The 50 Best Bands of All Time

Ranking the best bands of all time is no easy task, there are just so many amazing ones to choose from. That said, these groups have changed the landscape of music and left a lasting impression on fans around the world. 

These bands have left their mark on music history across a wide variety of genres, and their contribution to music continues to shape how music is made today.

50. Cream

This band was one of the first to truly fuse rock, blues, and jazz, creating a sound that would be highly influential for years to come. In the year 1966, the band started out as a power trio. They were all highly accomplished musicians and together they created some of the most iconic songs in rock history. In 1993, they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Songs like “Crossroads,” “Sunshine of Your Love,” and “White Room” are all timeless classics. The band’s live performances were legendary, and they’re often cited as one of the first true supergroups. However, the group broke up in 1968 and only made a brief reappearance in 1993 and 2005. Despite this, their legacy continues to this day.

49. REO Speedwagon

REO Speedwagon is the epitome of a guilty pleasure band.  They make no apologies for their catchy, radio-friendly tunes, and they’re all the better for it.

The band started in 1967 and has been going strong ever since. They had a string of hits in the 1980s with songs like “Keep on Loving You” and “Can’t Fight This Feeling.” Their members have changed over the years, but their sound has remained largely the same.

If you’re ever in the mood for some good old-fashioned sing-along rock, REO Speedwagon is always a solid choice. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself humming their tunes for days afterward.

48. Green Day

Who could ever forget the first time they heard “Jesus Of Suburbia?” For many of us, Green Day was our introduction to punk rock. While their sound has definitely evolved over the years, they’ve always stayed true to their roots. Established in 1987, they rose to fame with their 1994 album “Dookie”, which sold over 75 million records worldwide.

Green Day is one of the most successful punk rock bands of all time. They’ve won four Grammy Awards and seventeen nominations. Their hit songs include “Boulevard of Broken Dreams” and “Wake Me Up When September Ends.” In 2015, they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Today, they continue to make music that is both relevant and fun.

Whether you’re a fan of their early work or their more recent output, there’s no denying that Green Day is one of the best bands of all time.

47. Aerosmith

You don’t wanna miss a thing when it comes to Aerosmith. These bad boys of rock have been churning out hits for decades, and they show no signs of slowing down anytime soon. Formed in 1970, they rose to prominence in the 1970s with their hard rock sound. They’ve since sold over 150 million records and have won four Grammy Awards.

Their hit songs “Dream On,” “Sweet Emotion,” “I Don’t Wanna Miss A Thing,” and “Walk This Way” are some of the most iconic in rock history. They continue to tour and perform to sold-out crowds all over the world.

46. ABBA

Who can resist singing along to “Dancing Queen” at the top of their lungs?  ABBA is the ultimate feel-good band, and their music is guaranteed to put a smile on your face. As a Swedish supergroup that was formed in 1972, ABBA is one of the most successful pop groups of all time. They won the Eurovision Song Contest in 1974 with their song “Waterloo” and went on to achieve global success with hits like “Mamma Mia,” “Fernando,” and “Take a Chance on Me.”

Pop music would not be the same without ABBA. They’re a true phenomenon, and their influence can still be felt today. While the group disbanded in 1982 and reunited in 2016, we can’t deny that their music continues to bring joy to millions of people all over the world.

Even if you’re not a huge fan of pop music, it’s impossible not to enjoy ABBA. They’re simply one of the best bands of all time.

45. Linkin Park

Thanks to their unique blend of heavy metal and rap, Linkin Park are sure to get your blood pumping and your head banging. You might have been jamming to “In the End” in high school, but their latest album is just as good. Established in 1996, Linkin Park has won two Grammy Awards and sold about 26 million albums and over 31 million tracks. The top-selling album was “Hybrid Theory” in 2000.

Their most recent album, “One More Light,” was released in 2017 shortly before the passing of their lead singer Chester Bennington. The album is a testament to his talent, and it’s clear that he will be greatly missed. While they’re no longer touring, their music continues to touch the lives of millions of people all over the world. It’s a more personal album than their previous work, and it features the singles “Heavy” and “Talking to Myself.” 

Their music has always been a source of comfort for their fans, and this album is no different.

44. Radiohead

You’re lying if you say you don’t get chills when you hear the opening notes of “Creep.” There’s just something about Radiohead’s music that is truly captivating. Their music is often dark and melancholic, but it’s also beautiful in its own way.

Formed in 1985, Radiohead is an English rock band that has won three Grammy Awards. The band has sold 12.3 million digital albums and 756,000 digital singles to date, according to Forbes.

