[Definitive] An introduction to Western mixture rock: a roundup of recommended classic tracks
If you find yourself instinctively reacting when you see the term “mixture rock,” you’re probably, like me, a Western music fan who came of age in the ’90s.
“Mixture rock” refers literally to a blend of various genres—rock and metal mixed with hip-hop, funk, Latin music, reggae, and more—but it’s actually a Japanese-made term.
Overseas, similar sounds are labeled as rap metal, funk metal, crossover, and the like.
In this article, we’ve compiled quintessential tracks that Japan would categorize as “Western mixture rock.”
If you’re a younger music fan, be sure to experience that streetwise vibe of the ’90s to early ’00s!
- [2025] The Appeal of Mixed-Bag Sounds: A Roundup of Western Crossover/Mixture Bands
- [Western Music] Start with this one! Classic and popular songs of alternative rock
- Western songs with cool bass lines: classic and popular tracks recommended for bassists
- 90s Rock Revolution! A Collection of Masterpieces by Western Bands That Colored the 90s
- Great Western rock classics and hit songs of the ’90s
- [2025] Classic UK rock albums: A roundup of must-hear recommendations
- Enduring popularity! Classic emo songs in Western music
- Masterpieces of crossover. Recommended popular songs.
- Nu metal masterpieces. Recommended popular songs.
- A roundup of 90s Western hip-hop: classics from the golden era
- [Masterpiece Selection] A Compilation of Classic Western Rock Songs
- A classic of Mexican hip hop and Chicano rap
- [2025] Iconic metal masterpieces that define the era: A roundup of the latest tracks and timeless favorites
[Classic] An Introduction to Western Mix-Metal/Rap Rock. A roundup of recommended masterpieces (21–30)
Last ResortPapa Roach
A song that sings about suicide.
Lead vocalist Jacoby Shaddix described it as “a cry for help from someone who feels dissatisfied and confused.” It was Papa Roach’s first single released on a major label, DreamWorks.
StrickenDisturbed
A song by the American heavy metal band Disturbed, released as a single in 2005.
It is about being hurt by someone else or by certain actions.
The track reached No.
2 on the U.
S.
charts and has been certified Gold.
[Classic] An Introduction to Western Mix-Ture Rock: A Summary of Recommended Masterpieces (31–40)
The Way You Like ItAdema
A song by Adema, a nu metal band formed in 2000 in California, USA.
It sings about how people change as fame rises.
It was released as a single in 2001 from their self-titled debut album.
The music video features Chester Bennington and Joe Hahn of Linkin Park.
CalifornicationRed Hot Chili Peppers
A song about the “decline of society,” describing how the world has become very superficial and plastic, like California.
It was released as a single by the Red Hot Chili Peppers in 2000.
The track was heavily influenced by The Cure’s song “Carnage Visors.”
DriveIncubus
A song released as a single by Incubus in 2000.
It is about fear.
All the artwork in the music video was created over more than 50 hours by lead vocalist Brandon Boyd and drummer Jose Pasillas.
Rollin’ (Air Raid Vehicle)Limp Bizkit
A song released as a single in 2000 by the nu metal band Limp Bizkit.
The music video, which cost $3 million to produce, features actors Ben Stiller and Stephen Dorff.
The track was used in the 2001 film The Fast and the Furious.
Bring ‘Em DownLostprophets
A song released as a single in 2012 by the alternative rock band Lostprophets.
Keyboard player Jamie Oliver described it as “a very rebellious song.” It was first performed during a warm-up show for the 2011 V Festival.