[Western Music] Start with this one! Classic and popular songs of alternative rock

Smells Like Teen SpiritsNirvana

Nirvana – Smells Like Teen Spirit (Official Music Video)

With a single riff of power chords drenched in searing distortion, this historic Nirvana classic stunned the world.

It’s so famous that adding explanations almost feels redundant, yet it remains the most important track in the post-1990s music landscape and is indispensable when discussing alternative rock.

That said, it’s also true that the song is often over-framed in music-historical context.

So if you’re just getting into alternative rock, I recommend listening with as few preconceptions as possible.

Savor the song’s intrinsic strengths—the deceptively simple yet masterful soft/loud dynamics in its structure and Kurt Cobain’s overwhelming talent as both vocalist and songwriter.

CreepRadiohead

Radiohead – Creep

Around the same time that Beck was muttering “I’m a loser,” a band emerged in the UK proclaiming, “I’m a creep.” Their name was Radiohead.

Although they’ve continued to transcend genres and influence artists around the world by releasing one innovative work after another, in their early days their sound revolved around noisy guitars heavily influenced by American alternative rock and grunge.

The quintessential example of that is Creep.

The progression from the hushed arpeggios into the chorus—kicked off by Jonny Greenwood’s famous chugging “ga-gak” guitar hit—is the stuff of legend.

I will personally never forget the emotion I felt when they closed with this song at their Tokyo Summer Sonic performance in 2003.

Give It AwayRed Hot Chili Peppers

Red Hot Chili Peppers – Give It Away [Official Music Video]

Affectionately known here in Japan as “Retchiri,” this four-piece enjoys overwhelming name recognition and popularity among Western bands even in the 2020s.

They’re true veterans who released their debut album back in 1984, before the so-called ’90s alt-rock boom.

“Give It Away,” included on their 1991 album Blood Sugar Sex Magik—the record that really broke them into the mainstream—is a staple live anthem and could be said to epitomize the band’s sound at the time.

You can fully savor all the quintessential Chili Peppers elements: a band ensemble that boldly incorporates funk grooves, rap-style vocals, and a catchy chorus melody.

LoserBeck

Beck – Loser (Official Music Video)

Beck is truly a child of the alternative rock generation and a genius songwriter with worldwide popularity.

The grandson of artist Al Hansen, he grew up in an artistic family yet also experienced a near-nomadic lifestyle.

His breakthrough track “Loser,” with its paradoxical humor of calling himself a “loser,” fit the times perfectly and became a landmark song in the post-Nirvana history of alternative rock.

While alternative rock is often associated with noisy, powerful guitars, Beck turned his attention to roots music like blues and country, presenting a new sound through rap-influenced vocals and deliberately lo-fi production.

It’s a brilliant classic that underscores the diversity of ’90s alternative rock.

Mr. BrightsideThe Killers

The Killers – Mr. Brightside (Official Music Video)

It’s a striking song where lyrics of poignancy and doubt intertwine with an energetic sound.

The protagonist’s jealousy-torn emotions leave a deep impression on listeners.

Released in September 2003, it drew major attention as The Killers’ debut single.

Included on the album Hot Fuss, it became a worldwide hit.

Loved by many, it continues to resonate with those who have experienced heartbreak or parting.

Losing My ReligionR.E.M.

R.E.M. – Losing My Religion (Official HD Music Video)

R.

E.

M.

is an iconic alternative rock band that formed in 1980 and sustained an active career for over 30 years until disbanding in 2011.

That said, they weren’t a band that emerged amid the so-called alternative rock and grunge boom; rather, they broke through thanks to steady grassroots activity and attention from college radio.

Their 1987 album Document became a million-seller despite being released on an independent label.

It’s hard to sum up their diverse musicality in a single phrase, but the band ensemble on this track—featuring a folky sound augmented by traditional instruments—its lyrical, wistful melody, and suggestive lyrics encapsulate R.

E.

M.

’s distinctive world.

It’s also worth noting the historical fact that with this musical style, they scored a major hit in 1991, at the height of the grunge era.

Seven Nation ArmyThe White Stripes

The White Stripes – Seven Nation Army (Official Music Video)

Starting with a simple yet overwhelmingly powerful guitar riff, this track is known as a landmark of alternative rock.

The rebellious spirit and determination for self-determination embedded in the lyrics resonate with many listeners, evoking a universal sense of empathy.

Released by The White Stripes in February 2003, the song is included on the album Elephant and won Best Rock Song at the 46th Annual Grammy Awards.

It has been frequently used at sporting events and political rallies and is beloved around the world.

When you need the courage to face adversity and hardship, this is a song that empowers the heart.