[Masterpiece Selection] A Compilation of Classic Western Rock Songs

It’s My LifeBon Jovi

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

A song by Bon Jovi, known as a quintessential American hard rock band, that achieved worldwide success, including in Japan.

In Japan, it’s often used as athletes’ entrance music and frequently played on variety shows, so even people who aren’t very familiar with Western music have probably heard it at least once.

From the intro up to the pre-chorus, a heavy, minor-key feel prevails, and then the chorus opens up the soundscape all at once—a song structure so masterfully executed that it’s only fitting for a band that defined an era.

It’s a track that showcases Bon Jovi’s signature catchy melodies, blending pop sensibilities with a touch of wistfulness.

Smells Like Teen SpiritNirvana

Nirvana – Smells Like Teen Spirit (Official Music Video)

A signature song by Nirvana, the three-piece band that launched grunge as a new genre in the rock world and sparked a global boom.

Despite its simple structure of repeating the same chord progression, the ensemble—led by vocals that never make it feel monotonous—was a blind spot and a revolution in the early 1990s rock scene, when advanced technique was at its peak.

It’s said that by 2002 its music video was the most played in Europe, a track that etched Nirvana’s name into rock history.

Don’t Look Back In AngerOasis

Oasis – Don’t Look Back In Anger (Official Video)

A song by Oasis, the British rock band also known for their admiration of the Beatles—fellow working-class musicians who became a global phenomenon.

In Japan, the track is heard in various contexts, from TV commercials to movie ending themes and music games.

True to its background, the song features a high-quality, beautiful melody and arrangement that evoke the Beatles, as if they were reborn with a modern sound, while also signaling the arrival of a new era in rock.

It remains a beloved number for that very reason.

Bohemian RhapsodyQueen

Queen – Bohemian Rhapsody (Official Video Remastered)

A song by the British rock band Queen, released in 1975 and included on the band’s fourth album, A Night at the Opera.

The song’s structure is highly dramatic: it starts a cappella and initially takes on a ballad-like tone, then shifts into an operatic middle section, and finally concludes with hard rock.

When I first listened to it, I was deeply struck by the operatic middle part.

This song also lent its title to the biographical film about Queen’s lead vocalist, the late Freddie Mercury.

I truly believe it’s a masterpiece that represents Queen—no, one that deserves its place in the history of rock music!

LaylaDerek and the Dominos

Eric Clapton – Layla

This song, released under the name Derek and the Dominos, is by Eric Clapton, a guitarist well-known in Japan as one of the world’s top three guitarists.

The intro guitar riff is often used in commercials in Japan, so many people have probably heard it.

In addition to Eric Clapton, the guitar on this track features Duane Allman, leader of the Allman Brothers Band, as a guest, making it a luxurious number where you can fully enjoy the playing of two great guitarists.

Sunshine of Your LoveCream

Cream – Sunshine of your love

The birth of a classic that shines in rock history came in 1967.

Released by Cream, this song captivated many with Eric Clapton’s guitar riff and lyrics that sing of the warmth of love.

Included on the album Disraeli Gears and issued as a single the following year, it reached No.

5 on the Billboard chart.

It has been used in films and TV dramas, and its popularity shows no sign of fading.

Expressing the longing to be reunited with a lover and the happiness of being filled with love, this track is perfect for special moments spent with someone dear.

Its heartwarming melody and lyrics will deepen your feelings for the one you love.

Stairway to HeavenLed Zeppelin

Stairway to Heaven Live

One of the signature songs by the British rock band Led Zeppelin.

Jimmy Page, a member who is also considered one of the world’s three greatest guitarists, composed it with the concept of a long, gradually intensifying piece, and it’s said that vocalist Robert Plant wrote the lyrics in front of the fireplace at Headley Grange.

The band sound unfolds toward the ending with some progressive elements, letting you savor a highly engaging eight minutes.