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[2025] Recommended for after-parties, entertainment, and performances! Classic hits by Western rock bands

When it’s decided that you’ll perform as a band for an after-party or other event, the hardest part is picking the songs, right?

It depends on the theme of the occasion and the age range of the audience, but for those who want to nail it with cool songs by Western rock bands, we’ve put together a list of classic tracks that are guaranteed to get the crowd going!

If it’s an after-party full of Western music fans, you might be able to get away with more niche selections, but this time we’re focusing on songs that are widely known from commercials and the like, as well as upbeat tracks that will hype the crowd even if they don’t know the song.

If you’re stuck at the song selection stage before you’ve even started practicing, definitely check this out!

[2025] Recommended for after-parties, entertainment, and performances! Classic hits by Western rock bands (11–20)

It’s My LifeBon Jovi

Bon Jovi – It’s My Life (Official Music Video)
It's My LifeBon Jovi

This song heralded a new chapter for Bon Jovi in the 2000s and became a hit across multiple countries, proving the band’s enduring popularity.

The opening riff uses a talk box, and the lyrics bring back Tommy and Gina from Livin’ on a Prayer, which is why it’s often called the 2000s version of Livin’ on a Prayer.

It’s an undeniable classic packed with vintage Bon Jovi flavor, yet its overall tight and heavy production reflects how the band evolved after the tumultuous 1990s.

Adventure Of A LifetimeColdplay

Coldplay – Adventure Of A Lifetime (Official Video)
Adventure Of A LifetimeColdplay

A worldwide hit that everyone has heard at least once can lift the mood of any gathering, regardless of genre or age.

In that sense, Coldplay’s songs are a perfect choice.

Among their many hits, I recommend a masterpiece released in November 2015.

With Chris Martin’s uplifting vocals and an up-tempo rhythm infused with disco and funk elements, it has the power to energize listeners.

Performed at the Super Bowl in 2016, the track dominated charts around the world.

Play it at an after-party or any celebration, and it works like magic—everyone will naturally feel like moving to the beat.

Dani CaliforniaRed Hot Chili Peppers

Red Hot Chili Peppers – Dani California [Official Music Video]
Dani CaliforniaRed Hot Chili Peppers

It’s a track from the 2006 album Stadium Arcadium, and a classic that also won a Grammy.

In Japan, it was used to promote the film Death Note.

It’s a melodic number typical of the Chili Peppers from the period when they began to emphasize melody, carrying a somewhat wistful feel, and John Frusciante’s guitar solo is incredibly emotional.

The blistering rapid-fire runs he unveils toward the end are just plain cool.

The song tells the story of an ambitious, rebellious woman traveling across America.

Despite facing poverty and crime, her unyielding determination is sure to resonate with many listeners.

We Can Work it OutThe Beatles

Among the timeless songs the Beatles left behind, this one contains a phrase everyone has heard at least once.

Released in December 1965, it was issued as the Beatles’ first double A-side single and reached number one on the charts in the UK and many other countries.

Co-written by Paul McCartney and John Lennon, its lyrics are notable for blending their two distinct perspectives.

The song portrays a narrator trying to mend a relationship and emphasizes the importance of communication.

Because life is short, it sings of the need to meet each other halfway.

It’s also perfect for second receptions or party performances, making it a song that guests can enjoy together.

My GenerationThe Who

Known as a song that embodies the rebellious spirit of the youth of the ’60s, this track is marked by crisp chord strokes and vocals simmering with anger.

Released as a single in November 1965, it reached No.

2 in the UK and No.

74 in the US.

It was selected for Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Songs of All Time” and inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

As one of The Who’s signature songs, it has often expanded into over 15 minutes of improvisation in live performances.

Its powerful message, speaking for younger generations, still resonates with many today.

Play it at an after-party or celebration, and you’ll spark a cross-generational unity that brings the whole venue together.

We Will Rock YouQueen

Queen – We Will Rock You (Official Video)
We Will Rock YouQueen

A rock classic with an overwhelming presence, it’s one of Queen’s signature songs.

It’s characterized by a powerful, stadium-shaking beat and simple call-and-response chants that draw in the crowd.

Included on the 1977 album “News of the World,” it quickly captivated fans around the world.

Composed by Brian May, the song is frequently used at sporting events and large gatherings, truly possessing the power to unite people.

It’s also perfect for second parties and performances, and with its universally known melody and easy chants, it’s guaranteed to energize the entire venue.

[2025] Recommended for after-parties, entertainment, and performances! Classic hits by Western rock bands (21–30)

YellowColdplay

Coldplay – Yellow (Official Video)
YellowColdplay

A beautiful love song that vows eternal love, shining like a starry sky.

Written while gazing up at a sky full of stars, the lyrics express unconditional feelings for a loved one, carried by a warm, embracing melody.

An iconic anthem by Coldplay, it was released in June 2000 as the lead single from their debut album, Parachutes.

The song reached No.

4 on the UK charts and earned international acclaim, including a nomination for the Grammy Award for Best Rock Song.

It was also chosen as the theme for Australia’s cancer awareness campaign, Daffodil Day, giving the track a meaningful social dimension.

Perfect for adding color to life’s important moments—choose this hopeful song for your wedding recessional.