The 250+ Greatest Rock Bands Of All Time, Ranked
Vote up the rock bands you'd listen to over and over.
- 1Led Zeppelin, Led Zeppelin IV, Led Zeppelin II
See The Best Led Zeppelin Songs
Influenced by blues, folk, and psychedelia, this English band pioneered hard rock and heavy metal and is widely regarded as one of the most influential acts in the history of rock music. With unprecedented technical prowess, guitarist Jimmy Page and vocalist Robert Plant delivered electrifying live performances, while John Bonham's drumming laid the foundation for generations of rock drummers to come. Over five decades since their inception, their albums continue to sell and their impact on popular music is still palpable.
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- #6 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- 2A Night at the Opera, Queen, Innuendo
Renowned for their extravagant live shows and iconic anthems such as "Bohemian Rhapsody" and "We Will Rock You," this British rock band became one of the world's best-selling music artists due in large part to the late Freddie Mercury's flamboyant stage presence and powerful vocals. With an extraordinary range of musical styles, they effortlessly combined elements of rock, pop, opera, and stadium anthems resulting in a unique sound that appealed to a wide audience. Their legacy endures to this day, with songs that remain popular and relevant.
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- #4 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- 3Abbey Road, Revolver, Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band
As the world's most famous band, this British quartet set the standard for songwriting, creating a vast and diverse catalog of enduring hits across various genres, from pop ballads to psychedelic rock. Their experimentation with innovative studio techniques and influential collaborations with legendary producer George Martin revolutionized the concept of the album as an art form, going beyond traditional rock 'n' roll. Today, their timeless tracks continue to resonate with fans across generations and their influence can be heard in countless contemporary artists.
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- 4The Wall, The Dark Side of the Moon, Wish You Were Here
Synonymous with progressive rock and mind-bending concepts, this English group captivated audiences with their immersive live performances featuring elaborate visuals and groundbreaking soundscapes. Their highly ambitious concept albums such as The Wall and Dark Side of the Moon showcased the band's mastery of complex arrangements, poignant lyrics and innovative production techniques, cementing their reputation as pioneers of experimental rock. Decades later, their influence is still felt among modern musicians and their awe-inspiring live shows are considered the stuff of legend.
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- #10 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- 5First Rays of the New Rising Sun, Band of Gypsys, Voodoo Child: The Jimi Hendrix Collection
See The Best Jimi Hendrix Songs
Widely regarded as one of the most talented and influential guitarists in history, this groundbreaking artist revolutionized the electric guitar with his innovative playing techniques and distinct sound. Known for his innovative use of feedback, distortion, and other sonic effects, Hendrix pushed the boundaries of the instrument, ultimately inspiring an entire generation of guitarists and changing the course of rock music forever. Although his career was tragically short-lived, his impact on the world of rock and his legendary performances at Woodstock and Monterey continue to inspire awe decades later.
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- #51 of 320 onThe 300+ Best Rock Singers Of All Time, Ranked
- 6Let It Bleed, Exile on Main St., Sticky Fingers
See The Best Rolling Stones Songs
This British band encapsulates the ethos of rock 'n' roll with their blues-infused sound, rebellious attitude, and enduring appeal. Mick Jagger's charismatic stage presence, combined with Keith Richards' innovative guitar work and the interplay between the two, form the backbone of their gritty sound, influencing countless acts in their wake. With a relentless touring schedule and an impressive discography spanning multiple decades, they remain a force to be reckoned with in the world of rock music.
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- #12 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- 7Back in Black, Highway to Hell, Let There Be Rock
This Australian powerhouse, known for their infectious riffs and raucous live shows, have become synonymous with hard-hitting, no-nonsense rock 'n' roll. The distinctive guitar stylings of Angus Young, coupled with the raw vocal power of Brian Johnson and the late Bon Scott, solidified the band's status as rock legends. With numerous chart-topping albums and an unwavering dedication to their iconic sound, their influence on generations of rock bands cannot be overstated.
