60 Rock Songs You Need in Your Life

We’ve rounded up 60 of the best rock songs for you to add to your playlist. From classic rock anthems to modern hits, these songs will get you pumped up and ready to rock.

The Beatles – “Rock and Roll Music”

“Rock and Roll Music” is a song written and originally recorded by rock and roll pioneer Chuck Berry. The Beatles recorded their version of the song in 1964. It was released on the album Beatles for Sale and as a single in 1976, with “Twist and Shout” as the B-side.

The Beatles’ version of “Rock and Roll Music” is a cover of Chuck Berry’s original recording. The Beatles’ drummer, Ringo Starr, said that the song was one of his favorite songs to play. Starr said that he loved the “boom-chicka-boom” sound of the track.

The song features John Lennon on lead vocals and guitar, Paul McCartney on bass, George Harrison on rhythm guitar, and Ringo Starr on drums.

The Rolling Stones – “Satisfaction”

The Rolling Stones – “Satisfaction”

I can’t get no satisfaction
I can’t get no satisfaction
‘Cause I try and I try and I try and I try
I can’t get no, I can’t get no

When I’m drivin’ in my car
And a man comes on the radio
And he’s tellin’ me more and more
About some useless information
Supposed to fire my imagination
I can’t get no, oh no, no, no
Hey, hey, hey, that’s what I say

Led Zeppelin – “Whole Lotta Love”

“Whole Lotta Love” is one of Led Zeppelin’s most iconic songs, and for good reason. It’s a hard-hitting, blues-infused rock anthem that has stood the test of time. Featuring some of Jimmy Page’s most memorable guitar work, Robert Plant’s powerful vocals, and John Bonham’s unstoppable drumming, “Whole Lotta Love” is a song that every rock fan needs in their life.

The Beach Boys – “Fun, Fun, Fun”

The Beach Boys – “Fun, Fun, Fun”

With its sunny California sound and carefree lyrics, “Fun, Fun, Fun” is the perfect song for a summer day. The Beach Boys really knew how to write a catchy tune, and this one is no exception. It’s impossible to listen to this song without smiling.

Chuck Berry – “Maybellene”

Berry’s first hit single covers familiar territory, with the singer yearning for a lost love, but it’s the way he tells the story that sets “Maybellene” apart. Berry’s backing band was superb, and his guitar playing sparked a thousand rockers to pick up the instrument.

Elvis Presley – “Jailhouse Rock”

Elvis Presley’s “Jailhouse Rock” was released in 1957 as a single and quickly became one of his most iconic and well-known songs. The song is an up-tempo rockabilly tune with a catchy melody that is impossible to resist, and its accompanying dance routine has been mimicked by generations of fans. “Jailhouse Rock” was also one of the first songs to be commercially successful that did not have a traditional pop sound, which helped expand the genre’s popularity.

Little Richard – “Tutti Frutti”

“Tutti Frutti” was one of the first hits by Little Richard, who is credited with popularizing rock ‘n’ roll. The song is a fast-paced, energetic tune with a catchy hook that is impossible to resist. The lyrics are simple but effective, and the overall effect is a song that is guaranteed to get your toes tapping.

Eddie Cochran – “Summertime Blues”

“Summertime Blues” is a song co-written and recorded by American rockabilly artist Eddie Cochran. It was written in 1958 and released as a single in August of that year. The song is considered an important early work in the rock genre and has been covered by many artists, including the Beach Boys, the Who, Jimi Hendrix, and Blue Cheer.

Jerry Lee Lewis – “Great Balls of Fire”

There are few greater gifts in life than a good rock song. The kind of song that gets your blood pumping and your toes tapping, no matter where you are or what you’re doing. The kind of song that makes you feel alive.

“Great Balls of Fire” by Jerry Lee Lewis is one of those songs.

Released in 1957, “Great Balls of Fire” was one of the first rock and roll songs to cross over into the mainstream. It was also one of the first songs to bring Lewis’ unique brand of piano-playing to the masses.

