Most Popular Western Music Bands Ranking [2025]

My SharonaThe Knack85rank/position

The Knack – My Sharona

This song, known as the signature track of the American rock band The Knack, was released in January 1979 and became a massive hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for six consecutive weeks.

It conveys lead singer Doug Fieger’s passionate feelings for a woman he actually fell in love with, and its youthful, ardent lyrics leave a strong impression.

With its catchy melody and rhythmic guitar riffs, it captured the hearts of many.

In 1994, it was featured on the soundtrack of the film Reality Bites, bringing it back into the spotlight.

It’s a recommended track for those who want to relive their youth or enjoy a classic of power pop.

Soul SacrificeSantana86rank/position

Santana – Soul Sacrifice (Audio)

Santana’s signature song, “Soul Sacrifice.” The video features their live performance at Woodstock.

The endlessly driving bassline combined with the low tom becomes seriously addictive.

Even without congas or keyboards, it’s possible to recreate it as a three-piece if you’ve got the passion and energy! There are breaks sprinkled throughout, so there are quite a few phrases to memorize, but once you lock in the parts together, you’re guaranteed to be thrilled! Definitely give it a try!

Blue MondayNew Order87rank/position

New Order – Blue Monday 88 (Official Music Video)

New Order, the British band that fused the chill of post-punk with the vitality of dance music to forge a unique sound.

Released in March 1983, this track is a groundbreaking dance number that became the best-selling 12-inch single of all time.

Some may remember it being used in a Sunkist commercial.

Its repeating, impersonal synth phrases and mechanical beat evoke that inescapable Monday-morning lethargy and a sense of inner emptiness.

Produced around the time of the classic album Power, Corruption & Lies, its sound had a major impact on later club music.

Rather than forcing yourself to fight a melancholy mood, this is the perfect track for surrendering to a cool beat and getting through the day.

West End GirlsPet Shop Boys88rank/position

Pet Shop Boys – West End Girls (Official Video) [HD REMASTERED]

The Pet Shop Boys are a pop duo from the United Kingdom.

Although they’re known as a pop duo, their style is remarkably diverse, and they’ve also released rock tracks like dance rock.

Their hit song “West End Girls” blends a dance-rock foundation with an adult contemporary vibe.

It was released in 1984, but it’s still a classic that continues to be used in many forms of media today.

DreamsThe Cranberries89rank/position

The Cranberries – Dreams (Dir: Peter Scammell) (Official Music Video)

The debut song by the Irish rock band The Cranberries is a dreamy track released in September 1992.

It captivates with Dolores O’Riordan’s translucent vocals and Noel Hogan’s arpeggiated guitar weaving a dreamlike soundscape.

The lyrics, which depict the flutter of first love, and the melody line influenced by Celtic music possess a beauty that resonates deeply.

The song has been featured in works such as Mission: Impossible and Derry Girls, becoming a timeless classic cherished across generations.

It’s a recommended track for those who want to rekindle the anticipation of new love or the sweet memories of their youth.

Pretty Fly (For A White Guy)The Offspring90rank/position

The Offspring – Pretty Fly (For A White Guy) (Official Music Video)

As a killer tune perfect for the hot summer season, I’d like to recommend this track by The Offspring.

Released as a single from their September 1998 album Americana, it topped charts around the world.

The song satirizes white youths who imitate hip-hop and rap culture, showcasing a sharp, irony-laden sense of humor.

It’s a must-check for anyone interested in American pop culture or who loves ’90s punk rock.

I recommend listening to it in an air-conditioned room on a hot summer day.

We Will Rock YouQueen91rank/position

Queen – We Will Rock You (Official Video)

The song featured in JT’s Roots commercial is Queen’s “We Will Rock You,” one of the band’s signature tracks.

The powerful, foot-stomping sound at the beginning is striking, and from that forceful resonance you can feel a determination to move forward and a sense of excitement about the future.

As the vocals and instrumentation layer on from there, it evokes a growing strength and even a sense of human connection.

The opening tends to get most of the attention, but I recommend listening all the way through to really feel how far the intensity builds by the end.