From neo-classical fury to stadium rock anthems, Ritchie Blackmore’s Rainbow carved a unique legacy in hard rock history. Combining virtuoso guitar work with mythical themes and powerhouse vocals—from Dio to Turner—Rainbow’s catalog is rich and diverse. Here are 20 of Rainbow’s greatest songs, ranked!
20. “Eyes of the World” (1979)
A progressive-tinged epic from Down to Earth, showcasing Blackmore’s atmospheric layering and Roger Glover’s evolving production vision.
19. “I Surrender” (1981)
A melodic AOR hit penned by Russ Ballard, driven by Joe Lynn Turner’s smooth delivery—commercial, but undeniably catchy.
18. “Stranded” (1982)
A highlight from Straight Between the Eyes, blending slick production with emotional weight. Turner’s vocals shine here.
17. “Street of Dreams” (1983)
Moody and synth-tinged, this song marks the late-era Rainbow style—radio-friendly yet mysterious.
16. “Can’t Happen Here” (1981)
A biting, satirical track with socially aware lyrics, unusual for Rainbow but effective.
15. “Stone Cold” (1982)
A U.S. hit that balanced Rainbow’s arena rock aspirations with haunting balladry.
14. “A Light in the Black” (1976)
A high-speed sequel to “Stargazer,” with frenzied guitar and keyboard interplay—one of Rainbow’s most electrifying performances.
13. “The Temple of the King” (1975)
A mystical, acoustic-driven track where Blackmore’s medieval leanings meet Dio’s storytelling magic.
12. “All Night Long” (1979)
Cheeky and confident, this hit was made for the stage. Graham Bonnet’s punchy vocals helped it top UK charts.
11. “Long Live Rock ‘n’ Roll” (1978)
A rallying cry for fans, this anthem encapsulates Rainbow’s raw power and Dio’s charisma.
10. “Sixteenth Century Greensleeves” (1975)
A thunderous blend of baroque flair and hard rock muscle—pure Blackmore brilliance.
9. “Kill the King” (1978)
One of the earliest examples of proto-speed metal. Frenetic riffs, Dio’s commanding voice—an intense masterpiece.
8. “Tarot Woman” (1976)
That opening synth! Blackmore and Tony Carey craft a mystical atmosphere that sets the stage for Rising.
7. “Catch the Rainbow” (1975)
A dreamy ballad reminiscent of Hendrix’s “Little Wing,” showing Rainbow’s gentler, more emotional side.
6. “Man on the Silver Mountain” (1975)
The debut single. A hard rock mission statement and enduring fan favorite, brimming with energy.
5. “Since You Been Gone” (1979)
Rainbow’s most commercially successful single, packed with hooks and a singalong chorus.
4. “Stargazer” (1976)
Epic in scale and ambition. Backed by the Munich Philharmonic, it’s Dio and Blackmore at their creative peak.
3. “Gates of Babylon” (1978)
A dark, exotic masterpiece with orchestral depth—haunting and theatrical.
2. “Rainbow Eyes” (1978)
A breathtaking ballad closing Long Live Rock ‘n’ Roll, showing a softer, romantic Blackmore.
1. “Burn” (Live, 1995 Rainbow version)
Though originally a Deep Purple song, Rainbow’s live revival, with Doogie White on vocals, was a fiery rebirth—uniting eras in spectacular fashion. Honorable Mentions: “Jealous Lover,” “Danger Zone,” “Lady of the Lake,” “Make Your Move.”
Whether mystical or mainstream, Rainbow’s best songs remind us why Ritchie Blackmore remains one of rock’s most influential and enigmatic guitarists.
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