With its driving beat and catchy lyrics, “Great Balls of Fire” is a song that is guaranteed to get you moving. So turn it up loud and enjoy!

Fats Domino – “Ain’t That a Shame”

“Ain’t That a Shame” is a song written by Fats Domino and Dave Bartholomew. Dominohad originally recorded the tune for Imperial Records, but it was rejected. In 1955, he re-recorded it as his ninth single for Imperial. The tune became one of his biggest hits, and has been covered by many artists including John Lennon, Cheap Trick, and Guns N’ Roses.

Buddy Holly – “Peggy Sue”

“Peggy Sue” is a song written by Buddy Holly, Jerry Allison, and Norman Petty in 1957. It was first recorded by Buddy Holly and the Crickets on May 27, 1957 and released as a single on October 19, 1957. The single caused Holly’s career to take off quickly.

Roy Orbison – “Oh, Pretty Woman”

There are certain songs that just make you feel good – and “Oh, Pretty Woman” by Roy Orbison is definitely one of them. With its catchy rhythms and Orbison’s soulful voice, it’s no wonder this song has stood the test of time. If you’re looking for a feel-good rock song to add to your playlist, look no further than “Oh, Pretty Woman”!

The Kinks – “You Really Got Me”

The Kinks – “You Really Got Me”

The Kinks were one of the most influential rock bands of the 60s, and “You Really Got Me” is one of their most iconic songs. This track is guaranteed to get you moving, with its catchy riff and driving rhythm.

The Who – “My Generation”

There are a lot of great songs out there, but some just speak to us on a different level. They become the soundtrack to our lives, and we can’t imagine living without them. Here are 60 rock songs that you need in your life!

1. The Who – “My Generation”
2. Creedence Clearwater Revival – “Fortunate Son”
3. Led Zeppelin – “Stairway to Heaven”
4. Queen – “Bohemian Rhapsody”
5. Pink Floyd – “Another Brick in the Wall, Pt. 2”
6. Nirvana – “Smells Like Teen Spirit”
7. Pearl Jam – “Alive”
8. Foo Fighters – “Everlong”
9. Muse – “Uprising”
10. Rage Against the Machine – “Killing in the Name Of…”

The Doors – “Light My Fire”

This song is from the band’s debut album, and it was released as a single in 1967. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and it has been covered by many artists. The song is about a relationship that is ending, and it has been described as one of the best break-up songs of all time.

Jimi Hendrix – “Purple Haze”

If there is one song that arguably started the psychedelic revolution, it would have to be Jimi Hendrix’s acid-drenched anthem, “Purple Haze.” The mind-bending opening riff, the otherworldly solo, and Hendrix’s signature howl all come together to create a song that has gone on to become one of the most influential in rock history.

Cream – “Sunshine of Your Love”

Cream was one of the first rock bands to really experiment with longform, psychedelic jamming, and “Sunshine of Your Love” might be their tightest, most unforgettable example. It introduced the world to Eric Clapton’s wah-wah pedal obsession (check out those opening licks) and to the power of a truly great rock power trio.

Steppenwolf – “Born to Be Wild”

Even if you’ve never seen Easy Rider, you know “Born to Be Wild” – it’s been in commercials, movies, and video games. It’s the epitome of a classic rock song, and it captures the freedom and spirit of the open road.

Deep Purple – “Smoke on the Water”

Deep Purple – “Smoke on the Water” is one of those perfect rock songs. Every element comes together perfectly to create a hard-hitting, unforgettable track. The opening guitar riff is one of the most iconic in rock history, and the solo is nothing short of perfection. The song is about the band’s experiences at the casino in Montreux, Switzerland, which caught fire during a Frank Zappa concert. The lyrical imagery is some of the best in rock music, and the overall tone of the song is both powerful and somber. This is a must-have for any rock fan’s collection.

Black Sabbath – “Paranoid”

Black Sabbath’s second album, Paranoid, is often cited as the blueprint for heavy metal. It’s also one of the most influential and popular rock songs of all time. Musically, “Paranoid” is anchored by Tony Iommi’s signature riff, which is among the most recognizable in rock history. Ozzy Osbourne’s lyrics are as dark and foreboding as the music, making “Paranoid” a perfect encapsulation of the band’s ominous sound.

