18+ Best Rick Astley Songs of All Time: Greatest Hits

Rick Astley is a legendary pop music icon who rose to fame in the 1980s with his distinctive voice and catchy tunes. He started his music career as a drummer, but soon found his true calling as a singer, songwriter, and performer.

His debut single, “Never Gonna Give You Up,” became an instant hit and topped the charts in several countries. This marked the beginning of a successful career that spanned several decades and amassed a loyal fan base.

Astley’s music is known for its upbeat rhythms, soulful melodies, and heartfelt lyrics that resonate with audiences of all ages. He has sold over 40 million records worldwide and has won several awards for his contributions to the music industry. His unique style and sound have influenced countless musicians and continue to inspire new generations of artists.

To celebrate his musical legacy, we have compiled a curated list of 18 standout Rick Astley songs that showcase his talent and impact. From his early hits to his more recent releases, these songs represent some of the best examples of Astley’s artistry and creativity. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his music, these songs are sure to delight and inspire you.

Early Hits and Rise to Fame

1. Never Gonna Give You Up (1987)

“Never Gonna Give You Up” was released as Astley’s debut single in August 1987, and it quickly became a global hit. The song topped the charts in 25 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. It was also certified platinum in several countries, including the US and UK.

The song’s success was partly due to its catchy hook and upbeat rhythm, but also because of Astley’s distinctive voice and charismatic stage presence. The song’s music video, which featured Astley dancing and singing in a trench coat and wide-brimmed hat, also helped to cement his image as a pop icon.

In recent years, “Never Gonna Give You Up” has gained new fame as part of the internet phenomenon known as “rickrolling.” This involves tricking people into clicking on a link that leads to the music video for the song, often as a prank or joke. Despite this, the song’s enduring popularity and cultural impact are a testament to Astley’s talent and influence in the music industry.

2. Together Forever (1987)

Together Forever was the second single released from Astley’s debut album, “Whenever You Need Somebody.” It was a major success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries, including the UK and Australia. In the US, it peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

The song’s catchy melody, upbeat rhythm, and romantic lyrics quickly became a fan favorite. Astley’s smooth vocals and infectious energy also contributed to the song’s popularity and helped establish him as a rising pop star.

Together Forever’s success further cemented Astley’s status as one of the hottest young talents in the music industry. The album “Whenever You Need Somebody” went on to become a massive commercial success, selling over 15 million copies worldwide and earning Astley numerous awards and accolades.

With hits like “Never Gonna Give You Up” and “Together Forever,” Astley quickly became a household name and an international sensation. His infectious pop sound and undeniable charm have continued to win over fans around the world, making him one of the most successful and beloved artists of his generation.

3. Whenever You Need Somebody (1987)

Whenever You Need Somebody was the title track of Rick Astley’s debut album, which was released in 1987. The song helped establish Astley as a major pop star, and its success played a significant role in launching his career.

The song was a huge hit, reaching the top 10 in several countries, including the UK, US, and Australia. It also earned Astley a number of awards, including a BRIT Award for Best British Single.

The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and Astley’s smooth vocals helped make it an instant classic. Its message of being there for someone whenever they need you resonated with audiences and helped solidify Astley’s reputation as a relatable and talented artist.

Whenever You Need Somebody became a staple of 80s pop music and helped pave the way for Astley’s continued success in the music industry. The album of the same name went on to sell millions of copies worldwide, making Astley one of the biggest pop stars of the era.

4. It Would Take a Strong Strong Man (1987)

“It Would Take a Strong Strong Man” was a standout track from Rick Astley’s debut album, showcasing his impressive vocal range and emotive delivery. The song was released in 1987 and quickly became a fan favorite.

Although it didn’t achieve the same level of commercial success as some of Astley’s other hits, “It Would Take a Strong Strong Man” still managed to chart in several countries, including the UK and Australia. The song’s popularity was largely driven by its soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics, which resonated with audiences around the world.

Critics praised Astley’s performance on the track, with many noting his ability to convey genuine emotion and connect with listeners. The song’s production, which featured a mix of electronic and acoustic elements, was also widely lauded for its creativity and originality.

Despite not being as well-known as some of Astley’s other hits, “It Would Take a Strong Strong Man” remains a beloved ballad and a testament to his vocal prowess. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Astley’s talent and the lasting impact he has had on the pop music landscape.

