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[Western Music] Start with this one! Classic and popular songs of alternative rock

Even for those who love rock, it’s not easy to succinctly explain what alternative rock is.

As rock history produced a variety of genres, the term “alternative rock” emerged as music that stood against the mainstream—an underground counterpart.

It might even be more accurate to think of it not as a genre, but as a musical attitude that the musicians themselves embody.

In this article, we’ve curated a selection focusing on iconic Western tracks from the 1990s—songs through which alternative rock upended trends across the global music scene.

If you’ve recently become interested in alt rock, be sure to check them out!

[Western Music] Start with this one song! Alternative Rock Masterpieces and Popular Tracks (71–80)

Sleeping AwakeP.O.D.

P.O.D. – Sleeping Awake music video (@pod)
Sleeping AwakeP.O.D.

It’s a classic song by the heavy, textured alternative rock band P.O.D.

The heavy guitars, dynamic drums, and the melodic feel in the chorus are incredibly elegant and cool.

It would probably look really awesome live.

Race For The PrizeThe Flaiming Lips

The Flaming Lips – Race For The Prize [Official Music Video]
Race For The PrizeThe Flaiming Lips

Alternative rock isn’t just about heavy guitars and weighty sound.

Bands like The Flaming Lips—active since the 1980s—who have carved out a unique position with genre-defying musicality and dreamlike live performances are precisely what should be called “alternative.” This song, included on their 1999 masterpiece The Soft Bulletin, marked a dramatic leap for a band once known mainly in the underground, and it’s a beautiful, euphoric number that illuminated their path in the 2000s and beyond.

Dreamy synth tones, raucous drums, a psychedelic worldview… it’s a brilliant classic that will make you notice a different side of alternative.

Bad GirlfriendTheory Of A Deadman

Theory of a Deadman – Bad Girlfriend [OFFICIAL VIDEO]
Bad GirlfriendTheory Of A Deadman

It’s a classic by Theory of a Deadman that kicks off with a hard rock-style guitar riff and then shifts into a distinctly alternative rock progression.

It’s the kind of track that would really get a crowd going live.

The band members are all good-looking, and their promo videos are fun to watch too.

[Western Music] Start with this one song! Classic and popular alternative rock tracks (81–90)

Way AwayYellowcard

Yellowcard – Way Away (Official Music Video)
Way AwayYellowcard

It’s a classic hit by Yellowcard that shifts from a quietly melancholic guitar to loud rock.

You can really tell they value the Vocaloid melody above all.

At the same time, the backing guitars are pushed to the forefront, giving it a very rock-driven finish.

BodiesDrowning Pool

Drowning Pool – Bodies (Official HD Music Video)
BodiesDrowning Pool

Starting with a whisper, the song explodes right from the outset and fully delivers on its alternative rock vibe.

The vocals, repeating striking phrases over a heavy backing track, are relentlessly cool.

The sections where the singer shouts in a death growl are also highlights.

Until The DayI DieStory of the Year

Story Of The Year – Until The Day I Die (Official Music Video) | Warner Vault
Until The DayI DieStory of the Year

It’s a major hit by Story of the Year.

The striking guitars and melodic vocals intertwine and gradually intensify, making it a quintessential example of alternative rock.

The chorus features a phrase that really sticks in your head—it’s a true classic.

Would?Alice In Chains

Alice In Chains – Would? (Official HD Video)
Would?Alice In Chains

A song that epitomizes Alice in Chains, the band that took the world by storm with one of the heaviest styles in the grunge scene.

It’s a deeply introspective track that serves as a tribute to a departed close friend and questions those who judge others so easily.

The ominous bassline layered with heavy guitar riffs, along with the distinctive harmonies woven by the two vocalists, creates a visceral sense of urgency.

Released in June 1992 for the soundtrack of the film “Singles,” the track was also included on that year’s landmark album Dirt.

The album became a massive hit, selling over five million copies.

Its melancholic melody, shining through the raw edge characteristic of grunge, is also a major draw.

When you’re weighed down by helplessness or inner turmoil, why not immerse yourself in its sonic world?