Western Rock Music Popularity Ranking [2025]

Surfin UsaThe Beach Boys57rank/position

Beach Boys – Surfin Usa HD

I bet many of you can recognize it from the intro alone.

A must-listen rock track for summer is the Beach Boys’ “Surfin’ U.

S.

A.” It’s a feel-good song that conjures up images of a sparkling ocean under a clear blue sky.

The clean-toned, surf-rock guitar sound is perfect for the season.

Many people may know it from the “Suzuki Xbee” commercial, too.

It’s a peaceful summer song with the message that “everyone’s surfing, just like in California.”

Sunshine of your loveCream58rank/position

Cream – Sunshine of your love

Like waiting for the break of dawn, this classic song gives voice to the yearning to be reunited with a loved one, and it came from the British rock band Cream.

Included on the album Disraeli Gears, released in November 1967, the track began with a bassline inspired by a Jimi Hendrix live performance.

Eric Clapton’s smooth guitar solo intertwines with Ginger Baker’s drums, which incorporate an Indian beat, creating a uniquely warm sonic world.

Released as a single in January 1968, the song reached No.

5 on the U.

S.

Billboard chart.

Frequently used in films and on television, it continues to be cherished as a gem of a love song that stays close to the feelings of being in love.

Take It EasyThe Eagles59rank/position

Take It Easy (2008 Remaster)

This is a song distinguished by its light rhythm and pleasant melody.

The lyrics, which express a desire to break free from the pressures of life, resonate with many people.

The message to “take it easy” will strike a chord with modern listeners leading busy lives.

Released in May 1972 as the Eagles’ debut single, it reached No.

12 on the U.

S.

charts and is included on the album Eagles.

Evoking the vast landscapes of America, this track is perfect for a drive—an ideal song when you want a little more peace of mind.

Brown SugarThe Rolling Stones60rank/position

The Rolling Stones – Brown Sugar (Live) – OFFICIAL

Having weathered the tumultuous ’60s and launched their own label, The Rolling Stones embarked on a fresh start.

Symbolizing the dawn of their ’70s era is the classic album Sticky Fingers, released in 1971.

Kicking off that record, this track is rock ’n’ roll at its most exuberant—quintessential Stones.

Keith Richards’ languid yet razor-sharp guitar riff, American musician Bobby Keys’ funky sax solo, and Mick Jagger’s one-of-a-kind vocals lock together to create an irresistible groove.

The lyrics are provocative, but in true Stones fashion, they channel that edge into pure rock energy.

It’s a killer tune that gets your body moving on instinct—perfect for the dance floor.

JumpVan Halen61rank/position

van halen jump

A song by the four-piece rock band Van Halen, led by Edward Van Halen, who passed away in 2020.

While the band revolutionized rock guitar by creating the groundbreaking technique known as tapping, this track includes the surprise of him playing keyboards rather than guitar for half of the song.

It could also be said to showcase the band’s boundless musicality, as the keyboard riff that runs from the intro is the most famous part of the track.

It’s a song everyone should hear at least once—one that continues to live on in the hearts of rock fans around the world.

The ReasonHoobastank62rank/position

Hoobastank – The Reason (Official Music Video)

This 2003 release by Hoobastank, a band rooted in the post-grunge and alternative rock movements, captivated music fans worldwide with its melodic and catchy composition.

Notable for its heartrending lyrics and beautiful melody line, it portrays the inner conflict of a protagonist who acknowledges past mistakes and strives to change for the sake of a loved one.

The track is included on the album “The Reason,” where it reached No.

2 on the U.

S.

Billboard chart.

Released as a single in January 2004, it earned platinum certifications in many countries.

It was also featured on the soundtrack of the film Spider-Man 2, making it a song especially recommended for those dealing with heartbreak or relationship struggles.

Don’t Stop Me NowQueen63rank/position

Queen – Don’t Stop Me Now (Official Video)

A high-velocity arrangement featuring piano sounds delivers a liberating rock tune.

Included on Queen’s seventh album, “Jazz,” the track was also released as a single in January 1979.

The lyrics portray the protagonist’s unstoppable surge of exhilaration and energy as they revel in life, and that positive worldview is simply unbeatable.

Anchored by Freddie Mercury’s powerful piano and vocals, the chorus blooms with the band’s signature multi-tracked harmonies.

Featured in numerous works, including the film “Shaun of the Dead,” this song sets the stage for perfect moments at parties or on drives—truly a number that shakes the dance floor.