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- #108 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- 8Paranoid, Black Sabbath, Heaven and Hell
See The Best Black Sabbath Songs
Heralded as the creators of heavy metal, this English band's dark, ominous sound and focus on unsettling themes was a stark departure from the psychedelic rock of the late 1960s. Tony Iommi's signature guitar riffs and Ozzy Osbourne's haunting vocals laid the foundation for a style that would inspire countless bands to come. Possessing an enduring legacy, their groundbreaking discography continues to be celebrated by fans and musicians alike.
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- #101 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- 9Who's Next, Tommy, Quadrophenia
Combining raw power and high-energy performances with introspective lyrics and innovative studio techniques, this English band made an indelible mark on the rock landscape. Pete Townshend's powerful guitar work and Roger Daltrey's impassioned vocals are perfectly complemented by the thunderous rhythm section of John Entwistle and Keith Moon. From pioneering concept albums to smashing instruments on stage, they continue to influence generations of musicians and remain one of rock's most celebrated acts.
- 10Electric Ladyland, Are You Experienced, Axis: Bold as Love
As the power trio behind the iconic guitarist, the group effortlessly combined elements of blues, psychedelia, and hard rock, producing some of the most memorable tracks in rock history such as "Purple Haze" and "Voodoo Child." Drummer Mitch Mitchell's jazz-infused style and bassist Noel Redding's melodic lines served as the perfect foundation for Hendrix's virtuosic guitar work. Their short but impactful three-year stint together helped shape the future of rock music, with their influence still resonating today.
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- 11Green River, Cosmo's Factory, Willy and the Poor Boys
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As masters of concise, catchy, and roots-infused rock 'n' roll, this American band captivated audiences with their string of chart-topping singles in the late 1960s and early '70s. Frontman John Fogerty's distinctive rasp and gift for storytelling, combined with the band's tight musicianship, created memorable tracks such as "Proud Mary" and "Bad Moon Rising." Although their time together was brief, their impact on the world of rock is undeniable, exemplified by a diverse range of artists who cite them as an influence.
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- 12Rumours, Fleetwood Mac, Tango in the Night
See The Best Fleetwood Mac Songs
With a turbulent history marked by numerous lineup changes, this British-American band's fusion of blues, rock, and pop produced some of the most timeless songs in the rock canon. Stevie Nicks' bewitching stage presence and powerful vocals, combined with Lindsey Buckingham's emotive guitar work and Christine McVie's soulful songwriting, define the group's most beloved era. Their colossal album Rumours remains a touchstone of 1970s rock and a testament to their enduring appeal.
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- #25 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- 13The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders From Mars, Hunky Dory, Diamond Dogs
See The Best David Bowie Songs
As a pioneer of glam rock and master of reinvention, this iconic artist created a vast and varied body of work that defies categorization. His chameleon-like persona, powerful vocals, and exceptional songwriting pushed boundaries, exploring themes of identity, alienation, and self-discovery. With an ability to adapt to and shape prevailing trends, his influence can be found across a wide spectrum of music genres and his impact on popular culture is immense.
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- 14Jailhouse Rock, The Sun Sessions, From Nashville to Memphis: The Essential '60s Masters
See The Best Elvis Presley Songs
Dubbed the "King of Rock 'n' Roll," this charismatic performer forever changed the face of popular music with his boundary-pushing blend of blues, country, and gospel influences. His unparalleled stage presence, soulful voice, and provocative dance moves helped bring rock music to the masses, while his distinctive style continues to inspire countless musicians today. As one of the best-selling solo artists in history, his legacy endures as an icon of American culture.
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- 15Hotel California, Eagles Greatest Hits, Volume 2
Fusing elements of rock, country, and folk to create their signature laid-back sound, this American band became one of the best-selling acts of all time. With a penchant for tight harmonies, intricate guitar work, and poignant lyrics, their music remains as relevant today as it was in the 1970s. Timeless hits like "Hotel California" and "Take It Easy" continue to define the quintessential sound of classic American rock.
