The Best Rock Bands Ever, Ranked!

Rock and roll music has captured music lovers’ hearts, minds, and ears for over 60 years, with each band adding its unique sound to the industry. However, some bands have had more success than others, with their names going down in history forever. 

We’ve looked at the numbers, both domestic and abroad, in addition to their cultural impact, achievements, and more to provide you with the best rock bands ever, ranked. Check to see where your favorite musical artists appear on this list…

#58 – Oasis

You may know this English rock band for their 1995 hit, “Wonderwall,” which sold over 2.4 million copies. While many consider them just a one-hit wonder, they did have another hit, called “(What’s the Story) Morning Glory?”

Unfortunately, after various band member replacements and constant fighting between Liam and Noel, the group suddenly disbanded in 2009. Since then, the band has pretty much faded from memory, though “Wonderwall” will still likely be played in college dorms for years to come. 

#57 – Judas Priest

Judas Priest is a heavy metal English band, formed in 1969,  known for the screaming lead vocals, songs about destruction, and lots of turnover amongst the group. The band struggled with commercial success until 1980 with the album British Steel.

While Judas Priest was nominated to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2020, they didn’t end up getting inducted. This has furthered the discussion about the lack of representation of metal bands in the Hall. 

#56 – The Clash

Formed in London in 1976, The Clash is a British punk rock band that has contributed to the post-punk and new wave music movements. They were known for mixing the traditional punk rock sound of the 1970s with reggae, dub, funk, ska, and rockabilly. 

While The Clash didn’t become popular in the USA until 1979, they were a smashing success once they were known. Unfortunately, the band came to an end all too soon when they decided to break up during the height of their success in 1985. 

#55 – Marillion

Marillion has produced nineteen albums, which many cite is split into two distinct eras of music, when its lead original lead singer Fish left the group in 1988. Despite the split of musical themes, Marillion has a very loyal fan base despite its unpopularity with mainstream media. 

They are even known for being pioneers in the concept of fan-funded music and crowdfunding to achieve their music goals. Plus, this band isn’t done yet. They released their FEAR album in 2016 which made the was a top ten album in the UK.

#54 – Slade

Slade rose to success during the era of glam rock, producing 17 consecutive Top-20 hits. However, their popularity faded when they tried to move to the USA, and they ended up on the university circuit. 

Fortunately for them, they replaced Ozzy Osbourne at the Reading Rock Festival and revived their popularity. This ended up saving the band from bankruptcy and giving it life for another couple of years until Holder left the band. Many different musical artists have cited them as an influence such as Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins, Ramones, Kiss, Def Leppard and Cheap Trick. 

#53 – Uriah Heep

Formed in London in 1969, Uriah Heep comprises rhythm guitarist Mick Box, keyboardist Phil Lanzon, lead vocalist Bernie Shaw, drummer Russell Gilbrook, and bassist Davey Rimmer. Mick Box is the only original band member left. 

Uriah Heep has released twenty-four studio albums, and they are considered one of the pioneers in hard rock, heavy metal, and progressive rock genres. Despite their commercial success, the band was never a favorite among its peers, repeatedly getting bashed because they were just a bit too far behind the trend. 

#52 – Status Quo

Status Quo was formed in 1962 by English schoolboys Francis Rossi and Alan Lancaster. They certainly have come a long way since their school days. 

Status Quo has achieved 60 chart hits in the UK and are famous for their songs “Rockin’ All Over the World,” “Whatever You Want,” and “In the Army Now.” Status Quo is still going strong today and released their latest album in 2019.

#51 –Motley Crue

Known for their elaborative stage performances that involved throwing guitars, roller coaster drum kits, and lots of fire features, Motley Crue was a heavy metal and glam metal rock band. They were even dubbed as self-proclaimed bad boys of Hollywood. 

Motley Crue was deep into the rockstar life of booze and drugs, but that did not stop the music. After two decades of success, the band had a period of inactivity, but it is rumored that they are working on new material now. 

#50 – Red Hot Chili Peppers

The Red Hot Chili Peppers consists of vocalist Anthony Kiedis, bassist Flea, drummer Chat Smith, and guitarist John Frusciante. This LA-based band is known for having elements of alternative rock, funk-punk rock, and psychedelic rock, which gives them a unique and beloved sound. 

It was songs like “Under the Bridge,” “Californication,” “Otherside,” and “Scar Tissue’” that placed the band in a category all its own, sounding different than other bands on the radio. It comes as no surprise that the band holds the record for the most number-one singles on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart. 

