Looking for some top pop rock songs? Well look no further friend, as below we’ve compiled a list of pop rock gold!!
Be sure to check it out for all of the classics and a few that people often regrettably miss.
All Star by Smash Mouth
Song year: 1999
There are no other anthems like Smash Mouth’s “All Star.” This song and music video encourage listeners to get off their feet and enjoy life, even if it can be challenging to handle. “All Star” tells everyone that they’re a star and they don’t have to worry about the expectations of other people, as long as they’re having fun – even when things fall apart.
Hey Ya! By OutKast
Song year: 2003
The music video for “Hey Ya!” by OutKast is one of the most iconic videos in the pop-rock scene. Although some may not consider this song a member of the genre, it has a clear and distinct use of drums, guitar, and other elements that make it both poppy and rocky.
The energy of this song is playful and unique, making it a clear top contender for one of the best pop-rock songs.
Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen
Song year: 1975
“Bohemian Rhapsody” is one of the most famous pop-rock songs of the last few decades. Queen is no stranger to classics and this song is one of the easiest melodies to recognize in recent decades. It may be hard to recognize frontman Freddie Mercury in this music video, but as the years passed and Queen played the song more often, the band began to put more and more spins on the classic – including being truer to their style.
Livin’ On a Prayer by Bon Jovi
Song year: 1986
“Livin’ On a Prayer” by Bon Jovi is a classic song that discusses the need for people to disconnect from stresses of life and indulging in gratitude for the things and people they have. This song took the world by storm as it played constantly on the radio, and the video was no small feat either. This music video is complete with big hair and stunning fashion choices that made listeners fawn over the members and melody.
Since U Been Gone by Kelly Clarkson
Song year: 2004
“Since U Been Gone” is a Kelly Clarkson hit about moving on from a bad relationship. Although many pop-rock fans may not consider the American Idol singer to be in the genre, this song has all the elements of a pop-rock hit. Clarkson spares no time on grieving or wondering about an ex-partner and instead shows in her video that she’s happier than ever without all the drama and sadness they brought to her life.
Take On Me by A-ha
Song year: 1985
“Take On Me” by A-ha is an 80s classic and has the synths to prove it. This pop-rock song has a stunning music video to accompany the upbeat song about love and romance. The singer promises they’ll find their loved one and will come to collect their love soon. This song is a perfect celebration tune for anniversaries and parties.
Billie Jean by Michael Jackson
Song year: 1982
“Billie Jean” is a classic pop-rock hit by the legend, Michael Jackson, and describes his trouble with a woman who claims to have had his child. However, Jackson is certain the child isn’t his and he’s willing to point out how the story doesn’t make sense. This narrative song and video are among the most melodic and addictive tunes in the music industry, and it has carved out its place in the top 27 pop-rock songs of all time.
Every Breath You Take by The Police
Song year: 1983
“Every Breath You Take” by The Police was initially regarded with overwhelming love and support but has since come under fire for its downright spooky undertones. However, the song remains one of the best pop-rock songs of all time and speaks to the culturally important messages of the 80s. This song and video are from the point of view of a man who is in love with a woman and discusses knowing everything she does, including every breath she takes.
Beat It by Michael Jackson
Song year: 1982
“Beat It” by Michael Jackson is one of the most energizing songs, but shows how little a fight is worth. Instead, Jackson urges listeners to walk away from fights. This song is accompanied by a stunning music video full of choreography that will get your blood pumping and can work perfectly on a gym playlist.
Behind These Hazel Eyes by Kelly Clarkson
Song year: 2004
“Behind These Hazel Eyes” is a perfect anthem for sadness and grief over a relationship that has been lost to infidelity, time, or distance. This song tells the story of a woman who refuses to let an ex-partner see how sad and distraught a relationship has made them, especially when they’ve felt chewed up and spat out by someone they loved. This video clearly shows someone betrayed after caring so deeply.
