For many music enthusiasts, Big Star is a band that holds a special place in their hearts. The Memphis-based group may have never achieved commercial success during their time, but their impact on rock music is undeniable. From their unique blend of power-pop and soulful melodies to their emotive and introspective lyrics, Big Star’s music has inspired countless musicians and continues to captivate new audiences to this day. With a discography spanning only three albums, each one a masterpiece in its own right, it’s hard to narrow down their best songs. Nevertheless, we’ve attempted to compile a list of the 10 Best Big Star Songs of All Time. From the infectious hooks of “September Gurls” to the haunting beauty of “Holocaust,” each song showcases the band’s unparalleled ability to evoke both joy and melancholy. Whether you’re a die-hard Big Star fan or a newcomer to their music, this list is sure to introduce you to some of the most beloved songs in the band’s catalog. So sit back, turn up the volume, and let’s dive into the world of Big Star.

1. SEPTEMBER GURLS

“September Gurls” is an infectiously catchy power-pop anthem from Big Star’s seminal 1974 album “Radio City.” The song, written by band member Alex Chilton, features jangling guitar riffs, a driving beat, and irresistible hooks that make it a quintessential example of the genre. But beyond its surface-level appeal, “September Gurls” is also a song with emotional depth, dealing with themes of unrequited love and the pain of longing for someone who doesn’t reciprocate your feelings. Chilton’s vocals perfectly capture the yearning and vulnerability at the heart of the lyrics, making the song both musically and emotionally resonant. Over the years, “September Gurls” has become one of Big Star’s most beloved songs, and its influence can be heard in the work of countless power-pop bands that have followed in the band’s footsteps. It’s a timeless classic that showcases Big Star’s unique ability to craft songs that are simultaneously infectious and heartfelt.

2. BACK OF A CAR

“Back of a Car” is a standout track from Big Star’s critically acclaimed third album, “Third/Sister Lovers,” released in 1978. Written by band member Chris Bell, the song is a stunning showcase of the group’s ability to craft lush, melodic arrangements that are at once melancholy and uplifting. The song features Bell’s plaintive vocals, delicate acoustic guitar, and soaring string and horn arrangements, which build to a euphoric climax that’s both cathartic and bittersweet. Lyrically, “Back of a Car” is a wistful meditation on the transience of youth and the passage of time, with Bell singing about the fleeting moments of joy and connection that can be found in the midst of life’s chaos. It’s a beautiful and poignant song that showcases Big Star’s ability to blend heartache and hope into a seamless, unforgettable musical experience.

3. THE BALLAD OF EL GOODO

“The Ballad of El Goodo” is a classic track from Big Star’s debut album, “No. 1 Record,” released in 1972. Written by band member Chris Bell, the song is a hauntingly beautiful meditation on the struggles of life and the search for meaning in a world that can often seem cruel and indifferent. With its gently strummed acoustic guitar, soaring harmonies, and poignant lyrics, “The Ballad of El Goodo” is a timeless classic that has earned its place as one of Big Star’s most beloved songs. The song’s lyrics speak to the human desire for connection and the hope that can be found in even the darkest of circumstances, with Bell’s soaring vocals perfectly capturing the song’s themes of longing and redemption. It’s a song that’s both deeply personal and universally relatable, and its enduring appeal speaks to the enduring power of Big Star’s music to touch the hearts of listeners around the world.

4. LIFE IS WHITE

“Life Is White” is a hauntingly beautiful track from Big Star’s second album, “Radio City,” released in 1974. Written by band member Alex Chilton, the song is a dreamy, atmospheric meditation on the nature of existence and the search for meaning in a world that can often feel cold and indifferent. The song’s gentle acoustic guitar and delicate vocal harmonies create a sense of introspection and contemplation, while Chilton’s lyrics speak to the sense of alienation and disconnection that many people feel in modern society. Despite its melancholy tone, “Life Is White” is a song that’s ultimately hopeful, with Chilton suggesting that there is meaning to be found in even the most mundane aspects of life. It’s a beautiful and deeply affecting song that showcases Big Star’s ability to craft music that is both musically rich and emotionally resonant.

