“Hey Jude” has been named the most perfect song by Collider in its new ranking of the 10 greatest tracks by The Beatles, reaffirming the band’s enduring legacy decades after its 1970 breakup.
The list highlights some of the group’s most iconic work, with “Hey Jude” — released in 1968 — taking the top spot for its uplifting message and expansive musical arrangement. The publication noted the song’s powerful lyrics and lasting cultural impact, bolstered by its multi-week run at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 following its release in late September 1968.
Rounding out the top tier are several of the band’s most celebrated hits, including “Come Together” (1969), “Let It Be” (1970), “Blackbird” (1968), and “A Hard Day’s Night” (1964). The broader list also features classics such as “Yesterday,” “In My Life,” “All You Need Is Love,” “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” and “I Want to Hold Your Hand,” reflecting the group’s deep and influential catalog.
Despite evolving music trends and the rise of modern artists, The Beatles continue to resonate widely, with their songs frequently topping “best of” lists and shaping generations of musicians and fans alike.
The inspiration behind “Hey Jude” adds to its legacy. In a 2018 interview with GQ, Paul McCartney said he wrote the song to comfort Julian Lennon during the breakup of his parents, John Lennon and Cynthia Lennon. Originally titled “Hey Jules,” the song evolved into what McCartney described as a “reassurance” anthem.
McCartney has continued performing the track in concert, saying its communal singalong — particularly the famous closing refrain — creates a unifying moment for audiences. He noted that in a divided world, the experience of thousands of fans joining together to sing “Hey Jude” remains one of the most powerful aspects of his live shows.
McCartney has continued performing the track in concert, saying its communal singalong — particularly the famous closing refrain — creates a unifying moment for audiences. He noted that in a divided world, the experience of thousands of fans joining together to sing “Hey Jude” remains one of the most powerful aspects of his live shows.