[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)
Coming For YouThe Offspring
A track by the American punk rock band The Offspring, released as a digital download in 2015.
It features a clap beat and was used as the official theme song for WWE Elimination Chamber 2015.
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.
Every Breath You TakeThe Police
An English rock band featuring Sting, the world’s most famous singing bassist.
This song by The Police won Song of the Year at the 1984 Grammy Awards.
His popularity extends beyond the generation that spent their youth at the time to younger generations as well.
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.
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.
BoredomBuzzcocks
The punk movement in the UK sparked by the Sex Pistols and The Clash was followed by the New Wave movement.
One of the bands that ignited this movement was Buzzcocks.
Members who had formed Buzzcocks later went on to form and find success in bands like Joy Division and The Smiths.
Although Buzzcocks disbanded in 1981, they resumed activity in 1989 and continued to work energetically.
However, their founder Peter passed away in 2018, and today the band continues with different members.
Their classic “Boredom” is an irresistible track for fans of punk and New Wave!
Purple RainPrince
It’s one of Prince’s signature songs, known for its beautiful melody and emotional lyrics.
Featured on the album Purple Rain, the track was released in 1984 and also served as part of the soundtrack for the film Purple Rain.
Prince’s passionate guitar solo and the distinctive sound that fuses rock, R&B, and gospel have captured the hearts of many listeners.
The song expresses feelings such as heartbreak and the end of a friendship, with the memorable line, “I want to see you laughing in the purple rain.” It’s recommended for times when you’re feeling down or when you want to reflect on a relationship with someone important.