British rock music has a long and rich history, spanning from the 1950s to the present day. British rock bands have influenced millions of fans around the world, and have created some of the most iconic and memorable songs of all time. But what are the best British rock songs ever? That’s a tough question to answer, as different people may have different tastes and preferences. However, based on popularity, critical acclaim, cultural impact, and personal opinion, here are 20 British rock songs that we think deserve to be on the list.
1. Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen
Perhaps the most famous and beloved British rock song of all time, Bohemian Rhapsody is a masterpiece of musical composition and vocal performance. Released in 1975, the song is a six-minute epic that combines elements of opera, hard rock, ballad, and comedy. It tells the story of a man who has committed murder and faces the consequences of his actions. The song features Freddie Mercury’s stunning vocal range, Brian May’s soaring guitar solo, and a catchy chorus that everyone can sing along to. Bohemian Rhapsody was a huge hit worldwide, topping the charts in several countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. It also won numerous awards and accolades, and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2004. The song has been covered by many artists, parodied by many comedians, and featured in many movies and TV shows. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest songs in the history of music.
2. (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction by The Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones are one of the most influential and successful British rock bands ever, with a career that spans over six decades and counting. Their 1965 hit (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction is one of their most iconic and recognisable British rock songs, and one of the first examples of hard rock. The song expresses the frustration and alienation of the youth culture in the 1960s, with lyrics that criticise consumerism, materialism, and sexual frustration. The song features Mick Jagger’s distinctive vocals, Keith Richards’ catchy guitar riff, and Charlie Watts’ steady drum beat. (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction was a smash hit worldwide, reaching number one in several countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. It also Received Critical Acclaim and recognition, being ranked as one of the greatest songs of all time by various publications and institutions. The song has been covered by many artists, such as Otis Redding, Devo, Britney Spears, and Cat Power.
3. Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin are widely considered as one of the pioneers and innovators of heavy metal music, with a style that blended hard rock, blues, folk, and psychedelic elements. Their 1971 song Stairway to Heaven is one of their most famous and influential songs, and one of the most popular rock songs ever. The song is an eight-minute epic that progresses from a gentle acoustic intro to a powerful electric climax. It features Robert Plant’s mystical lyrics, Jimmy Page’s masterful guitar work, John Paul Jones’ versatile bass and keyboard playing, and John Bonham’s thunderous drumming. Stairway to Heaven was never released as a single, but it became a radio staple and a fan favourite. It also received critical acclaim and recognition, being hailed as one of the greatest songs of all time by various publications and institutions. The song has been covered by many artists, such as Heart, Dolly Parton, Frank Zappa, and Rodrigo y Gabriela.
4. Imagine by John Lennon
John Lennon was one of the most influential and controversial figures in the history of music, as well as a peace activist and a cultural icon. His 1971 solo song Imagine is one of his most famous and beloved songs, and one of the most powerful and inspiring songs ever written. The song is a simple piano ballad that expresses Lennon’s vision of a world without war, violence, greed, or religion. The song features Lennon’s gentle vocals, accompanied by a minimal arrangement of piano, bass, drums, and strings. Imagine was a huge hit worldwide, reaching number one in several countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. It also received critical acclaim and recognition, being ranked as one of the greatest songs of all time by various publications and institutions. The song has been covered by many artists, such as Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Madonna, Lady Gaga, and Pentatonix.
5. Wonderwall by Oasis
Oasis were one of the most popular and influential British rock bands of the 1990s, and the leading figures of the Britpop movement. Their 1995 song Wonderwall is one of their most iconic and successful songs, and one of the defining songs of the decade. The song is a catchy and melodic acoustic rock song that features Liam Gallagher’s distinctive vocals, Noel Gallagher’s memorable guitar chords, and a string section arranged by Paul Weller. The song was inspired by George Harrison’s album Wonderwall Music, and the title was taken from a film of the same name. Wonderwall was a huge hit worldwide, reaching number one in several countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. It also received critical acclaim and recognition, being nominated for several awards and being ranked as one of the greatest songs of all time by various publications and institutions. The song has been covered by many artists, such as Ryan Adams, Ed Sheeran, Paul Anka, and The Killers.
