British rock songs have a long and rich history, spanning from the 1950s to the present day. British rock bands have influenced millions of fans around the world. They have created some of the most iconic and memorable songs of all time.

But what are the best British rock songs ever? That’s a tough question to answer, as different people may have different tastes and preferences.

Based on popularity, critical acclaim, cultural impact, and personal opinion, here are 20 British rock songs.

1. Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen

Perhaps the most famous and beloved British rock songs of all time, Bohemian Rhapsody is a masterpiece of musical composition and vocal performance. Released in 1975, the song is a six-minute epic that combines elements of opera, hard rock, ballad, and comedy.

It tells the story of a man who has committed murder and faces the consequences of his actions. The song features Freddie Mercury’s stunning vocal range, Brian May’s soaring guitar solo, and a catchy chorus that everyone can sing along to.

“Bohemian Rhapsody” achieved massive global success, reaching the pinnacle of charts and becoming a top-selling single. It amassed numerous awards, including induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2004. Additionally, the song received covers from various artists, comedic parodies, and was featured in multiple movies and TV shows. It’s universally acclaimed as one of music’s greatest songs.

2. (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction by The Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones are one of the most influential and successful British rock bands ever. Their career that spaned over six decades and counting. Moreover, their 1965 hit (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction is one of their most iconic and recognisable British rock songs. It is one of the first examples of hard rock.

The song expresses the frustration and alienation of the youth culture in the 1960s. The lyrics criticise consumerism, materialism, and sexual frustration. The song features Mick Jagger’s distinctive vocals, Keith Richards’ catchy guitar riff, and Charlie Watts’ steady drum beat.

“(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” was a global smash, claiming number one spots in multiple countries and becoming a top-selling single. Additionally, it earned critical acclaim, positioned among the greatest songs by various publications and institutions. The song has seen covers from artists including Otis Redding, Devo, Britney Spears, and Cat Power.

3. Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin

Led Zeppelin are widely considered as one of the pioneers and innovators of heavy metal music. Their style blended hard rock, blues, folk, and psychedelic elements. Moreover, their 1971 song Stairway to Heaven is one of their most famous and influential songs. It is one of the most popular British rock songs ever.

The song is an eight-minute epic that progresses from a gentle acoustic intro to a powerful electric climax. It features Robert Plant’s mystical lyrics, Jimmy Page’s masterful guitar work, John Paul Jones’ versatile bass and keyboard playing, and John Bonham’s thunderous drumming.

“Stairway to Heaven” was never released as a single, yet became a radio staple and beloved by fans. Additionally, it received critical acclaim, ranked among the greatest songs by various publications and institutions. Artists like Heart, Dolly Parton, Frank Zappa, and Rodrigo y Gabriela have covered the song.

4. Imagine by John Lennon

John Lennon was one of the most influential and controversial figures in the history of music. He was a peace activist and a cultural icon. His 1971 solo song Imagine is one of his most famous and beloved songs. Furthermore, it is one of the most powerful and inspiring British rock songs ever written.

The song is a simple piano ballad that expresses Lennon’s vision of a world without war, violence, greed, or religion. The song features Lennon’s gentle vocals, accompanied by a minimal arrangement of piano, bass, drums, and strings.

“Imagine” achieved massive global success, securing number one spots in various countries and becoming a top-selling single. Additionally, it earned critical acclaim and recognition, ranked among the greatest songs by various publications and institutions. Artists including Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Madonna, Lady Gaga, and Pentatonix have covered the song.

5. Wonderwall by Oasis

Oasis were one of the most popular and influential British rock bands of the 1990s. They are the leading figures of the Britpop movement. Their 1995 song Wonderwall is one of their most iconic and successful British rock songs. Furthermore, it is one of the defining songs of the decade.

The song is a catchy and melodic acoustic rock song that features Liam Gallagher’s distinctive vocals, Noel Gallagher’s memorable guitar chords, and a string section arranged by Paul Weller. Moreover, the song drew inspiration from George Harrison’s album “Wonderwall Music” and took its title from a film.

“Wonderwall” achieved immense global success, topping charts and becoming a top-selling single. Additionally, it earned critical acclaim, with award nominations and recognition as one of the greatest songs by various publications and institutions. Artists like Ryan Adams, Ed Sheeran, Paul Anka, and The Killers have covered the song.

6. Creep by Radiohead

Radiohead are one of the most innovative and influential British rock bands of all time. Their style constantly evolves and experiments with various genres and sounds. Moreofer, their 1992 debut single Creep is one of their most famous and controversial songs. It is one of the most iconic alternative British rock songs ever.

