The Best Rock Music of the 20s

A look at the best rock music of the 1920s. Featuring artists such as Bessie Smith, Louis Armstrong, and Jelly Roll Morton.

The Best Rock Music of the 20s

The decade of the 20s was a time of great change in the world of rock music. New genres and sub-genres were born, and established artists continued to push the boundaries of what was possible with the genre. In no particular order, here are 10 of the best rock songs of the 20s.

1. “The Sign” by Ace of Base
2. “Basket Case” by Green Day
3. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana
4. “Gangsta’s Paradise” by Coolio
5. “Waterfalls” by TLC
6. “Wonderwall” by Oasis
7. “Iris” by The Goo Goo Dolls
8. “Losing My Religion” by R.E.M.
9. “Vogue” by Madonna
10. “(Everything I Do) I Do It for You” by Bryan Adams

The Best Rock Music of the 20s – Part 2

The 20s was one of the most important decades for rock music. It was a decade that saw the birth of rock and roll, and the development of new styles like blues rock, hard rock, and glam rock. It was also a decade that saw the rise of some of the most iconic bands in rock history, including Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, and The Beatles.

This is part two of our two-part series on the best rock music of the 20s. In this article, we’ll be counting down the 10 best rock albums of the decade.

10. AC/DC – Highway to Hell

Released in 1979, Highway to Hell was AC/DC’s sixth studio album. It was also their last album with lead singer Bon Scott, who died just a few months after its release. Highway to Hell is a classic hard rock album, full of catchy riffs and high-energy songs. It’s one of AC/DC’s most popular albums, and it has been ranked by many critics as one of the greatest albums of all time.

9. Led Zeppelin – Houses of the Holy

Houses of the Holy is Led Zeppelin’s fifth studio album, released in 1973. It continued in the same vein as Led Zeppelin IV, with elements of blues, folk, and world music present in the band’s sound. Houses of the Holy is one of Led Zeppelin’s more experimental albums, with songs like “The Song Remains the Same” and “No Quarter” showing off a more experimental side to the band. Despite this experimentation, Houses of the Holy is still considered one of Led Zeppelin’s greatest albums, and it is often cited as an influence by later hard rock and metal bands.

8. Pink Floyd – Dark Side of the Moon

Pink Floyd’s 1973 album The Dark Side of The Moon is one of the most popular and influential albums ever released. The concept album exploring mental illness and paranoia was Pink Floyd’s eighth studio album, and it topped charts around the world upon its release. Over 40 years later, Dark Side Of The Moon is still selling well, and it has been voted by many critics as one

The Best Rock Music of the 20s – Part 3

As we enter the third decade of the 21st century, it’s time to take a look back at the best rock music of the 20s. This was a decade that saw the rise of streaming services, the fall of CD sales, and the continued domination of hip-hop and pop. But despite all of these changes, rock music still managed to make its presence felt. Here are our picks for the best rock albums of the 20s.

20. Foo Fighters –Concrete and Gold

After a five-year hiatus, Foo Fighters returned in 2017 with their ninth studio album, Concrete and Gold. The album was met with critical acclaim, with many reviewers lauding its ability to stay fresh and relevant despite the band’s longstanding career. Concrete and Gold is packed with arena-ready anthems like “Run” and “The Sky Is a Neighborhood,” but also features more introspective tracks like “Dirty Water” and “Sunday Rain.” It’s an album that showcases the best of what Foo Fighters have to offer, and is sure to please both diehard fans and casual listeners alike.

19. Queens of the Stone Age – …Like Clockwork

Queens of the Stone Age returned in 2013 with their sixth studio album, …Like Clockwork. The album was recorded in part during frontman Josh Homme’s recovery from a near-fatal illness, which gives it a poignant edge that is absent from much of the band’s previous work. …Like Clockwork is full of dark, brooding tracks like “I Sat by the Ocean” and “Keep Your Eyes Peeled,” but also features more upbeat numbers like “My God Is the Sun” and “If I Had a Tail.” It’s an ambitious album that finds Queens of the Stone Age at their very best.

18. Arcade Fire – Everything Now

Montreal-based indie rockers Arcade Fire returned in 2017 with their fifth studio album, Everything Now. The album was met with mixed reviews from critics, but still managed to debut at No. 1 on Billboard 200 chart. Everything Now features some of Arcade Fire’s most catchy and radio-friendly tracks to date, including “Creature Comfort” and “Signs of Life.” But despite its more commercial leanings, the album still retains the band’s trademark quirkiness and flair for experimentation. It’s an enjoyable listen from start to finish, and one that should please both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

The Best Rock Music of the 20s – Part 4

As we reach the end of our look back at the best rock music of the 1920s, we find that the genre was continuing to evolve and grow in popularity. By the end of the decade, artists were experimentation with different sounds and styles, and rock music was beginning to cross over into other genres. Here are some of the best rock songs of the late 1920s.

