Welcome to a celebration of the legendary talent and timeless artistry of Jerry Reed, a true icon of country music.
Throughout his illustrious career, Jerry Reed mesmerized audiences with his unique blend of fingerpicking guitar virtuosity, soulful vocals, and infectious charm.
In this article, we pay tribute to the 15 best songs ever crafted by this incomparable artist.
From the moment Jerry Reed burst onto the music scene, he captivated listeners with his magnetic stage presence and undeniable musical prowess.
Whether delivering heartfelt ballads or foot-stomping, up-tempo numbers, he had an uncanny ability to infuse every note with genuine emotion and an undeniable authenticity that resonated with fans across the globe.
So, let’s dive in and discover which of the best Jerry Reed songs are the all-time greatest hits.
1. “Guitar Man”
If you’re a fan of Jerry Reed’s music, you’ve gotta check out “Guitar Man” – it’s one of his absolute best!
This classic tune, released in 1967, features Reed’s signature fingerstyle picking, combined with a catchy melody and clever lyrics.
The song’s main theme of hard-working musicians is both inspiring and relatable.
Musically, “Guitar Man” has a unique structure that allows Reed to show off his considerable guitar chops.
His playing style is both varied and nuanced, making for a truly captivating listening experience.
The song’s production is also top-notch, with the perfect balance of instrumentation and vocals.
All in all, “Guitar Man” is a timeless classic and a must-hear for any fan of Reed’s music.
2. “Folsom Prison Blues”
“Folsom Prison Blues” by Jerry Reed is a song that has become a classic in country music.
The lyrics tell the story of a man who longs to escape incarceration and the pain of being away from loved ones.
The song also speaks to the pain of being in prison and the struggle to maintain hope despite the difficult circumstances.
The song has a strong sense of longing, and the music is as haunting as the lyrics.
Reed’s voice adds an emotional depth to the song, creating a powerful statement about injustice and imprisonment.
3. “The Devil Went Down To Georgia”
“The Devil Went Down to Georgia” is a fiddle-driven classic that tells the story of a devil’s challenge of a fiddler for his soul.
Written and performed by Jerry Reed in 1971, the song features a highly intricate fiddle solo and is one of the most popular songs in Reed’s repertoire.
Musically, the song is a unique blend of country, bluegrass, and rock, with a driving beat and intense lyrical content.
It has become a staple of all-time greatest hits lists and is considered one of Reed’s best works.
4. “Down On The Corner”
Creeping down the backstreets, you can hear the infectious rhythm of “Down On The Corner” by Jerry Reed.
His signature twelve-string guitar playing is instantly recognizable, and the song’s upbeat tempo and fun lyrics make it a timeless classic.
Lyrically, “Down On The Corner” is a tribute to small-town life and the struggles and joys of everyday existence.
Its message of being content with what you have resonates with many listeners.
Jerry Reed’s masterful use of his signature sound brings this classic to life.
5. “A Thing Called Love”
One of Jerry Reed’s most beloved songs is the rollicking “A Thing Called Love”.
It captures the joys and tribulations of young love.
The song starts off with an upbeat guitar riff, setting the tone for the rest of the track.
The lyrics are simple and honest, discussing the ups and downs of a relationship.
Reed’s signature twangy vocals add a certain charm to the track, making it a classic among his fans.
The track is a perfect example of Reed’s ability to craft a song that is both light-hearted and heartfelt.
It is a song that will remain a favorite for generations to come.
6. “U.S. Male”
“U.S. Male” was another hit single for Jerry Reed, showcasing his classic blend of honky-tonk and country sounds.
His vocals are strong and passionate as he sings about a man’s struggle to find someone to share his life with.
The accompanying guitar licks are catchy and provide an upbeat tempo that is sure to have listeners singing along.
“U.S. Male” provides a snapshot into the life of a man searching for love in an ever-changing world.
7. “Honkin'”
Jerry Reed’s iconic “Honkin'” has remained a defining element of his music ever since his debut, infusing it with a lively and energetic vibe.
Renowned for his distinct honking technique, Reed’s skillful play keeps the song constantly moving and grooving.
The unique sound of his honkin’ style has garnered high praise, earning him accolades for his musical innovation.
Many country and rock guitarists have looked up to Reed as a major influence, recognizing the profound impact of his honkin’ technique on the music world.
Undeniably, “Honkin'” has become an enduring hallmark of Jerry Reed’s musical repertoire, representing a significant part of his artistic identity.
8. “Wabash Cannonball”
The iconic song “Wabash Cannonball” is a testament to Jerry Reed’s honkin’ style.
The song is an instrumental piece that features Reed’s signature guitar licks and twangy rhythms.