The song is a dark and emotional ballad that expresses the feelings of an insecure and self-loathing outsider. Furthermore, the song features Thom Yorke’s haunting vocals, Jonny Greenwood’s explosive guitar bursts, Colin Greenwood’s driving bass line, Ed O’Brien’s atmospheric guitar effects, and Phil Selway’s steady drum beat.

Creep was initially a flop in the UK, but it became a hit in the US and other countries, thanks to its exposure on MTV and radio. It also received critical acclaim and recognition, being praised for its honesty and originality. The song has been covered by many artists, such as Korn, Prince, Moby, and Kelly Clarkson.

7. Paranoid by Black Sabbath

Black Sabbath are widely regarded as the godfathers of heavy metal music. Their style combined hard rock, blues, and horror themes. Moreover, their 1970 song Paranoid is one of their most famous and influential British rock songs. It is one of the first examples of metal music.

The song is a fast and furious rocker that deals with mental illness and social alienation. Furthermore, the song features Ozzy Osbourne’s distinctive vocals, Tony Iommi’s powerful guitar riffs, Geezer Butler’s heavy bass lines, and Bill Ward’s energetic drumming.

“Paranoid” achieved massive global success, securing number one spots in multiple countries and becoming a top-selling single. It garnered critical acclaim, earning recognition as one of the greatest songs by various publications and institutions. Additionally, the song has been covered by artists like Megadeth, Green Day, Avenged Sevenfold, and Weezer.

8. London Calling by The Clash

The Clash were one of the most influential and diverse British rock bands ever. Their style incorporated elements of punk rock, reggae, ska, rockabilly, funk, and rap. Moreover, their 1979 song London Calling is one of their most famous and acclaimed British rock songs. It is one of the defining songs of the punk era.

The song is a powerful and urgent anthem that addresses the social and political issues of the late 1970s. For example, unemployment, racism, nuclear war, drug abuse, and environmental disaster. The song features Joe Strummer’s passionate vocals, Mick Jones’ catchy guitar hooks, Paul Simonon’s groovy bass lines, and Topper Headon’s solid drumming.

London Calling was a hit worldwide. It reached number one in several countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. It also received critical acclaim and recognition, being praised for its relevance and innovation. The song has been covered by many artists, such as Bruce Springsteen, U2 and The Pogues.

9. Hey Jude by The Beatles

The Beatles are arguably the most influential and successful British rock band of all time. Their style ranged from pop rock, psychedelic rock, folk rock, and experimental rock. Moreover, their 1968 song Hey Jude is one of their most famous and beloved British rock songs. It is one of the longest and most complex songs ever.

The song is a heartfelt and uplifting ballad that was written by Paul McCartney for John Lennon’s son Julian. The song was written during a difficult time due to his parents’ divorce. It features McCartney’s soothing vocals, Lennon’s harmonies, George Harrison’s subtle guitar fills, and Ringo Starr’s simple but effective drumming. The song also features a famous four-minute coda that consists of repeated chants of “na na na na” and “hey Jude”. It is accompanied by a large orchestra and a chorus of singers.

“Hey Jude” enjoyed massive global success, attaining number one positions in various countries and becoming a top-selling single. Additionally, it garnered critical acclaim for its emotion and creativity. The song found covers from artists including Elvis Presley, Wilson Pickett, Katy Perry, and even Paul McCartney himself.

10. Another Brick in the Wall (Part 2) by Pink Floyd

Pink Floyd are one of the most innovative and influential British rock bands ever. They explored progressive rock, psychedelic rock, space rock, and concept albums. Their 1979 song Another Brick in the Wall (Part 2) is one of their most famous and controversial British rock songs. Itis one of the most popular protest songs ever.

The song is part of their concept album The Wall. It tells the story of a rock star named Pink who isolates himself from society and builds a metaphorical wall around him. It criticizes the rigid and oppressive education system in Britain. Furthermore, the lyrics denounce the teachers who “leave them kids alone”. The song features Roger Waters’ vocals, David Gilmour’s guitar solo, Richard Wright’s synthesizers, Nick Mason’s drums, and a choir of children who sing the chorus.

“Another Brick in the Wall (Part 2)” achieved massive global success, clinching number one spots in various countries and ranking among top-selling singles. Additionally, it garnered critical acclaim for its message and music. Artists like Korn, Marilyn Manson, Eric Prydz, and Scorpions have covered the song.

