The UCR compilation of the Top 15 Rock Songs of 2025 (So Far) transcends fleeting trends and delivers a unique perspective on the current rock landscape. This year has already seen remarkable surprises, including two unexpected studio reunions that have captivated fans. Two members of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame have produced introspective and understated recordings that resonate deeply due to their raw and unrefined simplicity.
Our carefully curated list, voted on by our dedicated staff, highlights not only one of rock music’s enduring legends but also a few emerging talents who truly understand the essence of the genre. Additionally, two classic rock stalwarts have revisited their roots with new projects that provide fresh insights and reflections on their musical journeys.
READ MORE: Final Songs Performed Live by Rock’s Biggest Acts
As we explore the diversity of this year’s offerings, some artists venture into the depths of progressive rock, while others reflect on their earlier selves. This countdown showcasing the Top 15 Rock Songs of 2025 (So Far) has become a remarkably varied collection of sounds and styles:
No. 15. Ozzy Osbourne and Billy Morrison, “Gods of Rock N Roll”
From: The Morrison Project
Ozzy Osbourne, alongside Billy Morrison, crafted “Gods of Rock N Roll” a decade ago, which first appeared on Morrison’s album God Shaped Hole as a straightforward band recording. Osbourne always believed this track was a missed opportunity, given its grandeur. After much anticipation, Morrison reimagined the song into a brand-new single featuring Steve Stevens, Osbourne’s bandmate. In a humorous remark, Osbourne reflected, “I told Billy then that it needed an orchestra and a choir,” adding, “but it took 10 f–ing years for him to listen to me.”
No. 14. David Byrne, “Everybody Laughs”
From: Who Is the Sky?
The iconic Talking Heads frontman, David Byrne, rose to prominence as an innovative force at the legendary CBGB music venue in the East Village. His latest track, “Everybody Laughs,” serves as a vibrant tribute to urban life, celebrating its peculiarities and charms. With lyrics like, “Everybody’s going through the garbage, looking for inspiration,” Byrne captures the essence of finding beauty in the ordinary. He shared with Rolling Stone, “Music can do that – hold opposites simultaneously,” reflecting the duality of life’s experiences.
No. 13. Benmont Tench, “The Melancholy Season”
From: The Melancholy Season
Renowned as a key player in Tom Petty’s bands, Benmont Tench is now stepping into the spotlight as a solo artist. Having penned several hits and made notable guest appearances, Tench faced a life-altering moment with Petty’s passing. He expressed his determination to continue creating music, stating, “The band, the main focus of my life since I was 19 years old, was gone… but I was damned if I wasn’t going to make another record.” Despite battling cancer, Tench has emerged rejuvenated, and his title track reflects a profound sense of introspection.
No. 12. Jethro Tull, “Curious Ruminant”
From: Curious Ruminant
The latest album from Ian Anderson and Jethro Tull starts with the evocative track “Curious Ruminant,” which initially lacked a definitive title. Anderson typically names songs after significant lyrics, but upon reflection, this piece resonated with his own quest for understanding. After deciding on “Curious Ruminant,” he remarked, “I thought, ‘Well, I’ll carry on with this thread of an idea and apply it to the songs on the album as a whole.” The outcome is an album that diverges from his usual detached narrative style, offering a more personal exploration.
No. 11. The Darkness, “Walking Through Fire”
From: Dreams on Toast
The band The Darkness often faces playful criticism for their humorous interview style and eclectic musical choices. Leading up to the release of Dreams on Toast, frontman Justin Hawkes asserted that their new material was inspired by “the elite songs, the life-changing music of the ages.” Their lead single, “Longest Kiss,” fulfilled that promise with a sound reminiscent of Electric Light Orchestra, while “I Hate Myself” embraced a punk vibe. With “Walking Through Fire,” they aimed to capture the essence of classic rock, channeling the spirit of Cheap Trick.
No. 10. Styx, “Build and Destroy”
From: Circling From Above
The track “Build and Destroy” plays a crucial role in the overarching theme of Styx’s new album, yet it was one of the last pieces completed. Lawrence Gowan, who collaborated with Tommy Shaw and producer Will Evankovich, mentioned that he continuously sang the title over the melody during the creative process. “We knew it was strong,” Gowan reflected. “Even though it was the second-to-last song we finished, it felt like a quick way into the album’s overall theme.”
No. 9. Melvins, “King of Rome”
From: Thunderball
Buzz “King Buzzo” Osborne and original drummer Mike Dillard lead the reformed Melvins lineup through the punk-influenced “King of Rome,” delivering a sound that defies nostalgic expectations. The track serves as an audacious nod to their past without succumbing to the weight of nostalgia. Featuring guest appearances by electronic artists Void Manes and Ni Maitres, the band focuses on the present. “I’m not a ‘good old days’ type of guy,” Osbourne confessed to the Portland Mercury. “I’m more the ‘what have you done lately’ type of guy.”
