7 Classic Rock Songs That Are Way Too Long, They Bore Us

via Rare Earth - Topic / YouTube
Classic rock is filled with tracks that capture an era, but sometimes, they just don’t know when to stop. Instead of wrapping up, some songs keep going, testing even the most dedicated fans. Here are seven known classic rock songs that stretch out longer than needed, leaving some listeners eager to skip to the next track.
1. “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida” – Iron Butterfly
Clocking in at over 17 minutes, “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida” is a psychedelic rock anthem that can feel never-ending. The song includes a lengthy organ solo, drum solo, and repetitive guitar sections. It’s easy to get lost in the music, but after a while, it can start to feel like it’s dragging.
While its trippy style captured the experimental spirit of the late ‘60s and early ‘70s, many listeners today find it hard to sit through the entire track. The endless jamming was groundbreaking at the time, but now it can seem a bit excessive.
2. “The End” – The Doors
“The End” by The Doors is over 11 minutes of poetic lyrics and eerie instrumentals. Jim Morrison’s vocal delivery is haunting, but the drawn-out sections make it difficult to maintain focus. The song is known for its dramatic storytelling, but the slow pace can leave listeners feeling restless.
While The Doors pushed boundaries with this track, it’s not the kind of song that suits every mood. It can be engaging for those who want to dive into its dark themes, but others might find themselves wishing it would wrap up sooner.
3. “Supper’s Ready” – Genesis
Genesis’s “Supper’s Ready” is a prog-rock epic that lasts over 20 minutes. It’s divided into multiple sections, with each part shifting in tone and style. While it showcases the band’s creativity, keeping up with the lengthy narrative can be a challenge, especially for those who prefer a simpler, more concise track.
For fans of complex music, it’s a journey through varied soundscapes, but for casual listeners, the constant changes might be too much. The extended runtime means it’s not a song you can quickly put on without committing to the whole experience.
4. “2112” – Rush
Rush’s “2112” is a prog-rock suite that clocks in at over 20 minutes. It tells a dystopian story through elaborate guitar work and shifting rhythms. While the musicianship is impressive, the song’s length makes it a tough listen for those who aren’t dedicated fans of the band’s style.
It’s a classic among prog enthusiasts, but it requires a lot of attention to appreciate fully. The changes in pace and tone throughout make it feel like multiple songs packed into one, which can be overwhelming for those expecting a more straightforward rock tune.
5. “Dogs” – Pink Floyd
Pink Floyd’s “Dogs” is a lesser-known track that stretches to over 17 minutes. The song combines moody guitar riffs with slow, contemplative lyrics. While it captures the band’s signature style, the extended instrumental parts can feel like they go on for too long, making it hard to stay engaged.
It’s a deep dive into Pink Floyd’s more experimental side, but not everyone has the patience for the lengthy solos and atmospheric build-ups. For those looking for a quicker dose of rock, this track might feel like it’s dragging its feet.
6. “Achilles Last Stand” – Led Zeppelin
“Achilles Last Stand” is a high-energy rock track from Led Zeppelin, but its 10-minute length can be hard to get through. The driving rhythm is intense, but the repetition makes the song feel much longer than it needs to be. It’s a lot of sound without enough variation to keep things fresh.
While some appreciate the power of this track, others find themselves checking how much time is left before it ends. Its relentless pace can be tiring for those not in the mood for such a long, heavy song.
7. “Get Ready” – Rare Earth
Rare Earth’s “Get Ready” is a nearly 22-minute jam that can test the patience of even dedicated listeners. The original track was much shorter, but the extended version includes solos and instrumental breaks that seem to go on forever. It’s a party song, but one that overstays its welcome.
The repetitive sections might have worked well for live shows, but on the record, it’s easy to lose interest. While it’s an example of the band’s skill, not everyone has the time—or desire—to sit through the entire extended performance.