Cheap Trick came together in Rockford, Ill., in 1973, with guitarist Rick Nielsen, bassist Tom Petersson, drummer Bun E. Carlos and singer Robin Zander forging a sound that drew equally from the British Invasion, power pop and hard rock. Three studio albums established a loyal following, but widespread recognition arrived after Cheap Trick at Budokan. Recorded in Tokyo in April 1978 and released first in Japan, the live album generated enough import demand for Epic Records to issue it in the U.S. in February 1979. It climbed all the way to #4 on the Billboard 200, marking the beginning of the band’s commercial breakthrough.

That success brought deserved attention to a catalog that had been taking shape for years. These 13 recordings trace Cheap Trick‘s path from the early Rockford days through the arena era while reflecting the musical touchstones that informed the group’s approach, from Roy Wood and the Move to the enduring influence of the Beatles.

“Elo Kiddies” (Cheap Trick, 1977)

Opening the second side of the album, this rocker wastes no time establishing the band’s core blueprint: muscular guitars wrapped around sophisticated melodies with unmistakable echoes of Roy Wood and early Electric Light Orchestra. It remains one of the strongest highlights on one of the greatest debut albums of the era.

“I Want You to Want Me” (In Color, 1977; hit version: Cheap Trick at Budokan, 1978)

Initially overlooked in its studio form, everything changed once audiences in Japan embraced it. Released from the live album, it reached #7 on the Hot 100 in 1979 and became the defining hit that opened doors around the world.

“Hello There” (In Color, 1977)

Barely two minutes long, this blast of adrenaline became the band’s customary concert opener for decades. Its breakneck pace and playful spirit captured the excitement of stepping onto a stage with remarkable efficiency.

“Southern Girls” (In Color, 1977)

Bright harmonies and chiming guitars reveal a deep affection for the British Invasion while retaining a distinctly Midwestern edge. Decades later, it remains one of the finest examples of power-pop craftsmanship from the late ’70s.

“Surrender” (Heaven Tonight, 1978)

A witty coming-of-age story built around one unforgettable chorus, it evolved into a rock-radio institution that perfectly captured the generational gap with humor and style. Though it peaked at just #62 on the pop chart, its constant FM exposure transformed it into an arena staple. At the same time, its legendary shout-out to KISS cemented its status as the ultimate power-pop anthem for cool parents and their kids alike.

Related: 9 signature songs that weren’t U.S. pop hits

“California Man” (Heaven Tonight, 1978)

Roy Wood’s exuberant composition receives an energetic makeover filled with crunch, humor and exuberance. More than a cover, it’s an affectionate salute to one of the architects of British glam and power pop.

Related: Our Album Rewind of Heaven Tonight

“Ain’t That a Shame” (Cheap Trick at Budokan, 1978)

Fats Domino’s 1955 classic takes on fresh urgency before an enthusiastic Japanese audience. Released as a single, the live performance climbed to #35 on the Hot 100, reinforcing the remarkable impact of Budokan.

“Dream Police” (Dream Police, 1979)

Strings, theatrical arrangements and a soaring chorus broadened the sonic landscape without diminishing its immediacy. The ambitious title track reached #26 on the Hot 100 and became another FM favorite.

“Voices” (Dream Police, 1979)

A restrained arrangement leaves room for one of Robin Zander’s most expressive vocal performances. Issued as a single in 1980, it peaked at #32 on the Hot 100, proving subtlety could be just as compelling as volume.

“If You Want My Love” (One on One, 1982)

Elegant melodies and emotional restraint carried this standout from a transitional period. It returned the quartet to the top 50, reaching #45 on the Hot 100 while reaffirming a gift for timeless songwriting.

“Tonight It’s You” (Standing on the Edge, 1985)

Jack Douglas’ production sharpened every hook without sacrificing guitar bite. The polished result became the band’s most successful mid-’80s single, peaking at #44 on Billboard and breaking a three-year chart drought.

“The Flame” (Lap of Luxury, 1988)

Initially viewed with skepticism because it came from outside writers, the soaring ballad proved impossible to resist. Spending two weeks at #1 on the Hot 100, it delivered the only chart-topper of an already distinguished career.

“Magical Mystery Tour” (Greatest Hits, 1991)

A lifelong admiration for the Beatles came through naturally in this punchy studio cover. Released as a new track on their 1991 compilation LP, this studio performance serves as a heartfelt tribute to one of the defining influences on the group’s power-pop identity.

Cheap Trick was finally inducted into the Rock Hall in 2016, long after they became eligible. They’re on tour; click here and here for tickets. CT’s extensive catalog is available in the U.S. here, in Canada here and in the U.K. here.