6. Creep by Radiohead
Radiohead are one of the most innovative and influential British rock bands of all time, with a style that constantly evolves and experiments with various genres and sounds. Their 1992 debut single Creep is one of their most famous and controversial songs, and one of the most iconic alternative rock songs ever. The song is a dark and emotional ballad that expresses the feelings of an insecure and self-loathing outsider. The song features Thom Yorke’s haunting vocals, Jonny Greenwood’s explosive guitar bursts, Colin Greenwood’s driving bass line, Ed O’Brien’s atmospheric guitar effects, and Phil Selway’s steady drum beat. Creep was initially a flop in the UK, but it became a hit in the US and other countries, thanks to its exposure on MTV and radio. It also received critical acclaim and recognition, being praised for its honesty and originality. The song has been covered by many artists, such as Korn, Prince, Moby, and Kelly Clarkson.
7. Paranoid by Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath are widely regarded as the godfathers of heavy metal music, with a style that combined hard rock, blues, and horror themes. Their 1970 song Paranoid is one of their most famous and influential songs, and one of the first examples of metal music. The song is a fast and furious rocker that deals with mental illness and social alienation. The song features Ozzy Osbourne’s distinctive vocals, Tony Iommi’s powerful guitar riffs, Geezer Butler’s heavy bass lines, and Bill Ward’s energetic drumming. Paranoid was a huge hit worldwide, reaching number one in several countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. It also received critical acclaim and recognition, being hailed as one of the greatest songs of all time by various publications and institutions. The song has been covered by many artists, such as Megadeth, Green Day, Avenged Sevenfold, and Weezer.
8. London Calling by The Clash
The Clash were one of the most influential and diverse British rock bands ever, with a style that incorporated elements of punk rock, reggae, ska, rockabilly, funk, and rap. Their 1979 song London Calling is one of their most famous and acclaimed songs, and one of the defining songs of the punk era. The song is a powerful and urgent anthem that addresses the social and political issues of the late 1970s, such as unemployment, racism, nuclear war, drug abuse, and environmental disaster. The song features Joe Strummer’s passionate vocals, Mick Jones’ catchy guitar hooks, Paul Simonon’s groovy bass lines, and Topper Headon’s solid drumming. London Calling was a hit worldwide, reaching number one in several countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. It also received critical acclaim and recognition, being praised for its relevance and innovation. The song has been covered by many artists, such as Bruce Springsteen, U2 and The Pogues.
9. Hey Jude by The Beatles
The Beatles are arguably the most influential and successful British rock band of all time, with a style that ranged from pop rock, psychedelic rock, folk rock, and experimental rock. Their 1968 song Hey Jude is one of their most famous and beloved British rock songs, and one of the longest and most complex songs ever. The song is a heartfelt and uplifting ballad that was written by Paul McCartney for John Lennon’s son Julian, who was going through a difficult time due to his parents’ divorce. The song features McCartney’s soothing vocals, Lennon’s harmonies, George Harrison’s subtle guitar fills, and Ringo Starr’s simple but effective drumming. The song also features a famous four-minute coda that consists of repeated chants of “na na na na” and “hey Jude”, accompanied by a large orchestra and a chorus of singers. Hey Jude was a huge hit worldwide, reaching number one in several countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. It also received critical acclaim and recognition, being praised for its emotion and creativity. The song has been covered by many artists, such as Elvis Presley, Wilson Pickett, Katy Perry, and Paul McCartney himself.
10. Another Brick in the Wall (Part 2) by Pink Floyd
Pink Floyd are one of the most innovative and influential British rock bands ever, with a style that explored progressive rock, psychedelic rock, space rock, and concept albums. Their 1979 song Another Brick in the Wall (Part 2) is one of their most famous and controversial songs, and one of the most popular protest songs ever. The song is part of their concept album The Wall, which tells the story of a rock star named Pink who isolates himself from society and builds a metaphorical wall around him. The song criticizes the rigid and oppressive education system in Britain, with lyrics that denounce the teachers who “leave them kids alone”. The song features Roger Waters’ vocals, David Gilmour’s guitar solo, Richard Wright’s synthesizers, Nick Mason’s drums, and a choir of children who sing the chorus. Another Brick in the Wall (Part 2) was a huge hit worldwide, reaching number one in several countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. It also received critical acclaim and recognition, being praised for its message and music. The song has been covered by many artists, such as Korn, Marilyn Manson, Eric Prydz, and Scorpions.
