Ranking All The Songs from Easy Rider Soundtrack
Easy Rider was a film about two bikers, Wyatt and Billy, who ride from Los Angeles to New Orleans in search of freedom. The film was released in 1969 and is now considered a classic. The soundtrack is just as iconic as the film itself, with songs that perfectly capture the movie’s spirit. If you’re a fan of classic rock, then you’ll love the Easy Rider soundtrack. This 96-minute album is packed with some of the biggest hits from the late ’60s and early ’70s. So, without further ado, let’s rank all the songs from the Easy Rider soundtrack:
10. Ballad of Easy Rider by Roger McGuinn (1969)
Roger McGuinn, the lead singer and guitarist for The Byrds wrote and performed this song. It’s a slow ballad that perfectly captures the feeling of freedom that Wyatt and Billy were looking for. The lyrics talk about how the open road can be a “ballad of Easy Rider” and how there’s no need for anyone to be tied down.
9. It’s Alright, Ma (I’m Only Bleeding) by Bob Dylan (1965)
The ninth song on our list is “It’s Alright, Ma (I’m Only Bleeding)” by Bob Dylan. This track was released in 1965 on Dylan’s album “Bringing It All Back Home.” The song is a scathing indictment of the hypocrisy of society and its institutions. The lyrics are some of Dylan’s most poetic, and several artists have covered the song. It is a powerful and timeless piece of music that deserves its place on our list.
8. Kyrie Eleison/Mardi Gras (When the Saints)(1965)
Kyrie Eleison/Mardi Gras (When the Saints) is a fantastic song featured in the Easy Rider Soundtrack. The Electric Prunes did an incredible job with the music, and it adds to the movie. Suppose you’re a fan of Kyrie Eleison/Mardi Gras (When the Saints); check out the rest of The Electric Prunes’ music. You won’t be disappointed. The song is about 9 minutes long, and it’s worth a listen.
7. If 6 Was 9 by Jimi Hendrix (1967)
Jimi Hendrix’s “If 6 Was 9” is a psychedelic classic featured on the Easy Rider soundtrack. The song is about expanding one’s consciousness and reaching a higher level of understanding. Hendrix was known for his wild guitar solos and innovative sound, and “If 6 Was 9” is no exception. The song is a must-listen for anyone looking to expand their mind and open up their horizons.
6. Don’t Bogart Me by Fraternity of Man (1968)
This funky tune was written by Peter Fonda and sung by the Fraternity of Man. It’s a great song to ride to and is perfect for the Easy Rider soundtrack. The song is about not letting someone bogart your weed and is a warning not to let anyone take your stash. Lyrically, the song is on point, and the music is catchy; it describes the feel of the 60s perfectly.
5. If You Want to Be a Bird by The Holy Modal Rounders (1969)
The fifth song on our list from the Easy Rider soundtrack is “If You Want to Be a Bird” by The Holy Modal Rounders. Released in 1969, the song was featured on the album Easy Rider (Music From The Soundtrack / Deluxe Edition). A psychedelic folk song, “If You Want to Be a Bird,” is one of the more unique tracks on the soundtrack and is a must-listen for any era fan. The song talks about the importance of freedom and being true to oneself, making it the perfect choice for the film.
4. Wasn’t Born to Follow by The Byrds (1968)
The fourth song on our list of the best songs from the Easy Rider soundtrack is “Wasn’t Born to Follow” by The Byrds and released in 1968 as part of their album. “Wasn’t Born to Follow” is one of the band’s most well-known and popular songs. The song’s lyrics tell the story of someone who is not content with following the status quo and instead wants to find their way in life. Several artists have covered the song over the years, and it was featured in the 2017 film American Made.
3. The Weight by Smith (1969)
The Band initially recorded the Weight in 1967 and released their debut album, Music from Big Pink. The song is about a person’s struggles with temptation and sin. The version on the Easy Rider soundtrack was recorded by American folk-rock band Smith in 1969. It is a slower, more acoustic version than the original. Many artists have covered the song over the years, including The Band, Aretha Franklin, and Joe Cocker.
2. Born to Be Wild by Steppenwolf (1968)
“Born to Be Wild” is a rock song written by Mars Bonfire and first recorded by the Sparrows’ Canadian garage rock band in 1966. The Steppenwolf version, based on the Sparrows’ arrangement, was recorded for the band’s 1968 self-titled debut album and released as a single in April 1969. “Born to Be Wild” became a number-one hit in the United States and Canada and certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America. The song is about taking off for the open road on a motorcycle.
1. The Pusher by Steppenwolf (1968)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3XqyGoE2Q4Y
The Pusher is a song by the American rock band Steppenwolf, released in 1968 as the B-side to their single Born to Be Wild. It was later included in their debut album, Steppenwolf. The song is about a drug dealer trying to make one last sale before he dies. The Pusher was well-received by music critics. Rolling Stone magazine praised the song, calling it a “fierce, declamatory rocker” and “a classic.” The Pusher was used in the soundtrack of the 1969 American independent road drama film Easy Rider.