More The Eagles- #30 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- #11 of 283 onThe Greatest Live Bands of All Time
- #19 of 295 onThe Greatest Musical Artists of the '80s
- 16Appetite for Destruction, G N' R Lies, Use Your Illusion I
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At a time when hair metal dominated the scene, this American band's raw, gritty sound and rebellious attitude breathed new life into the genre. Axl Rose's distinctive voice and wide vocal range, along with Slash's blistering guitar solos, helped cement their status as one of the most influential rock bands of the late 20th century. With multi-platinum albums and unforgettable hits such as "Sweet Child O' Mine" and "Welcome to the Jungle," they continue to captivate audiences around the world.
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- #49 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- 17(pronounced 'lĕh-'nérd 'skin-'nérd), Second Helping, Gold
See The Best Lynyrd Skynyrd Songs
As pioneers of Southern rock, this American band's fusion of blues, country, and hard rock created a distinctive sound that resonated with fans across genres. Known for their anthemic tracks such as "Free Bird" and "Sweet Home Alabama," their lasting impact on rock music can be attributed to their skilled musicianship, relatable lyrics, and enduring hooks. Tragically cut short by a plane crash in 1977, their legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians.
- 18The Doors, L.A. Woman, Strange Days
Known for their fusion of rock, blues, and psychedelic sounds, this American band remains one of the most iconic and influential groups of the 1960s. With his magnetic charisma and provocative lyrics, frontman Jim Morrison embodies the spirit of rock 'n' roll rebellion, while keyboardist Ray Manzarek, guitarist Robby Krieger, and drummer John Densmore crafted a unique and enduring musical legacy. Their timeless hits, such as "Light My Fire" and "Riders on the Storm," continue to captivate listeners decades after their heyday.
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- #44 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
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- 19Van Halen, 1984, Diver Down
Pioneers of the glam metal movement, this American band's groundbreaking sound and flashy stage presence set them apart from their contemporaries. Eddie Van Halen's innovative guitar techniques, such as finger-tapping and harmonics, revolutionized the instrument and inspired a generation of shredders, while David Lee Roth's flamboyant vocals and charismatic showmanship helped define the band's larger-than-life persona. Their enduring impact on rock music is evident in their monumental album sales and myriad imitators.
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- #121 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- 20Master of Puppets, Ride the Lightning, Metallica
As one of the "big four" bands responsible for the rise of thrash metal, this American group quickly outgrew their underground roots to become one of the world's most successful rock bands. Fusing complex arrangements, aggressive guitar work, and powerful lyrics, they consistently pushed the boundaries of heavy metal, resulting in seminal albums like Master of Puppets and …And Justice for All. Today, their muscular brand of rock continues to dominate stages around the globe.
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- #50 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- 21The Last DJ, Damn the Torpedoes, Into the Great Wide Open
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Led by the late singer-songwriter, this American band's distinctive blend of rock, folk, and Americana made them a fixture of classic rock radio. Known for their catchy hooks and relatable lyrics, they crafted an impressive catalog of enduring hits such as "American Girl" and "Free Fallin'." With a legacy spanning over four decades, their music continues to resonate with fans, serving as a testament to Petty's immense talent and influence.
- 22461 Ocean Boulevard, Crossroads, Pilgrim
See The Best Eric Clapton Songs
A master of the blues, this British artist is revered as one of the greatest guitarists of all time. With an illustrious career spanning six decades, he has left an indelible mark on rock history through his work with bands such as Cream and Derek and the Dominos, as well as a successful solo career. His soulful playing and emotive songwriting continue to inspire countless musicians today, while his tireless advocacy for the blues ensures its continued prominence in the world of rock.
