18 Best Beck Songs

Beck’s music is a wild ride through genres and eras. He mixes folk, hip-hop, and electro into a sound that’s all his own. From slacker anthems to lush orchestral pieces, Beck keeps fans on their toes.

His collaborations are just as eclectic as his solo work. Beck has teamed up with artists ranging from Childish Gambino to Jack White. This musical chameleon’s ability to blend styles has made him a go-to collaborator for over three decades.

1. Loser – Beck

Loser by Beck, released in 1994, is an alt-rock anthem that fuses folk and hip-hop into a genre-bending track. Its catchy, offbeat chorus showcases Beck’s signature slacker charm. The song’s laid-back beats and quirky guitar riffs make it a timeless classic.

The music video is a trippy visual feast. It mixes lo-fi footage with surreal elements, complementing the song’s eccentric vibe. Beck’s unpredictable energy shines through, adding another layer to the song’s unique appeal.

2. Gamma Ray – Beck

Gamma Ray, by Beck, is a standout track from his 2008 album Modern Guilt. The song blends elements of garage rock and psychedelic pop, delivering an upbeat, infectious sound. Its catchy riffs and vibrant energy make it an instant earworm, showcasing Beck’s knack for genre-bending creativity.

The production quality is top-notch, featuring crisp, clear instrumentation and a polished finish. Renowned producer Danger Mouse worked on the track, bringing his distinct touch to the mix. This collaboration added a modern, edgy flavor that elevated the song, making it one of the album’s highlights.

3. E-Pro – Beck

E-pro by Beck, released in 2005, is an explosive fusion of alternative rock and rap. It features gritty guitar riffs, punchy drums, and Beck’s signature laid-back vocal style layered over a looping, hypnotic beat. The song captures a raw energy that’s both chaotic and captivating, encapsulating Beck’s knack for blending genres seamlessly.

The music video is a wild, animated journey. Directed by Shynola, it features Beck navigating a surreal world filled with disorienting visuals and strange creatures. This playful yet eerie aesthetic matches the song’s offbeat energy perfectly, making it a memorable companion piece to the track itself.

4. Death Valley High – Orville Peck, Beck

Death Valley High by Orville Peck and Beck, a 2024 release, defies easy categorization. Merging elements of country, rock, and synth, the song creates an eerie atmosphere reminiscent of a desert haunt. With haunting vocals and poignant lyrics, it tells a story of isolation and self-discovery, anchored by the desolate imagery of the titular Death Valley.

One striking element is the musical composition. The song features a blend of acoustic guitars, ethereal synths, and deep percussive beats. This unique arrangement enhances the song’s haunting aura, making it a standout piece in their discography.

5. The Valley of The Pagans (feat. Beck) – Gorillaz, Beck

The Valley of the Pagans (feat. Beck) by Gorillaz pulses with an energetic indie rock vibe, laced with synthetic beats and vibrant melodies. Beck’s playful vocals glide over the psychedelic instrumentals, making it a surreal journey through sound. The track’s rhythmic charm creates an infectious atmosphere that’s hard to resist.

Featuring Beck, the collaboration elevates the song’s complexity, blending Gorillaz’s quirkiness with his eclectic style. The arrangement layers electronic accents with guitar riffs, crafting a rich sonic tapestry. It’s a fusion of old and new, highlighting the innovative production Gorillaz is known for.

6. Night Running – Cage The Elephant, Beck

Night Running by Cage the Elephant and Beck, launched in 2019, blends genres effortlessly. It’s a captivating fusion of alternative rock and reggae, with psychedelic undertones that make it unique. The song’s laid-back groove, coupled with its infectious melodies, creates an irresistible vibe.

Number 7 – the music video adds another layer of intrigue to the track. It combines surreal, trippy visuals with a noir aesthetic, amplifying the song’s mysterious aura. The video’s vivid imagery and unexpected twists make it a memorable experience you won’t easily forget.

7. Think I’m In Love – Beck

Think I’m in Love by Beck is a standout track from his 2006 album The Information. The song melds genres like indie rock and electronic pop, creating a catchy yet intricate sound. Beck’s distinct, laid-back vocals complement the shimmering synths and steady beats.

Coming in at number 5, the song is heavily influenced by Beck’s eclectic taste, blending sounds from the ’60s and ’70s with modern elements. You can hear traces of garage rock and psychedelic influences that give the track a timeless feel. He artfully combines these styles, forging something uniquely his own.

8. Dreams – Beck

In 2017, Beck released Dreams, a groovy and infectious track that blends elements of indie rock and pop. The upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a standout, radiating a sense of carefree exuberance. It feels like a modern twist on classic rock, with Beck’s unique flair shining through.

The song’s lyrics revolve around the theme of aspiration and yearning. Beck’s poetic lines speak to a restless spirit, chasing after dreams that seem just out of reach. This touch of melancholy wrapped in an energetic melody creates a captivating contrast that hooks listeners instantly.

9. Devils Haircut – Beck

Beck’s Devils Haircut from 1996 is an eclectic mix of alternative rock and hip-hop. The track showcases gritty guitar riffs, layered with funky beats and lo-fi vocals. Its raw energy and genre-blurring style make it a standout from his album *Odelay*.

Focusing on the theme and lyrics, Devils Haircut explores the chaotic and surreal aspects of urban life. Beck’s cryptic lines reference societal decadence, modern disconnection, and personal isolation. This blend of vivid imagery and abstract commentary keeps listeners intrigued and pondering long after the song ends.

