Classic rock: that genre of music that apparently used to be cool but isn't anymore. Why listen to bands that were popular when our parents were in high school and college when the new repetitive and mindless techno song that’s topping the charts is out? Sadly, this appears to be the logic that the majority of college-aged students are following. Fear not, however! If you add the following tunes that are collected below to your music playlist and give them a listen, hopefully you’ll see that the greats of the classic rock genre produced some pretty epic tunes, even if it’s been a few decades. At the very least, you’ll have broadened your musical horizons, something that’s definitely never hurt anyone before.
For the actual playlist on Spotify, click here.
1. Journey: “Don’t Stop Believin’” (1981).
Because no party is complete without at least playing this song once, preferably towards the end to finish on a high note (literally).
2. Boston: "More Than A Feeling" (1976).
The word "epic" is an apt term to describe many things about this song, but what truly stands out are lead singer Brad Delp's ridiculously versatile vocal range and the eclectic sounds producer/lead guitarist Tom Scholz created when he recorded this song in his mother's basement. It remains one of the greatest songs to emerge from the golden age of classic rock.
3. Van Halen: "Unchained" (1981).
If you're looking for a perfect summary of the legendary rock group Van Halen, look no further than "Unchained" -- three-and-a-half minutes of pulsating rock & roll that showcases the talents of all four band of the bands' original members: lead vocalist David Lee Roth, "guitar-god" Eddie Van Halen, bassist Michael Anthony and drummer Alex Van Halen. Be sure to crank this one up loud.
4. Led Zeppelin: "Stairway To Heaven" (1971).
The overwhelming odds suggest that you've heard this one already, but it begs to be mentioned here simply because many consider this song to be the greatest rock song of all time. Though it starts out slow, the song provides the listener with an unforgettable musical journey that defines the classic rock genre better than any other song on this list, all the way until the guitars and drums have died down and Robert Plants solemnly sings the timeless final notes.
5. Foreigner: "I Want To Know What Love Is" (1984).
Lead singer Lou Gramm really wants to know what love is. Powerful lead vocals and a rhythm that will get stuck in your head for the rest of the day make up what ultimately went on to become the classic band's best-selling song. Even your cat will want to sing along to this one.6. U2: "With Or Without You" (1987).
A departure from the band's usual in-your-face vocals and rapid guitar riffs, "With Or Without You" utilizes the less-is-more strategy of slowly building up to a chilling climax before climbing back down just as slowly, creating a sound that comes off as more powerful than it actually is. The effect is highly memorable, however, and is frequently used by U2 as the band's grand finale song at their concerts.
7. Bon Jovi: "You Give Love A Bad Name" (1987).
I can safely recommend this song as a good one to play when you're going through a stressful time. Loud electric guitars and hammering drums support Bon Jovi's relentless screaming vocals as they take the listener on a wild ride of rock & roll and pure energy, increasing in intensity as the song plays on. If you play sports, this is your warm-up track.
8. Guns 'N' Roses: "November Rain" (1991).
The epitome of the music of Guns 'N' Roses, and perhaps of classic rock as well. The melodic piano from the beginning gradually builds during the nine-minute-long song into a dynamic yet tame ensemble of electric guitars and orchestras. Just as you think the song is over, however, the band comes suddenly skyrocketing back into a ruthless finale in which every instrument is turned on full blast. Containing everything a classic rock song could hope to have and more, it is undoubtedly the perfect concluding song to your new playlist. If you want to take it up another level, however, check out the live edition of the sand the band performed with Elton John -- it's practically music gold.