11. Parklife by Blur

One of the most iconic and humorous British rock songs of the 1990s is Parklife by Blur. Released in 1994 as part of their album (also titled Parklife), Parklife is a three-minute Britpop song that was written by Damon Albarn, Graham Coxon, Alex James, and Dave Rowntree. The song is a satirical and witty observation of British culture and society. It has a catchy melody and a spoken-word chorus.

The song features a guitar riff by Coxon, a bass line by James, a drum beat by Rowntree, and a vocal performance by Albarn and Phil Daniels. Moreover, Parklife was a huge hit in the UK, reaching number 10 in the charts and becoming one of the best-selling singles of the year.

It also received critical acclaim from critics and fans alike, who praised its originality, humour, and relevance. The song found covers from artists like Robbie Williams, Lily Allen, Kaiser Chiefs, and The Divine Comedy. It’s also acclaimed as one of the greatest songs by publications like Q magazine’s 2004 1001 Best Songs Ever list.

12. Heroes by David Bowie

David Bowie was one of the most influential and versatile British rock artists ever. His style explored various genres and personas. His 1977 song Heroes is one of his most famous and acclaimed songs. It was one of the most inspiring British rock songs ever written.

The song is a romantic and epic ballad that tells the story of two lovers who meet at the Berlin Wall, which divided East and West Germany during the Cold War. It features Bowie’s passionate vocals, Robert Fripp’s soaring guitar, Brian Eno’s synthesisers, and Tony Visconti’s production. The song also features a famous vocal technique that Bowie used to create different effects, such as whispering, shouting, and singing in different languages.

Heroes was a hit worldwide, reaching number one in several countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. It also received critical acclaim and recognition, being praised for its emotion and significance. The song has been covered by many artists, such as Peter Gabriel, Oasis, Coldplay, and King Crimson.

13. I Want to Break Free by Queen

Queen were one of the most influential and successful British rock bands ever. Their style combined rock, pop, opera, and glam. Moreover, their 1984 song I Want to Break Free is one of their most famous and controversial British rock songs. It was one of the most popular songs about freedom and individuality.

The song is a catchy and upbeat pop rock song that expresses the desire to escape from a stifling relationship or situation. It features Freddie Mercury’s vocals, John Deacon’s bass line, Brian May’s guitar solo, and Roger Taylor’s drums. The song also features a famous music video that parodies a British soap opera called Coronation Street, in which the band members dress up as women.

“I Want to Break Free” achieved significant global success, securing number one spots in various countries and becoming a top-selling single. It garnered critical acclaim for its humor and message. Additionally, the song received covers from artists like Foo Fighters, Robbie Williams, Ariana Grande, and Metallica.

14. Don’t Look Back in Anger by Oasis

Oasis were one of the most popular and influential British rock bands of the 1990s. They are the leading figures of the Britpop movement. Their 1996 song Don’t Look Back in Anger is one of their most famous and acclaimed British rock songs. It was one of the most anthemic songs ever written.

Moreover, the song is a uplifting and nostalgic rock song that encourages the listener to move on from the past and live in the present. The song features Noel Gallagher’s vocals, Liam Gallagher’s backing vocals, Paul Arthurs’ piano, Paul McGuigan’s bass, and Alan White’s drums. The song’s notable piano intro draws inspiration from John Lennon’s “Imagine.”

“Don’t Look Back in Anger” achieved immense global success, topping charts in various countries and becoming a top-selling single. It earned critical acclaim for its melody and lyrics. Many artists, including Coldplay, U2, Metallica, and Adele, have covered the song.

15. Karma Police by Radiohead

Radiohead are one of the most innovative and influential British rock bands of all time. Their style constantly evolves and experiments with various genres and sounds. Moreover, their 1997 song Karma Police is one of their most famous and complex Briths rock songs. It was one of the most haunting songs ever written.

The song is a dark and atmospheric rock song that deals with themes of justice, revenge, and paranoia. It features Thom Yorke’s vocals, Jonny Greenwood’s guitar, Colin Greenwood’s bass, Ed O’Brien’s effects, and Phil Selway’s drums. The song also features a famous chord progression that was inspired by The Beatles’ Sexy Sadie.

Karma Police was a hit worldwide, reaching number one in several countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. It also received critical acclaim and recognition, being praised for its music and meaning. The song has been covered by many artists, such as Lana Del Rey, Maroon 5, Regina Spektor, and Easy Star All-Stars.

16. Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol

One of the most romantic and soothing British rock songs of the 2000s is Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol. Released in 2006 as part of their album Eyes Open, Chasing Cars is a four-minute alternative rock song that was written by Gary Lightbody, Nathan Connolly, Paul Wilson, Jonny Quinn, and Tom Simpson.

