“Top Five” songs for tailgaters who hate tailgating songs

If you love football, you’ve probably been to a tailgate party of some kind. Amidst the inhalation of fatty foods and cold beverages, it’s easy to have an apathetic attitude about what music is being played. But with a little effort, you can break free from the shackles of that “Jock Jams” CD you’ve had since you were 6. So drown out the rednecks next to you who are blasting Hank Williams Jr. and tell your dad “Sweet Home Alabama” sounded better the first 865,832 times you heard it. These might not be your conventional pre-game anthems, but they’ll definitely get you in the mood for unabashed violence.

“Kick Out the Jams” - MC5
Though it was released in 1969, this song might be considered loud and offensive by today’s standards. These garage-rockers embodied the spirit of radical politics and the counter-culture of the time, but the vulgar introduction by singer Rob Tyner remains as the band’s lasting signature. Crank it up to 11, make sure you have plenty of drinks on hand and avoid the temptation to tackle your friends.

“Search and Destroy” – Iggy & The Stooges
This song could be on a million different top five lists, but it’s an obvious choice for tailgaters looking to get raucously pumped about watching other people beat the snot out of each other. Fast-paced, unapologetic and mean, this is the perfect soundtrack for a free-for-all – something the ‘70s Oakland Raiders probably listened to when they were buying amphetamines from the Hell’s Angels.

“Stevie Nix” – The Hold Steady
Fueled by booze, witty pop-culture references and gritty, offbeat vocals, it’s been penned as the new E-Street Band, but The Hold Steady is uniquely original. This piano-rock riff-fest sounds like something that happened at an all-you-can-drink karaoke night. It’s a great song to wind down the post-game festivities.

“Arcarsenal” – At The Drive-in
The lead track off the critically acclaimed “Relationship of Command” album has an uncomfortable but infectious vibe that feels very similar to the apprehension of preparing for a big game. It’s passionate music for people who are passionate about football, but don’t choose to express it by listening to “Rock and Roll part 2” by Gary Glitter.

“Get Black” – The Ponys
A driving backbeat and straightforward, affirmative vocals set off this rocker that includes an extended harmonica solo. Toss around the football, set up the beer pong table or pour another drink and kick back, but you might find it hard not to rock out to this party starter.

Compiled by Jason Yurgartis.