[2025] Songs You’ll Want to Listen to This Summer! Popular and Recommended Classic Rock Tracks from the West

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!
A Vocaloid producer who is also a music writerWakachan Araki
I started playing guitar in middle school and focused on band activities during my student years. I’ve been a hobbyist Vocaloid producer for over 15 years. After entering the workforce, I gained experience in various roles, including event sound engineering and videography/photography. As a writer, I’ve contributed introduction articles for music and manga websites, and in 2022 I had the opportunity to write the bonus liner notes for IA SUPER BEST. My specialties are Japanese rock, Vocaloid, and manga.

Spring, summer, autumn, winter—many music lovers keep playlists of songs they want to listen to when each season comes around.

In this article, under the theme “Rock Songs to Listen to in Summer,” we’ve compiled recommended summer tracks spanning the 1960s to the 2020s—from recent hits and fan favorites to timeless classics.

Of course, “rock” covers a wide range of styles, so you’re sure to find summer songs you’ll love.

Be sure to check it out and enjoy it as your soundtrack for this summer!

[2025] Songs You’ll Want to Hear This Summer! Popular and Recommended Classic Western Rock Tracks (81–90)

Schools Out for SummerAC/DC

♫ AC/DC Schools Out for Summer ♫

Schools Out for SummerAC/DC

AC/DC, the rock band Australia is proud of.

Many people admire their outstanding guitar skills.

A perfect song from their band sound for summer is “School’s Out for Summer.” This track is actually a cover of a song released in 1972 by American singer-songwriter Alice Cooper.

Their version delivers an even thicker, more powerful band sound than the original.

It’s a song that expresses the joy of welcoming summer vacation!

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Beer Never Broke My HeartLuke Combs

Luke Combs – Beer Never Broke My Heart (Official Video)

Beer Never Broke My HeartLuke Combs

The heavy band sound perfectly matches his solid, resonant voice! This exhilarating track is “Beer Never Broke My Heart” by country singer Luke Combs.

It’s included on his 2019 EP, The Prequel.

From the powerhouse vocals to the guitar solo, every part is just plain cool.

It’s the perfect song to blast when you want to let loose with friends after work!

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Plug In BabyMuse

Muse – Plug In Baby (Official Video)

Plug In BabyMuse

A rock tune with an overwhelming guitar riff and powerful vocals that makes you want to move your body! This track is included on Origin of Symmetry by the celebrated British band Muse.

Its sophisticated sound and grand atmosphere will definitely resonate with fans of Queen or Radiohead, and it’s perfect for getting a crowd going live.

The lyrics, which explore the relationship between technology and humanity, are intriguing too, and just listening might fill you with summer energy.

Since its 2001 release, this song has continued to captivate many fans, making it an essential addition to summer road trip and outdoor festival playlists.

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Here Comes Your ManPixies

Pixies – Here Comes Your Man (Official Video)

Here Comes Your ManPixies

With its surf sound that evokes a summery vibe, this Pixies track satisfies both those seeking a sense of speed and those who want to enjoy something more relaxed.

Released in June 1989, the song appears on the band’s classic album Doolittle and reached No.

3 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart.

According to frontman Black Francis, the song’s theme is about drunks and hobos traveling by train who die in a California earthquake.

Featured in films like (500) Days of Summer, it has left its mark on pop culture as well.

It’s a perfect pick for a summer drive.

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Purpose For PainSCOTT STAPP

SCOTT STAPP – Purpose For Pain (Official Video) | Napalm Records

Purpose For PainSCOTT STAPP

Scott Stapp, who was active as the vocalist for the 90s post-grunge band Creed.

The piece introduced here is his 2019 release, “Purpose of Pain.” Summer is a time when rock festivals are often held, and many people probably associate it with the bold, exhilarating sound that bands are known for.

The heavy sound of “Purpose of Pain” will especially hit home for those seeking exactly that kind of music!

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Summertime BluesThe Who

THE WHO – Summertime Blues (1975)

Summertime BluesThe Who

An energetic rock number you’ll want to listen to under the summer blue sky.

Its lyrics, portraying the struggles of youth, carry a message that resonates across generations.

Released by The Who in July 1970, this track appears on the live album “Live at Leeds” and is known as one of their signature songs.

It also enjoyed strong popularity in the United States, peaking at No.

27 on the Billboard Hot 100.

With powerful performances and a catchy melody, it’s perfect for summer activities like the beach or a drive.

A recommended track for those who want to feel youth and a rebellious spirit.

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In conclusion

This time we featured Western rock songs you’ll want to listen to in summer—did you find a new favorite summer song? There are plenty of articles highlighting Western summer tunes, but there aren’t many that focus specifically on rock.

If this gave you the chance to discover some classic summer tracks you didn’t know before, I’m thrilled!