The song is a simple and sincere expression of love. Moreover, it has minimal melody and a gentle vocal performance by Lightbody. Chasing Cars was a huge hit worldwide, reaching number six in the UK charts and number five in the US charts. It also received critical acclaim from critics and fans alike, who praised its melody, lyrics, and emotion.

The song received covers from artists like Ed Sheeran, The Script, Leona Lewis, and One Direction. It’s also been hailed as one of the greatest songs by publications like Rolling Stone’s 2009 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.

17. God Save The Queen by Sex Pistols

One of the most provocative and controversial British rock songs of all time is God Save The Queen by Sex Pistols. Released in 1977 as a single, God Save The Queen is a three-minute punk rock song that was written by Johnny Rotten, Steve Jones, Glen Matlock, and Paul Cook.

The song defies establishment and monarchy, challenging British crown’s authority. Jones’ distorted guitar, Rotten’s fierce vocals, Matlock and Cook’s chaos. BBC banned “God Save The Queen” for offensive lyrics and defaced Queen Elizabeth II imagery on the cover.

However, this only increased its popularity and recognition among the public, especially among the young and rebellious generation. It also received critical acclaim from critics and musicians alike, who praised its boldness, honesty, and relevance. The song’s an anthem for punk, anti-war and Scottish independence campaign. Recognized among greatest songs by Rolling Stone’s 2004 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.

18. Fix You by Coldplay

Coldplay are one of the most popular and successful British rock bands of the 21st century. Their style combines alternative rock, pop rock, and electronic music. Their 2005 song Fix You is one of their most famous and emotional songs. It was one of the most comforting British rock songs ever written.

The song is a soothing and uplifting rock song that was written by Chris Martin for his then-wife Gwyneth Paltrow, who was grieving the death of her father. It features Martin’s vocals, Jonny Buckland’s guitar, Guy Berryman’s bass, Will Champion’s drums, and a church organ. The song also features a famous climax that builds up from a soft piano to a powerful electric guitar.

Fix You was a hit worldwide, reaching number one in several countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. It garnered critical acclaim and recognition, lauded for its emotion and sincerity. Numerous artists, like Boyce Avenue, Yellowcard, Sam Smith, and even Coldplay themselves, have covered the song.

19. I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor by Arctic Monkeys

Arctic Monkeys are one of the most popular and influential British rock bands of the 21st century. Their style combines indie rock, garage rock, and post-punk revival. Their 2005 debut single “I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor” is one of their most famous and energetic songs. It was one of the most catchy British rock songs ever written.

The song is a fast and furious rock song that describes the attraction and excitement of a night out at a club. It features Alex Turner’s vocals, Jamie Cook’s guitar, Andy Nicholson’s bass, and Matt Helders’ drums. The song also features a famous opening line that references the band’s hometown of Sheffield: “Don’t believe the hype”.

“I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor” achieved massive global success, clinching number one in multiple countries and ranking among the best-selling singles ever. It garnered praise for its music and attitude, earning critical acclaim. Additionally, numerous artists, including Sugababes, Tom Jones, Babyshambles, and Arctic Monkeys themselves, have covered the song.

20. Clocks by Coldplay

One of the most distinctive and successful British rock songs of the 2000s is Clocks by Coldplay. Released in 2002 as part of their British album A Rush of Blood to the Head, Clocks is a five-minute alternative rock song that was co-written by all four members of the band.

The song originates from a hypnotic piano riff by Chris Martin, composed during a late-night studio session. Its lyrics, while vague and abstract, generally touch on time, regret, and love themes. “Clocks” achieved global success, peaking at number nine on UK charts and 29 on US charts. It also received critical acclaim from critics and musicians alike, who praised its originality, atmosphere, and emotion.

The song has won several awards, such as the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 2004. Multiple artists, including Buena Vista Social Club, Rhythms del Mundo, David Garrett, and Alicia Keys, have covered it. Various publications and polls, including Rolling Stone magazine’s 2009 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, have also ranked it as one of the greatest songs ever.

The Bottom Line

British rock music is a diverse and rich genre that has produced some of the most iconic songs. Queen, Radiohead, The Beatles, Oasis, Led Zeppelin, Coldplay have influenced millions of fans around the world. They have created some of the greatest songs in the history of music.

These 20 examples represent the finest British rock songs, yet many more warrant mention and appreciation in this category. What are your favourite British rock songs? Let us know in the comments below!