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[2025] A roundup of classic UK rock songs: from the latest tracks to timeless staples!

These days, whether you look at the charts in the U.

S.

or the U.

K.

, pop, hip-hop, and R&B dominate the top spots, so rock fans might be feeling a bit left out.

That said, UK rock has long been popular among Japanese listeners of Western music, and even now, as we approach the mid-2020s, a new generation of talented bands is emerging.

Taking into account that veteran bands are also releasing strong tracks, this article highlights the latest UK rock gems in the first half, and then moves on to a lineup packed with timeless classics.

If you’re new to UK rock, be sure to check it out!

[2025] A roundup of classic UK rock songs: from the latest tracks to timeless staples! (161–170)

Owner of a Lonely HeartYES

YES – Owner of a Lonely Heart (Official Music Video)
Owner of a Lonely HeartYES

It’s included on the 1983 album “90125.” They’re a five-piece band from London formed in 1968.

Despite hiatuses and the deaths of some members, they’ve continued performing to this day.

Their appeal lies in the exceptional musicianship characteristic of prog bands.

This song features an exhilarating guitar intro and a beautiful melody—an excellent track.

AbyssYungblud

YUNGBLUD – Abyss (from Kaiju No. 8) [Official Visualizer]
AbyssYungblud

A powerful track that feels like a cry from the soul has been chosen as the opening theme for the anime Kaiju No.

8.

Teaming up with Dan from Imagine Dragons, it’s been crafted into a dark, edgy sound.

The protagonist’s struggle to claw their way out of deep darkness is conveyed through YUNGBLUD’s earnest vocals.

Released in April 2024, the song stands as an ambitious work that signals his new artistic challenge.

It’s sure to resonate when you’re feeling lonely or want to face yourself.

Experience this song packed with YUNGBLUD’s appeal.

Standard Tuningbdrmm

bdrmm – Standard Tuning (Official Audio Visualiser)
Standard Tuningbdrmm

The song released in February 2024 by bdrmm, a shoegaze band from the UK, is a work full of deep emotion and insight.

Centered on themes of mental health struggles and the complexities of human relationships, it delivers a message of self-acceptance through the bonds among the band members.

Put out via Rock Action Records, the track has already become a live staple, reportedly growing more special with each performance.

It’s recommended not only for shoegaze fans but also for listeners seeking lyrics they can truly connect with.

It might be perfect for listening while walking alone at night.

The CutterEcho & the Bunnymen

ECHO AND THE BUNNYMEN – The Cutter [Official Video] HD
The CutterEcho & the Bunnymen

A work truly worthy of being called a jewel of UK rock: a signature song by Echo & the Bunnymen.

Dynamic guitar work and a wistful vocal blend beautifully to pierce the listener’s heart.

Released in January 1983, this track arrived as the second single from the album Porcupine, lighting up the charts with No.

8 in the UK and No.

10 in Ireland.

Centered on themes of self-discovery and perseverance, the lyrics portray a longing for change and a fear of failure, urging listeners to embrace their own journeys.

Its Beatles-evoking, Eastern-tinged psychedelic sound is another allure.

It’s the perfect song when you’re seeking something that resonates deeply.

There is a light that never goes outThe Smiths

The Smiths – There Is A Light That Never Goes Out (Official Audio)
There is a light that never goes outThe Smiths

A captivating song that blends poignancy and beauty, it depicts time spent with a lover while driving through the city at night.

With themes of love, loss, and longing, it portrays how deep affection can transform even death into something beautiful.

Included on the 1986 album “The Queen Is Dead,” it was released as a single in 1992 and reached No.

25 on the UK chart.

It has also had a major impact on pop culture, appearing on the soundtracks of films such as “(500) Days of Summer” and “The Killer.” Highly recommended for those seeking deep human connection or looking to stir their sensibilities.

Karma ChameleonCulture Club

Culture Club – Karma Chameleon (Official Music Video)
Karma ChameleonCulture Club

It is included on the 1983 album “Colour by Numbers.” The group is a four-piece formed in London in 1981.

Boy George’s striking cross-dressing, his solid vocals that more than match that individuality, and a sound rooted in soul and other musical styles are their appeal.

The song has a memorable chorus.

Invisible TouchGenesis

Genesis – Invisible Touch (Official Music Video)
Invisible TouchGenesis

It was included on the 1986 album Invisible Touch.

They’re a rock band from Surrey formed in 1967.

For a while after their debut they played progressive rock, but after Peter Gabriel left and Phil Collins joined, they radically shifted to a more pop-oriented sound and achieved even greater success.