In honor of the latest Queens Of The Stone Age album, Perfecth, it is the perfect time to look back and count down our top 10 favorite songs. In the process, we confirmed an obvious truism: This is easily one of the most enjoyable big-time rock bands of the 21st century. In fact, this top 10 affirms that QOTSA can go toe-to-toe with the great bands of any era.
10. “Regular John” (1998)
At the time of their 1998 self-titled debut, Queens Of The Stone Age were an outlier in the age of nu-metal and post-grunge. They sounded like a throwback to the purity and simplicity of seventies hard rock while subverting the clichés of that music in a smart way. The gloriously heavy “Regular John” — the first song on their first record — sets the tone for the album and their entire career.
9. “I Never Came” (2005)
While QOTSA are known for their heavy riffs, “I Never Came” showcases their ability to craft a compelling, sinister ballad. Josh Homme’s slinky falsetto and the song’s dramatic tension highlight the band's range and emotional depth.
8. “If Only” (1998)
The paradox of this band is that for much of their history, they’ve been considered a slightly left-of-center band in the world of mainstream rock, yet their records are remarkably accessible. “If Only” is a testament to their early ability to write catchy, radio-ready rock that somehow flew under the radar in 1998.
7. “I Sat By The Ocean” (2013)
…Like Clockwork served as a watershed moment for the band. Among its many highlights, “I Sat By The Ocean” stands out as an indestructible rock anthem—a Zen wallow that hits with the force of a Led Zeppelin epic reimagined by Tom Petty.
6. “Feel Good Hit Of The Summer” (2000)
At a time when rock music was becoming overly earnest, “Feel Good Hit Of The Summer” arrived to clear the air. It is a masterclass in irony, showcasing Josh Homme’s underrated sense of humor and his ability to both celebrate and parody the rock lifestyle.
5. “Go With The Flow” (2002)
Songs For The Deaf is arguably the most important record in the band’s catalog, and “Go With The Flow” remains one of their most immediate and appealing tracks, perfectly capturing the energy that broke them into the mainstream.
4. “The Lost Art Of Keeping A Secret” (2000)
This Rated R highlight features one of the catchiest basslines in the band’s history. It also highlights Josh Homme’s vocal style—a gentle, sly tenor that proves you don't need to scream to sound tough.
3. “First It Giveth” (2002)
The addition of Dave Grohl on drums for Songs For The Deaf was a masterstroke. “First It Giveth” perfectly marries a Black Sabbath-style riff with Grohl’s frenetic, virtuosic timekeeping.
2. “In The Fade” (2000)
Queens Of The Stone Age often utilized a rotating cast of vocalists, and “In The Fade” stands as the absolute masterpiece for Mark Lanegan. His delivery turns a simple “seize-the-day” sentiment into something that sounds like hard-earned wisdom.
1. “No One Knows” (2002)
It is their most popular song for a reason. “No One Knows” delivers a perfect endorphin rush, utilizing a slashing riff that bobs and weaves in unpredictable ways, ensuring it remains a fresh and essential rock classic.