Oldies Western Music: Popular Rankings [2025]

Smoke on the WaterDeep Purple36rank/position

Deep Purple – Smoke on the Water (LIVE 1974)

A masterpiece by Deep Purple that shook the world.

Its simple yet powerful guitar riff embodies the essence of rock.

Featured on the 1972 album Machine Head, the song was released as a single the following year and climbed to No.

4 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Lyrics inspired by a real fire incident ignite the listener’s imagination.

This work is recommended not only for rock fans but also for those interested in music history.

It’s also a rewarding challenge for anyone who’s just started playing guitar.

Eye Of The TigerSurvivor37rank/position

Survivor – Eye Of The Tiger (Official HD Video)

Eye of the Tiger, the classic by Survivor used as the theme song for the boxing-themed film Rocky.

Released in 1982, the song became a global hit with its fiery lyrics and melody, and won the Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance.

With its motivating melody and lyrics, it’s perfect to listen to before heading to work, taking an entrance exam, or sitting for a test, don’t you think?

WonderwallOasis38rank/position

Oasis – Wonderwall (Official Video)

Oasis, the strongest rock band born from the UK in the ’90s.

This song they released on their classic album (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? has become an enduring anthem loved around the world.

Carried by the wistful sound of an acoustic guitar, it gives voice to a piercingly heartfelt wish: even while burdened by loneliness and anxiety, you hope someone might come to save you.

Noel Gallagher later said it was a song about an “imaginary friend,” so you can hear it as reflecting feelings not just for a lover, but for an irreplaceable friend as well.

Released as a single in October 1995, it became a global hit.

Its iconic music video won a BRIT Award in 1996.

Give it a listen when you want to savor the vague restlessness of youth and the preciousness of friendship.

Black Or WhiteMichael Jackson39rank/position

Michael Jackson – Black Or White (Official Video – Shortened Version)

When it comes to iconic dance music from the ’90s, this song by Michael Jackson stands out.

Its lyrics, carrying a message of unity and equality that transcends racial and cultural differences, are particularly memorable.

The unique sound—blending pop rock, dance, and hip-hop—brought a fresh breeze to the music scene of the time.

Released in 1991, the track spent seven consecutive weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100.

Its music video captivated as many as 500 million viewers worldwide, opening up new possibilities for the medium.

Highly recommended for anyone who wants to feel the power of music to connect people across racial and cultural boundaries.

LoserBeck40rank/position

Beck – Loser (Official Music Video)

Have you ever been overwhelmed by a sense of helplessness and found yourself thinking, “I’m just a loser,” and giving up? This breakout track by the American musician Beck is a song that speaks directly to that very feeling of futility.

Beneath the self-deprecating words of the narrator lies not so much profound despair as a cool, wry humor that views the world at a slant.

That distinctive sense of languid detachment might actually help lighten your heart.

Released in March 1993 as an indie single, the track was later included on the album Mellow Gold.

It’s the kind of song that, on days when nothing goes right and you feel on the verge of self-destruction, has a strange, uplifting charm that can make you feel saved.

1979The Smashing Pumpkins41rank/position

The Smashing Pumpkins – 1979 (Official Music Video)

A quintessential American alternative rock band, The Smashing Pumpkins deliver a nostalgic song that gently wraps memories of youth.

Featured on their January 1996 album Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness, this track became a major hit, reaching No.

12 on the Billboard charts.

Drawing on frontman Billy Corgan’s experiences at age 12, it deftly expresses the purity and free spirit of youth, along with a vague anxiety about the future.

Its catchy melody and distinctive synthesizer sound also led to its use in the endings of the film Clerks II and the game Gran Turismo 5.

It’s a perfect song to play when you want to reminisce with friends or revisit cherished memories.

Purple RainPrince42rank/position

Purple Rain

The signature song “Purple Rain” by Prince, an artist who was active in the 1980s.

This ballad distills his diverse musical sensibilities and is also known as the soundtrack to the film “Prince: Purple Rain.” Blending elements of rock, R&B, and gospel, the track has earned high acclaim worldwide and influenced many artists.

In particular, Prince’s impassioned guitar solo captivates listeners.

Even after his passing, this masterpiece remains beloved by many, so be sure to check it out.