[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] Compilation of Classic Western Rock Songs (101–110)
PanamaVan Halen
When talking about the hard rock bands that sparked a huge boom in the ’70s, you can’t leave out Van Halen.
Their song Jump is famous, as it’s been used in Japanese commercials, but Panama, from the same album 1984, is an equally irresistible masterpiece.
It’s from the era with original vocalist David Lee Roth, and it’s a classic that draws you deeper and deeper into its world with the beauty of Eddie Van Halen’s guitar playing and the dynamic ebb and flow of the track.
It really makes you wish you could have experienced them live at their peak!
So WhatP!nk
All of her songs, a regular on the music charts like Billboard, have lyrics that truly linger in the heart.
Her cool looks, stylish husky voice, and music videos you can’t help but watch are part of the appeal, revealing a unique style unlike any other singer.
My Dying TimeBlack Label Society
A track released in 2014 by the American heavy metal band Black Label Society.
It’s an evil, bluesy track characterized by aggressive guitar sounds and soulful vocals.
It reached No.
17 on the U.S.
charts.
Let’s DanceDavid Bowie
He was a British musician who also appeared as an actor in Merry Christmas, Mr.
Lawrence alongside Takeshi Kitano and Ryuichi Sakamoto.
A pioneer of glam rock, he was described as one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.
Sadly, he passed away in 2016, but his achievements will continue to be remembered.
parisienne walkwaysGary Moore
Among his many hit songs, the most famous one in Japan is probably the one known in Japanese as “Pari no Sanposō” (Parisienne Walkways).
It became explosively well known in Japan after figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu used it.
Although it’s a wistful track, he originally displayed intense guitar playing as a member of the heavy metal band Skid Row.
Masterpiece Selection: A Compilation of Classic Western Rock Songs (111–120)
AmenHalestorm
Halestorm is a hard rock band formed in Pennsylvania in 1997.
This track sings about personal freedom and features captivating blues elements.
It was released as a digital download in 2015 and reached No.
1 on the U.S.
charts.
Another HeartMARK TREMONTI
A track released as a digital download in 2015 by American singer-songwriter Mark Tremonti.
It sings about anguish and longing, featuring a heavy melody.
It’s a hard rock track that incorporates elements of thrash metal.