Although classic rock dates back many decades,there are plenty of modern songs that still carry its vibes. The elements that were implemented back then haven’t gone out of style, which is why manyclassic rock songs remain relevant 50 years later. Even on newer platforms such as Spotify, there are numerousclassic rock songs with over one billion streamsbecause they are enjoyed so much. Now, they are being passed down from one generation to the next.
Artists like thehit-making Rolling Stonesnever go out of style. Therefore, it’s a smart idea for bands to continue drawing inspiration from these acts. After all, they became classics for a reason, so why not draw from the genre that has cemented its legacy? Perhaps the most interesting part is thatit’s not just younger acts trying to put their own spin on the sound. Bands that have been around for a while are even showcasing what they can do with it as well.
Album: Voyager To Voyager (2025)
Having formed in 1998, DEAD MEADOW has been putting their spin on psychedelic rock for many years. They also mix in heavy metal and themes from famous authors such as H.P. Lovecraft. The band was back in 2025 with another album titledVoyager to Voyager. One of the standout songs was “The Unhounded Now,“which showcases some of their best qualities.
The guitar tones are everything you would expect from artists such as Jimi Hendrix.
When you listen to this tune, it truly feels like a throwback. The guitar tones are everything you would expect from artists such as Jimi Hendrix. The emphasis on the distorted guitar riffs helps make this a hypnotic song. Another selling point of this tune is that they useda fantastic visual for the video where the changing colors enhance the mood of the notes.
9The Black Keys - Wild Child
Album: Dropout Boogie (2022)
In 2022, the Black Keys' 11th studio album debuted, placing them in a special musical category as a band that has released more than 10 albums. Not only were they making history like some classic rock bands, but they also sounded like them. The top single from the album, “Wild Child,“garnered so much attention that it was even nominated for two Grammy Awards.
The song captures their signature blues-rock style while also showcasing some modern elements.It is a great blend of the past and present, providing strong energy with a driving beat that keeps the mood light. Along with the catchy chorus, the music video also offered interesting viewing. In it, the band navigates working at a school, where things don’t come easily.
8Greta Van Fleet - Heat Above
Album: The Battle At Garden’s Gate (2021)
For many years now, Greta Van Fleet has been a band with an old-school feel that has commanded people’s attention. They not only sound the part but also dress for it. “Heat Above” is a great example of howthey make the classic rock sound work in today’s music. The strong vocals back an overall captivating experience.
The high notes of Josh Kiszka are incredible, adding a key element to the tune. Even the music video has a smoky haze,which helps set the scene for an older feel. The all-white décor and dress also contribute to the overall concept of making this look dated. The song became a hit and reached the third spot on theBillboardMainstream Rock chart.
7Mayday Parade - Thunder
Album: Single Release (2022)
While Mayday Parade has always had some edge to them, rooted in pop-punk, the band also possesses a softer side. Many of their slower tunes and beautiful lyrics evoke the vibes of bands such as The Beatles. They even tested this once by doing a cover of “I Want to Hold Your Hand.” A great example ofone of their original works that showcases this is the song “Thunder.”
The tune was a single release in 2022, giving it a prime spotlight. It received immediate attention as the slower instrumental emphasized the lyrics. This felt like the bandcontinuing the inspiration that U2 once drew on. It carries the vibes of one of their famous works and demonstrates how elements keep evolving while maintaining core pieces.
6John Mayer - Last Train Home
Album: Sob Rock (2021)
It’s always been clear that John Mayer has an old soul at heart. From his guitar playing to his passionate lyrics, he has let his emotions flow through his music, much like many legendary artists. In 2021,he unleashed another meaningful hit with his song “Last Train Home.“This was released as the fourth single from his eighth studio album,Sob Rock.
Many compared the ’80s style of this tune to artists such as Toto.
Many compared the ’80s style of this tune to artists such as Toto. The nostalgia and relatable themes quickly took listeners back in time. The song also features vocals from country singer Maren Morris, which, combined with Mayer’s voice, brings the feeling of a Fleetwood Mac-inspired sound. The song even got a nice boost when featured on the television show,The Bear, proving its ability to resonate.
5Highly Suspect - Summertime Voodoo
Album: As Above, So Below (2024)
Ever since their first album put them in Grammy Award contention, Highly Suspect has been working tirelessly to continue building on their success. One of the things they have done isconstantly shape their sound to become as distinct as possible. Their song “Summertime Voodoo” has become a great example of everything that the band does best.
The seven-minute tune exploresthe band’s deep dive into creating intricate instrumentals. The great part of a song of this length is that it allows them to explore everything they want without leaving any notes behind. Additionally, they showcase their ability to tell a story, much like artists of the past, some through singing and some through spoken word, getting their point across by any means necessary.
4Fontaines D.C. - Jackie Down The Line
Album: Skinty Fia (2022)
From the moment Fontaines D.C. released the lead single from their third studio album, it was clear they had something special. “Jackie Down the Line” immediately sounds like something from another era. Quickly, it caught attention, and the band ended up having it betheir first song to reach the Top 40 on theBillboardAdult Alternative Songs chart.
The song creates a bubbling atmosphere, as if listeners are on edge, waiting for what happens next. Its distinct, thick sounds help build the lyrics, creating a tone that elevates them. The themes are also relatable, which has assisted them in connecting with a broader audience,something many classic rock songs do. Additionally, this is yet another music video where clothes, lighting, and color give it an older feel.
3Dirty Honey - California Dreamin’
Album: Dirty Honey (2021)
Although Dirty Honey is relatively new, the band has already made a great impression. After their 2019 rise to prominence, they unveiled their self-titled debut album in 2021, which featured the song “California Dreamin'.” As a group from Los Angeles,they had much to live up to in writing a song about their home state, given the musicians who have done this in the past.
The band prides itself on being a classic rock revival, and they seemingly pulled it off. Their lyrics, offering a unique perspective, stood out among the strong instrumentals and vocals.Many have compared their sound to that of Aerosmith, and this tune makes it easy to see how they draw that comparison. Even by watching the music video, you’re able to see how their style is inspired by them.
2Turnstile - New heart design
Album: Glow On (2021)
One band that has been catching people’s attention for a while now is Turnstile. Much like some of the classic acts of the past,they provide a true experience. Their sound and energy are among the best right now. From their third studio album, songs such as “Blackout” and “Holiday” have become revered, but another great tune from it is “New Heart Design.”
They have a sound that makes people want to witness it in a live setting.
This showcases their ability to perform at a level that many classic rock artists did in the past. They have a sound that makes people want to witness it in a live setting. They were smart to include footage of them playing to a live crowd in the music video, asit shows their ability to make people move. This was a tactic that many legends have utilized in the past.
1Red Hot Chili Peppers - Eddie
Album: Return Of The Dream Canteen (2022)
The Red Hot Chili Peppers have been around since the ’80s, meaning they have been alongside many classic rock artists. However, they were not one of the fortunate bands that found their perfect sound right away. Eventually, it all clicked, and they discovered all the elements they needed.This has allowed them to experiment as the years have gone by, with more innovation emerging in 2022.
Their latest album, Return of the Dream Canteen, saw the band utilize funk rock. A great example of this is the song “Eddie.” First, the song is as classic rock as it gets, asit is dedicated to one of the best musicians from that time period, Eddie Van Halen. The song is emotional, and the instrumental adds a vibe that is perfect for a journey. This is a vintage sound from the band, and it is a perfect culmination of all these elements.