#49 – Roxy Music

The English were forerunners for producing successful rock bands in the 1960s and 1970s,  one of which included Roxy Music. These “inspired amateurs” had the potential for great success, but a lack of quality management was their downfall. 

Roxy Music produced eight studio albums, with their music being known for pushing boundaries, with the ninth being changed over to a solo album for lead singer Ferry. While they performed a series of 40th-anniversary shows in 2012, the band has been inactive since then.

#48 – Motorhead

Surprise, surprise, here we are with another English rock band. Motorhead has released twenty-two studio albums, ten live recordings, twelve compilation albums, and five EPs over their career. 

What made them famous was their relatability.  They weren’t saints or impossible-to-reach stars; they represented the hellraisers and troublemakers you knew in school. Unfortunately, all three members of the primary (not founding) lineup have passed away, but their music will live on forever.

#47 – Thin Lizzy

Thin Lizzy was formed in Dublin, Ireland, in 1969 by two founding members, drummer Brian Downey and bass guitarist and lead singer, Phil Lynott after they became friends in school. Their band name was actually named after a car. 

You likely know their classic song “The Boys are Back in Town,” and possibly “Waiting for an Alibi.” Sadly, good music couldn’t keep them together, and soon after the band’s breakup, Lynott died after collapsing in his home in 1986.

#46 – The Police

We have a message for you, but it’s not in a bottle. The Police are a beloved, English rock band that made its way into the heart of music lovers through singles like “Roxanne” and “Every Breath You Take,” most notably because of frontman Sting. 

The Police achieved their most tremendous success after their 1983 album Synchronicity, making them one of the most popular bands in the world. However, due to creative differences, the band disbanded in 1986, but they did reunite for a world tour in 2007. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame in 2003. 

#45 – Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers

Originally from Gainesville, Florida, Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers was comprised of Tom Petty as the lead singer, Mike Campbell as lead guitarist, Ron Blair on bass guitar, Stan Lynch on drums, and Benmont Tench on keyboards. 

The band had many successful singles over the years, such as “Breakdown,” “American Girl,” and “Refugee.” Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers continued to produce hits and tour right up until Petty’s death in 2017.

#44 – Grateful Dead

The Grateful Dead formed a unique brand of rock music that was influenced by rock, folk, bluegrass, jazz, blues, gospel, and psychedelic music that were heavy on the instrumentals. Grateful Dead was well known for hopping around the world for live shows, perpetually followed by their loyal fans known as “Dead Heads.”

The group toured consistently from the late 1960s until the death of Jerry Garcia in 1995. The band has been one of the most beloved bands in music history. In 2015 the surviving members of the group did a final tour to mark their 50th anniversary. 

#43 – REM

REM was formed by University of Georgia students Bill Berry, Peter Buck, Mike Mills, and Michael Stripe. Today, they are known as one of the first alternative rock bands, and they were spectacularly popular among the college scene, being college students after all.

“Losing My Religion” was REM’s highest-charting and best-selling single in the ’90s, winning two Grammy awards. REM remained big throughout the 1990s and 2000s before the group decided to retire from the music industry. 

#42 – Pearl Jam

From the grunge rock capital of the USA, Pearl Jam is one of the many rock bands to come out of Seattle that has seen success. They are considered by many to be one of the most influential bands of the 1990s. 

While a tragic incident occurred at a Denmark show in 2000 where nine people died from overcrowding,  they channeled that grief into music and their performances. Rolling Stone even ranked them as #8 on its Top Ten Live Acts of All Time in 2011. 

#41 – Black Sabbath

Black Sabbath is an English rock band that was formed in 1968 by guitarist Tony Iommi, drummer Bill Ward, bassist Geezer Butler, and vocalist Ozzy Osbourne. For many, it is hard to believe that the band originally started as a blues-rock band. 

Fortunately, that changed soon after the song Black Sabbath was released. After that, they were known for their heavy metal style. Their first album, Black Sabbath, received negative reviews but was a commercial success that started their successful career. 

#40 – Foreigner 

Foreigner in an English / American band formed by veteran British guitarist and songwriter Mick Jones, fellow Briton and ex-King Crimson member Ian McDonald, and American vocalist Lou Gramm. Their name actually comes from the fact that two of the band members were foreigners to the USA. 

Their first four albums were a smashing success, and after, they became an international favorite. Foreigner had its fair share of struggles and success throughout the year, especially with some of its band members. Putting all that aside, the band changed with the times and kept producing fantastic music. 

