Top 10 Badfinger Songs: A Legacy of Pop Perfection and Tragedy
Badfinger holds a special place in rock history—not just for their irresistible melodies and Beatlesque sound, but also for the tragic story that defined their legacy. As one of the first acts signed to Apple Records, they were handpicked by The Beatles themselves. In fact, their debut single was released when they were still known as The Iveys, making them one of Apple’s earliest ventures into discovering new talent.
Their breakthrough moment came with “Come and Get It,” written and produced by Paul McCartney. But the Beatles didn’t just launch their career and move on—George Harrison even stepped in to produce their biggest hit, “Day After Day,” adding his signature guitar style to the mix.
Despite early success, Badfinger’s story turned dark. The band was plagued by financial mismanagement and legal battles. Tragedy struck in 1975 when frontman Pete Ham died by suicide, leading to the band’s breakup. Although they reunited briefly in the late ’70s with a new lineup, the magic was never quite the same—and in 1983, bassist Tom Evans also took his own life.
Still, in their prime, Badfinger crafted some of the most enduring power pop and rock songs of their era. Here are their ten greatest tracks, from chart-toppers to hidden gems.
10. “Meanwhile Back at the Ranch / Should I Smoke”
*From: *Wish You Were Here (1974)
One of the strongest deep cuts in Badfinger’s catalog, this medley was pulled from shelves within months due to a feud between the band’s managers and the label’s publishing firm. A lost classic full of energy and craftsmanship.
9. “Love Is Gonna Come at Last”
*From: *Airwaves (1979)
After Pete Ham’s tragic death, Badfinger regrouped, led by Tom Evans. This track became a minor hit and showed they still had some creative spark despite the lineup changes and emotional weight they carried.
8. “Hold On”
*From: *Say No More (1981)
Badfinger’s last charting single. It reached No. 56—modest, but still their best showing in nearly a decade. Sadly, this final push couldn’t save the band, and tragedy struck again when Evans died in 1983.
7. “Maybe Tomorrow”
*From: *Maybe Tomorrow (1969)
Before they were Badfinger, they were The Iveys—and this Beatles-flavored gem hinted at the greatness to come. It charted modestly but remains a beautiful piece of British pop craftsmanship.
6. “Apple of My Eye”
*From: *Ass (1973)
Written by Pete Ham, this bittersweet track reflects on the band’s departure from Apple Records. Fittingly, it became the last single Apple released that wasn’t by a Beatle.
5. “Baby Blue”
*From: *Straight Up (1971)
Written during turbulent times with Apple Records, “Baby Blue” remains one of the band’s most enduring songs. Its resurgence thanks to Breaking Bad reminded listeners of just how powerful Badfinger could be.
4. “Without You”
*From: *No Dice (1970)
Most people know the song from Harry Nilsson’s chart-topping version, but Badfinger’s original is a quiet, emotional standout—sincere and heartbreakingly understated. Pete Ham and Tom Evans poured their souls into this one.
3. “No Matter What”
*From: *No Dice (1970)
With its opening guitar riff and sunny harmonies, this track has one of the strongest hooks in pop-rock history. A shining example of Badfinger proving they didn’t need their Beatles mentors to craft a hit.
2. “Day After Day”
*From: *Straight Up (1971)
Produced by George Harrison, this was their biggest hit and arguably their finest moment. Harrison’s influence is all over the guitar work, and Pete Ham’s vocals have never sounded more heartfelt.
1. “Come and Get It”
*From: *Magic Christian Music (1970)
The song that started it all. Written by Paul McCartney, it reached No. 7 on the charts and introduced the world to Badfinger’s potential. A perfect pop song that remains their signature.
A Bittersweet Legacy
Badfinger’s story is one of both triumph and heartbreak. They had the talent, the songs, and the backing of The Beatles—yet internal conflicts, poor management, and tragedy ultimately derailed their journey. Still, the music remains. From power-pop brilliance to emotional ballads, Badfinger left behind a catalog that continues to resonate with new generations.
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