The Greatest American Rock Band [All Time Best]
Rock has a long history.
Among them, American rock has undergone dramatic changes.
Today, when people think of American rock, many probably imagine a powerful sound that makes heavy use of power chords.
Of course, those characteristics are certainly there, but the evolution that led to them is also compelling.
This time, we’ve picked out rock bands that are indispensable when talking about American rock.
Each band has its own originality and appeal, so please read to the end.
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The Greatest American Rock Bands [All Time Best] (11–20)
Second ChanceShinedown
Since their formation in 2001, the American rock band Shinedown has garnered wide popularity with a diverse sound ranging from hard rock to alternative metal.
They gained attention with their debut album, Leave a Whisper, and have continued to release hit songs.
Notably, every single they’ve released has reached the Top 5 on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock chart, and in June 2021 they were named the greatest artist in the chart’s history.
The band’s appeal lies in their profound lyrics, versatile musicality, and engaging live performances.
They’re recommended not only for rock fans but also for anyone who connects with moving, emotionally resonant lyrics.
BelieverImagine Dragons
Imagine Dragons is a rock band from the United States that made their major debut in 2012.
That same year, they were selected by Billboard as one of the “Brightest New Artists of 2012,” and they’re an essential band when looking back on the 2010s.
Like fellow American band Maroon 5, they skillfully incorporate programmed elements to create a stylish sound that brings a fresh atmosphere distinct from traditional rock, making them very cool and highly recommended!
1979The Smashing Pumpkins
The Smashing Pumpkins are an alternative rock band from Chicago, USA.
Since their 1991 debut, they have taken the music scene by storm with their distinctive sound.
They achieved commercial success with 1993’s Siamese Dream, and their 1995 masterpiece Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness became a massive hit, selling over 10 million copies worldwide.
Having won numerous awards, including Grammys and MTV Video Music Awards, their talent is beyond question.
Their innovative music, which fuses a wide range of genres, is recommended not only for rock fans but also for anyone seeking a new musical experience.
After breaking up and later reuniting, they continue to work energetically, and their music still moves the hearts of many across generations.
To Be With YouMr. BIG
Mr.
Big captivates many listeners with their intricate playing and ear-pleasing melodies.
Since their 1989 debut, while rooted in melodic hard rock, they have also released softer songs like ballads.
Their worldwide hit “To Be with You” showcased their strong pop sensibilities to the world.
Eric Martin’s heartfelt vocals, Paul Gilbert’s razor-sharp guitar, and Billy Sheehan’s innovative bass lines remain as compelling as ever.
After a period of hiatus, their dream reunion brought renewed hope to music fans.
Their songs continue to breathe new life into American rock.
I Miss The MiseryHalestorm
In recent years, Japan’s female rock band scene has drawn attention domestically, with groups like BAND-MAID known for their maid outfits.
Amid this movement, the band making a tremendous impact in the United States is Halestorm.
Their songs—featuring Lizzy Hale’s powerful shouts blended with chugging guitar phrases influenced by heavy metal bands like Metallica—are definitely worth a listen.
Lately, they’ve been appearing at major Japanese festivals such as Download Festival Japan, so they’re becoming even harder to ignore!
Hotel CaliforniaThe Eagles
Broadcasting from Los Angeles, California, we bring you the allure of the Eagles.
Formed in 1971, the band is known for its masterful blend of country rock and hard rock.
Since their debut, they have produced a string of global hits and have won multiple Grammy Awards.
Although they disbanded in 1980, they reunited in 1994.
Their signature work is a song that portrays the darker side of the American Dream, featuring a memorable guitar riff and socially critical lyrics.
The album “Their Greatest Hits (1971–1975)” is one of the best-selling albums in the United States.
Highly recommended not only for fans of country rock, but also for anyone interested in the history of American rock.
The great American rock band [All Time Best] (21–30)
JumpVan Halen
When we think of American rock today, it might evoke a pop-leaning, powerful image.
Van Halen is widely known as one of the bands that helped forge that image of American rock.
In particular, lead guitarist Edward Van Halen not only pioneered the tapping technique that makes effective use of the right hand, but also left his mark on rock history with catchy keyboard lines—epitomized by the classic Jump—that made their songs irresistibly engaging.
Why not revisit Van Halen’s timeless tracks and give them another listen?