A roundup of Western songs with titles that start with “R”
When it comes to English words that start with “R,” there are lots that sound like they could be song titles—like “Rock,” “Rain,” and “Re.” In this article, I’ll introduce some classic Western songs with titles that begin with “R.” You probably don’t often look for songs that start with a specific letter, but that’s exactly why it can be a great chance to discover tracks you might not have noticed before.
Enjoy this article as you look forward to making new discoveries.
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A compilation of Western songs with titles starting with 'R' (461–470)
RoxanneThe Police
Known as one of The Police’s signature songs, this track captivates listeners with a rhythm that effectively employs syncopation.
Centered on an appeal to a prostitute, the lyrics offer insight into social issues while exquisitely expressing the subtleties of human emotion.
Released in November 1978, the song initially drew little attention, but its overseas release in 1979 sparked a surge in popularity.
Since then, it has appeared in numerous films and television shows, been covered by many artists, and remained beloved across generations.
Born from experiences in Paris’s red-light district, this song is recommended for those who wish to explore the nuances of love and life.
Run YouThe Qemists
Despite being a rock band in terms of lineup, The Qemists deliver a sound deeply influenced by electronic music centered on drum and bass, earning high praise on par with Pendulum as a dance-rock band.
Hailing from Brighton, UK, they released their debut album Join the Q on the storied label Ninja Tune.
Their floor-ready, thunderous sound—rooted in the primal pleasures of dance music—also garnered acclaim here in Japan, and their 2016 solo Japan shows were a huge success.
Among their works, the track Run You, which we’re introducing here, is a killer tune that showcases the emotional performance of then-newly joined vocalist Oliver Simmons, who deftly switches between melody and shouts.
If you’re into modern heavy rock, you’ll definitely get hooked—the high-speed drum and bass fused seamlessly with loud heavy rock rushes at you.
Crank it up loud.
The track is included on their third album, Warrior Sound, released in 2016.
Rest in PiecesThe Rasmus
Here comes a powerful new track that deepens the musicality of Finland’s pride, the rock band The Rasmus.
Released in October 2024, this ambitious work adds a fresh edge to the dark, dramatic sound that has become their trademark.
Frontman Lauri Ylönen’s lyrics, drawn from his own experiences, grapple with heavy themes like betrayal and anger, yet ultimately elevate them into a message of self-affirmation and renewal.
Blending elements of pop, electronica, and hard rock, the song is sure to captivate longtime fans and new listeners alike.
A world tour titled “Weirdo Tour” is planned for 2025, and anticipation is high for their live performances.
RatatatThe Skints
Among the ska-to-reggae bands that debuted in the late 2000s, The Skints have been attracting particular attention.
Formed in London in 2007, The Skints started out with hardcore punk and ska punk, then shifted toward a sound steeped in reggae and dub, evolving into a hybrid outfit that also absorbs UK-born genres like grime.
Their distinctive style is sometimes called “tropical punk.” A hallmark of the band is that the lead vocals can change from song to song: not only does Marcia Richards—the sole female member—deliver a wide range of vocal styles, but the guitarist raps and the drummer showcases soulful vocals as well.
If you want to explore the latest generation of British ska in the lineage of 2 Tone, The Skints are essential listening.
ReptiliaThe Strokes
When talking about the Western rock scene of the 2000s, many music fans who lived through that era will surely recall the movement known as the garage rock revival.
With sounds that seemed to update classic, straightforward garage rock and later post-punk through a 2000s sensibility, it swept the scene and produced many great bands that are still active in the 2020s.
Among them, the Strokes from New York stand out as a uniquely charismatic band, respected by countless musicians.
Their breakthrough turned being a band or artist active in New York into a kind of status symbol, and their influence hasn’t waned in the slightest.
A definitive track that lets you savor the sheer coolness of their rock ’n’ roll is Reptilia, released in 2003.
Hugely popular among fans, it’s always a thrill when that guitar riff—every bit as memorable as the melody—comes roaring in over the tight rhythm.
It’s no exaggeration to call it a classic of 2000s rock—a killer tune that will go down in the history of Western rock.
Round MidnightThelonious Monk
Thelonious Monk, a distinctive pianist and composer who had a profound impact on modern jazz.
His unique appearance and playing style are so recognizable that even those not well-versed in jazz can tell it’s him when they listen.
Born in North Carolina in 1917, he moved to New York with his family as a child and was already working as a jazz pianist in his teens.
His compositions were reappraised after his death and continue to be cherished today as jazz standards.
This piece, which also has lyrics, is beloved by jazz vocalists as well.
Run Free (Countdown)Tiësto & R3HAB
A track symbolizing freedom and a sense of liberation has been born.
This star-studded collaboration between Tiësto and R3HAB is an energetic dance tune that blends elements of electro house and future bass.
With its memorable countdown phrase, the song delivers a rush that feels like breaking free from all restraints.
Released in November 2023, it was performed at global music festivals such as EDC and Tomorrowland, creating major buzz.
Perfect not only for club and festival hype, but also as a companion for drives and workouts.
A must-listen for anyone who wants to experience the liberating power of dance music.