[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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[Masterpiece Selection] Collection of Classic Western Rock Songs (131–140)
The OthersideRed Sun Rising
Red Sun Rising is a rock band from Ohio formed in 2007.
This track, characterized by its dark melodies, was released as a single in 2015.
It reached No.
1 on the U.
S.
charts.
The music video was directed by Brad Golowin.
Eagle BirdsThe Black Keys
This is the song Eagle Birds by the American lo-fi rock band The Black Keys.
Distorted vocals and a nostalgic rock sound are their trademarks.
They’re a band that has received high praise from many quarters, including a collaboration on stage with Johnny Depp at the 2012 MTV Movie Awards.
However, there are also rumors that Jack White of The White Stripes dislikes The Black Keys, saying they copied his style.
Take Me DownThe Pretty Reckless
A classic rock track overflowing with sorrow and soul, released as a digital download in 2016 by The Pretty Reckless.
It reached No.
1 on the U.
S.
charts.
The music video was directed by Meiert Avis, who has also worked on projects for Bob Dylan, Iggy Pop, and U2.
Sleeping DogsZakk Wylde ft. Corey Taylor
A collaboration between American musician Zakk Wylde and Corey Taylor.
It’s a dark, sorrowful track with a bluesy, soulful feel.
Released in 2016, it was included on the album Book of Shadows II, which became a hit around the world.
Fall Back DownRancid
Among the songs created by the ska-punk icons Rancid, this one stands out as a true classic, with an exceptionally poppy yet bittersweet melody.
Fall Back Down is included on their sixth album, Indestructible, released in 2003, and it came out as the lead single.
There’s hardly any ska flavor here, and Tim Armstrong’s raspy lead vocals carry a gentle warmth.
The three guitar solos, the roaming bass lines, and the nostalgic keyboard tones all add great touches.
Behind the song lies Tim’s personal experience with divorce, and the lyrics—an impassioned ode to unchanging, lifelong friendship—are genuinely moving, so I highly recommend reading them.
By the way, the music video features Benji Madden of Good Charlotte, who were skyrocketing at the time, and Kelly Osbourne, daughter of the legendary Ozzy Osbourne—such perfectly 2003 vibes, and it’s great.
Little MonsterRoyal Blood
The overwhelming roar unleashed by this British rock duo is like a flood of riffs that sticks in your ears.
The tracks on Royal Blood’s debut album, released in 2014, still radiate an undimmed allure today.
Lyrics that capture fierce desire and dangerous charm seize listeners’ hearts and don’t let go.
Topping the UK Rock & Metal Singles Chart and making waves on charts around the world, this release put them firmly on the map.
Since their debut, Royal Blood have triumphed at major festivals worldwide, and in 2015 they won the Brit Award for Best British Group.
Listen to this song, and you might just fall under their spell too.
So WhatP!nk
All of her songs, a regular on the music charts like Billboard, have lyrics that truly linger in the heart.
Her cool looks, stylish husky voice, and music videos you can’t help but watch are part of the appeal, revealing a unique style unlike any other singer.