#39 – King Crimson

King Crimson is another rock band that has achieved fantastic success. While band members have come and gone (almost two dozen full-time members), the band stayed strong, with its only original member, Robert Fripp, acting as a commanding force. 

King Crimson has undergone various style changes over the years, from whimsical pop to headstrong music. However, that did not deter audiences, and the band continues to tour to this day. 

#38 – ZZ Top

ZZ Top is an iconic band also known for their mainstream rock music and fantastic beards, with the drummer, Frank Beard, being clean-shaven. For 50 years, ZZ Top has inspired audiences to get up and jam the night away. 

ZZ Top has seen a range of successes over the years, some good years and some bad. They even survived when band member Dusty Hill accidentally shot himself in the chest while taking off a boot. It’s a long story, but nothing had deterred this band from making music. Hill passed away in July of 2021 at the age of 72. 

#37 – Green Day

Formed in 1987, Green Day was formed as a duo but has spent most of its touring time as the trio of Billie Joe Armstrong, Mike Dirnt, and Tre Cool. Green Day resonated well with the late-80’s/early-90s punk scene and was a fan favorite of edgy, young teens. 

Green Day’s success was high in the 1990s, but it cooled off once the new millennium hit. However, that quickly changed in 2004 when Green Day released American Idiot. It sent them soaring back to the top of the charts and revitalized their image. 

#36 – Tool

This LA rock band was formed in 1990 with band members including vocalist Maynard James Keenan, guitarist Adam Jones, and drummer Danny Carey. Tool has won four Grammy Awards, performed tours around the world, and has produced albums topping the charts in multiple countries.

Even with all that commercial success, Tool’s live performances make it a player in music history. The band is well known for its visuals during performances and unique vibe that captures audience in for more.

#35 – Ramones

Named after Paul McCartney’s pseudonym, Paul Ramone, the Ramones were an infamous rock band. Although, depending on who you ask, the band was actually named for the producer, Phil Ramone. 

Formed in New York City in 1974, the Ramones are credited as being one of the original punk rock groups and started as an international success rather than a domestic one. While some claim that the Ramones lacked in creativity, it didn’t stop their success. 

#34 – Journey

Critics have slammed Journey for being overly “corporate” over their entire career. However, the band achieved epic success over the years by connecting with every audience demographic from young to old. 

Journey’s success has continued into the 21st century, with “Don’t Stop Believin” becoming the top-selling track on iTunes in 2009 that was from a different century. Not many artists from that time period have connected with today’s generations like Journey.

#33 – Cream

Cream was a British rock band formed in London in 1966. The group consisted of singer, songwriter, and bassist Jack Bruce, guitarist and vocalist Eric Clapton, and drummer Ginger Baker. 

While the band members’ differences ended up in the band breaking up, only a few years in, they achieved great success during that time. They were ranked as number 16 on VH1’s “100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock” and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993.

#32 – Chicago

Chicago was originally called The Big Thing, before switching to The Chicago Transit Authority, and then finally shortening their name to Chicago. The band has sold over 38.5 million units with a musical styling they dubbed as “rock n’ roll with horns.”

Even though its first album didn’t produce a hit single and their guitarist accidentally killed himself playing a game of Russian roulette, they were beloved by fans. They even achieved the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. 

#31 – Creedence Clearwater Revival 

Creedence Clearwater Revival, also known simply as Creedence or CCR, has a unique musical blend of roots rock, swamp rock, blues rock, southern rock, and country-rock. It was that special blend that made an impact because it was revered by multiple generations of music lovers from all walks of life. 

CCR was a bestselling band in both the USA and the UK. Unfortunately, a messy breakup of the band lasted so long that even when inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993, John Fogerty refused to perform with his old bandmates.

#30 – The Doors

Vocalist Jim Morrison, keyboardist Ray Manzarek, guitarist Robby Krieger, and drummer John Densmore formed the famous rock group The Doors in 1965. What you may not know is that Morrison was a well-educated military brat who broke away from his father’s expectations to join the navy and ended up starting a band. 

Moreover, The Doors embodied the rebellious spirit of a generation of people protesting young soldiers going to Vietnam. The Doors released six albums together until Morrison died from a drug overdose in 1971. Afterward, the band tried to continue on but eventually disbanded in 1973.

#29 – Lynyrd Skynyrd

Sometimes it takes a while to find the perfect band name, and for Lynyrd Skynrd, it took five years. Luckily, the band from humble Florida origins picked a successful name that matched their band perfectly. 