Continued Success and Chart-Topping Hits

5. She Wants to Dance with Me (1988)

“She Wants to Dance with Me” was an instant hit, released in 1988 as the lead single from Rick Astley’s second album, “Hold Me in Your Arms”. The catchy, upbeat, and danceable tune quickly climbed the charts around the world, topping the charts in the UK and reaching the top 10 in the US and several other countries.

The song’s success was due in part to its infectious melody and lively beat, which had fans grooving on dance floors everywhere. Astley’s signature smooth vocals and playful lyrics added to the song’s appeal, making it a favorite among pop fans of the era.

Critics praised “She Wants to Dance with Me” for its fun and carefree vibe, with many noting that it represented a departure from Astley’s earlier ballads. The song’s production, which blended electronic and acoustic elements, was also widely admired for its innovation and creativity.

Despite being released over thirty years ago, “She Wants to Dance with Me” remains a popular party anthem and a staple of many ’80s music playlists. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Astley’s ability to create catchy and memorable songs that continue to resonate with audiences today.

6. Cry for Help (1991)

“Cry for Help” was released in 1991 as the lead single from Rick Astley’s third album, “Free”. Unlike his previous chart-topping hits, this song showcased a more mature and introspective side to the singer’s artistry.

The song’s emotional lyrics spoke to the heartache and vulnerability that comes with seeking help and support during difficult times. Astley’s soulful vocals and haunting melody perfectly captured the raw emotions of the song, making it an instant classic among fans of power ballads.

Chart-wise, “Cry for Help” was another commercial success for Astley. It peaked at number seven on the US Billboard Hot 100, and reached the top 10 in several other countries, including the UK, Canada, and Australia.

Critics praised the song for its depth and sincerity, with many noting that it showcased Astley’s growth as an artist. The song’s production, which featured lush orchestration and powerful backing vocals, also received high praise for its cinematic quality.

Even today, “Cry for Help” remains one of Astley’s most beloved songs. Its timeless message of hope and resilience continues to inspire listeners around the world, solidifying Rick Astley’s place as one of the most influential artists of the ’80s and ’90s.

7. Move Right Out (1991)

“Move Right Out” was another successful single from Rick Astley’s third album, “Free”. The song showcased a more upbeat and funky sound compared to Astley’s previous ballads, which helped to further diversify his musical range.

Chart-wise, “Move Right Out” performed well in several countries, including the UK where it peaked at number 23 on the charts. The song also received positive reviews from critics, who praised its infectious groove and catchy chorus.

One notable aspect of “Move Right Out” was its music video, which featured Astley performing with a live band. This added a new level of authenticity to his image, highlighting his musicianship and live performance abilities.

The song’s success helped to cement Astley’s reputation as a versatile artist capable of delivering both soulful ballads and upbeat dance tracks. It remains a fan favorite to this day, and a testament to Astley’s enduring popularity and musical legacy.

8. The Ones You Love (1993)

“The Ones You Love” is a standout track from Rick Astley’s fourth album, “Body & Soul”. The song is a poignant ballad that speaks to the power of love and the importance of cherishing those closest to us. Astley’s vocals are raw and emotive, perfectly capturing the song’s heartfelt message.

Chart-wise, “The Ones You Love” performed well in several countries, including the UK where it peaked at number 16 on the charts. The song’s success was a testament to Astley’s enduring popularity as an artist, and his ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level.

Critics also praised the song for its lyrical depth and Astley’s vocal performance. The track’s music video, which features Astley performing in an intimate studio setting, further adds to the song’s emotional resonance.

“The Ones You Love” remains a fan favorite, and a testament to Astley’s musical versatility and enduring appeal. It showcases his ability to deliver heartfelt ballads that resonate with listeners across generations, cementing his place as one of the most beloved artists of the ’80s and ’90s.

Lesser-Known Gems and Fan Favorites

9. Take Me to Your Heart (1988)

“Take Me to Your Heart” is a gem in Rick Astley’s discography that often gets overlooked in his popular hits. The track is a catchy, upbeat number from his second studio album, “Hold Me in Your Arms”, which was released in 1988. Despite not being released as a single, the song has remained a fan favorite over the years.

