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

September GurlsBig Star

Big Star – September Gurls

This song, released in 1974, is a power-pop classic that poignantly sings of lost love.

With a sweet melody, heartfelt vocals, and sun-bright harmonies, it has remained beloved by music fans.

Featured on the album Radio City and selected for Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Songs of All Time,” it’s noted for lyrics that yearn for an unattainable love.

The perspective of looking back on a September romance from the depths of winter further deepens the song’s melancholy.

It’s a sure crowd-pleaser at parties or performances, captivating guests across generations.

TinyDinosaur Jr.

Dinosaur Jr. – Tiny (Official Video)

Dinosaur Jr., a titan of US alternative rock active since the 1980s.

Released in August 2016, this track captivates with its unchanging blast of guitars and languid vocals.

It’s striking how themes like fear, loneliness, and the fragility of human relationships are rendered through J Mascis’s distinctive choice of words.

Featured on the album “Give a Glimpse of What Yer Not,” this song showcases the full allure of 21st-century rock.

Recommended for when you want to get amped with friends at a live house or enjoy a rush of exhilaration on a drive.

As Long As You Love MeBackstreet Boys

Backstreet Boys – As Long As You Love Me (Official HD Video)

This sweet love song themed around unconditional love celebrates the beauty of simply loving one another, regardless of background or past.

Its luscious melody line and striking harmonies weave a soothing soundscape that has captivated many listeners.

Featured on the Backstreet Boys’ album “Backstreet’s Back,” released in September 1997, the track achieved major success across North America and Europe, reaching No.

2 in Australia and Austria and No.

3 in the United Kingdom.

Embraced by a younger generation eager to believe in pure love and dreams, it became a worldwide hit.

It’s also a perfect choice for a wedding recessional, blessing the couple as they step forward into their future together.

Don’t Stop5 Seconds of Summer

5 Seconds of Summer – Don’t Stop

It’s a song with a refreshing, youthful vibe.

Although the band is still new, they’re attracting a lot of attention.

Its bright mood makes it perfect for performances or skits, so give it a try.

It’s the kind of straightforward music you might hear in an American TV drama, which is great.

Jon BellionAll Time Low

Jon Bellion – All Time Low (Video)

This is a popular style of music known for its catchy tunes that you can hum after just one listen.

Its stylish, groove-oriented, processed sounds are perfect for showcasing dance.

It’s on the quieter side, so it’s also fine to play in the background while keeping customers waiting.

Red AlertBasement Jaxx

Basement Jaxx – Red Alert (Lyric Video)

It’s the kind of music you could hear at a club—something you can dance to the whole time it’s playing.

The female vocalist’s lively voice is both refreshing and sexy.

Pair it with some retro dance moves and it becomes entertainment on its own.

Try channeling Nora Hirano’s style and dance with flair.

Livin’ On A PrayerBon Jovi

Bon Jovi – Livin’ On A Prayer

It’s a refreshing, hard-hitting rock tune that makes you crave a beer.

From bosses to fresh new hires, everyone knows it—most people have heard it at least once—so playing it at a key moment will definitely hype things up.

It’s perfect for surprising the crowd, so give it a try.