[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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[Masterpieces Selection] A Compilation of Classic Western Rock Songs (91–100)
Edge of SeventeenStevie Nicks
If we’re talking about a global queen of rock, it has to be Stevie Nicks.
Since the late ’60s, she has been active as a vocalist with Fleetwood Mac, a British blues band.
She began her solo career in the ’80s as well, leaving behind many classic songs as a rock singer.
Her 1981 track Edge of Seventeen is packed with everything that makes her so cool and is the perfect number for anyone who wants to hear rock sung by a woman.
Lo/HiThe Black Keys
A song by the American rock duo The Black Keys.
With a style and sound influenced by blues rock, it evokes a classic, old-school vibe while still being crafted into a modern, punchy track—one that’s sure to bring a grin to the face of rock fans.
[Masterpieces Selection] Compilation of Classic Western Rock Songs (101–110)
Should I Stay or Should I GoThe Clash
The Clash have cemented their name in rock history as a legendary punk band.
The cover of London Calling is incredibly famous in Japan as well, often seen on T-shirt designs and more.
One of their hallmarks was incorporating a wide range of musical genres with punk at the core.
Released in 1982, later in their career, Should I Stay or Should I Go could be described as slow punk with bursts of fast punk.
The tambourine rhythm is insanely cool.
It’s a classic track from the masterpiece Combat Rock.
Pour Some Sugar On MeDef Leppard
The song is “Pour Some Sugar On Me” by Def Leppard.
It was included on the album Hysteria, released in 1987.
As the recording of Hysteria was nearing completion, vocalist Joe Elliott decided to add this song to the album.
They rushed through the entire process in under two weeks, managed to get it onto the album in time, and it later became one of their signature tracks.
Fall Back DownRancid
Among the songs created by the ska-punk icons Rancid, this one stands out as a true classic, with an exceptionally poppy yet bittersweet melody.
Fall Back Down is included on their sixth album, Indestructible, released in 2003, and it came out as the lead single.
There’s hardly any ska flavor here, and Tim Armstrong’s raspy lead vocals carry a gentle warmth.
The three guitar solos, the roaming bass lines, and the nostalgic keyboard tones all add great touches.
Behind the song lies Tim’s personal experience with divorce, and the lyrics—an impassioned ode to unchanging, lifelong friendship—are genuinely moving, so I highly recommend reading them.
By the way, the music video features Benji Madden of Good Charlotte, who were skyrocketing at the time, and Kelly Osbourne, daughter of the legendary Ozzy Osbourne—such perfectly 2003 vibes, and it’s great.
Won’t Get Fooled AgainThe Who
Alongside the Beatles and the Rolling Stones, The Who are counted among the three great British rock bands.
“Won’t Get Fooled Again” is often hailed as the band’s greatest masterpiece.
Released in 1971, the song is well known in Japan under the title “Muhō no Sekai” (“World of Lawlessness”).
In concert, it unfolds into a performance that can stretch to nine minutes, making it a big favorite among fans.
It was also used as the theme song for the hugely popular international TV series CSI: Miami, which is how many people most strongly remember it.
My LifeBilly Joel
A quintessential anthem that celebrates freedom and self-determination, symbolizing 1970s America.
Featured on the album “52nd Street,” this song powerfully expresses the desire to break free from society’s constraints.
It reached No.
3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was a major hit worldwide, earning Gold certification in Canada, Silver in the UK, and Platinum in the US.
It was also used as the opening theme for the 1980s sitcom “Bosom Buddies.” A must-listen for anyone who longs to live authentically.