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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, performances, and skits! Classic songs by Western rock bands (51–60)

The Sweater SongWeezer

Weezer – Undone — The Sweater Song
The Sweater SongWeezer

They’re a band known for melodies with an indie vibe that you can’t help but get absorbed in.

It’s the kind of hidden-gem music that will likely keep the conversation going about the songs even after the performance, so it’s worth playing.

It might even make it easier to strike up a conversation with someone you’re interested in.

Trucker’s HitchYlvis

Ylvis – Trucker’s Hitch [Official music video HD]
Trucker's HitchYlvis

It starts off quietly, but gradually shifts into a more fast-paced, driving feel.

It’s perfect for a car ride or a bike ride.

With digital sounds layered in, it has a catchy, stylish vibe that can effortlessly turn even slightly corny moments into something you can laugh about.

Shining LightAsh

Ash – Shining Light (Official HD Video)
Shining LightAsh

This song, which illuminates the heart like a shining light, sings of the universal themes of love and hope.

Like a Roman candle burning in the darkness, it will kindle a warm glow in the listener’s heart.

Released in January 2001 as the lead single from the album “Free All Angels,” it became a major hit, reaching number 8 on the UK Singles Chart.

It was also used in the final episode ending of the American sci-fi drama “Roswell,” leaving a lasting impression on many people.

Performed at an after-party or as entertainment, its moving lyrics and catchy melody are sure to bring the entire venue together.

What do I getBuzzcocks

Buzzcocks – What Do I Get? (Official Video)
What do I getBuzzcocks

A track that exquisitely fuses a poppy, catchy melody with punk energy, it was released in February 1978 as the band’s UK chart debut.

Its lyrics, portraying clingy love and mounting frustration, are sure to resonate with many listeners.

Beloved across generations—featured even in the film Ghost World—it’s perfect for parties or performances, with an up-tempo groove that’s guaranteed to fire up the room.

Packed with everything that makes Buzzcocks so compelling, this classic is recommended not only for Western music fans but also for those new to punk rock.

[2025] Recommended for after-parties, entertainment, and performances! Classic hits by Western rock bands (61–70)

Malibu Beach NightmareHanoi rocks

Hanoi Rocks Malibu Beach Nightmare Japan TV 1984
Malibu Beach NightmareHanoi rocks

Characterized by exhilarating guitar riffs and a catchy melody, this track was released in May 1983 and is known as one of Hanoi Rocks’ signature songs.

Featured on the album Back to Mystery City, it reached No.

29 on the UK Indie Chart.

The lyrics, depicting carefree, fun times on Malibu Beach, perfectly capture the liberating feeling of summer.

Blending elements of glam rock and punk while packing Hanoi Rocks’ unique charm, this song is guaranteed to fire up any room when performed at an after-party or as entertainment.

It’s a must-listen for anyone seeking the vibe of ’80s rock or an energetic tune.

Last NiteThe Strokes

The Strokes – Last Nite (Official HD Video)
Last NiteThe Strokes

Music with a Showa-retro vibe that will win over your boss’s heart too—the guitar paired with slightly off-semitone vocals creates a unique sense of time.

It’s an edgy, distinctive track that perfectly matches well-crafted performances and presentations.

In conclusion

Because of venue constraints, it can be difficult to put on a flashy performance when a band plays at parties like after-parties.

However, the songs introduced here are mostly relatively simple and can all be covered with minimal equipment.

As mentioned at the beginning, many of them are well-known from commercials and movie theme songs, so they’re sure to get people excited across generations.

Give them a try!