THE GREATEST SECULAR SONGS OF ALL TIME (IN MY OPINION) — NUMBERS 40-31

40. “SWEET SOUNDS OF HEAVEN” – THE ROLLING STONES (FEATURING LADY GAGA & STEVIE WONDER)

This song is one of the Stones’ most ambitious tracks in decades (and arguably the greatest thing they’ve ever done) — a gospel‑blues hybrid that became a standout from their 2023 album Hackney Diamonds. It features Lady Gaga on vocals in a style she rarely explores and Stevie Wonder on piano, blending rock, soul, and gospel into an uplifting journey of sound. It’s so great because of its emotional lift and the way it merges genres while celebrating musical fellowship.

39. “I STILL HAVEN’T FOUND WHAT I’M LOOKING FOR” – U2

One of U2’s signature songs, this one combines spiritual longing with rock energy. Borrowing from gospel and blues structures, it frames discipleship as a persistent search — my favorite themes of hope and honest yearning. Thematically, it resonates with the idea that life’s deepest quests often point beyond the self, toward meaning and fulfillment that only something greater can satisfy.

Yes, I may have to move this one higher when I revise this later. Just thinking about it reminds me how great it is. It is a restless search for meaning, truth, and grace; a reflection on our human desire for wholeness and the spiritual journey that calls us beyond ourselves.

For a deeper experience, check out the live gospel version on the Rattle and Hum album — the energy of the choir and call-and-response vocals turns it into a moving, almost “church” performance. U2 rehearsed with a Harlem gospel choir called The New Voices of Freedom and performed it live with them at Madison Square Garden. That version is one of the best things this ole boy has ever heard.

38. “SIMPLE MAN” – LYNYRD SKYNYRD

A Southern rock classic that reads like wisdom passed down from parent to child. Its lyrics deliver a moral compass with gentle authority — urging humility, integrity, and faithfulness. Musically, the song’s slow build and emotive delivery complement its life lessons, making it a rare rock ballad that teaches as it sings.

37. “HERE COMES THE SUN” – THE BEATLES

Written by George Harrison during a bleak period in his life, this song became a metaphor for renewal and healing. Its bright melody and simple lyrics evoke the dawning of new hope after hardship — a theme deeply resonant with Christian ideas of light overcoming darkness. Its widespread acclaim and beloved status make it a cornerstone of positive, reflective music.

36. “BRIDGE OVER TROUBLED WATER” (ELVIS VERSION) – SIMON & GARFUNKEL / ELVIS PRESLEY

Originally a Simon & Garfunkel song, Bridge Over Troubled Water has been covered by over 50 artists, including Elvis Presley, whose version brings a gospel‑tinged richness and emotional gravitas to the arrangement. Presley’s voice adds warmth and spiritual weight, making it one of the most consoling interpretations of a song already considered a modern standard of comfort and compassion.

35. “GOD ONLY KNOWS” – THE BEACH BOYS

This song is often cited by critics and artists alike as one of the greatest love songs ever written. Its layered harmonies and unconventional structure give it a timeless quality. Lyrically, it expresses deep devotion and vulnerability — acknowledging the fragility of life and the grace of love that sustains us, even when words fail.

34. “(YOUR LOVE KEEPS LIFTING ME) HIGHER AND HIGHER” – JACKIE WILSON

A jubilant declaration of love that soars with joy and energy, Jackie Wilson’s voice carries the spirit upward, lifting the listener as if carried on wings. Though written as a love song, the lyrics resonate perfectly with the Christian heart: the love that lifts us, restores us, and carries us beyond fear, doubt, and despair can be heard as the love of Christ Himself. Each note reminds us that grace is not static but rising, moving, and transformative. This is a song to celebrate joy, embrace hope, and feel spiritually elevated — a melody that encourages the soul to ascend, leaving burdens behind and rejoicing in the sustaining power of love.

33. “LITTLE WING” – JIMI HENDRIX

A brief but transcendent piece, Little Wing showcases Hendrix’s ability to make the guitar “sing” with emotional depth. It’s not a bombastic rock anthem but a meditative, almost spiritual expression of longing and presence.

32. “JESU, JOY OF MAN’S DESIRING” – JOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH

A timeless river of melody, flowing gently yet inexorably into the heart. Bach’s chorale evokes a quiet joy that surpasses understanding, lifting the listener into reflection on the constancy and grace of Christ. Every note seems to breathe, to carry a prayer of hope and delight; every rise and fall of the melody reminds us that even in life’s struggles, the divine rhythm endures. This piece transcends language and era, speaking directly to the soul, and it invites the listener to dwell in a space of peace, gratitude, and unshakable trust. A song to meditate upon, to hear as both music and prayer — a perfect bridge between the human heart and the eternal. Truly one of the most beautiful things I have ever heard.

31. “VAPOR BARATO” – GAL COSTA

Often remembered for its repeated “honey baby” refrain but officially titled “Vapor Barato,” this Brazilian tropicalia classic blends rhythmic sophistication with intimacy. It expresses tenderness and vulnerability with subtlety, making it a rare and beautiful emotional moment. The affectionate phrasing comes through clearly even across languages, and there’s nothing inappropriate or explicit in the lyrics. It’s just a powerful song about love.

BDD