A melodious harmony can turn a good song into a great one. So, I rounded up some songs with best harmonies that put the talented vocal prowess of artists in center stage.
This list contains songs about addiction, homesickness, and more. Once you hear these tracks, you can easily tell why they are the legends that they are.
1. Bohemian Rhapsody – Queen
- Released: 1975
- Album: A Night at the Opera
- Genre: Progressive Rock, Hard Rock
- YouTube Views: 1.5B (Remastered Edition)
Can you have any other song about harmonizing at number one except this one? No, you cannot! Bohemian Rhapsody is one of the most iconic songs. And this is a top pick when it comes to one of the best harmonies of all time.
Additionally, it is difficult to harmonize if you want to do it yourself. However, the best part is you can be creative with it.
Moreover, It is a long song that plays for six minutes. There are plenty of guitar riffs and drumming bits! Finally, it is a fantastic song that has outstanding vocals and solos.
2. California Dreamin’ – The Mamas and the Papas
- Released: 1965
- Album: If You Can Believe Your Eyes And Ears
- Genre: Folk Rock, Soul
- YouTube Views: 312M
The Mamas and the Papas sang the backup to this song originally. The soothing harmonies are the first thing you will notice when you start listening to them.
I love the melody too. It is one of the most famous records released by the band. The story behind it is interesting. Michelle Phillips had just married John Phillips.
Michelle moved to New York after marriage, and the cold weather was hard for her to get used to. Also, she felt a bit homesick. And that is how California Dreamin’ came out to be.
3. Because – The Beatles
- Released: 1969
- Album: Abbey Road
- Genre: Psychedelia
- YouTube Views: 1.5M (Unofficial Channel)
This song is all about vocal harmonies. It starts with a mesmerizing harmony right off the bat. Also it’s psychedelic and a bit surreal as well. I will tell you, though, you need to be in a particular mood to enjoy this one.
It is soothing and slow-paced. Moreover, this song also has some big names. Paul McCartney and John Lennon collaborated on it, which makes this legendary track one of the most high-profile collaborations ever.
4. Good Vibrations – Beach Boys
- Released: 1969
- Album: Abbey Road
- Genre: Psychedelia
- YouTube Views: 1.5M (Unofficial Channel)
Regarding songs with the best harmonies, Good Vibrations by the Beach Boys has to be on the list. It is a unique song that stood the test of time.
It has relaxing harmonies. The vocal performance in Good Vibrations is iconic. Mike Love wrote the lyrics. Along with Brian Wilson, Good Vibrations is a song anyone can jam to.
Related Article: Best Intro Songs
5. No Excuses – Alice in Chains
- Released: 1994
- Album: Jar of Flies
- Genre: Alternate Rock, Grunge
- YouTube Views: 23M
The way Alice in Chains fused grunge with harmonies in No Excuses is an actual work of art. No wonder the band is one of the most famous bands from Seattle.
The song is about a heavy topic. It is how the lead singer overcame his heroin addiction. The vocals and harmonies are what bring this piece together. It is simply intense and beautiful.
6. I Will Wait – Mumford and Sons
- Released: 2012
- Album: Babel
- Genre: Folk Rock, Alternative
- YouTube Views: 223M
Can I just say how much I love this masterpiece? Although it might not have the most YouTube views on this list, it is still a super popular song. And for good reasons.
For one, the chorus is fantastic. From the composition and the lyrics, everything is just top-notch. You will know why it is on this list when you hear the song.
The harmonizing is what brings this track together. It is an essential part of the song. The lead vocal’s performance is unforgettable and is a great piece to practice your harmonizing skills.
7. I Get Around – Beach Boys
- Released: 1964
- Album: All Summer Long
- Genre: Surf Rock
- YouTube Views: 25M
I Get Around is an easy listen. It can make anyone relax and enjoy their time. This track’s chord progression and melody make it an excellent song for harmonizing. It is very catchy.
Apart from the harmonizing potential, it is a great song. However, it is a pretty old song. But a classic nonetheless. I Get Around is soothing and fun.
Beach Boys is one of the most successful pop groups. Moreover, vocal harmonizing is a kind of their style. That is what makes this song a perfect song with excellent harmonies.
Wrapping Up
There are plenty of songs with harmonies. However, these are the songs with the best harmonies.
I tried to curate a list ranging from different genres and songs with depth. Each song has its meaning and story. You can sing along or enjoy it.