“Take Me to Your Heart” features Astley’s signature soulful vocals and a catchy melody that sticks in your head long after the song has ended. The song’s upbeat tempo and groovy bassline make it a perfect dance number. The chorus of the song is infectious, and it’s hard not to sing along to the lyrics.

The song has endured as a fan favorite because of its universal message of love and its upbeat energy. It’s a reminder of the carefree and happy days of the late ’80s and early ’90s. The song’s enduring popularity is evident in its millions of streams on digital platforms.

Despite not being a commercial hit, “Take Me to Your Heart” is a testament to Astley’s musical talent and his ability to create infectious, feel-good tracks that stand the test of time. It’s a hidden gem in his discography that deserves more recognition and appreciation from music fans.

10. Keep Singing (2016)

“Keep Singing” was the lead single from Rick Astley’s 2016 comeback album, “50”. The song marked Astley’s return to the music scene after a long hiatus and was highly anticipated by fans and critics alike. The track is an upbeat, catchy number that showcases Astley’s soulful vocals and his signature pop sound.

The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 40 in the UK charts and receiving significant airplay on radio stations across the world. The track’s music video, which featured Astley singing in a boxing ring, was also well-received and has amassed millions of views on YouTube.

Critics praised “Keep Singing” for its infectious melody and uplifting message. The song’s lyrics encourage listeners to keep pushing through tough times and to never give up on their dreams. The track’s positive message and catchy beat made it a fan favorite and helped cement Astley’s status as a beloved pop icon.

“Keep Singing” also marked a new chapter in Astley’s career, showcasing his evolution as an artist while still staying true to his signature sound. The song’s success paved the way for the release of “50” and helped reignite Astley’s popularity with both old and new fans.

11. Angels on My Side (2016)

“Angels on My Side” is another standout track from Rick Astley’s comeback album “50”. The song showcases Astley’s enduring talent as a singer and songwriter and has received glowing reviews from critics and fans alike.

The track’s soaring melody and heartfelt lyrics have struck a chord with listeners, with many praising Astley’s powerful vocals and emotional delivery. The song’s uplifting message of hope and perseverance has resonated with fans, who have embraced it as an anthem of resilience and positivity.

“Angels on My Side” has also been praised for its polished production and sleek arrangement, which showcase Astley’s ability to blend classic pop sensibilities with modern soundscapes. The song’s dynamic instrumentation, including soaring strings and driving percussion, create a lush and cinematic backdrop for Astley’s vocals to shine.

Fans have been quick to express their love for “Angels on My Side”, with many taking to social media to share their appreciation for the song. The track has also been a highlight of Astley’s live shows, with audiences singing along and swaying to its uplifting chorus.

12. Beautiful Life (2018)

“Beautiful Life” is the title track of Rick Astley’s 2018 album, which marked another milestone in the singer’s career resurgence. The song is a testament to Astley’s positive outlook on life, with lyrics that celebrate the joys of living and the power of love and friendship.

The track received widespread critical acclaim for its infectious melody, catchy hook, and uplifting message. Critics praised Astley’s vocals, which have only grown stronger with age, as well as the song’s polished production and memorable chorus.

“Beautiful Life” also performed well on the charts, reaching the top 20 in the UK and charting in several other countries. The song’s success helped to further cement Astley’s renaissance as a pop icon, demonstrating his enduring appeal to both old and new fans.

In addition to its commercial success, “Beautiful Life” has also been embraced by fans as a modern anthem of positivity and resilience. The song’s soaring chorus and feel-good vibe have made it a staple of Astley’s live shows, with audiences singing and dancing along to every word.

Collaborations and Covers

13. When I Fall in Love (1987)

Rick Astley’s cover of the timeless Nat King Cole hit, “When I Fall in Love,” was included on his debut album, “Whenever You Need Somebody,” released in 1987. The song was a departure from Astley’s signature upbeat pop sound, showcasing his smooth and soulful vocals over a romantic ballad.

Despite being a cover, Astley’s rendition of “When I Fall in Love” received critical acclaim, with many praising his emotive delivery and the song’s elegant orchestration. The track also achieved commercial success, peaking at number 2 on the UK singles chart and becoming a top 10 hit in several other countries.

Astley’s cover of “When I Fall in Love” helped to establish him as a versatile artist with a wide-ranging musical ability. The song remains a fan favorite and a testament to Astley’s enduring appeal as a singer and performer.