Reed’s guitar playing is dynamic and captivating.
It is full of emotion and technical precision.
It is a classic example of the honky-tonk style of country music.
The song has a driving tempo and a catchy melody.
Throughout the song, Reed’s mastery of the guitar is evident.
“Wabash Cannonball” is a classic Jerry Reed song that perfectly showcases his honkin’ style.
9. “Tupelo Mississippi Flash”
Experience the soulful sound of Jerry Reed’s “Tupelo Mississippi Flash” and become mesmerized by his signature guitar licks and twangy rhythms.
His songwriting prowess shines through in the lyrics of this classic, as well as his masterful guitar playing.
“Tupelo Mississippi Flash” features a unique blend of country, blues, and folk, highlighting Reed’s versatility as an artist.
The intricate melodies, combined with tight percussion, draw the listener in for an unforgettable musical experience.
Reed’s iconic guitar solos bring an added layer of depth to the track, making “Tupelo Mississippi Flash” one of his most beloved songs.
10. “500 Miles Away From Home”
Feel the emotion of Jerry Reed’s “500 Miles Away From Home” as he sings of a yearning to be closer to home.
The song is a bittersweet reflection on life away from all that is familiar and comfortable.
Reed’s vocals are emotive and draw the listener in, singing of a longing for home.
The melody is simple and memorable, with a plaintive guitar accompaniment.
This song speaks to the universal experience of being far away from home, making its sentiment timeless and relatable.
The heartfelt lyrics are a reminder of the power of music to express our deepest emotions.
11. “Struttin'”
Get ready to groove and strut your stuff with Jerry Reed’s timeless hit, “Struttin'”.
This infectious song embodies the essence of joyous confidence, uplifting listeners with its irresistible charm.
The straightforward beat and jaunty guitar riffs showcase Jerry Reed’s signature swagger, infusing the music with an undeniable sense of attitude and flair.
Through vivid and evocative lyrics, “Struttin'” paints a vivid picture of a man who exudes self-assurance, fully embracing the idea that life is a blessing meant to be savored and enjoyed to the fullest.
As a timeless classic, “Struttin'” continues to inspire audiences to embrace their own sense of confidence and seize the day with unbridled enthusiasm.
12. “Amos Moses”
Immerse yourself in the Southern swagger of Jerry Reed’s song “Amos Moses”.
This song captures the raw energy of the backwoods, a style that Jerry Reed has perfected over his career.
The lyrics tell a narrative of a manhunt, with a catchy chorus that has made it a classic.
The instrumentation is also noteworthy, using a mix of electric and acoustic guitars, drums, and bass to create a unique sound.
It’s a song that stands out as one of Reed’s best and is sure to be a favorite for years to come.
13. “Sweet Memories”
Take a trip down memory lane with the sweet sounds of Jerry Reed’s song “Sweet Memories”.
This song is a heartfelt, nostalgic ballad, featuring Reed’s signature twangy guitar.
The lyrics tell a story of lost love and the longing for the memories of a past relationship.
The song has a slow, flowing tempo, with a simple, yet powerful melody.
It’s a tender, sentimental piece that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you wanting more.
Reed’s profound lyrics and masterful playing make “Sweet Memories” one of his best and most beloved songs.
14. “Sixteen Tons”
Feel the power of folk-rock legend Jerry Reed’s song “Sixteen Tons”, a classic hit that will stay with you long after the song ends.
A driving acoustic rhythm, a haunting melody, and Reed’s signature vocals create a powerful sound.
The lyrics are simple, yet evocative, describing the struggles of the working class.
The song has a timeless quality, conveying a message that is still relevant today.
Reed’s iconic performance of “Sixteen Tons” is a lasting testament to his enduring talent.
15. “When You’re Hot, You’re Hot”
You’re sure to get energized when you listen to Jerry Reed’s hit “When You’re Hot, You’re Hot”.
The song, released in 1971, is a cheerful and upbeat track that celebrates success.
The lyrics are humorous and lighthearted, with the chorus repeating the title phrase in a celebratory manner.
The instrumentation is driving and upbeat, with a prominent guitar line and prominent drums.
Overall, it’s an infectious and memorable song that captures the joy of achieving success.
Best Jerry Reed Songs – Final Thoughts
You can’t deny that Jerry Reed was a master of country music.
His songs are timeless classics and have inspired countless musicians.
From “Guitar Man” to “When You’re Hot, You’re Hot”, Jerry Reed’s greatest hits have provided us with some of the best country music of all time.
His influence is still felt in the music industry today, reminding us why he is one of the greatest songwriters of the 20th century.
With his unique style and timeless melodies, Jerry Reed will always be remembered as a true country music legend.
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