Europe: a continent brimming with diverse cultures, languages, and musical traditions. From the passionate flamenco rhythms of Spain to the melancholic melodies of Scandinavia, the soundscape of Europe is incredibly rich and varied. So, where do you even begin when searching for the ultimate soundtrack to your European adventure, or simply a playlist to transport you to another world? That's where this list comes in! We've compiled a definitive ranking of the best songs from Europe, encompassing decades of iconic hits and hidden gems. Whether you're a seasoned music aficionado or simply looking to expand your horizons, this curated selection promises to ignite your passion for European music. Prepare to discover timeless classics, rediscover forgotten favorites, and unearth exciting new artists – a true celebration of Europe's vibrant musical heritage, perfect for every mood and occasion. Get ready to embark on a sonic journey across the continent!
| Song | Album | Listens |
|---|---|---|
| 1. The Final Countdown | The Final Countdown (Expanded Edition) | 1B+ |
| 2. Carrie | The Final Countdown (Expanded Edition) | 240M+ |
| 3. Open Your Heart | 59M+ | |
| 4. Rock the Night | 38M+ | |
| 5. Superstitious | 19M+ | |
| 6. Prisoners in Paradise | 13M+ | |
| 7. Let the Good Times Rock | 7M+ |
1. The Final Countdown (Europe)
Synth-driven Power Ballad: "The Final Countdown" masterfully blends anthemic synth melodies with a powerful, driving rhythm section, creating a sound instantly recognizable and undeniably impactful.
Iconic Vocal Performance: Joey Tempest's soaring vocals deliver both energy and emotion, perfectly capturing the song's dramatic and uplifting feel.
Enduring Pop Culture Impact: Its memorable intro and undeniable catchiness have cemented "The Final Countdown" as a timeless classic, ensuring its place in rock and pop culture history.
2. Carrie (Europe)
Catchy Melody: Carrie boasts an instantly memorable melody that perfectly encapsulates the band's signature hard rock sound, making it a quintessential Europe track.
Powerful Vocals: Joey Tempest's soaring vocals are a highlight, delivering both raw power and emotional vulnerability, showcasing his vocal range at its best.
Synth-infused Rock Anthem: The song masterfully blends driving guitar riffs with infectious synth lines, creating a powerful and anthemic sound that resonates with both hard rock and pop sensibilities, solidifying its place as a classic.
3. Open Your Heart
Driving Guitar Riffs: "Open Your Heart" showcases Europe's signature hard rock sound, with powerful guitar riffs that are both catchy and memorable, perfectly encapsulating their 80s sound.
Joey Tempest's Vocals: Tempest's soaring vocals are a highlight, delivering the emotional core of the song with passion and conviction. His unique vocal style is instantly recognizable and adds to the song's iconic status.
Anthemic Quality: The song's uplifting melody and powerful chorus make it the perfect anthem for stadium singalongs, solidifying its place among Europe's most celebrated tracks.
4. Rock the Night (Europe)
Anthemic Chorus: "Rock the Night" boasts a powerful, singalong chorus that perfectly encapsulates the band's stadium-ready energy, making it a timeless singalong favorite.
Driving Guitar Riffs: The song's memorable guitar riff is instantly recognizable and incredibly catchy, a defining characteristic of Europe's hard rock sound.
Nostalgic Appeal: Its association with the 80s hair metal scene and iconic music videos gives it enduring appeal for fans of classic rock and those who experienced the era firsthand.
5. Superstitious (1988)
Driving Guitar Riffs: Superstitious boasts a memorable and powerful guitar riff that is instantly recognizable and perfectly embodies the hard rock sound of 80s Europe.
Anthemic Chorus: The chorus is incredibly catchy and anthemic, making it perfect for singalongs and showcasing the band's powerful vocal delivery.
Enduring Popularity: Its enduring appeal proves its place amongst Europe's best, remaining a staple in their live performances and a testament to its timeless quality.
6. Prisoners in Paradise (Europe)
Catchy Melody: "Prisoners in Paradise" boasts a memorable melody that stays with you long after the song ends, a hallmark of Europe's songwriting prowess.
Driving Rhythm: The song's powerful, driving rhythm creates an irresistible energy, perfect for headbanging and singalongs, showcasing the band's hard rock roots.
Emotional Resonance: Despite its upbeat tempo, the lyrics hint at a sense of longing and confinement, adding a layer of depth that makes the track truly captivating.
7. Let the Good Times Rock
Anthemic Chorus: "Let the Good Times Rock" boasts a powerful, singalong chorus that perfectly encapsulates the band's energetic spirit, making it ideal for any celebratory playlist.
Classic 80s Sound: The song's driving rhythm and soaring guitar riffs are quintessential 80s hard rock, a sound that continues to resonate with fans decades later and solidifies its place among Europe's best.
Unforgettable Vocals: Joey Tempest's vocals are at their finest here, delivering a performance that's both powerful and emotive, further enhancing the song's lasting appeal.
8. Hero (2004)
Iconic Guitar Riff: Europe's "Hero" is instantly recognizable thanks to its powerful, anthemic guitar riff, a staple of 80s hard rock that remains incredibly effective.
Anthemic Chorus: The soaring chorus is incredibly catchy and memorable, perfectly encapsulating the song's triumphant spirit and making it ideal for singalongs.
Enduring Popularity: Its continued presence in popular culture, from movies to sporting events, demonstrates "Hero's" lasting appeal and its place among the best rock anthems ever.
9. Tomorrow (Europe - 1984)
Driving Guitar Riff: Tomorrow opens with a instantly recognizable and powerful guitar riff that sets the stage for the song's anthemic feel, perfectly encapsulating the band's signature hard rock sound.
Joey Tempest's Vocals: Tempest's soaring vocals are a highlight, delivering both raw power and emotional vulnerability, making the lyrics about longing and hope truly resonate.
Anthemic Chorus: The unforgettable chorus is designed for mass singalongs, solidifying its place as a classic rock staple and a testament to Europe's songwriting prowess.
10. Walk the Earth - 2025
Driving Guitar Riffs: "Walk the Earth" boasts unforgettable guitar work, a hallmark of Europe's signature sound, making it a quintessential example of their hard rock prowess.
Anthemic Chorus: The soaring vocals and powerful chorus create an undeniable singalong experience, perfectly capturing the energy of their live performances and solidifying its place among their best-loved tracks.
Nostalgic Appeal: Its classic hard rock style taps into a feeling of nostalgia, reminding listeners of Europe's significant impact on the 80s music scene and their enduring legacy.
11New Love in Town
Europe
2009
12War of Kings
Europe
2015
13Last Look at Eden
Europe
2009
14Sign of the Times
Europe
1988
15Love Chaser
Europe
1986
16Heart of Stone
Europe
1988
17Time Has Come
Europe
1986
18Got to Have Faith
Europe
2004
19Cherokee
Europe
1986
20Ready or Not
Europe
1988
21Stormwind
Europe
1984
22Halfway to Heaven
Europe
1991
23Dreamer
Europe
1984
24Not Supposed to Sing the Blues
Europe
2012
25Seven Doors Hotel
Europe
1983
26Tower's Callin'
Europe
1984
- 27
Dance the Night Away
Europe
1984