[Western Music] Start Here First! A Roundup of Classic, Popular Power Pop Songs
Suddenly, but what bands or sounds come to mind for you when you hear the genre “power pop”? Those who are well-versed might immediately name Badfinger and Raspberries—the originators of power pop—as well as bands from the punk and new wave era onward.
However, interpretations vary from person to person, so many may be wondering, “Which ones actually count as power pop?” Its roots trace back to 1960s bands like The Beatles and The Who, but in this article we introduce a curated selection of classic tracks—spanning from the genre’s heyday in the 1970s through the ’90s and 2000s—that we especially recommend for newcomers to power pop.
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[Western Music] Start Here! A Roundup of Classic Power Pop Favorites (11–20)
Modern KicksThe Exploding Hearts
A vital, life-affirming track that showcases new possibilities for power pop by The Exploding Hearts opened their 2003 studio album Guitar Romantic.
With its simple yet striking guitar riff, driving chord progression, and irresistibly catchy hooks, the song brilliantly fuses elements of 1970s British punk and power pop.
Though based in Portland, Oregon, the band crafted a distinctive world of their own—strongly influenced by The Buzzcocks and The Jam—through youthful energy and refined sensibilities.
The track continues to receive high acclaim, having been ranked among Pitchfork’s “Top 500 Tracks of the 2000s.” It’s highly recommended not only for fans of punk rock and power pop, but also for anyone seeking a catchy, immediate tune.
Teenage KicksThe Undertones
A song by The Undertones, a Northern Irish punk band fronted by Feargal Sharkey.
It was released as a single in 1978.
It has been covered by many artists, including Ash and Green Day, and Busted performed the song at the 2003 Brit Awards.
Black and WhiteThe dB’s
This is a track from the milestone debut album Stands for Decibels by The dB’s, a New York band that epitomized early ’80s American power pop.
Featuring catchy guitar riffs and energetic playing from members originally hailing from North Carolina, the song was released as a single by Shake Records in 1980.
Peter Holsapple’s light, breezy lead vocals and the band’s tight performance deliver a wonderfully satisfying power-pop sound.
Covered by Nada Surf in 1998, it’s a song that has remained beloved by music fans for many years.
It’s also a great recommendation for anyone curious about power pop and unsure where to start.
Starry EyesThe Records
The supreme debut single by the British band The Records—renowned as key figures of power pop’s golden era—has continued to captivate music fans since its 1978 release.
Though centered on tensions with their manager, John Wicks’s melodic lines and Will Birch’s deft lyrics fuse beautifully.
The thrilling guitar riffs and crystalline harmonies still shine with undimmed brilliance.
In the United States, the song appeared on the 1979 album “Shades in Bed,” achieving the notable feat of reaching No.
56 on the Billboard Hot 100.
If you’re looking for a quintessential power-pop track in Western music, this is one you should hear at least once.
Buddy HollyWeezer
Set to a bright, melodious rock sound, frontman Rivers Cuomo pens a bold declaration of love to his Asian girlfriend, invoking legendary musicians of the 1950s—one unforgettable scene.
Released as a single from the 1994 album “Weezer,” the track became a breakthrough for the American alternative rock band Weezer.
The music video collaborated with the hit TV show “Happy Days,” won four MTV Video Music Awards, and even appeared on the Windows 95 installation CD, drawing worldwide attention.
As a gateway to alt power pop, it’s a perfect entry point for rock fans.
Its refreshing melodies and fiery guitar tones are sure to lift your spirits.
American GirlTom Petty & The Heartbreakers
One of Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers’ most popular songs with enduring appeal.
Guitarist Mike Campbell has described it as “a really beautiful love song with a Florida vibe.” It has been used in many films and TV shows, including Chasing Liberty and Fast Times at Ridgemont High.
[Western Music] Start Here! A Roundup of Classic, Popular Power Pop Songs (21–30)
HackensackFountains of Wayne
A song about a girl with whom he spent his youth, who later moved to LA and became famous.
The track was used in the 2005 film “Just Friends” starring Ryan Reynolds and Amy Smart.
It was covered by Katy Perry on MTV Unplugged in 2009.