporting listeners to uncharted sonic territories. The unparalleled creativity and depth of Pink Floyd's work have made them one of the most revered and influential bands in history.
- 25Doo-wop, Motown Sound, Rock music
With his velvety smooth voice and deeply introspective songwriting, Marvin Gaye effortlessly weaved soul, gospel, and R&B into an evocative tapestry of sound. His powerful compositions, including the seminal "What's Going On" and sensual "Let's Get It On," reflected a rare emotional depth and vulnerability that continue to resonate with fans worldwide. Gaye's influence on future generations of singers and songwriters remains as potent and enduring as his unforgettable music.
More Marvin Gaye- Dig Deeper...The Best Marvin Gaye Songs of All Time
- And Deeper...Famous People Who Were Murdered
- #65 of 559 onPeople We Wish Were Still Alive
- 26Rock music, Folk rock
This remarkable quartet of singer-songwriters brought together their distinctive voices and unparalleled songwriting talents to forge a unique sound that defined a generation. The harmonious blend of their individual styles fueled classics such as "Woodstock" and "Teach Your Children," chronicling the tumultuous spirit of the 1960s and '70s. As pioneers of folk-rock and social activism, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young left an indelible impact on the musical landscape.
- #58 of 863 onThe 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
- #69 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists of All Time
- #25 of 238 onThe Greatest American Rock Bands
- 27Country pop, Pop music, Rock music
With a voice that could soar effortlessly from a delicate whisper to a heart-wrenching wail, Roy Orbison brought unparalleled emotional depth to his timeless compositions. His unique blend of rockabilly, country, and pop produced unforgettable hits like "Oh, Pretty Woman" and "Crying," demonstrating his exceptional talent for crafting haunting melodies and poignant lyrics. The lasting influence of Orbison's songwriting can be heard in the countless artists inspired by his timeless genius.
More Roy Orbison- Dig Deeper...335+ Famous Taurus Historical Figures
- #37 of 251 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked
- #138 of 559 onPeople We Wish Were Still Alive
- 28Synthpop, Disco, Pop musicABBA are a Swedish pop group formed in Stockholm in 1972 by Agnetha Fältskog, Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson and Anni-Frid Lyngstad. The group's name is an acronym of the first letters of their first names. They became one of the most commercially successful acts in the history of popular music, topping the charts worldwide from 1974 to 1982. ABBA won the Eurovision Song Contest 1974 at The Dome in Brighton, UK, giving Sweden its first triumph in the contest. They are the most successful group to have taken part in the competition. During the band's active years, it was composed of two married couples: Fältskog and Ulvaeus, and Lyngstad and Andersson. With the increase of their popularity, their personal lives suffered which eventually resulted in the collapse of both marriages. The relationship changes were reflected in the group's music, with latter compositions featuring darker and more introspective lyrics. After ABBA disbanded in January 1983, Andersson and Ulvaeus achieved success writing music for the stage, while Lyngstad and Fältskog pursued solo careers with mixed success. ABBA's music declined in popularity until the purchase of ABBA's catalogue and record company Polar by Polygram in 1989 enabled the groundwork to be laid for an international re-issue of all their original material and a new Greatest Hits (ABBA Gold) collection in September 1992, which became a worldwide bestseller. Several films, notably Muriel's Wedding (1994) and The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (1994), further revived interest in the group and spawned several tribute bands. In 1999, ABBA's music was adapted into the successful musical Mamma Mia! that toured worldwide. A film of the same name, released in 2008, became the highest-grossing film in the United Kingdom that year. A sequel, Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, was released in 2018. On 27 April 2018, it was announced that the band had recorded two new songs after 35 years of being inactive, named "I Still Have Faith in You" and "Don’t Shut Me Down". On 18 September 2018, in an interview, Andersson said that they are still working on the songs, with possibly a third one written; they are set to be released in 2019.Estimates of ABBA's total record sales are over 380 million, making them one of the best-selling music artists of all time. ABBA are the first group from a non-English-speaking country to achieve consistent success in the charts of English-speaking countries, including the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and the United States. They have a joint record eight consecutive number-one albums in the UK. The group also enjoyed significant success in Latin America, and recorded a collection of their hit songs in Spanish. ABBA were honoured at the 50th anniversary celebration of the Eurovision Song Contest in 2005, when their hit "Waterloo" was chosen as the best song in the competition's history. The group was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010. In 2015, their song "Dancing Queen" was inducted into the Recording Academy's Grammy Hall of Fame.More ABBA
- Dig Deeper...All Of The Drama And Heartache Behind ABBA’s Feel-Good Disco Hits
- And Deeper...The Best ABBA Albums of All Time
- #12 of 115 onThe Greatest Chick Rock Bands Ever
- 29Pop music, Vocal music
For over six decades, Burt Bacharach's sophisticated melodies and elegant compositions have graced the airwaves, earning him a well-deserved reputation as one of the most accomplished songwriters of the 20th century. In collaboration with lyricist Hal David, Bacharach crafted timeless hits like "Walk On By" and "I Say a Little Prayer," imbuing them with lush harmonies and unforgettable hooks. His distinctive style and indomitable spirit have left an enduring mark on the world of popular music.
More Burt Bacharach- Dig Deeper...335+ Famous Taurus Historical Figures
- #42 of 203 onThe Greatest Living Rock Songwriters
- #135 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists of All Time
- 30Blues-rock, Heartland rock, Rock music
From his days with The Heartbreakers to his critically-acclaimed solo ventures, Tom Petty's heartfelt storytelling and infectious melodies made him one of the most beloved figures in rock history. Hits like "Free Fallin'" and "American Girl" showcased Petty's uncanny ability to capture the essence of the human experience through deceptively simple songs that resonated with fans across the globe. His enduring impact on popular music and unforgettable body of work solidify his status as one of the all-time greats.
More Tom Petty- #42 of 251 onThe 250+ Best Singers Of The Last 30 Years, Ranked
- #107 of 559 onPeople We Wish Were Still Alive
- #22 of 320 onThe 300+ Best Rock Singers Of All Time, Ranked
