How it unfolded
On April 6, 2026, Radio X unveiled the results of its annual poll, the Best Of British 500, where listeners voted for their favorite British songs of all time. This year marked a significant expansion of the poll, increasing from 100 to 500 songs, allowing for a broader representation of British musical talent.
Oasis’ iconic track ‘Live Forever’ was once again crowned the greatest British song of all time, marking its fourth consecutive year in this esteemed position. The song’s enduring popularity reflects its deep connection with listeners, as noted by Radio X’s Matt Deverson, who remarked, “It’s no surprise to see ‘Live Forever’ take the crown again after such a huge year for Oasis, showing just how deeply that song still connects with people.”
Following closely behind, Queen’s legendary ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ secured second place for the third consecutive year. This classic track continues to resonate with fans, solidifying its status as one of the most beloved songs in British music history. The Stone Roses’ ‘I Am The Resurrection’ climbed to third place, showcasing the band’s lasting impact on the music scene.
Oasis further demonstrated their dominance in the rankings, with ‘Slide Away’ and ‘Champagne Supernova’ taking fourth and fifth places, respectively. This remarkable achievement highlights the band’s significant contribution to British music and their continued relevance in popular culture.
In a notable entry, Fleetwood Mac’s ‘The Chain’ made its debut in the top ten, landing at ninth place. This marked the first time the song has entered the top ten, illustrating the band’s enduring appeal. Additionally, Black Sabbath’s ‘Paranoid’ entered the top 100 for the first time, coming in at position 69, further emphasizing the rich history of British rock music.
Among the newer entries, Wolf Alice’s ‘The Sofa’ debuted impressively at number 21, becoming the highest-placed new release in this year’s poll. This indicates a promising future for the band as they continue to gain recognition in the music industry.
Geographically, London emerged as the most represented city in the poll, contributing 148 songs from 39 different artists. Manchester followed as the second most represented city with 91 songs from 14 different artists. Notably, over 26% of the songs included in the list were released in the 1990s, showcasing the decade’s significant influence on British music.
As the Radio X Best Of British 500 continues to evolve, it remains a vital platform for celebrating the rich tapestry of British music. Matt Deverson expressed that this year’s results feel particularly special, reinforcing the importance of listener engagement in shaping the musical landscape.
