[Masterpiece Selection] A Compilation of Classic Western Rock Songs
Many music listeners, regardless of generation, probably learned the word “rock” from Western music.
To convey the enduring greatness of Western rock across any era, this article highlights gem-like masterpieces born over more than 60 years of rock history, delivering a curated selection of the best rock songs for those who want to start exploring Western rock.
Articles like this tend to focus on classic oldies, but our lineup also includes artists from the 2000s onward.
So even if you used to listen to rock back in the day, be sure to check it out!
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[Masterpiece Selection] Collection of Classic Western Rock Songs (61–70)
Immigrant SongLed Zeppelin
Often called Immigrant Song in its Japanese title, this track is by Led Zeppelin, a band frequently credited as pioneers of hard rock and the originators of heavy metal.
Its distinctive vocal intro and aggressive guitar are often used as entrance music in combat sports and similar events.
London CallingThe Clash
When it comes to legendary British punk bands, The Clash immediately comes to mind.
The song I’m introducing here is their most widely known, flagship track, “London Calling.” Even without reading the lyrics, you can feel the sarcasm toward society and the seething anger in this song.
Punk rock, which emerged from the mid to late 1970s, carries discontent with the government and a wish for the world to be a more loving, livable place.
It’s a song that gives shape to the anxiety of “What’s going to happen to us from here?” The title “London Calling” is said to come from the BBC’s World War II broadcasts to occupied territories, which opened with the phrase, “This is London calling.”
Are You Gonna Go My WayLenny Kravitz
The title track from the 1993 album by American singer-songwriter Lenny Kravitz, who is also active as an actor.
In Japan, the intro, which features a catchy guitar riff, is often highlighted, so you’ve probably heard it in various contexts such as commercials and variety shows.
The song was also nominated for the Grammy Awards for Best Rock Song and Best Rock Vocal Performance, and has garnered strong support from rock fans worldwide.
It’s a number we’d like not only Western rock enthusiasts but also those less familiar with rock or Western music to listen to at least once.
JennyNothing More
A track released in 2015 by Nothing More.
Inspired by lead vocalist Jonny Hawkins’s sister, who struggles with bipolar disorder, it’s a track overflowing with pure energy and emotion.
It reached No.
6 on the U.S.
charts.
RadioRAMMSTEIN
Rammstein’s “Radio” is the kind of song whose sheer strangeness becomes addictive.
Rammstein is a rock band formed in Germany, well known for their extreme live performances featuring flamethrowers and firecrackers.
Musically, they blend a relatively heavy band sound with techno elements reminiscent of Kraftwerk, along with a touch of club music, theater, and opera.
It may seem like an odd combination at first glance, but once you actually listen, you’re bound to get hooked on its peculiar charm!
Surfin’ U.S.A.The Beach Boys
The Beach Boys are an American rock band that many Japanese city pop musicians openly declare themselves huge fans of.
One of their charms is how dramatically their style changes over the course of their career.
Surfin’ U.S.A.
is a song from their early, surf rock–heavy period—an upbeat track where a snappy rhythm intertwines with synthesizers and electric guitars.
Often cited as a representative surf rock number, it’s a classic of the 1960s.
Could Have Been MeThe Struts
A catchy, refreshing track released in 2013 by the British rock band The Struts.
It reached No.
4 on the U.S.
charts.
The music video was directed by Jonas Åkerlund, who has also worked on projects for Coldplay and Maroon 5.