10. Where It’s At – Beck

Where It’s At by Beck is a vibrant anthem from his 1996 album, Odelay. This eclectic track blends alternative rock with hip-hop influences, punctuated by quirky samplings and a groovy, laid-back vibe. Its catchy chorus and unique blend of genres made it an instant hit.

Fans and critics alike celebrated the song’s innovative sound. Nominated for multiple awards, it won Beck two Grammy Awards in 1997. The music video, drenched in surreal visuals and bizarre, colorful scenes, perfectly encapsulates the song’s offbeat charm.

11. Go It Alone – Beck

Beck’s Go It Alone, from his 2005 album Guero, melds funk, indie rock, and soul into a rhythm-heavy track. With its groovy bass line and stark beats, the song brings a raw and spirited energy. The taut guitar riffs and Beck’s laid-back vocals give the song a hip, almost retro vibe.

Live performances of Go It Alone are electrifying. Beck’s charisma is magnetic, and his band’s synergy amplifies the song’s lively essence. Each live rendition keeps audiences on their feet, grooving to the pulsating rhythm.

12. Up All Night – Beck

Beck’s Up All Night from 2017 is an exhilarating fusion of electro-pop and indie rock. The song bursts with energetic beats, spirited synths, and infectious melodies. Beck’s distinctive voice dances through clever lyrics that talk about staying awake, both literally and metaphorically, in the face of life’s chaos.

The production quality of the song is top-notch, making every instrument and beat crystal clear. It’s a sonic treat, thanks to Greg Kurstin’s expert touch as the producer. This track didn’t just sit well with fans; it also won accolades, including a Grammy for Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical.

13. Boom Boom Back – Hinds, Beck

Hinds and Beck’s 2024 track Boom Boom Back hits the ear with a surge of rhythm and rebellion. It blends indie rock and punk, delivering a pulsating beat that makes you tap your feet. The fusion of raw guitar riffs and energetic drums creates an infectious vibe, making it an instant earworm.

The song’s theme centers on breaking free from societal norms and embracing individuality. Key lyrics like tear down the walls, rise from the gloom resonate with listeners, igniting a spirit of defiance. Fans and critics alike have praised its fresh sound and empowering message, giving it a spot in the year’s top charts.

14. Lost Cause – Beck

Lost Cause by Beck, released in 2002, is a melancholic ballad that’s part of his album Sea Change. The song swims in the depths of alternative rock and folk, featuring acoustic guitars, somber melodies, and Beck’s introspective vocals. It’s a meditation on heartbreak and disillusionment, beautifully wrapped in a wistful, yet captivating soundscape.

The track’s reflective nature draws from Beck’s influences—artists like Nick Drake and Bob Dylan leave their mark on Lost Cause. These inspirations blend seamlessly, creating a timeless feel that resonates with listeners. The raw emotion and simplicity echo the spirit of these musical legends, cementing the song’s place as a standout in Beck’s discography.

15. Super Cool (feat. Robyn & The Lonely Island) – Beck, Robyn, The Lonely Island

Super Cool (feat. Robyn & The Lonely Island) by Beck is a vibrant track released in 2019. It’s an upbeat, dance-pop anthem that radiates positivity and fun. The song features infectious beats, catchy lyrics, and a harmonious blend of voices, making it a feel-good tune that’s hard to resist.

Collaborating with the comedic trio, The Lonely Island, and the iconic Robyn adds a unique flair to the song. Beck’s smooth vocals mesh perfectly with Robyn’s dynamic energy and The Lonely Island’s witty charm. The track gained considerable attention for its playful, uplifting vibe, resonating well with both fans and critics alike.

16. Blue Moon – Beck

Blue Moon by Beck, released in 2014, is an evocative blend of indie folk and alternative rock. The song exudes a melancholy vibe, with ethereal acoustic strumming and gentle percussion weaving through Beck’s wistful vocals. It’s a masterclass in minimalism, where every instrument and note feels meticulously placed to enhance the introspective mood.

Beck’s lyrics speak of isolation and yearning, locked in a perpetual search for solace. One notable moment is the chorus, where his voice swells with emotional depth, underscored by lush harmonies and ringing piano chords. The song’s production, pristine yet unembellished, mirrors its lyrical introspection, creating a poignant and resonant experience for listeners.

17. Girl – Beck

Girl by Beck, released in 2005, is a standout track from his album Guero. It’s a perfect fusion of alternative rock and pop, laced with catchy melodies and a laid-back vibe. This upbeat tune showcases Beck’s knack for blending quirky beats with melodic hooks that stick with you.

The theme revolves around the complex, often darker aspects of love. Beck’s lyrical playfulness and vivid imagery make the song both intriguing and thought-provoking. With phrases like my sun-eyed girl and crazy with the hangers-on, dragging you down, he paints a picture of love that’s as intoxicating as it is twisted.

18. Que’ Onda Guero – Beck

Que’ Onda Guero by Beck, from his 2005 album Guero, blends urban hip hop with Latin influences. The song showcases Beck’s signature knack for genre-melding, featuring samples and a spoken-word flow. Vibrant percussion and a catchy guitar riff keep the rhythm riding high throughout the track.

In terms of production quality, the song shines with its polished yet eclectic sound. Beck collaborated with the Dust Brothers, who are known for their innovative production techniques. The layering of different musical elements creates a rich, textured audio experience, making Que’ Onda Guero a standout track on the album.