“Ida Red” by Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys
This song, which was released in 1929, is considered to be one of the first country-western crossover hits. It tells the story of a girl who is taken by a group of Indians, and it features a catchy melody and some great fiddle playing.

“Rock and Roll” by Joe Hill Louis
This song, which was released in 1928, is credited as being one of the first ever rock songs. It’s a catchy tune with a great groove, and it’s clear that rock music was starting to take shape in the late 1920s.

“Got Rhythm” by The Georgia Syncopators
This song, which was released in 1929, is a great example of how jazz and blues were starting to influence rock music. It’s a fun, upbeat tune with some great horn playing.

The Best Rock Music of the 20s – Part 5

The Roaring Twenties were a time of great change and liberation. For the first time in history, young people were living fast-paced, exciting lives unhindered by the traditions and expectations of their elders. It was a time for new fashion, new music, and new ways of thinking.

One of the most striking changes of the Twenties was the rise of popular music. For the first time, young people had their own music that they loved and that reflected their own experience. This was the era of Jazz, and it had a profound impact on the whole world.

The other big change in music was the rise of rock ‘n’ roll. This new genre was born in the United States but quickly spread to the rest of the world. It was loud, it was rebellious, and it was here to stay.

In this article, we’re going to take a look at some of the best rock music of the 20s. We’ll explore both American and British artists who defined this new genre and helped shape our musical landscape today.

The Best Rock Music of the 20s – Part 6

In this sixth and final installment of our series on the best rock music of the 20s, we take a look at some of the most influential bands and artists of the decade. From the early days of rock and roll to the advent of punk rock, these artists left their mark on music history.

The Beatles
Arguably the most important band in rock history, The Beatles began their career in the late 50s but reached their peak in the 60s. With a string of hits like “I Want To Hold Your Hand”, “She Loves You”, and “Yesterday”, The Beatles defined what it meant to be a rock band and influenced countless other artists.

The Rolling Stones
Another massively important band of the 20th century, The Rolling Stones started out as a blues cover band but quickly developed their own sound. With hits like “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction”, “Paint It Black”, and “Sympathy For The Devil”, The Rolling Stones proved that they were one of the greatest rock bands of all time.

Led Zeppelin
One of the most successful bands of all time, Led Zeppelin dominated the 70s with their brand of hard rock. With hits like “Stairway To Heaven”, “Whole Lotta Love”, and “Kashmir”, Led Zeppelin cemented their place in rock history as one of the greatest bands ever.

Pink Floyd
An English rock band that achieved international success with their progressive and psychedelic style of music. Pink Floyd is best known for their concept albums such as “The Dark Side Of The Moon” and “The Wall” which are two of the best-selling albums of all time.

Queen
One of the most popular bands in history, Queen was known for their grandiose style and theatrical live shows. With hits like “Bohemian Rhapsody”, “We Will Rock You”, and ��Another One Bites The Dust”, Queen proved that they were one of the greatest rock bands ever.

The Best Rock Music of the 20s – Part 7

As we come to the end of our countdown of the best rock music of the 20s, we enter the top ten with a mix of tracks that are sure to get your toes tapping. From classic rock anthems to underground hits, these tunes represent some of the greatest music that the genre has to offer.

10) “Movin’ On” – Bad Company

Bad Company was one of the most successful bands of the 70s, and “Movin’ On” is a perfect example of why. The catchy riff and singalong chorus make it an instant classic, and it’s a perfect track to listen to when you’re ready to move on from your ex.

9) “Ramble On” – Led Zeppelin

Led Zeppelin is one of the most influential bands in rock history, and “Ramble On” is one of their best tracks. The song is about hobbits (yes, really), but that doesn’t stop it from being an absolute banger. The guitar riff is unforgettable, and Robert Plant’s vocals are as good as ever.

8) “Sharp Dressed Man” – ZZ Top

This song might be ZZ Top’s most well-known track, and for good reason. It’s a perfect blend of rock and blues, with a killer guitar solo thrown in for good measure. If you need a pick-me-up, put this song on and get ready to dance.

7) “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” – The Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones are one of the greatest rock bands of all time, and “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” is one of their best songs. It deals with disappointment and accepting that life doesn’t always go your way, but its uplifting chorus makes it clear that giving up isn’t an option. This is a song that will stay with you long after it ends.

6) “Smells Like Teen Spirit�� – Nirvana

Nirvana changed the face of rock music with their album Nevermind, and “Smells Like Teen Spirit” is its standout track. Kurt Cobain perfectly captures the frustration and disillusionment of Gen Xers in this anthem for disaffected youth, and the result is a song that still feels relevant today. If you haven��t listened to this track in a while, it might just blow your mind all over again.

