43: Paul Davidson, “Midnight Rider” (no.10, 1975)

The Allman Brothers’ (considerably duller) original “Rider” never emerged as a single, so we have this cover by Jamaican reggae producer/engineer Davidson to thank for making so readily apparent the percussive thrill of making one’s way through the night on empty pockets and a full tank of gas. (Loving that harmonica, incidentally.) You can find a full stereo version here, though surely this is one of those overlooked 70s singles made to be heard on vinyl, each crackle and pop only contributing to the song’s romantic allure.