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- 23Nevermind, In Utero, MTV Unplugged in New York
This American band's raw sound and anti-establishment ethos helped propel grunge to the forefront of popular culture, forever changing the landscape of rock music. Kurt Cobain's introspective lyrics, haunting melodies, and distinctive guitar playing, coupled with Dave Grohl's explosive drumming and Krist Novoselic's melodic bass lines, forged a powerful and lasting connection with fans. Though their career was tragically brief, their influence can still be heard in countless bands today.
- 24The Great Twenty-Eight, Maybellene, Two Great Guitars
See The Best Chuck Berry Albums
As a founding father of rock 'n' roll, this legendary artist's innovative guitar work and energetic performances laid the groundwork for subsequent generations of musicians. He popularized guitar-driven rock music with his indelible riffs and introduced elements of storytelling to his lyrics, breaking new ground for the genre. Berry's influence on the development of rock music cannot be overstated, as countless artists, including The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, cite him as a foundational inspiration.
More Chuck Berry- #107 of 320 onThe 300+ Best Rock Singers Of All Time, Ranked
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- #31 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- 25Toys in the Attic, Pump, Permanent Vacation
As one of America's most enduring rock acts, this band's signature blend of blues-infused hard rock, catchy hooks, and powerhouse performances has made them a fan favorite for over five decades. Frontman Steven Tyler's dynamic vocals and flamboyant stage presence are perfectly complemented by Joe Perry's lead guitar prowess, creating a recipe for chart-topping success. With a slew of iconic hits and an unwavering dedication to their craft, Aerosmith's impact on the world of rock is undeniable.
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- #54 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- 26Flaming Pie, Ram, McCartney
As one half of the most successful songwriting partnership in history, this iconic musician played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of The Beatles and, by extension, modern music as we know it. His exceptional musical sensibilities, innovative bass playing, and unmatched ability to craft timeless melodies have solidified his status as a titan of popular music. As a solo artist and leader of Wings, he continues to create new music and perform live, demonstrating a passion and dedication that has few equals.
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- 27Moving Pictures, 2112, Hemispheres
Hailing from Canada, this progressive rock trio is known for their intricate compositions, virtuosic musicianship, and thought-provoking lyrics. Geddy Lee's soaring vocals, complex bass lines, and keyboard work, alongside Alex Lifeson's innovative guitar playing and Neil Peart's legendary drumming, earned the band a passionate fan base and critical acclaim. Their expansive discography and uncompromising artistic vision have solidified their status as one of the most respected and influential rock acts in history.
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- 28Machine Head, Live in Japan, Deep Purple in Rock
See The Best Deep Purple Songs
As one of the pioneers of heavy metal and hard rock, this British band's powerful sound, intricate arrangements, and virtuosic performances have influenced generations of musicians. With their iconic organ-driven sound and the extraordinary guitar work of Ritchie Blackmore, they crafted classics like "Smoke on the Water" and "Highway Star." Despite numerous lineup changes, their legacy endures as one of the most important bands in the history of rock music.
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- #175 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- 29Abraxas, Supernatural, Legacy Edition
Led by the legendary guitarist, this band's groundbreaking fusion of Latin, jazz, rock, and blues elements redefined the boundaries of popular music. Carlos Santana's unique guitar style and innovative use of Latin percussion remain influential to this day, with his melodic solos and soulful playing celebrated by fans and musicians alike. Through various lineups and evolutions, the band's enduring appeal and impact on the rock landscape remains potent and unmistakable.
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- #57 of 1,150 onThe Greatest Musical Artists Of All Time, Ranked
- #41 of 283 onThe Greatest Live Bands of All Time
- 30Synchronicity, Ghost in the Machine, Zenyattà Mondatta
This British trio's innovative fusion of rock, punk, reggae, and jazz established them as one of the most influential bands of the late 20th century. Frontman Sting's compelling vocals and adept songwriting, combined with Andy Summers' distinctive guitar work and Stewart Copeland's intricate drumming, created a sound that was both accessible and groundbreaking. With five chart-topping albums and numerous awards, their impact on rock music and popular culture remains immense.
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