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[Great Legends] Introduction to Iconic Artists of Classic Rock
When you hear the music genre “classical,” you might immediately think of Beethoven or Mozart, but the theme of this article is “classic rock.”
While it has a certain level of recognition overseas—there are even radio stations dedicated to classic rock—the time span and genre boundaries are a bit fuzzy.
Basically, though, it refers to rock considered “canonical,” which has had a huge influence on later generations.
Here, we focus on bands and artists from the 1960s through the early 1990s and introduce representative classic rock groups.
We also reference surveys on the most-listened-to classic rock around the world, so you might find some surprising groups in the rankings!
Be sure to check it out.
[Great Legends] Introduction to Iconic Classic Rock Artists (1–10)
Bohemian RhapsodyQueen
Queen is the great rock band born in the UK that has continued to be loved across generations.
Formed in London in 1970, they have captivated rock fans around the world with Freddie Mercury’s charismatic performances and Brian May’s inventive guitar sound.
Since their debut, they have produced numerous classics, and songs like “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “We Will Rock You” continue to be cherished today.
What sets Queen apart from other bands is that all four members are exceptionally talented songwriters.
The many timeless masterpieces that have gone down in rock history can be seen as the fruit of their creativity.
Even after Freddie’s passing, Queen’s music continues to be loved by many people.
Whole Lotta LoveLed Zeppelin
Since their 1968 debut, the legendary British rock band Led Zeppelin has revolutionized hard rock, continuing to shine brightly in music history as a group boasting record-breaking global success and immense influence.
While rooted in the blues, their boundary-defying, original sound, memorable guitar riffs, and the overwhelming talent and individuality of the four members have produced songs that have sold between 200 and 300 million copies worldwide.
The band’s achievements—having released numerous classics such as 1969’s “Whole Lotta Love” and “Stairway to Heaven”—are immeasurable.
Indispensable to any discussion of classic rock and still exerting a profound impact on today’s rock scene, Led Zeppelin remains essential listening for any rock fan.
Take this opportunity to check out their many timeless, must-hear masterpieces!
Help!The Beatles
The Beatles are a legendary rock band from the United Kingdom, consisting of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr.
They released their debut single, “Love Me Do,” in 1962 and went on to create numerous classics such as “Yesterday” and “Let It Be,” revolutionizing the music scene.
In 1965, they were awarded MBEs by Queen Elizabeth II, and that same year they held the first-ever stadium concert.
They also ventured into filmmaking, continually embracing new challenges, and remain one of the most beloved bands to this day.
Truly a classic of rock, they are a group that every music fan should listen to at least once.
(I Can’t Get No) SatisfactionThe Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones, a living legend with a career spanning over 60 years and a source of pride for Britain, are absolutely indispensable as a rock classic.
Formed in London in 1962, the Stones drew on American roots music like blues and R&B to forge their own rock sound.
They debuted in 1963 with “Come On,” and followed with a string of major hits such as “I Wanna Be Your Man” and “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction.” With a rebellious image that symbolized the counterculture of the 1960s, they also achieved a musical resurgence with landmark albums like Beggars Banquet.
Over more than half a century, they remain active as legends of the rock world.
If you want to savor the allure of blues and rock ’n’ roll, this is a band you should definitely listen to!
Another Brick In The Wall, Part TwoPink Floyd
Pioneers of progressive rock known for their philosophical lyrics and experimental sound, Pink Floyd formed in London, England, in 1965.
In 1967, David Gilmour joined and later took the lead of the band, replacing Syd Barrett, who had originally spearheaded the group.
They released groundbreaking masterpieces such as The Dark Side of the Moon and The Wall, achieving sales of over 250 million records worldwide.
Renowned for their live performances as well, they continue to captivate many fans with the depth of their musicianship and their powerful messages—truly legends of the rock world.
Livin’ On A PrayerBon Jovi
Bon Jovi is a rock band from New Jersey.
Since their formation in 1983, they have continued to captivate rock fans around the world with a wide range of sounds, from pop rock to hard rock and hair metal.
Their 1986 album “Slippery When Wet” produced hits like “You Give Love a Bad Name” and “Livin’ on a Prayer,” propelling them to stardom.
Since then, with albums like “Keep the Faith” and “These Days,” they have released numerous timeless classics while evolving with the times, truly embodying classic rock as legendary figures.
They are also known for their strong bond with Japanese fans, and it’s no exaggeration to say they are one of the most well-known Western rock bands in Japan!
All Along The WatchtowerThe Jimi Hendrix Experience
The guitar god Jimi Hendrix, known as “Jimi,” led The Jimi Hendrix Experience.
Formed in London in 1966, the band had a short run until 1970, but in that time they vastly expanded the possibilities of the electric guitar and became an innovative force in rock.
Their sound drew widely from pop rock, R&B, hard rock, blues rock, and psychedelia—unconventional and daring, as evidenced by their legendary performance at the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival where Hendrix set his Fender Stratocaster on fire.
Hendrix’s guitar playing can be considered the very prototype of hard rock, profoundly influencing later musicians.
As a landmark of classic rock, this is a highly recommended band packed with timeless tracks that every rock fan should hear.