Simple chord progressions, up-tempo aggressive sound, rebellious fashion, and lyrics that are often provocative.
.
.
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!
- The Greatest American Rock Band [All Time Best]
- [Masterpiece Selection] A Compilation of Classic Western Rock Songs
- Classic post-punk hits from Western music: a roundup of popular tracks you should listen to first
- The 1970s were the golden age of Western rock! Recommended classics and hit songs
- [Western Music] Both Speed and Bittersweetness! Recommended Melodic Hardcore (Melodic Punk) Bands [2025]
- Classic youth punk songs from Western music. World-famous classics and popular tracks.
- Recommended Western rock bands; popular overseas bands.
- [Western Music] Hardcore Punk Masterpieces and Popular Songs – Beginner’s Guide
- [2025] Classic UK rock albums: A roundup of must-hear recommendations
- A Western punk band: immortal legends who carry on the fiery spirit.
- [Western Music] Start with this one! Classic and popular songs of alternative rock
- [Western Music] Start Here First! A Roundup of Classic, Popular Power Pop Songs
- [For Beginners] A Collection of Classic Melodic Punk (Melodic Hardcore) Songs
Classic punk songs (Western). Recommended popular tracks (1–10)
Blitzkrieg BopRamones
This work is characterized by its simple three-chord structure and a catchy chorus.
The phrase “Hey, ho, let’s go” is etched in many people’s memories.
Released in April 1976 as their debut single, it’s a track hailed as a milestone of punk rock.
The lyrics, embodying youthful energy and rebellious spirit, express discontent with society at the time.
Featured as the opening track on the Ramones’ self-titled album “Ramones,” it had a tremendous influence on the subsequent punk scene.
It’s a must-listen for anyone who wants to fully savor the essence of punk rock.
I Wanna Be Your DogThe Stooges
In August 1969, a classic that would be etched into rock history was released.
Embodying the soul of The Stooges, this track fuses Iggy Pop’s raw cries with a repetitive three-chord riff, making it a proto-punk anthem.
Beneath its seemingly simple lyrics lies a complex mix of deep devotion to a loved one and self-abandonment.
The posture of submitting to another’s will—almost like a pet—evokes a quintessentially punk contradiction, where obedience and defiance coexist.
Included on The Stooges’ debut album, the song went on to exert a profound influence on the later punk movement and was selected for Rolling Stone’s list of greatest albums in 2003.
It’s a track that resonates with those who carry a rebellious spirit yet still long to be close to someone.
London CallingThe Clash
Opening with a sharp guitar riff and a powerful beat, this work is a classic indelibly etched into the history of punk rock.
Released in December 1979, the song captivated listeners worldwide as the title track of the album of the same name.
Its lyrics deftly weave in the social issues and environmental crises London faced at the time.
Even as it sings of nuclear threats and anxieties about climate change, the declaration “but I have no fear” embodies the defiant spirit at the heart of punk.
As one of The Clash’s signature songs, it’s recommended not only for those interested in punk rock but also for anyone drawn to socially conscious lyrics.
Anarchy In The UKSEX PISTOLS
A shocking debut single of punk rock that shook the world.
Released in November 1976, this work—an emblem of the revolution that swept through the UK music scene—quickly became a social phenomenon.
It was the band’s sole release on the EMI label and reached No.
38 on the UK Singles Chart.
However, an unprecedented turn of events followed: their contract was terminated due to inappropriate remarks on a television program.
Its provocative lyrics and raw sound perfectly captured the anger and frustration of the youth at the time.
The distinctive drum sound is the result of producer Bill Price’s experimental recording techniques.
A must-listen for anyone drawn to anti-establishment messages and overwhelming energy.
Psycho KillerTalking Heads
From the late 1970s through the ’80s, Talking Heads sent shockwaves through the music scene.
Their songs portray mental turmoil and social alienation from a unique perspective.
Featured on their debut album, Talking Heads: 77, this track captures the chaotic inner world of a murderer with multiple personalities.
Its lyrics weave in French, and Tina Weymouth’s memorable bassline stands out.
Since its 1977 release, it has continued to captivate listeners, covered by various artists and featured in films and television.
A must-listen for those interested in the darker sides of modern society and the complexities of the human psyche.
Holiday In CambodiaDead Kennedys
This is a song by Dead Kennedys, a punk band known for their political satire in the United States.
It delivers a scathing social critique by contrasting the harsh realities of Cambodia with privileged Western college students.
The track masterfully pairs an energetic, aggressive sound with razor-sharp, message-driven lyrics.
Released as a single in May 1980, it was also included on their debut album, Fresh Fruit for Rotting Vegetables, released in September of the same year.
It achieved commercial success, reaching No.
2 on the UK Indie Chart.
A searing indictment of American imperialism and cultural arrogance, the song remains a vital punk rock anthem that continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
Teenage KicksThe Undertones
It’s punk, but with a touch of sweetness that makes it easy to listen to.
The Undertones are a band from Ireland who reportedly started out as a cover band, but gradually began writing and performing their own punk songs, which were mainstream at the time.
This track is their debut single.