The local classic rock station kicks off the noon lunch hour each weekday by playing songs that are connected in some way, such as sharing a word in their titles or featuring a common theme. A recent show grouped a set of songs that all had just four letters in their titles, even though the disc jockey quickly discounted the smash hit by the Village People because its title was an acronym.
Lola by the Kinks immediately came to mind, but the station played three others before it got to that one. “Tush” by ZZ Top, David Bowie’s “Fame” and “Help” by The Beatles comprised the trio of hits that preceded the aforementioned tune by the Kinks, even though “Rain” and “Girl” by the Fab Four also fit the category.
I spent the next half hour brainstorming other songs with four letter titles that the station could have played, even though several of them would not be classified as classic rock. Here are ten of the best songs with four letter titles.
Isis by Bob Dylan
The highlight from the Desire album is a narrative of a search for a treasure that had been at home all the time.
Gone by Ben Folds
Attacking the piano is his way of dealing with the heartbreak he suffered when his girl left, according to this track from Rockin’ the Suburbs.
Time by Pink Floyd
Dark Side of the Moon continues to be one of the most popular records, mainly because of timeless hits like this one.
Iris by the Goo Goo Dolls
Commonly known as I Don’t Want the World To See Me, this nineties hit made Dizzy Up the Girl a best-selling album.
Sing by the Carpenters
Karen and her brother had a huge single with the simple command of making a joyful sound.
Lodi by Creedence Clearwater Revival
Several states have cities with this name, but John Fogerty was most likely referring to the town in California.
Ohio by Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young
Neil Young penned this short rock tune shortly after hearing about the four victims of the National Guard at Kent State University.
Jody by Del Shannon
Justifiably the B-side of “Runaway,” this tune still serves as evidence of Shannon’s distinctive vocal style.
Amie by Pure Prairie League
The Cincinnati band’s first major hit has been often misspelled in search engines, disappointing those fans who recall the title as Amy.
Hair by the Cowsills
Not only was this catchy song a huge hit for the family band, but it also earned awards as a rock opera.