Led Zeppelin – “Stairway to Heaven”

Led Zeppelin – “Stairway to Heaven”

This classic rock song was released in 1971 and is one of the most popular and enduring rock songs of all time. It has been covered by many artists and was even voted as the greatest song of all time by Rolling Stone magazine in 2009.

Queen – “We Will Rock You”

Few bands have left as lasting an impression on the world of rock music as Queen. The British group was responsible for some of the biggest hits of the 1970s and 80s, including “We Will Rock You.” The song, which was released in 1977, quickly became a stadium anthem and has been covered by everyone from Bruce Springsteen to Beyonce. Whether you’re a diehard Queen fan or just getting into their music, “We Will Rock You” is a must-have in your rock song collection.

AC/DC – “Highway to Hell”

Few songs embody the pure rock and roll spirit quite like AC/DC’s “Highway to Hell.” With its driving guitar riffs and upbeat tempo, this song is guaranteed to get you moving. Whether you’re headbanging along with the band or just nodding your head along to the beat, “Highway to Hell” is a perfect addition to any rock playlist.

Van Halen – “Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout Love”

From their 1978 self-titled debut album, this was the song that first introduced the world to Van Halen. Built around a simple, yet instantly recognizable guitar riff from Eddie Van Halen, “Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout Love” is a powerful rock anthem that remains a staple of the band’s live show to this day.

Aerosmith – “Walk This Way”

Aerosmith’s classic 1976 song “Walk This Way” is a stone-cold classic of ’70s hard rock, and one of the best-known examples of the genre. It was also a major hit for the band, reaching #10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song has been covered by a number of other artists, including Run-D.M.C., who had a hit with their version in 1986.

Kiss – “Rock and Roll All Nite”

“Rock and Roll All Nite” is a song by American rock band Kiss, released as the lead single from their fourth studio album, Destroyer (1976). It was released on May 19, 1975 and was composed by Paul Stanley and Bob Ezrin. The song is credited with being the band’s most well-known song and their signature tune. It is one of the most popular rock songs of all time, and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2012.

David Bowie – “Ziggy Stardust”

No matter how many times you’ve heard it, there’s something about “Ziggy Stardust” that just makes you feel cool. Bowie was a chameleon, constantly reinventing himself, and “Ziggy Stardust” is one of his most iconic personas. The song itself is anthemic and catchy, with a riff that will stay stuck in your head for days.

Pink Floyd – “Another Brick in the Wall”

When it comes to classic rock songs, there are few that are more iconic than Pink Floyd’s “Another Brick in the Wall.” The song, which was released in 1979, is one of the band’s most famous and is still beloved by fans today.

The song is about striking out against conformity and the systems that keep people trapped in their lives. It’s a powerful anthem for anyone who has ever felt like they didn’t fit in or like they were being held back by society.

If you’re looking for a classic rock song that will get you pumped up and make you feel like you can take on the world, “Another Brick in the Wall” is the perfect choice.

The Clash – “London Calling”

The Clash – “London Calling”

Arguably one of the greatest rock songs of all time, “London Calling” is a searing indictment of Thatcher’s Britain and a rallying cry for the disaffected youth of the day. The Clash were at the top of their game when they wrote and recorded this song, and it remains an anthem for anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t fit in.

The Sex Pistols – “Anarchy in the U.K.”

The Sex Pistols’ debut single is an unmitigated classic – a primal blast of energy that defined punk rock and served notice that the youth culture had found its voice. Johnny Rotten’s sneering delivery of the opening line – “I am an antichrist” – shocked the country, as did the host of taboo-busting topics addressed in the song: violence, fascism, celebrity worship, empty consumerism. In retrospect it’s not surprising that “Anarchy in the U.K.” was banned by the BBC and several major radio stations; at the time, it felt like a genuine act of rebellion.