11. Parklife by Blur
One of the most iconic and humorous songs of the 1990s is Parklife by Blur. Released in 1994 as part of their album (also titled Parklife), Parklife is a three-minute Britpop song that was written by Damon Albarn, Graham Coxon, Alex James, and Dave Rowntree. The song is a satirical and witty observation of British culture and society, with a catchy melody and a spoken-word chorus. The song features a guitar riff by Coxon, a bass line by James, a drum beat by Rowntree, and a vocal performance by Albarn and Phil Daniels. Parklife was a huge hit in the UK, reaching number 10 in the charts and becoming one of the best-selling singles of the year. It also received critical acclaim from critics and fans alike, who praised its originality, humour, and relevance. The song has been covered by many artists, such as Robbie Williams, Lily Allen, Kaiser Chiefs, and The Divine Comedy. It has also been ranked as one of the greatest songs ever by various publications and polls, such as the 2004 Q magazine’s 1001 Best Songs Ever.
12. Heroes by David Bowie
David Bowie was one of the most influential and versatile British rock artists ever, with a style that explored various genres and personas. His 1977 song Heroes is one of his most famous and acclaimed songs, and one of the most inspiring British rock songs ever written. The song is a romantic and epic ballad that tells the story of two lovers who meet at the Berlin Wall, which divided East and West Germany during the Cold War. The song features Bowie’s passionate vocals, Robert Fripp’s soaring guitar, Brian Eno’s synthesisers, and Tony Visconti’s production. The song also features a famous vocal technique that Bowie used to create different effects, such as whispering, shouting, and singing in different languages. Heroes was a hit worldwide, reaching number one in several countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. It also received critical acclaim and recognition, being praised for its emotion and significance. The song has been covered by many artists, such as Peter Gabriel, Oasis, Coldplay, and King Crimson.
13. I Want to Break Free by Queen
Queen were one of the most influential and successful British rock bands ever, with a style that combined rock, pop, opera, and glam. Their 1984 song I Want to Break Free is one of their most famous and controversial songs, and one of the most popular songs about freedom and individuality. The song is a catchy and upbeat pop rock song that expresses the desire to escape from a stifling relationship or situation. The song features Freddie Mercury’s vocals, John Deacon’s bass line, Brian May’s guitar solo, and Roger Taylor’s drums. The song also features a famous music video that parodies a British soap opera called Coronation Street, in which the band members dress up as women. I Want to Break Free was a huge hit worldwide, reaching number one in several countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. It also received critical acclaim and recognition, being praised for its humor and message. The song has been covered by many artists, such as Foo Fighters, Robbie Williams, Ariana Grande, and Metallica.
14. Don’t Look Back in Anger by Oasis
Oasis were one of the most popular and influential British rock bands of the 1990s, and the leading figures of the Britpop movement. Their 1996 song Don’t Look Back in Anger is one of their most famous and acclaimed songs, and one of the most anthemic songs ever written. The song is a uplifting and nostalgic rock song that encourages the listener to move on from the past and live in the present. The song features Noel Gallagher’s vocals, Liam Gallagher’s backing vocals, Paul Arthurs’ piano, Paul McGuigan’s bass, and Alan White’s drums. The song also features a famous piano intro that was inspired by John Lennon’s Imagine. Don’t Look Back in Anger was a huge hit worldwide, reaching number one in several countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. It also received critical acclaim and recognition, being praised for its melody and lyrics. The song has been covered by many artists, such as Coldplay, U2, Metallica, and Adele.
15. Karma Police by Radiohead
Radiohead are one of the most innovative and influential British rock bands of all time, with a style that constantly evolves and experiments with various genres and sounds. Their 1997 song Karma Police is one of their most famous and complex songs, and one of the most haunting songs ever written. The song is a dark and atmospheric rock song that deals with themes of justice, revenge, and paranoia. The song features Thom Yorke’s vocals, Jonny Greenwood’s guitar, Colin Greenwood’s bass, Ed O’Brien’s effects, and Phil Selway’s drums. The song also features a famous chord progression that was inspired by The Beatles’ Sexy Sadie. Karma Police was a hit worldwide, reaching number one in several countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. It also received critical acclaim and recognition, being praised for its music and meaning. The song has been covered by many artists, such as Lana Del Rey, Maroon 5, Regina Spektor, and Easy Star All-Stars.
16. Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol
One of the most romantic and soothing songs of the 2000s is Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol. Released in 2006 as part of their album Eyes Open, Chasing Cars is a four-minute alternative rock song that was written by Gary Lightbody, Nathan Connolly, Paul Wilson, Jonny Quinn, and Tom Simpson. The song is a simple and sincere expression of love, with a minimal melody and a gentle vocal performance by Lightbody. Chasing Cars was a huge hit worldwide, reaching number six in the UK charts and number five in the US charts. It also received critical acclaim from critics and fans alike, who praised its melody, lyrics, and emotion. The song has been covered by many artists, such as Ed Sheeran, The Script, Leona Lewis, and One Direction. It has also been ranked as one of the greatest songs ever by various publications and polls, such as the 2009 Rolling Stone magazine’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
17. God Save The Queen by Sex Pistols
One of the most provocative and controversial songs of all time is God Save The Queen by Sex Pistols. Released in 1977 as a single, God Save The Queen is a three-minute punk rock song that was written by Johnny Rotten, Steve Jones, Glen Matlock, and Paul Cook. The song is a statement of anti-establishment and anti-monarchy sentiment, challenging the status quo and the authority of the British crown. The song features a distorted guitar riff by Jones, a snarling vocal performance by Rotten, and a chaotic rhythm section by Matlock and Cook. God Save The Queen was banned by the BBC and many other media outlets for its offensive lyrics and imagery, which included a defaced picture of Queen Elizabeth II on the cover art. However, this only increased its popularity and recognition among the public, especially among the young and rebellious generation. It also received critical acclaim from critics and musicians alike, who praised its boldness, honesty, and relevance. The song has been adopted as an anthem for various social movements and causes, such as the punk subculture, the anti-war protests, and the Scottish independence campaign. It has also been ranked as one of the greatest songs ever by various publications and polls, such as the 2004 Rolling Stone magazine’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
18. Fix You by Coldplay
Coldplay are one of the most popular and successful British rock bands of the 21st century, with a style that combines alternative rock, pop rock, and electronic music. Their 2005 song Fix You is one of their most famous and emotional songs, and one of the most comforting songs ever written. The song is a soothing and uplifting rock song that was written by Chris Martin for his then-wife Gwyneth Paltrow, who was grieving the death of her father. The song features Martin’s vocals, Jonny Buckland’s guitar, Guy Berryman’s bass, Will Champion’s drums, and a church organ. The song also features a famous climax that builds up from a soft piano to a powerful electric guitar. Fix You was a hit worldwide, reaching number one in several countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. It also received critical acclaim and recognition, being praised for its emotion and sincerity. The song has been covered by many artists, such as Boyce Avenue, Yellowcard, Sam Smith, and Coldplay themselves.
19. I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor by Arctic Monkeys
Arctic Monkeys are one of the most popular and influential British rock bands of the 21st century, with a style that combines indie rock, garage rock, and post-punk revival. Their 2005 debut single I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor is one of their most famous and energetic songs, and one of the most catchy songs ever written. The song is a fast and furious rock song that describes the attraction and excitement of a night out at a club. The song features Alex Turner’s vocals, Jamie Cook’s guitar, Andy Nicholson’s bass, and Matt Helders’ drums. The song also features a famous opening line that references the band’s hometown of Sheffield: “Don’t believe the hype”. I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor was a huge hit worldwide, reaching number one in several countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. It also received critical acclaim and recognition, being praised for its music and attitude. The song has been covered by many artists, such as Sugababes, Tom Jones, Babyshambles, and Arctic Monkeys themselves.
20. Clocks by Coldplay
One of the most distinctive and successful songs of the 2000s is Clocks by Coldplay. Released in 2002 as part of their album A Rush of Blood to the Head, Clocks is a five-minute alternative rock song that was co-written by all four members of the band. The song is based on a hypnotic piano riff that was composed by Chris Martin in a late-night studio session. The song’s lyrics are vague and abstract, but they generally deal with themes of time, regret, and love.Clocks was a huge hit worldwide, reaching number nine in the UK charts and number 29 in the US charts. It also received critical acclaim from critics and musicians alike, who praised its originality, atmosphere, and emotion. The song has won several awards, such as the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 2004. It has also been covered by many artists, such as Buena Vista Social Club, Rhythms del Mundo, David Garrett, and Alicia Keys. It has also been ranked as one of the greatest songs ever by various publications and polls, such as the 2009 Rolling Stone magazine’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
The Bottom Line
British rock music is a diverse and rich genre that has produced some of the most iconic and memorable songs of all time. From Queen to Radiohead, from The Beatles to Oasis, from Led Zeppelin to Coldplay, British rock bands have influenced millions of fans around the world, and have created some of the greatest songs in the history of music. These are just 20 examples of the best British rock songs ever, but there are many more that deserve to be mentioned and appreciated. What are your favourite British rock songs? Let us know in the comments below!
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