Popular Western Music Band Rankings [2026]
Trends repeat themselves.
It’s only natural that things that were popular long ago are adopted again in the present as something “new.”
But that doesn’t mean time stands still.
When the feelings unique to artists living in each era merge with the accumulated history of music, something truly “new” is created in the fullest sense.
This time, we’ll introduce popular Western bands in a ranking format.
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Popular Western Music Bands Ranking [2026] (71–80)
Holy Wars…The Punishment DueMegadeth78rank/position
The American metal band Megadeth’s signature song is “Holy Wars…
The Punishment Due.” This track belongs to the thrash metal genre, characterized by chugging, tightly picked guitars and rapid-fire drumming.
There are two reasons this song is recommended for beginners.
First, the vocals aren’t as extremely intense as so-called “metal shouts.” Second, the solo by the guitarist at the time, Marty Friedman, is highly melodic.
The beautiful solo, which carries a slightly Asian flavor, is sure to hook beginners!
Like a StoneAudioslave79rank/position
This is a song by Audioslave, the American supergroup formed by Chris Cornell of Soundgarden and members of Rage Against the Machine.
It is said to portray the state of mind of someone at the end of their life, quietly waiting to reunite with a loved one in the afterlife.
The late Chris Cornell’s powerful yet heartrending vocals gently embrace profound themes of solitude and mortality.
You can almost picture someone waiting alone, like a stone, in complete stillness for that moment to come.
Coupled with a guitar solo that feels like an inexpressible cry from the heart, it’s an affecting track that squeezes the chest with an unbearable loneliness.
CelebrationKool and The Gang80rank/position
Since their formation in 1964, the American legends Kool & the Gang have released countless classic songs.
Their signature work is the universally beloved “Celebration”! Included on the 1980 album Celebrate!, this masterpiece topped the U.S.
singles chart in 1981.
It also has a storied history of soundtracking momentous celebrations, from MLB World Series victories to radio broadcasts marking the release of the Iranian hostages in 1981.
Its simple yet powerful message—“Let’s all celebrate”—transcends language barriers and resonates with the heart.
If you want to turn a farewell party, which can easily become somber, into a positive, smile-filled celebration, this is the perfect song to choose.
Popular Western Music Band Rankings [2026] (81–90)
Do It AgainSteely Dan81rank/position
Steely Dan is an American rock band formed by Donald Fagen and Walter Becker.
Their hallmark is a complex sound that combines elements of jazz, R&B, soul, and more.
Do It Again appears on their 1972 debut album, Can’t Buy A Thrill, and became a hit in the United States.
The song is memorable for its enigmatic lyrics and a solo phrase played on electric sitar.
Although Walter Becker passed away in 2017, Donald Fagen continues to be highly active as a solo artist.
Rock This TownStray cats82rank/position
Speaking of the ’70s and ’80s, it was common to stick words like “neo” or “post” in front of genre names, and the Stray Cats are a prime example with “neo-rockabilly”! Using period-correct gear, they revived the rockabilly of the ’50s and ’60s, and this “Rock This Town” is the result.
It’s a top-notch neo-rockabilly number.
Their fashion is amazing too!
Song 2Blur83rank/position
This is a powerful work in which Blur—champions of British Britpop—pay homage to American grunge and indie rock.
The two-minute-plus track, driven by distorted guitars and improvisational melodies, carries an unmistakably ironic message toward the grunge scene.
Released separately from their 1997 album “Blur,” the song’s simple yet striking sound propelled it to No.
2 on the UK charts.
It was featured across numerous media, including as the theme for the official FIFA World Cup ’98 video game, and in commercials for Inter and Nike.
It’s a recommended pick for rock beginners as well, offering a punkish, exhilarating melody while letting you savor rock history from grunge to Britpop in a single track.
Can’t take my eyes off youBoys Town Gang84rank/position
Famous for the cover by Boys Town Gang, this song charms with its sweet lyrics that express the feelings of someone in love.
Released in 1982, this version is characterized by an energetic rhythm and catchy melody that set the dance floor on fire.
It became a huge hit, topping the charts in several European countries, including the Netherlands and Belgium.
In wind band concerts, it pairs perfectly with a dazzling brass sound.
It’s sure to be a piece that both audience and performers can enjoy together.