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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!

Classic Western punk songs. Recommended popular tracks (51–60)

RoxanneThe Police

The Police – Roxanne (Official Music Video)
Roxanne The Police

The Police became one of the most successful bands of the ’80s, but when they debuted they had a sharp, punk-tinged sound.

This song is about a French prostitute, and it was initially banned from broadcast by the BBC upon its release.

Sting’s distinctive vocals evoke a clear, nighttime atmosphere, and even today it doesn’t feel dated—a classic from 1978.

Love SongPublic Image Ltd

Public Image Ltd – (This is Not a) Love Song
Love Song Public Image Ltd

Public Image Ltd is a project that John Lydon, the former frontman of the Sex Pistols, launched in 1978.

Although he’s dressed in a suit, his singing style and movements don’t seem all that different from his Pistols days.

And his rebellious stance toward society remains unwavering in this song as well.

Hear Nothing See Nothing Say NothingDischarge

Discharge-Hear Nothing See Nothing Say Nothing
Hear Nothing See Nothing Say NothingDischarge

Included on the album “Hear Nothing See Nothing Say Nothing.” A five-piece band from the UK.

When it comes to UK hardcore, Discharge is the first name that comes up, and they have had a tremendous influence not only on hardcore but also on metal bands like Metallica.

In My EyesMINOR THREAT

A track that radiates a razor-sharp presence even among punk bands.

Released as an EP in December 1981, this work is one of the signature songs by hardcore punk pioneers Minor Threat.

The lyrics, brimming with anger and contempt, explode into catharsis in the chorus—truly overwhelming.

It strongly expresses the band’s anti-drug stance and is also known as an iconic song of the straight edge movement.

Perfect for when you want to channel anger into music or feel a pointed challenge to society.

Its breakneck energy and powerful message are sure to resonate with you.

Classic punk songs from Western music. Recommended popular tracks (61–70)

Butcher BabyThe Plasmatics

“Butcher Baby” – Plasmatics live television performance – 1980’s.
Butcher BabyThe Plasmatics

This is a track defined by its rebellious spirit.

Released by the Plasmatics in 1978, it sharply criticizes prejudice against people who fall outside social norms.

The lyrics, portraying a “dangerous” woman in red, convey anger toward a society that refuses to accept individuality.

Wendy O.

Williams’s powerful vocals and the aggressive guitar riffs strongly reinforce the message.

The song was released as a single in June 1980, reaching number 55 in the UK.

Its live performances drew attention for their extreme theatrics.

It might be the perfect song when you want to challenge established values.

Last for LifeIggy Pop

An unforgettable song that played in the background during the scene where the protagonist runs through the streets in the British cult film Trainspotting.

It fits astonishingly well with various scenes in the movie.

Iggy’s trademark style of singing and dancing shirtless is alive and well.

It’s a work with both speed and pop sensibilities.

Originally released in 1977.

Hong Kong GardenSiouxsie And The Banshees

Siouxsie And The Banshees – Hong Kong Garden (Official Music Video)
Hong Kong GardenSiouxsie And The Banshees

A single released in 1978.

A seven-piece group from London, formed around Siouxsie and Steven, who had been part of the Sex Pistols’ inner circle.

“Banshees” refers to female spirits who foretell a poet’s death.

Unusually for a punk band, a woman serves as the lead vocalist.