[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] A Compilation of Classic Western Rock Songs (71–80)
X-Ray VisionsClutch
Clutch is a rock band formed in Maryland in 1991.
This track was released as a single in 2015 from the album Psychic Warfare.
The music video was directed by photographer Darwin Winters.
FootstepsPop Evil
Pop Evil is a rock band from Michigan that has been active since 2001.
This track was released as a digital download in 2015 from their fourth album, Up.
It reached No.
1 on the U.S.
Mainstream Rock chart.
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.
[Masterpiece Selection] Collection of Classic Western Rock Songs (81–90)
PainkillerThree Days Grace
A track that sings about the need for addiction.
It was released as a digital download in 2014 by the Canadian rock band Three Days Grace.
It features a sound characterized by aggressive guitars and percussion.
The track reached No.
1 on the U.S.
charts.
VertigoU2
U2 is a rock band that holds the record for the most Grammy Awards won by an artist group and has enjoyed long-lasting popularity with a rock sound that evokes the atmosphere of their home country, Ireland.
Vertigo, the lead single from their 11th album, How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb, is a track whose straightforward rock ensemble amps up the energy.
The guitar riff in the intro, which doubles the bass to add thickness, is simple—made up only of power chords—yet its choice of notes is brilliantly memorable.
It’s a stylish rock tune that was also featured in Apple’s iPod commercial.
Owner Of A Lonely HeartYES
Debuting to great attention in 1968, Yes went through frequent lineup changes, which drew backlash from fans and led to a temporary breakup.
After further changes, the band made a comeback, and the album 90125 they released at that time—and its track Owner of a Lonely Heart—both reached No.
1 in the United States.
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.