14. Hold Me in Your Arms (1988)

“Hold Me in Your Arms” marked a significant milestone in Rick Astley’s career, as it featured a duet with the legendary Elton John and showcased a more mature sound for the young artist.

The song’s soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics resonated with audiences, and it quickly climbed the charts, reaching the top ten in several countries, including the UK and Australia. In the United States, the track peaked at number 46 on the Billboard Hot 100 but became a significant hit on adult contemporary radio.

The collaboration with Elton John added an extra layer of star power to the song, and their voices blended seamlessly together, creating a powerful and emotional performance. The duet was a highlight of the album and demonstrated Astley’s ability to hold his own with one of the music industry’s most iconic figures.

Fans embraced “Hold Me in Your Arms” as a standout track from the album, and it remains a beloved song among Astley’s dedicated fanbase. The song’s success helped to cement Astley’s position as a formidable artist with a unique and versatile voice, capable of delivering both upbeat pop hits and soulful ballads.

15. Vincent (2018)

Astley’s cover of Don McLean’s “Vincent” on his 2018 album, “Beautiful Life,” was met with critical acclaim and demonstrated his versatile vocal range and emotional depth as an artist.

The song tells the story of the tormented artist Vincent Van Gogh and is known for its haunting melody and poignant lyrics. Astley’s rendition of the classic hit was praised for its stripped-down arrangement and his heartfelt, authentic delivery.

The cover highlighted Astley’s ability to move beyond his ’80s pop roots and tackle a more mature and introspective style of music. It showcased his versatility as an artist and proved that he can tackle a range of genres and emotions with ease.

Fans and critics alike praised Astley’s interpretation of the song, with many noting that he brought a fresh perspective to the classic hit. His version of “Vincent” showcased his powerful vocals and emotional range, leaving a lasting impression on listeners.

Recent Hits and Ongoing Success

16. Try (2018)

“Try” is a standout track from Astley’s 2018 album, “Beautiful Life,” and quickly became a fan favorite. The song’s inspiring lyrics, powerful vocals, and upbeat tempo make it a motivational anthem that resonates with listeners of all ages.

In terms of chart performance, “Try” was a success for Astley. The track peaked at number 12 on the UK Independent Charts and reached number 25 on the US Billboard Adult Contemporary Chart.

The song’s positive reception was also notable, with critics praising Astley’s uplifting lyrics and message. Many noted that the track was a departure from his earlier pop hits and demonstrated his growth as an artist.

“Try” has also become a popular song for live performances, with Astley often incorporating it into his setlists. Its infectious energy and empowering lyrics make it a crowd favorite and a testament to Astley’s continued success as a musician.

17. Every One of Us (2019)

“Every One of Us” is a standout track from Astley’s 2019 compilation album, “The Best of Me,” and has been praised for its feel-good vibes and uplifting message. The song’s infectious melody and catchy chorus have made it a fan favorite, with many noting that it’s impossible not to dance along to its upbeat tempo.

Critics have also been quick to praise the track, with some noting that it’s one of Astley’s best in years. The uplifting lyrics, which encourage listeners to be themselves and celebrate their uniqueness, have struck a chord with audiences around the world.

In terms of chart performance, “Every One of Us” has been a success for Astley. The track has reached number 2 on the UK Independent Charts and has also performed well in other countries around the world.

18. Unwanted (2021)

Rick Astley’s latest single, “Unwanted,” released in 2021, is a departure from his usual pop sound and showcases his continued musical growth. The track features a more stripped-down production, with acoustic guitar and piano providing a haunting backdrop for Astley’s emotive vocals.

“Unwanted” has received positive critical reception for its introspective lyrics and Astley’s willingness to experiment with a new sound. The song deals with themes of heartbreak and regret, with Astley singing about a lost love that he can’t seem to shake off.

In terms of chart performance, “Unwanted” has been a success for Astley. The track has reached the top 10 on the UK Independent Charts and has also performed well on streaming platforms. Its success is a testament to Astley’s ability to reinvent himself and remain relevant to audiences decades after his initial rise to fame.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Rick Astley is an artist with a long and successful career in pop music. His discography features a variety of styles, themes, and sounds that show off his versatility as a songwriter and musician. Whether you’re revisiting some of his timeless classics or exploring his more recent releases, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Rick Astley’s music.

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