Is The Kinks’ “Waterloo Sunset” The Most Beautiful Song Ever?

The Kinks were heading into uncharted territory in the Sixties. The London rockers blew up in the early days of the British invasion, topping the charts with violently rowdy bangers like “You Really Got Me.” But Ray Davies began to explore a new kind of introspective songwriting, telling stories of everyday heartbreak. “Waterloo Sunset” is his artistic triumph: the delicate 1967 ballad of a lonely man by a train station, watching lovers from his window.

This one-time cult favorite has become The Kinks’ most beloved classic, setting a standard that all kinds of songwriters aspire to reach. On this week’s episode hosts Rob Sheffield and Brittany Spanos are joined by their Rolling Stone colleague Kory Grow, to explore the mystery of how such a quiet song has just kept growing more beloved and influential over the years.

00:00 Discussing 'Waterloo Sunset' by The Kinks
02:22 The Cultural Impact of 'Waterloo Sunset'
04:38 Influence on Modern Artists
05:26 London's Influence on the Song
07:26 Comparisons with Other Iconic Songs
09:53 The Song's Evolution and Reception
13:23 Ray Davies' Songwriting Genius
20:27 Interview with Kory Grow
26:55 Van Halen's Connection to The Kinks
28:32 Conclusion and Credits