Classic punk songs from Western music. Recommended popular tracks.
Simple chord progressions, up-tempo aggressive sound, rebellious fashion, and lyrics that are often provocative.
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These might be common images associated with the music genre known as punk rock.
Of course, “punk” is a broad term—there are many subgenres like hardcore punk, ska punk, pop punk, and post-punk—and it’s difficult to cover the entire history.
In this article, however, we introduce recommended classic tracks with a focus on early punk rock.
We’ve chosen songs with an eye to their influence on later bands, so if you’re new to punk, be sure to give them a listen!
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Classic punk songs in Western music. Recommended popular tracks (21–30)
Suspect DeviceStiff Little Fingers
Stiff Little Fingers is a band from Northern Ireland.
They took their name directly from the Vibrators’ song “Stiff Little Fingers.” This work is one of their signature pieces—a punk track with both weight and speed.
The raw, gritty vocals and the sudden, stumbling rhythms that pop up mid-song leave a strong impression.
Sonic ReducerThe Dead Boys
The Dead Boys were a band known as “the Sex Pistols of New York.” Listening to this album, it’s easy to see why.
Lyrics that seem to reject everything and an aggressive sound.
Even the members’ presence as seen on the cover photo exudes a disquieting aura.
Sonic Reducer (1977) became a track respected by those who love punk.
Classic Western punk songs. Recommended popular tracks (31–40)
New RoseThe Damned
They are said to be one of the three major punk bands in London alongside the Sex Pistols and The Clash.
Although they are less well-known than the other two bands, they still have devoted fans—evidenced by the release of their documentary film in 2016—and the band continues to make music today.
This work was released in 1976.
Wrong WaySublime
Hailing from Long Beach, California and known as a pinnacle of ska punk, Sublime released a track from their 1996 album “Sublime” that stands as a masterpiece, seamlessly fusing heavy themes with breezy melodies.
While sharply depicting social issues faced by a 12-year-old girl, the song impresses with a light, deftly blended sound that weaves together ska, reggae, and punk.
A trombone solo modeled after George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” adds an exquisite touch.
The track spent 26 weeks on Billboard’s Alternative chart and won an award at the MTV Video Music Awards.
It remains a favorite among many listeners as the perfect song for a weekend drive or a quick mood lift.
No SecurityChaos UK
Included on the album “Chaos UK.” A UK hardcore band formed by a four-piece lineup in England.
They are characterized by a noisy, rough sound and vocals delivered in a screaming style.
Alongside Discharge, they are very popular among Japanese punk fans.
Kiss Me DeadlyGeneration X
A track from the 1981 self-titled album.
It features a sound that blends punk edge with tenderness.
Formed in London in 1976, Generation X achieved idol-like popularity thanks to the good looks of all its members.
The vocalist, Billy Idol, later moved to the United States and became a star.
Where did his eye go?The Dickies
Included on the album “DAWN OF THE DICKIES.” A five-piece band from San Francisco.
They captivate listeners with a fun, popcorn-popping pop sound.
Although they have experienced the deaths of members several times, the band remains very much active even after more than 40 years since their formation.