Western Rock Popularity Ranking [2026]

Killing In the NameRage Against The Machine36rank/position

Rage Against The Machine – Killing In the Name (Official HD Video)

A historic anthem from Los Angeles–based Rage Against the Machine, charged with anger and protest against society.

Amid the thunderous roar created by heavy guitar riffs and a powerful rhythm section, it delivers a scathing critique of abuses of power and racial discrimination.

Released in November 1992 as a track on the album “Rage Against the Machine,” it fuses Zack de la Rocha’s fierce vocals with Tom Morello’s innovative guitar sound to stunning effect.

In 2009, it achieved the remarkable feat of reaching No.

1 on the UK Christmas chart.

The song has also been featured in games such as Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas and Guitar Hero II, making it a must-listen for anyone seeking to deepen their awareness of social issues.

Rock Around The ClockBill Haley & His Comets37rank/position

Bill Haley & His Comets – Rock Around The Clock (1955) HD

Bill Haley & His Comets, who led 1950s rock ’n’ roll, were pioneers of American rockabilly famed for their lively rhythms and energetic sound, with hits like “Rock Around the Clock.” They broke through with their debut in 1954, Rock Around the Clock, and the smash success of the title track the following year.

They went on to release a string of classics, including “Shake, Rattle and Roll.” The band featured distinctive members with strong country influences, such as on steel guitar and accordion, and combined with frontman Bill Haley’s humorous persona, they exuded a unique presence.

An essential artist for any rockabilly fan.

20th Century BoyT-REX38rank/position

T.Rex – 20th Century Boy (Full Version) [HD]

With its fiercely distorted guitar riff that makes your body move before you know it, this is a signature track by the British glam rock band T.

Rex.

Released as a single in March 1973, it initially didn’t appear on an album yet still reached No.

3 on the UK chart.

Marc Bolan’s confident vocals—almost as if declaring himself the darling of the era—paired with the rough yet catchy sound are irresistibly cool.

The song is also known for being used in a Levi’s commercial in 1991 and for influencing the title of the popular manga “20th Century Boys.” It’s the kind of track that gives you a firm shove forward when you’re facing a big wall, saying, “Your power is far greater than that.”

Bullet with Butterfly WingsThe Smashing Pumpkins39rank/position

The Smashing Pumpkins – Bullet With Butterfly Wings

The Smashing Pumpkins—aka “Sma-pan”—achieved exceptional commercial success in the alternative rock scene of the 1990s and, despite repeated breakups and lineup changes, continue to be active even now in the 2020s.

Hailing from Chicago rather than the so-called Seattle scene, and with frontman Billy Corgan—who is of the same generation as Kurt Cobain—being a strong personality, the band often drew criticism from peers at the time.

Still, Corgan’s outstanding songwriting talent and the magnificent band ensemble that powers their sound are the real deal.

Among the many gems produced by the Pumpkins, whose strength lies in their stylistic breadth, this track is packed with the band’s core appeal as an alternative rock act.

If you think it’s cool, go grab the album right now!

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DreamsFleetwood Mac40rank/position

Fleetwood Mac – Dreams (Official Music Video) [4K]

It’s a song with a memorable melody that gently embraces the space between love and loneliness.

The lyrics, woven from Stevie Nicks’s own experiences as a member of Fleetwood Mac, poignantly sing of the pain of heartbreak and a longing for freedom.

Released in March 1977, the track was included on the album Rumours and became a massive hit, reaching No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Its calm yet gradually swelling composition feels as if it nestles close to the listener’s heart.

If you sing it at karaoke, try to channel Nicks’s captivating vocal style and pour your emotions into it.

For those who have experienced a breakup or are about to take a new step forward, this song will gently give you a supportive push.

You Really Got MeThe Kinks41rank/position

The Kinks – You Really Got Me (Official Audio)

The Kinks, a rock band emblematic of the 1960s British Invasion, revolutionized the UK music scene.

Formed in London in 1963 by brothers Ray Davies and Dave Davies, they quickly captivated the world in 1964 with a raw, distortion-driven guitar sound and powerful melodies, topping the UK charts.

Blending British beat, folk, and other styles, they forged a distinctive mode of expression.

They have received numerous honors, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990 and the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2005.

With lyrics that sharply satirize British society and dynamic performances, they left a brilliant legacy in rock history, making their music a perfect fit for listeners seeking an energetic sound.

Back in BlackAC/DC42rank/position

AC/DC – Back In Black (Official 4K Video)

A song by AC/DC, an Australian rock band formed around the Scottish Young brothers.

In Japan, it’s often counted among the “songs where the intro is more famous than the vocals,” thanks to its catchy guitar obbligato that shines within a simple yet tight band sound.

Also, as of 2019, the self-titled album on which the song appears has sold over 50 million copies and is cherished by many rock fans as the third best-selling album in the world.

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Hoshino Takashi

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