Some of their most popular songs include “Paranoid Android,” “Karma Police,” “No Surprises,” and “There There.” Their album “OK Computer” is often cited as one of the best albums of all time, and it’s easy to see why. Radiohead is a truly unique band, and their music is unlike anything else out there.

43. Rush

The way they sync up is unreal. These guys are true masters of their craft, and they always put on an amazing live show. Formed in 1968, Rush is a Canadian rock band that has been touring and making music for over 40 years. They’re one of the bestselling bands of all time, having sold over 40 million records worldwide. Their genre-defying sound has earned them legions of fans, and they’re often cited as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.

Their songs are often complex and intricate, but they’re also incredibly catchy. Some of their most popular songs include “Tom Sawyer,” “The Spirit of Radio,” “Closer to the Heart,” and “2112.”

The band has been closely-knit since their inception but there has been a low chance of making music after the passing of drummer Neil Peart in 2020. Despite this, their music will live on forever.

42. The Kinks

A breakthrough band in the 60s, The Kinks is one of the most influential bands of all time. Their song “Lola” was ahead of its time, and it’s still just as popular today.  Formed in 1963, The Kinks is an English rock band that has sold over 50 million records worldwide.

As one of the most influential bands of the British Invasion, The Kinks paved the way for many other bands that came after them. The band is best known for their songs “You Really Got Me,” “All Day and All of the Night,” and “Waterloo Sunset.”

They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990 and the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2005. The group subsequently disbanded in 1996.

41. The Sex Pistols

If you’re looking for some anarchy in your life, look no further than The Sex Pistols. These guys were true rebels, and their music reflected that.

Formed in 1975, The Sex Pistols is an English punk rock band that is considered one of the most influential bands of all time. Even broke up and reunited on several occasions over the years, they managed to make a huge impact on the music scene.

The group only released one album, “Never Mind the Bollocks, Here’s the Sex Pistols,” but it was enough to make them legends. Some of their most popular songs include “Anarchy in the U.K.,” “God Save the Queen,” and “Pretty Vacant.” The band caused quite a stir with their music and their attitude, and they’re still considered one of the most controversial bands of all time.

40. Parliament-Funkadelic

This group containing collective musicians is responsible for some of the most iconic funk songs of all time, including “Flash Light” and “Give Up The Funk.” Formed in 1968, Parliament-Funkadelic is an American funk band that has been credited as being one of the most influential bands of all time. They’re best known for their groundbreaking fusion of funk, rock, and R&B.

Their songs are often political and social commentary, and they’re widely considered to be one of the most important bands in the development of funk music. Some of their most popular songs include “Flash Light,” “Give Up The Funk,” and “Aqua Boogie.”

As one of the most influential groups of all time, their music has been sampled by everyone from Jay-Z to Outkast.

39. The Byrds

The Byrds were one of the most influential bands of the 1960s, helping to pioneer the genre of folk rock. Formed in 1964, the American rock band has sold over 1 million records of their album “The Byrd’s Greatest Hits.” The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991.

They’re best known for their hits “Mr. Tambourine Man” and “Turn! Turn! Turn! (To Everything There Is a Season),” which both topped the Billboard charts. The Byrds were a major force in the development of folk rock, and their music has been influential to many artists that came after them. If you’re a fan of classic rock, then The Byrds is a band you should not miss.

38. The Clash

The Clash was one of the most influential bands of the punk rock era, and they’re best known for songs like “Should I Stay or Should I Go.” Formed in 1976, The Clash was an English punk rock band that released six studio albums. Their best-selling album is “Combat Rock,” which was released in 1982 and featured the hits “Should I Stay or Should I Go” and “Rock the Casbah.”

The group was known for its social and political commentary, and they were one of the most important bands in the development of punk rock. Some of their most popular songs include “London Calling,” “White Riot,” and “Straight to Hell.” Unfortunately, they disbanded in 1986, but their music continues to live on.

37. The Velvet Underground

The Velvet Underground was one of the most influential bands of the 1960s, helping to pioneer the genre of art rock. Their music is known for its dark and often experimental subject matter. Formed in 1964, The Velvet Underground was an American rock band that released five studio albums. In 1996, the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

They’re best known for their self-titled debut album, which is considered one of the most important and influential albums of all time. Some of their other popular songs include “Sweet Jane” and “Pale Blue Eyes.” The Velvet Underground disbanded in the early 1970s but reunited on several occasions since.