5. DAISY GLAZE

“Daisy Glaze” is a standout track from Big Star’s legendary third album, “Third/Sister Lovers,” released in 1978. Written by band member Alex Chilton, the song is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that showcases the group’s ability to craft music that is both intricate and emotionally resonant. The song’s delicate piano and acoustic guitar are complemented by Chilton’s plaintive vocals, which convey a sense of longing and regret. Lyrically, “Daisy Glaze” is a surreal and enigmatic meditation on the nature of reality and the elusive nature of love, with Chilton’s lyrics evoking a dreamlike, otherworldly atmosphere. It’s a song that rewards repeated listening, with new layers of meaning and emotion revealing themselves with each listen. Despite its unconventional structure and abstract lyrics, “Daisy Glaze” is a stunning showcase of Big Star’s unique talent for crafting music that is both musically adventurous and emotionally affecting.

6. MOD LANG

“Mod Lang” is a standout track from Big Star’s debut album, “No. 1 Record,” released in 1972. Written by band member Alex Chilton, the song is a raucous and energetic rock anthem that showcases the group’s ability to create music that’s both catchy and musically adventurous. The song’s driving guitar riffs and propulsive beat are complemented by Chilton’s snarling vocals, which convey a sense of rebellion and defiance. Lyrically, “Mod Lang” is a wry and self-aware commentary on the world of rock music and the often-contradictory expectations that come with being a successful musician. It’s a song that’s both humorous and insightful, with Chilton skewering the self-importance and pretensions of the music industry while still celebrating the joy and excitement of rock and roll. With its infectious hooks and clever lyrics, “Mod Lang” is a classic Big Star track that showcases the band’s unique blend of wit, intelligence, and musical talent.

7. GIVE ME ANOTHER CHANCE

“Give Me Another Chance” is a standout track from Big Star’s debut album, “No. 1 Record,” released in 1972. Written by band member Chris Bell, the song is a stunning showcase of the group’s ability to craft music that’s both musically intricate and emotionally affecting. The song’s soaring vocal harmonies and intricate guitar work create a sense of beauty and transcendence, while Bell’s lyrics speak to the human desire for redemption and the hope that can be found in even the darkest of circumstances. With its sense of yearning and vulnerability, “Give Me Another Chance” is a song that speaks to the universal human experience, and its emotional power has resonated with listeners for decades. It’s a classic Big Star track that showcases the band’s unique blend of musical virtuosity and emotional depth, and it remains a testament to the enduring power of rock music to touch the hearts and souls of listeners around the world.

8. I’M IN LOVE WITH A GIRL

“I’m in Love with a Girl” is a standout track from Big Star’s second album, “Radio City,” released in 1974. Written by band member Alex Chilton, the song is a simple and charming love song that showcases the group’s ability to craft music that’s both catchy and emotionally affecting. The song’s gentle acoustic guitar and melodic vocal harmonies create a sense of intimacy and tenderness, while Chilton’s lyrics speak to the timeless theme of falling in love and the joy and uncertainty that comes with it. Despite its straightforward structure and lyrics, “I’m in Love with a Girl” is a song that’s both musically rich and emotionally resonant, with Chilton’s vocals capturing the sense of excitement and vulnerability that comes with being in love. It’s a classic Big Star track that showcases the band’s ability to craft music that’s both musically sophisticated and emotionally immediate, and it remains a testament to the enduring power of love songs to touch the hearts and souls of listeners around the world.

9. WAY OUT WEST

“Way Out West” is a standout track from Big Star’s debut album, “No. 1 Record,” released in 1972. Written by band member Chris Bell, the song is a melodic and catchy rock tune that showcases the group’s ability to craft music that’s both accessible and musically adventurous. The song’s driving guitar riffs and propulsive beat create a sense of energy and excitement, while Bell’s lyrics speak to the universal theme of freedom and the lure of the open road. With its sense of wanderlust and adventure, “Way Out West” is a song that speaks to the spirit of rock and roll and the power of music to transport us to new and exciting places. It’s a classic Big Star track that showcases the band’s unique blend of musical talent and emotional depth, and it remains a testament to the enduring power of rock music to inspire and uplift listeners around the world.

10. KANGA ROO

“Kanga Roo” is a standout track from Big Star’s legendary third album, “Third/Sister Lovers,” released in 1978. Written by band member Alex Chilton, the song is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that showcases the group’s ability to craft music that’s both musically intricate and emotionally affecting. The song’s melancholy piano and delicate vocal harmonies create a sense of introspection and longing, while Chilton’s lyrics speak to the human desire for connection and the pain of unrequited love. With its raw emotion and enigmatic lyrics, “Kanga Roo” is a song that rewards repeated listening, with new layers of meaning and feeling revealing themselves with each listen. It’s a classic Big Star track that showcases the band’s unique blend of musical talent and emotional depth, and it remains a testament to the enduring power of music to touch the hearts and souls of listeners around the world.