[Masterpiece Selection] A Compilation of Classic Western Rock Songs
Many music listeners, regardless of generation, probably learned the word “rock” from Western music.
To convey the enduring greatness of Western rock across any era, this article highlights gem-like masterpieces born over more than 60 years of rock history, delivering a curated selection of the best rock songs for those who want to start exploring Western rock.
Articles like this tend to focus on classic oldies, but our lineup also includes artists from the 2000s onward.
So even if you used to listen to rock back in the day, be sure to check it out!
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- [2025] A roundup of classic UK rock songs: from the latest tracks to timeless staples!
[Masterpiece Selection] A Compilation of Classic Western Rock Songs (121–130)
Kickstart My HeartMötley Crüe

Mötley Crüe is an American hard rock band that has been active since the ’80s.
Among their career highlights is the hit track “Kickstart My Heart,” from the album that became their biggest success.
With a powerful straight-ahead eighth-note beat and an insanely overdriven electric guitar intro, it’s an incredibly cool song.
It’s also a guaranteed showstopper live, with intense performance energy and a mid-song breakdown arrangement that’s deeply emotional and a major highlight.
It’s a scorching hard rock tune from a band that had kicked their drug habits and come back firing on all cylinders.
AmsterdamNothing But Thieves

Known as one of Nothing But Thieves’ signature works, this song is characterized by powerful guitar riffs and melodic vocals.
While raw and full of momentum, it features a strikingly beautiful middle section often described as “a respite in a storm at sea.” The lyrics, which depict a sense of discomfort with the superficial aspects of society and a quest to find one’s true self, leave a strong impression on listeners.
Released in May 2017, the track was unveiled as the lead single from their second album, Broken Machine, and immediately drew attention.
With lyrics that delve into universal challenges of modern society, it’s especially recommended for those who feel a thirst for self-realization and a conflict with social expectations.
LegendarySkillet

A Christian metal band with a rare lineup for a rock group—two men and two women—Skillet delivers this track.
Over a heavy shuffle beat, the intertwining male-and-female twin vocals create a distinctive, beautiful song that produces a one-of-a-kind sound unlike any other band.
Never ThereSUM41

A song by the Canadian punk band Sum 41.
While the band is known for its intense punk sound, the first half is a beautiful number that highlights piano and acoustic guitar, and in the latter half it shifts into a more intense band-driven sound that still resonates emotionally.
[Masterpiece Selection] Collection of Classic Western Rock Songs (131–140)
Lo/HiThe Black Keys

A song by the American rock duo The Black Keys.
With a style and sound influenced by blues rock, it evokes a classic, old-school vibe while still being crafted into a modern, punchy track—one that’s sure to bring a grin to the face of rock fans.
Should I Stay or Should I GoThe Clash

The Clash have cemented their name in rock history as a legendary punk band.
The cover of London Calling is incredibly famous in Japan as well, often seen on T-shirt designs and more.
One of their hallmarks was incorporating a wide range of musical genres with punk at the core.
Released in 1982, later in their career, Should I Stay or Should I Go could be described as slow punk with bursts of fast punk.
The tambourine rhythm is insanely cool.
It’s a classic track from the masterpiece Combat Rock.
Show Me A LeaderAlter Bridge

A track that sings about trustworthy, effective leadership.
It was inspired by the dissatisfaction many people around the world are currently feeling.
Released in 2016 by the American rock band Alter Bridge, it reached No.
16 on the U.
S.
charts.






