My Hottest 100 Australian Songs

Following on from my “Retrospective ‘Cool'” blog post I thought I’d share some of the Australian songs I truly love. This my alternative “Hottest 100” list, a collection of tracks that hold genuine meaning and memories for me, presented in no particular order.

Treaty – Yothu Yindi I vividly remember dancing to this song, especially in nightclubs, driven by its iconic dance remix. Beyond the pure joy it brought, “Treaty,” released in 1991 by the Yolngu band Yothu Yindi, remains a powerful and essential statement on Indigenous land rights and reconciliation. It’s a song that moves both your feet and your soul.

Somebody That I Used to Know – Gotye (feat. Kimbra) This song isn’t just amazing; the video clip is a masterpiece in itself. It’s simply fantastic. And that line: “You can get addicted to a certain kind of sadness…” What a lyric! It captures a raw, undeniable truth.

Pleasure and Pain – The Divinyls “Lover, lover, why do you touch? Please don’t ask me how I’ve been getting off.” These lyrics, delivered with Chrissy Amphlett’s raw and unforgettable vocals, make “Pleasure and Pain” a truly fantastic and classic 1985 rock anthem. It bravely explores the complexities of desire and remains a powerful track.

Love at First Sight – Kylie Minogue Honestly, this is one of Kylie’s most fantastic songs. A vibrant 2002 dance-pop hit from her album Fever, it’s infectious, uplifting, and perfectly encapsulates the pure exhilaration of an instant connection. It just makes you want to move.

I Am Woman – Helen Reddy An iconic 1972 feminist anthem, “I Am Woman” became a powerful rallying cry for women’s liberation, asserting strength and independence. I recall being at a gay and lesbian karaoke night years later, watching younger lesbians attempt to sing it but falter on the words. It was the older gay men who confidently took over, singing every lyric with passion! A truly memorable moment.

Smiley – Ronnie Burns This poignant 1971 anti-war song by Ronnie Burns beautifully reflects on the devastating loss of innocence experienced by young soldiers, particularly poignant during the Vietnam War era. Its message still resonates deeply.

Tenterfield Saddler – Peter Allen Peter Allen’s deeply personal 1972 ballad is a beautiful tribute to his saddler grandfather, weaving rich themes of family, heritage, and the relentless passage of time. As a country boy myself, much of the lyric deeply resonated. And oh, the tragedy within the lines: “It’s easier to drink than go crazy… George had no answers why a son ever has need of a gun…” It brings tears to my eyes every single time.

Polyester Girl – Regurgitator I absolutely adore this song. At a time when much of the music scene felt predictable, “Polyester Girl” burst through with an energy and creativity that was so much more interesting and captivating. It was a refreshing breath of fresh air.

From Little Things Big Things Grow – Paul Kelly and The Messengers (feat. Kev Carmody) If I had to choose just one Paul Kelly song, it would undoubtedly be “From Little Things Big Things Grow,” especially the version with Kev Carmody. This song is incredibly meaningful, and I deeply connect with its powerful sentiment and message of resilience and justice. It’s a significant anthem for social change, recounting the Gurindji people’s struggle for land rights.

Blue Sky Mine – Midnight Oil While “Blue Sky Mine” is a globally renowned 1987 protest song by Midnight Oil, addressing Indigenous land rights and environmental issues, it’s Genevieve Lemon’s version that truly touched me. Her rendition allows the powerful lyrics to stand out much more prominently than with Midnight Oil’s rock band background, making the message even more impactful.

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