The 10 Best Nickelback Songs

Let’s face it; Nickelback is the poster child of “butt rock,” a genre many claim to despise but secretly jam to in their car. If you think you can’t name a Nickelback song, you’re either lying or have successfully blocked out the early 2000s.

So, from one unapologetic fan of butt rock to another, here are the top 10 Nickelback songs that you’ll pretend you don’t like but will totally hum in the shower.

10. “Something in Your Mouth” (Dark Horse, 2008)

A charming little number that’s as subtle as a bullhorn, this song highlights the band’s knack for… well, let’s just call it “innuendo.”

9. “This Afternoon” (Dark Horse, 2008)

This is Nickelback’s bid for the ultimate lazy weekend anthem, where the beer flows freely, and responsibilities are a distant echo. If you can ignore the clichés, it’s a pretty decent jam.

8. “Burn It to the Ground” (Dark Horse, 2008)

If you’ve ever felt like throwing caution to the wind and enjoying a raucous night, this is your soundtrack. Bonus: It’s also WWE Raw’s theme song. ‘Nuff said.

7. “If Today Was Your Last Day” (Dark Horse, 2008)

Here, Nickelback attempts profundity. While they may not entirely reach those lofty heights, you can’t deny that the message resonates. Sort of.

6. “Someday” (The Long Road, 2003)

“Someday” has all the elements of a classic Nickelback song: lamenting vocals, a slightly heart-wrenching chorus, and the quiet awareness that life is fleeting.

5. “Animals” (All the Right Reasons, 2005)

High-octane and lyrically reckless, “Animals” takes you on a wild ride that’s borderline absurd but undeniably catchy. Not recommended for family sing-alongs, unless your family is super cool.

4. “Far Away” (All the Right Reasons, 2005)

Yes, it’s been overplayed at countless weddings and break-up montages, but that doesn’t negate the fact that it’s a solid love song that sticks with you, like bubblegum on your shoe.

3. “Rockstar” (All the Right Reasons, 2005)

Come for the celeb cameos in the video; stay for the tongue-in-cheek take on the ridiculous trappings of fame. This is Nickelback embracing their inner parodist, and it’s not terrible.

2. “Photograph” (All the Right Reasons, 2005)

Admit it, you’ve looked at a photograph and had this song sneak into your mind. It’s a sappy, sentimental stroll down memory lane that you can’t escape. Like quicksand, but musical.

Also see my full piece on the meaning of Nickelback’s “Photograph.”

1. “How You Remind Me” (Silver Side Up, 2001)

The granddaddy of them all, this song put Nickelback on the map. Love it or hate it, “How You Remind Me” is the earworm you’ll never shake. It’s the butt rock anthem that keeps on giving, a song that encapsulates all things Nickelback: a bit cheesy, a tad overproduced, but oh-so-addictive.

So, there you have it, folks—the top 10 Nickelback tracks you’ll be too embarrassed to admit you’ve rocked out to. But don’t worry, your secret is safe with me.