Another thread to remind me how much my musical tastes differ from most Dopers’ 
Since I primarily listen to music to dance to, or run / workout to, the beat is probably the most important component.
I often listen to music that is only a beat, e.g.: Plasteed - Method Man.
But to play along, and pick a “song”, but with kickass beat, I’d say something like
Missy Elliot - Lose Control
Notorious B.I.G - Kick in the Door
Eminem - Til I Collapse
Cream - Sunshine of Your Love and White Room
I was seven and eight when they came out and was still into Bubble Gum Pop, but I still knew that was something special. It took me another decade to truly appreciate it and 40+ years later, I’m still listening to it!
The term “beat” may be subjective.
Deserves a good mention.
Drummer Georger Hurley of the Minutemen was the undisputed master of the catchy beat (actually the band, themselves, are difficult to keep your toe still to):
(the most wonderful, pleasant video you’ll ever watch):
Bob Dylan Wrote Propaganda Songs
Search (nice, solid, in-the-pocket groove kicking this one off)
Peter Gabriel - “Kiss of Life”
Lee Ritenour - The Village
Since “My Sharona” has already been noted, I’ll nominate:
This one too. Great to dance to!
Several of their songs come to mind - but this one wakes you right up - Volbeat - A Warriors Call.
Monster Surf Rock anyone?
Joe Jackson - Steppin’ Out
^ Good one. A song that proves that you can create an irresistible beat with a cheap and primitive drum machine.
“This is the song that doesn’t end.
Yes it goes on and on my friend…”
Still my top contender for best rock n’ roll song evair.
The live version lacks the magnificent “waterfall” guitar effects of the studio recording, but hey, live.
Okay, so why didn’t I get the nice link with the photos everyone else has?
Oh, I did. It just took a minute to load.
Black Pistol Fire: Don’t Ask Why
Lynn Tait. Soul Slide Bet you can’t sit still while this is playing.
Spoon’s “Don’t You Evah,” even better with the dancing robot Keepon