36. Rammstein

The consistency of this metal band is something that has brought them to this list of best bands.

Formed in 1994, Rammstein is a German metal band that has released eight studio albums. The band is one of the most successful bands in Germany, selling over 10 million records worldwide.

They’re best known for their hit single “Du Hast.” They’re one of the most successful metal bands of all time, and they show no signs of slowing down anytime soon. From “Mutter” to “Mein Herz Brennt,” their music is sure to get your adrenaline pumping. The band is still active today and they released their eighth album early this year.

35. The Stooges

Best known as the “Psychedelic Stooges”, this band’s garage rock sound has gained them a place in the hearts of many over the years. Formed in 1967, The Stooges was an American rock band that released five studio albums.

The band was one of the most influential bands of the proto-punk era, and they’re best known for their songs “I Wanna Be Your Dog,” “No Fun,” and “Search and Destroy.” They are also considered to be frontrunners of the punk rock genre. They officially disbanded in 2016 due to the passing of two of the members, but their music continues to live on.

34. Creedence Clearwater Revival

The well-known rock band from the 60s. Formed in 1967, Creedence Clearwater Revival was an American rock band that is known as a visionary band whose music would shape the sound of country rock. The band released seven studio albums, with their self-titled debut album being the most successful.

The band is best known for their songs “Fortunate Son”, “Proud Mary”, and “Bad Moon Rising.” The band disbanded in 1972, but their music is still popular among fans today.

33. Black Sabbath

A heavy metal band from England that is often credited with pioneering the genre. Formed in 1968, Black Sabbath is one of the most successful and influential heavy metal bands of all time. The band has won 2 Grammy Awards, bagging the Best Metal Performance for “God Is Dead?”

They’re best known for their songs “Paranoid”, “Iron Man”, and “War Pigs”. Ozzy Osbourne’s powerful vocals and Tony Iommi’s heavy guitar riffs are truly iconic. After multiple line-up changes over the years, they officially announced their disbandment in 2017. This does not affect their critical acclaim and popularity, as they are still considered one of the best bands ever.

32. R.E.M.

Love can make you feel like you’re in your little world, and that’s exactly the feeling R.E.M.’s music evokes. Formed in 1980, R.E.M. was an American rock band that was one of the first alternative rock bands to achieve mainstream success. They are one of the most popular bands of the 80s and 90s. Their hit song “Losing My Religion” has reached 986 million views on YouTube.

They also have great songs like “Everybody Hurts”, “The One I Love”, “Man on the Moon”, and “Nightswimming”. Their music is often described as being beautiful, atmospheric, and introspective. The band officially disbanded in 2011, but you’ll never get tired of their songs.

With their unique sound and Michael Stipe’s ethereal vocals, R.E.M. created a sound that was entirely their own. It’s impossible to not feel something when you listen to their music.

31. Talking Heads

With their interesting blend of genres, Talking Heads created a sound that was truly unique and ahead of its time. Formed in 1975, Talking Heads is an American rock band that are considered to be one of the most important and influential bands of the 70s and 80s.

Part of the band’s appeal was their ability to mix genres like punk, funk, and world music. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002.

The band is best known for their songs “Psycho Killer”, “Burning Down the House”, and “Once in a Lifetime”. They officially disbanded in 1991 and had a brief reunion in 2002, but their music continues to influence bands today.

30. The Who

With over 10 million views on Youtube, “Won’t Get Fooled Again” is one of The Who’s most popular songs. They are a British rock band that formed in the 1960s, and they’re considered to be one of the most influential bands of all time. The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990.

The Who is best known for their songs “My Generation”, “Baba O’Riley”, and “Won’t Get Fooled Again”. They are also known for their energetic and powerful live performances. They disbanded in 1983 but had many reunions over the years and are still active today.

29. Nine Inch Nails

Just a warning, Nine Inch Nails is not for the faint of heart. They’re an industrial rock band with dark and often unsettling lyrics. Formed in 1988, Nine Inch Nails is the musical project of Trent Reznor. They won 2 Grammy Awards over the years. The band has released 13 studio albums and their song “Closer” has over 28 million views on YouTube.

Some of their most popular songs include “Head Like a Hole”, “Hurt”, and ” Perfect Drug”. Their music is often described as being dark, atmospheric, and aggressive. The band resumed touring after the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

28. Smashing Pumpkins

A band full of nostalgic teenager energy, the Smashing Pumpkins became one of the most popular alternative rock bands of the 90s. They’re an alternative rock band that formed in 1988. They have won 2 Grammy Awards and are considered to be one of the most influential bands of the 90s.

