27 Best Pop Rock Songs Ever

Welcome To The Black Parade by My Chemical Romance

Song year: 2006

“Welcome To The Black Parade” is a My Chemical Romance hit that took the radio by storm in 2006. The video and lyrics depict the sadness associated with passing on to the other side but offering those who have been left by loved ones an empowering message. The members of the band urge listeners to carry on after the passing of loved ones and live a life full of happiness, love, and fulfillment.

Africa by Toto

Song year: 1981

“Africa” by Toto is one of the most famous pop-rock songs, but it can be a confusing song. Although it may be a little confusing, this song is about romance and being in love with another person. The singer is stating that he would do nearly anything possible to be with the one he loves. The music video uses African imagery to convey their love.

Viva La Vida by Coldplay

Song year: 2008

“Viva La Vida” by Coldplay is one of the band’s most famous hits and discusses living life to the fullest. The song is supposed to be an expose on regrets, life, and death since the music video uses imagery from revolution-era paintings to discuss these themes.

Penny Lane by The Beatles

Song year: 1966

“Penny Lane” by The Beatles is a song about feeling nostalgic for a time long gone and wanting to go back and visit something from childhood. Although not a romance song, the lyrics can double as a stunning ode to a loved one and how much you miss them. The video shows images of the location, showcasing England in all its regal glory.

Hey Jude by The Beatles

Song year: 1968

“Hey Jude” by The Beatles is a song urging a loved one not to carry the world’s burdens on their shoulders. This song can make even the most casual listeners feel strongly empowered if they’ve felt overburdened and overwhelmed. The music video showcases each band member smiling hopefully while playing.

Wild Thing by Troggs

Song year: 1988

“Wild Thing” by Troggs is a serenade to the singer’s special someone, whom they believe to be a wild thing who can’t be reined in or controlled. Although this person is hard to keep a hold of, the singer loves them. The music video shows the band singing directly into the camera as if speaking to their “wild thing.”

Paint It Black by Rolling Stones

Song year: 1966

“Paint It Black” is one of the songs that defined the pop-rock genre in the mid-60s. This song can be a little confusing to understand, and without a music video to accompany it, it can be hard to decipher. However, this song is about a person’s dead lover and how they haven’t healed from the loss.

The Anthem by Good Charlotte

Song year: 2002

“The Anthem” by Good Charlotte is a song about leaving your worries behind and focusing on having a good time. This song is perfect for parties with people who need to let go of their struggles for the moment and try to enjoy life. The music video shows the band members indulging in tricycle rides in the street and allowing themselves the opportunity to be immature for a little while before returning to adult life.

I’m Just A Kid by Simple Plan

Song year: 2002

“I’m Just A Kid” by Simple Plan discusses the difficulty of growing up around adults who expect the most of you and don’t understand the struggles you may be going through. This song and music video show how hard it can be to live with the burdens of trying to fit in with others your age and how nightmarish the world can feel when you fail to live up to those expectations.

I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor

Song year: 1978

“I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor is an unlikely find on any pop-rock list, but this song holds a rebellious nature and a set of instruments that make the song a perfect fit for the genre. This song empowers listeners to keep moving forward and living their lives in the face of terrible strife and challenge. The video shows a stunning Gloria Gaynor in her full power and glory, knowing doesn’t need anyone else to feel satisfied and happy.