[2026] Recommended for after-parties, performances, and entertainment! Classic hits by Western rock bands

Master Of PuppetsMetallica

Master of Puppets (Remastered)

Beginning with an odd-time riff, moving into a lyrical midsection, and then cascading into a ferocious guitar solo, the structure is truly masterful.

Despite running over eight and a half minutes, it never becomes dull—an all-time classic among classics.

It’s the title track from the album Master of Puppets, released in March 1986, and is known as one of Metallica’s signature works.

The lyrics, depicting the horror of drug addiction, are also striking.

It’s a song every guitar-loving metal kid dreams of playing, and it has had a profound influence on countless bands.

A staple in their live shows, it’s guaranteed to send the crowd into a frenzy.

Zitti E BuoniMåneskin

Måneskin – ZITTI E BUONI (Official Video – Sanremo & EUROVISION 2021 Winners)

Hailing from Italy, Måneskin exude a glamorous presence and an aura worthy of rock stars.

Released in March 2021, this track is their signature song, which won both the Sanremo Music Festival and the Eurovision Song Contest.

With a guitar-driven intro and powerful shouts, its energetic sound evokes 80s hard rock and instantly heats up any scene.

The catchy chorus melody is unforgettable after just one listen.

Centered on themes of self-expression and self-affirmation, this song is guaranteed to bring a sense of unity to any audience when performed at an after-party or as entertainment.

Pretty Fly (For A White Guy)The Offspring

The Offspring – Pretty Fly (For A White Guy) (Official Music Video)

The Offspring, a cornerstone of punk rock, unleashed a satirical track whose catchy rhythm and memorable lines still feel exhilarating today.

Released in November 1998, the song became a massive hit as a single from the album Americana, dominating charts worldwide and reaching No.

53 on the U.S.

Billboard Hot 100.

It’s perfect for parties or events, brimming with energy that naturally gets listeners moving.

The uniquely humorous lyrics poke fun at white youth who imitate hip-hop culture on a superficial level, bringing a smile to your face as you listen.

Seven Nation ArmyThe White Stripes

The White Stripes – Seven Nation Army (Official Music Video)

Despite being an incredibly simple ensemble of just guitar and drums, this masterpiece features an instantly memorable riff that’s just too cool.

Included on the 2003 album “Elephant,” this track helped catapult The White Stripes to global fame.

Its lyrics, depicting personal resistance to gossip and the harshness of urban life, are said to be based on their experiences as celebrities.

Frequently used at sporting events, it’s also perfect for hyping up karaoke sessions or after-parties.

A Grammy-winning anthem that represents the rock scene since the 2000s—be sure to check it out.

Basket CaseGreen Day

Green Day – Basket Case [Official Music Video] (4K Upgrade)

Marked by ska-tinged vibes and a melodic hook, this song is known as one of Green Day’s signature works.

Featured on the album Dookie, released in November 1994, it became a massive hit, reaching No.

2 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Frontman Billie Joe Armstrong’s lyrics, which chronicle his struggle with an anxiety disorder, resonated widely as a symbol of ’90s youth culture and inner turmoil.

The music video was shot in an actual psychiatric hospital and drew major attention, earning nine nominations at the 1995 MTV Video Music Awards.

This track is perfect for band performances at after-parties or special events.

Its simple yet catchy melody is sure to bring the entire venue together.

Smells Like Teen SpiritNirvana

Nirvana – Smells Like Teen Spirit (Official Music Video)

It’s a quintessential 90s classic, distinguished by a simple yet catchy guitar riff driven by power chords.

The raw sound that bursts in from the intro grabs listeners instantly, and the song’s masterful structure weaves together quiet and loud passages to great effect.

Kurt Cobain’s almost scream-like vocals brilliantly capture the rebellious spirit of youth.

Released in September 1991, this track became a symbol of the grunge movement and had a tremendous impact on the music scene.

Perform it as entertainment at an after-party or event, and it’s sure to ignite a cross-generational crowd into a unified frenzy.

Dani CaliforniaRed Hot Chili Peppers

Red Hot Chili Peppers – Dani California [Official Music Video]

It’s a track from the 2006 album Stadium Arcadium, and a classic that also won a Grammy.

In Japan, it was used to promote the film Death Note.

It’s a melodic number typical of the Chili Peppers from the period when they began to emphasize melody, carrying a somewhat wistful feel, and John Frusciante’s guitar solo is incredibly emotional.

The blistering rapid-fire runs he unveils toward the end are just plain cool.

The song tells the story of an ambitious, rebellious woman traveling across America.

Despite facing poverty and crime, her unyielding determination is sure to resonate with many listeners.