Shoals Rhythm Section Barry Beckett – keyboards Pete Carr – lead guitar, acoustic guitar Roger Hawkins – drums, percussion David Hood – bass Jimmy Johnson – rhythm guitar Reception VH1's Mike McPadden selected "Mainstreet" as one of Seger's 10 most essential songs, describing it as "sad, sweet, soulful, and even spooky" for how it evokes the emotions of a hopeful but frustrated young man watching a woman he is too scared to approach. McPadden particularly praises the keyboard playing for how it complements the song's "melancholy" mood. Classic Rock History contributor Janey Roberts also selected "Mainstreet" as one of Seger's top 10 songs, particularly praising the opening guitar line and describing the song as an "ode to the romantic backstreets of hope and despair" similar to those on Bruce Springsteen's Born to Run album. Chart performance Weekly charts Year-end charts Certifications References External links 1977 singles Songs written by Bob Seger 1976 songs Capitol Records singles Song recordings produced by Bob Seger RPM Top Singles number-one singles Rock ballads Bob Seger songs