The Most Successful Australian Song, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the song you think is the most successful!

Updated on May 2, 2024 06:56

Music has always been a powerful form of expression and connection, transcending geographical boundaries and cultural differences. Among these, Australian songs have carved out a unique niche, resonating with audiences both locally and globally. By ranking these hits, we gain insights into what makes a song truly stand out in the world of music. This dynamic chart allows you to have your say in determining the success ladder for Australian music. Each vote helps to paint a clearer picture of prevailing music tastes and trends. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Australian hits, your participation shapes the outcome, making every ranking refresh an exciting reveal of public opinion.

What Is the Most Successful Australian Song?

1

97
votes

"Down Under" - Men at Work (1981)

This iconic song topped the charts in several countries, including Australia, the US, and the UK. It has become a national anthem of sorts and is often played at sporting events and celebrations.
2

25
votes
"I Am Australian" - The Seekers (1987)

The Seekers

This patriotic song celebrates the diversity and unity of Australia and has become a beloved national song. It has been covered by several artists and used in various cultural events.
I Am Australian is a patriotic song performed by The Seekers, an Australian folk-influenced pop music group. The song was released in 1987 and quickly became one of the most successful and iconic Australian songs of all time. It has since become an unofficial Australian anthem, often performed at major national events and sporting occasions.

Release Date: 1987

Genre: Folk/Pop

Length: 4 minutes and 12 seconds

Album: The Seekers' Greatest Hits

Chart Performance: Reached number one on the Australian singles chart
3

26
votes

"Torn" - Natalie Imbruglia (1997)

This pop ballad became a massive hit worldwide, reaching the top 10 in several countries and winning several awards. It has been covered by other artists and remains a popular karaoke choice.
4

20
votes
"The Horses" - Daryl Braithwaite (1991)

This uplifting rock song has become an Aussie classic and is often played at weddings and parties. It has charted multiple times and been covered by other artists.
The Horses is a popular Australian song written by Rickie Lee Jones and Walter Becker. It was originally released by Rickie Lee Jones in 1989, but it gained widespread recognition when Daryl Braithwaite covered the song in 1991. The song has since become one of the most successful and well-known Australian songs of all time.

Year of Release: 1991

Genre: Pop rock

Length: 4 minutes and 16 seconds

Record Label: BMG

Chart Performance: Reached number one on the ARIA Charts in Australia
5

16
votes
"You're the Voice" - John Farnham (1986)

John Farnham

This power ballad is one of Farnham's biggest hits and has become an unofficial anthem of social change and empowerment. It has charted several times and been covered by other artists.
You're the Voice is a powerful pop rock song by Australian artist John Farnham. It was released in 1986 as the lead single from Farnham's album Whispering Jack. The song became an instant hit in Australia and has since become one of Farnham's signature songs, as well as an anthem for social and political change.

Release Date: 1986

Album: Whispering Jack

Genre: Pop rock

Length: 5:04

Chart Performance: Reached #1 on the Australian Singles Chart
6

12
votes
"Great Southern Land" - Icehouse (1982)

Icehouse

This synth-pop song celebrates the beauty and diversity of Australia and has become a cultural touchstone. It has charted multiple times and been used in various media.
Great Southern Land is a popular Australian song by the band Icehouse. It was released in 1982 as a single and later included in the band's album Separation. The song is often considered one of their most successful and enduring hits, with its distinctive sound combining New Wave and rock elements.

Release Date: 1982

Album: Separation

Genre: New Wave, Rock

Length: 5:19

Writer(s): Iva Davies
7

11
votes
"The Boys Light Up" - Australian Crawl (1980)

Australian Crawl

This catchy rock song has become an Aussie classic and is often played at parties and pubs. It has charted multiple times and been covered by other artists.
The Boys Light Up is a rock song by the Australian band Australian Crawl, released in 1980. It is considered one of the most successful and iconic Australian songs of all time. The track combines catchy melodies with a distinctive guitar riff and memorable lyrics, creating a classic Australian rock anthem that remains popular to this day.

Length: 4:37

Release Year: 1980

Genre: Rock

Album: The Boys Light Up

Label: EMI
8

2
votes
"Eagle Rock" - Daddy Cool (1971)

Daddy Cool

This upbeat rock song was a massive hit in Australia and has become a cultural icon. It has been covered by other artists and used in various media.
Eagle Rock is a popular song by the Australian rock band Daddy Cool, released in 1971. It is considered to be one of the most successful Australian songs of all time. The song has a catchy and energetic sound, blending elements of rock and roll, boogie-woogie, and blues.

Release Date: 1971

Genre: Rock

Length: 4:09

Label: Sparmac Records

Writer(s): Ross Wilson
9

13
votes
"Friday on My Mind" - The Easybeats (1966)

The Easybeats

This rock song was a huge hit in Australia and the UK and has become a classic of the genre. It has been covered by other artists and used in various media.
Friday on My Mind is a celebrated Australian rock song by The Easybeats, released in 1966. It is often considered one of the most successful Australian songs of all time. The song's catchy melody and relatable lyrics about looking forward to the weekend resonated with listeners and propelled it to international success.

Release Year: 1966

Genre: Rock

Duration: 2 minutes and 43 seconds

Composers: George Young and Harry Vanda

Record Label: Parlophone
10

11
votes
"The Power of Love" - Jennifer Rush (1984)

Jennifer Rush

This power ballad was written by Australian songwriters and became a massive hit worldwide, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. It has been covered by other artists and used in various media.
The Power of Love is a highly successful ballad released by Jennifer Rush in 1984. The song is an emotionally powerful love anthem, known for its soaring vocals and heartfelt lyrics that convey the immense strength and overwhelming nature of love.

Release Date: 1984

Genre: Pop

Duration: 6:00

Label: CBS

Songwriters: Jennifer Rush, Candy DeRouge, Gunther Mende, Mary Susan Applegate

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Ranking factors for successful song

Chart Success

The song's chart performance on Australian music charts such as the ARIA Charts, as well as international charts.
Sales and Streaming

The song's commercial success in terms of sales and streaming numbers, both in Australia and globally.
Cultural Impact

The song's cultural impact, including its influence on Australian music and cultural identity, and its representation of Australian culture to the world.
Critical Reception

The song's critical reception, including reviews by music journalists and accolades received such as awards and nominations.
Longevity

The song's continued relevance and popularity over time, as well as its ability to transcend generations.
Innovation and Creativity

The song's level of originality and creativity, as well as its ability to push the boundaries of music and inspire other artists.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most successful Australian song. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or song is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

2899 views
232 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each song once every 24 hours. The rank of each song is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most successful australian song

Australia has a rich and diverse music history, with numerous successful artists who have made a significant impact on the global music scene. From rock legends like AC/DC and INXS to pop icons like Kylie Minogue and Sia, Australia has produced some of the most talented musicians in the world. When it comes to the most successful Australian songs, there are many contenders. Some of the most popular and recognizable Australian songs include Men at Work's "Down Under," Olivia Newton-John's "Physical," and Midnight Oil's "Beds Are Burning." However, there are many other great songs that have also made their mark on the charts and in the hearts of music fans worldwide. To determine the most successful Australian song, we've collected data from various sources, including sales records, streaming numbers, and chart positions. We've also taken into account the cultural impact and enduring popularity of each song. From classic hits to modern favorites, the most successful Australian song is sure to evoke a sense of national pride and musical excellence.