[Western Music] Classic Blues Rock Songs: A Summary of Recommended Popular Tracks

Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
Under the theme of “vocal skills that stand up on the world stage,” I have experience teaching as an online vocal coach specializing in Western music, and I usually listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. In my teens, I questioned the idea that “foreign music equals English,” and started exploring songs from around the world. My commentary is characterized by a unique perspective shaped by listening to music of every genre, in every language, from every country. I mainly cover world music, so be sure to check it out!
music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!

Blues, known as the origin of various genres such as jazz and rock, also has its own subgenres.

Among them, blues rock is, quite literally, a genre that refers to rock built on the foundation of the blues.

It was born primarily among British musicians influenced by authentic American blues, but in practice, works labeled as blues rock often incorporate many other elements, such as garage and psychedelic.

In this article, we’ve picked out classic Western songs categorized as “blues rock,” including bands from the 2000s onward.

Enjoy it together with our other feature currently available on the site: “Blues Rock Masterpieces: Must-Listen Recommended Albums.”

[Western Music] Classic Blues Rock: A Curated List of Popular Recommended Songs (41–50)

Light My FireThe Doors

The Doors – Light My Fire

Light My FireThe Doors

The Doors are an American band formed in 1965, and they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993.

“Light My Fire” is their biggest hit; it was included on the 1967 album The Doors and was later released as a single.

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[Western Music] Classic Blues Rock: A roundup of recommended popular songs (51–60)

ThresholdThe Steve Miller Band

Steve Miller Band – Threshold

ThresholdThe Steve Miller Band

The Steve Miller Band is an American band formed in 1966, and they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016.

“Threshold” is a track from the 1977 album Book of Dreams, and its Japanese title is “Hishō” (meaning “Flight”).

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Waitin’ for the BusZZ Top

ZZ Top, ‘Waitin’ for the Bus’ – from ‘Live at Montreux 2013’

Waitin' for the BusZZ Top

ZZ Top is a Texas-based band formed in 1969 and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004.

“Waitin’ for the Bus” is included on their 1973 studio album Tres Hombres.

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Dog Eat DogAC/DC

AC/DC – Dog Eat Dog (Live At River Plate, December 2009)

Dog Eat DogAC/DC

AC/DC is an Australian rock band formed in 1973.

“Dog Eat Dog” is a track from the studio album “Let There Be Rock,” released in 1977, and it has the Japanese title “Let’s Stop Fighting Among Ourselves.”

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Black Magic WomanFleetwood Mac

Black Magic Woman

Black Magic WomanFleetwood Mac

Black Magic Woman is a track brimming with the allure of blues rock.

It portrays a man bewitched by a woman with magical charm, set against distinctive Latin-style polyrhythms.

The protagonist’s struggle under the spell of love intertwines with the rhythmic melody, sure to capture listeners’ hearts.

Released in 1971, the song achieved international acclaim, reaching No.

4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning a Silver Disc in the UK.

It’s recommended for those who want to savor Greg Rolie’s lead vocals and the exquisite harmony of guitar solos by Peter Green and Danny Kirwan.

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Mean Town BluesJohnny Winter

Mean Town Blues (2004 Digital Remaster)

Mean Town BluesJohnny Winter

Mean Town Blues, one of Johnny Winter’s signature songs that left a powerful mark on the world of blues rock.

Released in 1969, this track showcases the full appeal of Winter’s slide guitar.

Its lyrics portray harsh living conditions, loneliness, and life’s hardships—rooted in blues tradition yet delivered with Winter’s distinctive intensity.

His soul-stirring performance, including at the Woodstock Festival, won the hearts of many fans.

It’s a song that gives you courage—one to listen to especially when you’re feeling worn down by life.

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Heavy On My MindBack Door Slam

Heavy on My Mind

Heavy On My MindBack Door Slam

Back Door Slam was a band from the Isle of Man formed in 2003 and disbanded in 2009.

“Heavy On My Mind” is included on their debut album “Roll Away,” released in 2007.

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