There is nothing more unfortunate than young artists being cut down in their prime. A tragic airplane crash ended up killing three band members and seriously injuring the rest in 1977. Despite the tragedy, the band did reform ten years later for a reunion tour.

#28 – Bruce Springsteen

Bruce Springsteen is so famous he has actually been given shout-outs in songs by other famous artists. Selling 150 million albums worldwide isn’t too bad for a young man who came from a blue-collar town in New Jersey.  

This American singer and songwriter has released twenty studio albums with top hits like “Born to Run,” “Thunder Road,” “Badlands,” and many more. President Barack Obama even awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016. 

#27 – Fleetwood Mac

Originally a British blues band, Fleetwood Mac transformed into a British-American rock band that took the world by storm. This became especially true once they added the folk-rock duo Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks. 

Despite the turmoil in the early band with mental illness and love affairs, the addition of Buckingham and Nicks is what made this band a hit. Fleetwood Mac’s second album, Rumours, reached #1 in the US, got top spots worldwide, and won the band a Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 1977.

#26 – Nirvana

Founded by lead singer and guitarist Kurt Cobain and bassist Krist Novoselic, Nirvana contributed significantly to what gave Seattle its title as a grunge music city. They were known for creating simple music that made an impact and were extremely influential in the 1990s. 

While Nirvana disbanded after Cobain’s tragic and mysterious death in 1994, Nirvana is one of the best-selling bands of all time. Former Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl went onto to create another famous band, Foo Fighters, who appear later on this list.

#25 – Genesis

Formed by five pupils of the Charterhouse School, this English band has gone down in history as pioneers of progressive rock music. While the band went through distinctive style changes over the decades, they stayed true to rock n’ roll and never were tempted by “new trends.”

Genesis has made it big with fifteen studio and six live albums. Phil Collins didn’t want to be the lead singer of the band when Peter Gabriel left in 1975. The band thrived for a few decades more, but Collins left in 1996 to pursue solo work. 

#24 – Foo Fighters

As mentioned earlier, Foo Fighters is another rock band from Seattle, founded by former Nirvana drummer, Dave Grohl, after the death of Kurt Cobain. Instead of wallowing in despair for his lost friend and band, Grohl forged ahead. 

Foo Fighters were an inspiration who had music  about complex subjects. Over their career, Foo Fighters have won 12 Grammy awards, including Best Rock Album four separate times.

#23 – Bon Jovi 

Formed in 1983 in Sayreville, New Jersey, Bon Jovi consists of frontman Jon Bon Jovi, keyboardist David Bryan, drummer Tico Torres, guitarist Phil X, and bassist Hugh McDonald.

Bon Jovi has seen numerous top hits, most notably “You Give Love a Bad Name” and “Living’ on a Prayer.” While they are no longer rocking the big hair from the 1980s, it comes as no surprise that the group has sold over 34 million copies and that they continue to tour all over the world today. 

#22 – U2 

Finally, a non-American and non-English band to make it on the the list. Irish rock band U2  consists of Bono as lead vocals and rhythm guitar, the Edge as lead guitar, keyboards, and backing vocals, Adam Clayton as bass guitar, and Larry Mullen Jr. as drums and percussion.

U2 grew a lot, both on a personal level for bandmembers and musically as a group, over their career. They’ve been performing for decades, but in 2014, they famously had their album Songs of Innocence added to people’s iTunes automatically.

#21 – David Bowie

David Robert Jones, known to the entertainment world as David Bowie, was an English singer-songwriter and actor. Bowie was a legend and is considered one of the most influential people in the music industry.

David Bowie had an incredibly successful career, and Rolling Stone magazine named him on its list of the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time as the “Greatest Rock Star Ever” following his death in 2016. It can certainly be said that he was a music icon until the very end. 

#20 – Bob Dylan

Did you know that Bob Dylan was born Robert Allen Zimmerman? Considered to be one of the greatest songwriters of all time, Bob Dylan has become an extremely significant figure in pop culture that sold over 36 million units. 

Dylan’s music is as famous as his activism.  He was known for his songs that became anthems for political movements, like “Blowin’ in the Wind” and “The Times They Are a-Changin.” For his artwork, Bob Dylan received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2016.

#19 – Yes

Yes is an English progressive rock band formed in London in 1968 by singer Jon Anderson, bassist Chris Squire, guitarist Peter Banks, keyboardist Tony Kaye, and drummer Bill Bruford. Anderson and Squire were always the center of the band for the original lineup, with fans instantly recognizing Anderson’s high vocals. 