No. 8. Dirty Honey, “When I’m Gone (Live)”
From: Mayhem and Revelry Live
Dirty Honey’s “When I’m Gone” marks their inaugural concert recording, capturing an electric atmosphere that resonates with audiences. This performance, recorded during their extensive 2023-24 tour across North America and Europe, encapsulates Dirty Honey’s ambition to embody “the imaginary offspring of iconic bands like AC/DC, Aerosmith, Guns N’ Roses, Led Zeppelin, and The Black Crowes,” as articulated by guitarist John Notto in an interview with Billboard. Furthermore, “When I’m Gone” from their debut EP made history as the first unsigned act to top the Mainstream Rock airplay chart.
No. 7. Billy Idol, “Still Dancing”
From: Dream Into It
Serving as the lead single from Billy Idol’s first album since 2014’s Kings and Queens of the Underground, “Still Dancing” pays homage to the classic 1981 hit “Dancing With Myself.” However, this new track broadens the narrative, reflecting on Idol’s journey throughout his life and career. He shared with UPI that he intentionally began this song by reminiscing about his early days in London, living in squats and relying on friends for shelter. Idol explained that “punk rock gave me an opening,” before transitioning to a more settled phase of his life, singing, “I’m still dancing,” and emphasizing, “but now I ain’t alone.”
No. 6. Ringo Starr, “Look Up”
From: Look Up
Co-written by producer T Bone Burnett, “Look Up” marks Ringo Starr’s return to the country genre after over 50 years, as well as his first full-length album since 2019. The song’s uplifting message, encapsulated in the lyrics (“up above your head where the music plays, there’s a light that shines in the darkest days“), aligns perfectly with Starr’s signature themes of peace and love. His distinctive vocal delivery adds a unique charm, making this track a standout.
No. 5. Jason Isbell, “Bury Me”
From: Foxes in the Snow
In a bold move, Jason Isbell recorded his first solo acoustic album without the accompaniment of his usual backing band, the 400 Unit. This transformative experience, coupled with personal changes in his life, has led to a raw and authentic sound throughout Foxes in the Snow. In the opening track “Bury Me,” Isbell grapples with themes of rebirth and change, revealing a sense of gratitude for his journey. He conveyed his reflections to NPR, stating, “It’s like, well, if I died today, then I’ve had a good time.”
No. 4. Rolling Stones, “Zydeco Sont Pas Sales”
From: A Tribute to the King of Zydeco
The Rolling Stones’ rendition of “Zydeco Sont Pas Sales,” honoring the centennial of Clifton Chenier, a Louisiana legend, may come as a surprise. However, Mick Jagger revealed his admiration for Chenier, stating, “Clifton was a great influence on me.” He expressed his affection for Chenier’s ability to reinterpret blues in his distinctive style. Collaborations with local artists such as Dr. John, Aaron Neville, Stanley “Buckwheat” Dural, and Michael Doucet have enriched the Stones’ sound, as demonstrated in their previous album, Blue and Lonesome, which featured three tracks by Little Walter.
No. 3. Doobie Brothers, “Learn to Let Go”
From: Walk This Road
The highlight of the Doobie Brothers’ latest album is undoubtedly the full reunion of Michael McDonald with the band. Although he previously contributed to their 1976 album Takin’ It to the Streets and made brief appearances on World Gone Crazy in 2010, this marks a complete return. “Learn to Let Go” reflects the joy and success of this reunion. McDonald candidly stated, “In my heart, I’ve always been a Doobie Brother,” celebrating the bond and musical synergy that remains strong.
No. 2. Bruce Springsteen, “Rain the River”
From: Tracks II: The Lost Albums
In an ambitious creative endeavor, Bruce Springsteen ventured deep into an unreleased album that featured synths and drum loops reminiscent of his Oscar-winning hit “Streets of Philadelphia.” Ultimately, he decided to take a different direction, resulting in the powerful and intense “Rain in the River.” Although this track remained shelved for over 30 years, it found a home on the 2025 rock-centric compilation disc, Perfect World, from the Lost Tracks II collection. Springsteen remarked, “I was looking for someplace else to go musically,” showcasing his continual evolution as an artist.
No. 1. Alice Cooper, “Black Mamba”
From: The Revenge of Alice Cooper
Alice Cooper has reunited with his original band to create “Black Mamba,” a song that embodies a classic rock approach developed through jam sessions in the studio. Cooper described it as a “from-the-ground-up song,” where the band collaborated to cultivate a swampy sound inspired by the deadly Black Mamba snake. The track also features guest appearances from Robby Krieger of the Doors, marking a significant return for the Alice Cooper group since their last album, 1973’s Muscle of Love.
Discover the Best 15 Rock Albums of 2025 (So Far)
Featuring a blend of classic artists, exciting new bands, and beloved returning favorites, this year’s top releases highlight the evolution of rock music.
Gallery Credit: Michael Gallucci
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