The Ramones – “Blitzkrieg Bop”

“Blitzkrieg Bop” is one of the Ramones’ most iconic songs, and for good reason. It’s fast, it’s catchy, and it perfectly encapsulates the band’s rough-and-tumble image. The song is also notable for its use of the titular phrase “blitzkrieg bop,” which would go on to become one of the Ramones’ signature catchphrases.

The Talking Heads – “Psycho Killer”

From the opening drumming that leads into the signature guitar riff, “Psycho Killer” by Talking Heads hooks you in and keeps you coming back for more. The ethereal quality of David Byrne’s voice adds to the creepy vibe of the lyrics, which are actually based on a real killer. This song is perfect for anyone who wants to add a little edge to their workout playlist.

Blondie – “Heart of Glass”

Formed in 1974, Blondie is a punk rock band from New York City. The group is composed of Debbie Harry (vocals), Chris Stein (guitar), and Clem Burke (drums). In 1977, the band released their debut album, Blondie, which spawned the hit single “Heart of Glass.”

“Heart of Glass” was written by Harry and Stein and produced by Mike Chapman. The song was inspired by the disco music that was popular at the time. Despite its popularity, the song was not initially released as a single due to fears that it would alienate the band’s punk rock fans. However, after the song became a club hit, it was released as a single in 1979 and reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Since its release, “Heart of Glass” has been covered by numerous artists, including Patti Smith, Gwen Stefani, and Cyndi Lauper. It has also been used in various films and television shows, including The Wolf of Wall Street and Stranger Things.

Patti Smith – “Because the Night”

As an artist, Patti Smith has always been ahead of her time. “Because the Night” is a perfect example of this. The song, which was co-written with Bruce Springsteen, was released in 1978 but didn’t gain mainstream popularity until it was covered by 10,000 Maniacs in 1993. Nevertheless, the song has remained a staple of Smith’s live shows over the years.

Television – “Marquee Moon”

Formed in New York City in 1973, Television combined the fire of punk rock with the extended improvisational jams of the Grateful Dead to create something completely new. Despite releasing just two albums, Marquee Moon (1977) and Adventure (1978), the band left a lasting impression on both the punk and post-punk scenes.

“Marquee Moon” is the perfect example of Television’s unique sound, melding together tight guitar interplay, hook-laden songwriting, and extended instrumental sections. The result is an instant classic that has stood the test of time.

The Velvet Underground – “Sweet Jane”

There are few bands as influential as The Velvet Underground, and “Sweet Jane” is one of their most iconic tracks. It’s a perfect example of the group’s signature blend of art and Punk, with its catchy melody and sing-along chorus offset by Lou Reed’s deadpan delivery. The song has been covered by countless artists over the years, but nobody does it quite like The Velvet Underground.

The Stooges – “I Wanna Be Your Dog”

There’s no denying the primal power of The Stooges’ “I Wanna Be Your Dog.” The Detroit proto-punks’ 1969 single is one of the most influential tracks in rock history, period. It’s been covered by everyone from Sonic Youth to Patti Smith to Green Day, and its impact can still be felt today, nearly 50 years later.

The song starts with a simple, three-chord riff that doesn’t let up for its entirety. Iggy Pop’s primal yelps and howls are the perfect compliment to the music, creating a feeling of pure unbridled energy. It’s the perfect anthem for anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider or misunderstood – which, let’s be honest, is all of us at some point in our lives.

So crank up the volume and let “I Wanna Be Your Dog” take you away to a place where anything is possible.

The New York Dolls – “Personality Crisis”

The New York Dolls were one of the most influential bands of the early punk rock scene. “Personality Crisis” is one of their most well-known songs, and its catchy hook and punk attitude make it a must-have for any rock fan’s collection.

Iggy Pop – “

Iggy Pop – “The Passenger”

from the album Lust for Life (1977)

Iggy Pop’s signature song, “The Passenger,” is a perfect blend of punk attitude and pop melody. The simple, driving guitar riff is irresistible, and Pop’s wailing vocals are both impassioned and playfully self-destructive. This is one of those perfect rock songs that you can’t help but sing along to, even if you don’t know all the words.