Despite the heavy turnover of band members, of which there have been nineteen full-time participants, the band flourished. Lead vocalist Jon Anderson had many stints where he left and came back to Yes. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017.

#18 – Jimi Hendrix

Seattle has laid claim to numerous famous singers, and it is proud to claim Jimi Hendrix as well. Hendrix was an American musician, singer, and songwriter who changed the music world with his electric guitar and sound innovations. 

Hendrix lived an interesting life, including a stint in the army. After being honorably discharged, Hendrix pursued his historic music career. Hendrix died far too soon at the age of 27, but has since earned numerous awards during and after his lifetime and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992 and the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2005.

#17 – Aerosmith

Aerosmith is an American rock band that was originally formed in Boston in 1970. The group is comprised of Steven Tyler as lead vocalist, Joe Perry on guitar, Tom Hamilton on bass, Joey Kramer on drums, and Brad Whitford on guitar. 

Aerosmith’s distinctive sound is partly attributed to Tyler’s incredible vocal range. The list of top hits, multi-platinum albums, awards, and over 66 million copies sold is too many to count. Plus, Aerosmith was obviously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2001, and band members Tyler and Perry were also inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

#16 – Kiss

You likely know Kiss for its incredible stage presence, which features face paint, outrageous outfits, and addictive energy. They’ve been ranked as one of the top “Best Metal and Hard Rock Live Bands of All Time.”

While they have long since ditched the glam rock outfits for something a smidge more sensible, Kiss has been a strong band for decades. They are still touring to this day, even though they always say it will be the “last tour.” 

#15 – Deep Purple 

Known as pioneers in heavy metal and modern hard work, Deep Purple is an English rock band that reaped terrific musical success over the years, from albums sold to awards won. The band was initially started with Chris Curtis, the drummer, contacting businessman Tony Edwards about the idea of creating a rock group. 

Obviously, Curtis’s idea turned out to be a mega success. Deep Purple is actually in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the “globe’s loudest band” for its 1972  concert at London’s Rainbow Theatre, with a sound that reached 117 decibels. 

#14 – Van Halen

Named for the talented lead guitarist Eddie Van Halen, this band has been rocking the music scene since its formation in 1972 in Pasadena, California. The band connected so well because they all came from families who had migrated to the US not that long ago. 

Van Halen was particularly famous for Eddie’s innovative two-hand ‘tapping’ guitar technique, in addition to the excellent skills of all the other band members. As of March 2019, Van Halen is 20th on the RIAA list of best-selling artists in the United States and is one of the top-selling groups of all time.

#13 – Def Leppard

Formed in 1977, Def Leppard (another English rock band) was established during the new wave of British heavy metal, with their success soon following in the early 1980s. Surprisingly, the band managed to survive the loss of their drummer’s arm in a car crash and the death of their guitarist. 

Despite the tragedy this group has faced, Def Leppard has topped the music charts not only in England but also in the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The best description of their music comes from singer Joe Elliott, who stated it as  “AC/DC meets Queen.” 

#12 – The Who

The Who was formed in London in 1964 with a lineup of lead singer Roger Daltrey, guitarist and singer Pete Townshend, bass guitarist and singer John Entwistle, and drummer Keith Moon.

The Who has countless top hits including, “My Generation,” “I Can See for Miles,” and “Happy Jack.” They also happened to be on the playbill at Woodstock. Despite the deaths of a couple of band members, the group is still touring to this day. 

#11 – Guns N’ Roses

Guns N’ Roses, often shortened to GNR, is a hard rock band from LA. When they signed to their label in 1986, the band was comprised of vocalist Axl Rose, lead guitarist Slash, rhythm guitarist Izzy Stradlin, bassist Duff McKagan, and drummer Steven Adler.

Today, music lovers young and old still sing to “Welcome to the Jungle” and “Sweet Child o’ Mine.” However, back in the day, the band was described as one of the most “dangerous bands in the world” for their rock n’ roll carnage.

#10 – Rush

Rush is the only Canadian rock band to make this list (sorry Nickelback). Formed in Toronto in 1968, the band consisted of Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, and Neil Peart. At first, everyone thought that Rush was going to copycat Led Zeppelin, but that wasn’t the case. 

Rush achieved commercial success in the 1970s and are known for its complex compositions and eclectic lyrical motifs. Like many other rock bands of the era, they had music that evolved over time, from their sci-fi style songs to reggae rhythms. Fifty years later, they are pretty much done with music, but they have left quite the legacy behind.