The Best Rock Music of the 20s – Part 8

The Best Rock Music of the 20s – Part 8

Welcome to the eighth installment of our series on the best rock music of the 20s. This decade saw the rise of rock music, and it quickly became one of the most popular genres in the world. This list features some of the greatest rock songs of the 20s, so crank up the volume and enjoy!

“Rolling in the Deep” by Adele
“I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor
“We Will Rock You” by Queen
“You Shook Me All Night Long” by AC/DC
“Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana
“Rock You like a Hurricane” by Scorpions

The Best Rock Music of the 20s – Part 9

In this final installment of our series on the best rock music of the 20s, we take a look at some of the top artists and bands from around the world who helped make rock music what it is today. From the United States to Europe and beyond, these are the acts that defined a decade and continue to influence rock music today.

Nirvana – Nirvana was one of the most influential rock bands of the 20s, and their impact is still felt today. Formed in Seattle in 1987, Nirvana was composed of singer/guitarist Kurt Cobain, bassist Krist Novoselic, and drummer Dave Grohl. The band released their debut album Bleach in 1989, followed by their breakthrough album Nevermind in 1991. Nirvana’s raw sound and emotionally charged lyrics spoke to a generation of disaffected youth, and the band became an international sensation. Cobain tragically took his own life in 1994, but Nirvana’s legacy continues to live on through their music.

Pearl Jam – Another hugely successful band from Seattle, Pearl Jam was formed in 1990 and quickly rose to prominence with their debut album Ten. Led by singer Eddie Vedder, Pearl Jam became known for their powerful live performances and social activism. The band released a string of successful albums throughout the 90s including Vs., Vitalogy, No Code, Yield, Binaural, and Riot Act. Pearl Jam is still active today and continues to tour and release new music.

Radiohead – Radiohead is an English rock band that formed in 1985. The band consists of singer Thom Yorke, guitarist Jonny Greenwood, bassist Colin Greenwood, drummer Philip Selway, and keyboardist Ed O’Brien. Radiohead released their debut album Pablo Honey in 1993, followed by The Bends in 1995. They achieved global success with their 1997 album OK Computer, which debuted at #1 on the UK charts and received critical acclaim for its innovative sound and ambitious songwriting. Radiohead has continued to push boundaries with each subsequent release, cementing their reputation as one of the most original and exciting rock bands around.

Red Hot Chili Peppers – The Red Hot Chili Peppers are a Californian funk rock band that formed in 1983. The band’s current lineup consists of singer Anthony Kiedis, bassist Flea, guitarist Chad Smith, and drummer Josh Klinghoffer. The Chili Peppers released their debut album The Red Hot Chili Peppers in 1984 ,followed by Freaky Styley in 1985 Their 1987 album Uplift Mofo Party Plan was a commercial success thanks to the hit single “Give It Away” ,and it paved the way for their breakthrough sixth album Blood Sugar Sex Magik ,which was released in 1991 .The Chili Peppers have remained one of the most popular rock bands over the past three decades ,releasing 11 studio albums and selling over 80 million records worldwide .

Foo Fighters – Foo Fighters is an American rock band that was formed by singer/guitarist Dave Grohl after the dissolution of his previous band Nirvana .The band’s current lineup includes Grohl ,bassist Nate Mendel ,guitarist Chris Shiflett ,drummer Taylor Hawkins ,and keyboardist Rami Jaffee .The Foo Fighters released their self-titled debut album in 1995 ,and it was followed by 1997’s The Colour And The Shape .The group achieved mainstream success with 1999’s There Is Nothing Left To Lose ,which featured hit singles “ Learn To Fly “ , “ Next Year “ ,and “ Breakout “ .The Foo Fighters have continued to be one of the most popular rock bands over the past two decades ,releasing eight more studio albums .

Rush – Rush is a Canadian rock trio that formed in 1968 .The band consists of guitarist Alex Lifeson ,bassist/keyboardist Geddy Lee ,and drummer Neil Peart .Rush released their self-titled debut album in 1974 ,followed by six more studio albums over the next six years .The group achieved international success with 1976’s 2112 which featuredthe iconic title track as well as “ A Passage To Bangkok “ from side two .Rush has continued to be a popular touring act overthe years ; they were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame In 2013 .

The Best Rock Music of the 20s – Part 10

10. “Crazy” by Gnarls Barkley

Genre: Neo-Psychedelia, Alternative Rock, Funk Rock

As the lead single for Gnarls Barkley’s debut album St. Elsewhere, “Crazy” was an instant success. It reached number one in several countries, won a Grammy Award for Best Urban/Alternative Performance, and is one of the few songs to ever receive a perfect rating from music critics. “Crazy” is a unique and timeless song that perfectly blends psychedelic and funk rock elements with modern production.