#9 – Iron Maiden

Iron Maiden is another hugely successful English rock band that wormed its way into the hearts of audiences near and far. Part of their success comes from their consistent hard work. They were either touring or recording 24/7. 

The band’s discography has grown to massive proportions, and they have even been featured as the music for a couple of video games. Like Judas Priest, Iron Maiden has also been nominated for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame but has not been inducted in. 

#8 – Metallica 

Metallica began to grow its fame in the 1980s’ underground music scene long before it hit the mainstream media, but once it did, it took off. They moved from San Francisco to LA because LA wasn’t apparently “full of big-haired posers.”

Metallica has been an active band in the thrash metal music scene, and the band has seen its fair share of both good and bad moments. Some of their lower moments include when Cliff Burton, bassist, died in a tour bus crash in 1986. Over the decades, they have won numerous awards and accolades, as well as creating an incredibly devoted fan base.

#7 – The Rolling Stones 

Starting with the pop-rock sound, The Rolling Stones ended up leading the charge with the gritty sound we adore with hard rock. In addition to their sound, they were notorious for their off-stage antics, primarily Richard’s heavy drug use and Mick Jagger’s status as an international playboy. 

There have been many other incidents associated with The Rolling Stones, but their music is what made them shine despite the negative publicity. The names of primary band members, Mick Jagger, Brian Jones, and Keith Richards, still resonate today with younger audiences hearing the lyrics “moves like Jagger.”

#6 – The Beatles 

John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr are regarded as the most influential band of all time, The Beatles. Everyone on the planet knows who the Beatles are, whether they claim to love them or hate them.

The Beatles created an extensive array of music, pulling in various styles to create a unique sound all to their own that ended up with the best-selling music acts of all time at over 183 million units by 2020. Don’t forget to add on the fact that they accomplished all that in just eight years together.

#5 – AC/DC 

Did you know that AC/DC is an Australian rock band formed by two Scottish-born brothers? Most don’t know that tidbit of history, but they do know their music as they have been a part of the global rock n’ roll scene over the best part of five decades. 

Five decades of music lead to a diverse set of tunes; it makes sense as they have changed as people and artists over the years. They have done everything from sweet, romantic songs you can play at weddings to anthemic songs that can get a crowd pumped and ready.

#4 – Pink Floyd

Pink Floyd, a rock band out of London, gained traction as one of the first British psychedelic bands. If you take a good listen to their albums, you will note distinct differences in their sound as they progress through time. Many Pink Floyd fans love listening to the band’s albums in order, all at once, to really understand how their music evolved. 

Not many have achieved the level of success and honors that Pink Floyd has during their career. In addition to their incredible sales, Pink Floyd has been honored by being inducted into the US Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996, the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2005, and in 2008, King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden presented Pink Floyd with the Polar Music Prize for their contribution to modern music.

#3 – Eagles 

Formed in 1971 in Los Angeles, USA, The Eagles were the definition of California rock. The Eagles are one of the most successful bands to come out of the 1970s with five number-one singles and six number-one albums, six Grammy Awards, five American Music Awards, and 120 million units sold. 

To this day, you will hear multiple generations singing along to “Hotel California,” ‘”Take it Easy,” “Desperado,” “Peaceful Easy Feeling,” and so many more. While Don Felder was fired and Glenn Frey has passed away, Eagles still continue to tour and fill up stadiums.

#2 – Queen 

Queen was a rock band that formed in London in 1970. Their classic lineup was Freddie Mercury on lead vocals and piano, Brian May on guitar and vocals, Roger Taylor on drums and vocals, and John Deacon on bass. 

Queen, has tons of famous hits, most notably “We Will Rock You” and “We Are the Champions” as being sporting events fan favorites, and “Bohemian Rhapsody,” a song almost in its own genre of music alone. Despite Mercury’s death in 1991, Queen is still a best-selling group, and had a feature film called Bohemian Rhapsody released about the band.

#1 – Led Zeppelin

Here we are at #1. It comes as little surprise that the #1 spot on our list goes to Led Zeppelin. Formed in London in 1968, the group included vocalist Robert Plant, guitarist Jimmy Page, bassist and keyboardist John Paul Jones, and drummer John Bonham. 

Led Zeppelin is one of the best-selling music artists of all time, achieving over 200 to 300 million record sales worldwide. They completed eight consecutive UK number-one albums, six number-one albums on the US Billboard 200, and Five Diamond certified albums. Rolling Stone magazine described them as both “the biggest band of the Seventies” and “unquestionably one of the most enduring bands in rock history.”