They are known for songs like “Bullet with Butterfly Wings” and “Today”. Their music is often described as being angsty and full of teenage emotion. The band disbanded in 2000, reunited in 2006, and is still touring today.

The Smashing Pumpkins are a brilliant band that will appeal to fans of all ages. They offer something for everyone, whether you want to relive your angsty adolescent years or just want to listen to some good music. The Smashing Pumpkins are worth listening to.

27. ZZ Top

The 80s were a strange and wonderful time, and ZZ Top was the perfect embodiment of that. They’re an American rock band that formed in 1969. They have been nominated for the Grammys thrice and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004. Their music is a unique blend of rock, blues, and country.

They are known for songs like “Legs”, “Sharp Dressed Man”, and “Gimme All Your Lovin'”. They continue to tour today and their live performances are legendary. Not only are they good musicians, but they also have kind hearts. ZZ Top had been supporting charity foundations such as ChildLine and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

26. Red Hot Chili Peppers

You’re totally missing out if you haven’t listened to the Red Hot Chili Peppers. They’re an American rock band that formed in 1983 and they’re considered to be one of the most successful bands of all time. They’ve won 3 Grammy Awards and have sold over 120 million records worldwide.

The Red Hot Chili Peppers are best known for their songs “Californication”, “By the Way”, and “Can’t Stop. They’re still actively touring and their live performances are not to be missed.

25. The Eagles

This band is everywhere. It seems like you can’t go more than a day without hearing one of their songs on the radio. They’re an American rock band known for songs like “Hotel California” and “Take It Easy”. They have won 6 Grammy awards over the years.

Their top hits also include “Desperado”, “Tequila Sunrise”, and “Life in the Fast Lane”. Their music is the perfect blend of country and rock. The Eagles formed in 1971 and are still touring today.

24. The Police

Every breath you take, every move you make, the Police will be watching you. They’re a British rock band that formed in 1977 and are known for songs like “Every Breath You Take” and “Roxanne”. They won five Grammy Awards and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003.

Their songs are often about love, loss, and relationships. The Police disbanded in 1986 but they reunited in 2003 and 2007 for a world tour. The Police are one of the most successful bands of all time and their music is still just as popular today as it was when it was first released.

23. Genesis

Genesis is one of the most successful British rock bands of the 1970s and 80s and has sold over 150 million records worldwide. Their song “Land of Confusion” led them to win the 30th Grammy Awards for “Best Concept Video”.

Their song “Jesus He knows me” has over 30 million views on YouTube. They also have other songs like “I Can’t Dance”, “Invisible Touch”, and “Mama”. Genesis has been on and off the music scene but has reunited multiple times. They are known for their complex and often theatrical live performances.

22. Fleetwood Mac

The youth of today might not know it, but Fleetwood Mac is one of the most popular bands of all time. They’re a British-American rock band formed in 1967 and they’re known for songs like “The Chain” and “Go Your Own Way”. They won two Grammy awards over their career. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998.

Fleetwood Mac’s music is often about heartbreak and relationships. In 2020, the song “Dreams’’ reached over a billion streams on Spotify (because of a viral Tiktok video) and is also the fourth top-selling vinyl of the year.

21. King Crimson

Progressive rock at its finest, King Crimson is a band that truly knows how to push the boundaries of what music can be. They’re a British rock band formed in 1968 and they’re known for songs like “In the Court of the Crimson King” and “21st Century Schizoid Man”.

Their music is complex, experimental, and often psychedelic. King Crimson is a band that is always innovating and changing their sound. Songs like “Epitaph” and “Starless” are some of the most beautiful and haunting pieces of music ever written.

20. Metallica

Heavy metal fans are sure to vouch for this band being one of the best of all time. Metallica is an American heavy metal band formed in 1981 and they’re known for songs like “Enter Sandman” and “One”. They have won eight Grammy Awards and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2009.

Metallica’s music is often fast-paced and aggressive. They are one of the best-selling bands of all time, selling over 125 million records worldwide. They also have great songs like “For Whom the Bell Tolls”, “Master Of Puppets”, and “Sad but True”. If you’re a fan of heavy metal, then you need to listen to Metallica.

19. The Cure

Ah, the band who defined gothic rock. The Cure is a British rock band known for songs like “Boys Don’t Cry” and “Lullaby”. They formed in 1978 and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019.

The Cure’s music is often dark and melancholic. They are known for their atmospheric live shows. Songs like “Pictures of You” and “Disintegration” are some of the most iconic gothic rock songs ever written.

18. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

Many good memories come with this band’s music. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers are an American rock band known for songs like “Free Fallin'” and “American Girl”. They formed in 1976 and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002. After the death of Tom Petty in 2017, the band quietly disbanded.

Tom Petty’s unique voice and The Heartbreakers’ hard-hitting instrumentals make them a must-listen for any fan of classic rock. He was a master of songwriting and his songs are some of the most well-known in rock history.

“Into the Great Wide Open” and “Learning to Fly” are just a few of their great hits. True legends, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers are one of the best bands of all time.

17. Steve Miller Band

A feel-good classic rock band, the Steve Miller Band is known for songs like “The Joker” and “Abracadabra”. They formed in 1966 and have been making music ever since. The Steve Miller Band’s Greatest Hits 1974-78 was released in 1978 and has sold over 13 million copies.

Their mainstream songs like “Fly Like an Eagle” and “Jet Airliner” are sure to get you moving. They are a band that always puts on a great live show.

16. Lynyrd Skynyrd

An iconic American rock band, Lynyrd Skynyrd is known for songs like “Free Bird” and “Sweet Home Alabama”. They formed in 1964 and have been making music ever since after being disbanded for a decade in the late 70s till the late 80s.

The band’s songs often deal with Southern rock themes like working-class struggles and good old-fashioned Southern hospitality. They are one of the best-selling bands of all time, selling over 28 million records.

15. Coldplay

If you have never heard of Coldplay, you must be living under a rock. They’re a British rock band that formed in 1996 and have been playing for the world ever since. They’re known for songs like “Yellow” and “Viva La Vida”. They are one of the best-selling bands of all time, selling over 100 million records worldwide.

Coldplay’s music is often very emotional and intimate. Their live shows are known for being incredibly powerful and moving. Their song “Fix You” is one of the most iconic songs of the 21st century. It’s impossible to listen to this band without getting goosebumps. This band’s music is perfect for a rainy day or a long car ride.

14. Pearl Jam

Pearl Jam is on the list because of its influential place in the grunge movement. This Seattle-based band was formed in 1990 and has been one of the first grunge bands to achieve mainstream success. They have sold nearly 90 million records worldwide and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017.

With hits like “Alive” and “Jeremy”, Pearl Jam helped define the grunge sound. They are a band that isn’t afraid to take risks and experiment with their music. Their live shows are always an incredible experience.

13. Nirvana

How can we forget Nirvana? They’re an American rock band known for songs like “Smells Like Teen Spirit” and “Come As You Are”. They formed in 1987 and disbanded in 1994 after the passing of their lead singer, Kurt Cobain.

Nirvana’s music is often raw and emotional. They were one of the first grunge bands to achieve mainstream success. Their song “Smells Like Teen Spirit” is one of the most iconic songs of the 1990s. Nirvana’s music is perfect for any fan of alternative rock. Their songs do not get out of style.

12. Kiss

A 70s favorite, Kiss is an American rock band that was formed in 1973. The band members are known for their outrageous stage makeup and costumes. Kiss has sold over 100 million records worldwide and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014.

Their music is often high-energy and perfect for a party. They are known for songs like “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “I Was Made For Lovin’ You.” The band’s music is perfect for any fan of classic rock. Singing their songs is best done with their signature tongue-out expression.

11. Iron Maiden

An iconic heavy metal band, Iron Maiden is known for songs like “Fear of the Dark” and “The Trooper”. They formed in 1975 and have been rocking ever since. They have sold over 130 million units worldwide and are considered one of the most successful heavy metal bands of all time.

Iron Maiden’s music is perfect for any fan of metal. Their songs are fast-paced and full of adrenaline. They are a band that isn’t afraid to experiment with their sound. Their songs are sure to get your head banging.

10. The Jimi Hendrix Experience

Playing solo or with a band, Jimi Hendrix is a legend. Formed in 1966, The Jimi Hendrix Experience was a British-American rock band.

They are known for songs like “Purple Haze” and “All Along the Watchtower”. They disbanded in 1969 after the passing of their lead singer, Jimi Hendrix. Their songs make you want to get up and dance. They are perfect for any fan of classic rock. His guitar solos are unparalleled and you wouldn’t want to miss a chance to listen.

9. The Rolling Stones

Who could ever forget the Rolling Stones? This band needs no introduction; they’re one of the most iconic bands of all time. Established in 1962, they have sold over 66.5 million records worldwide and have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989.

The Rolling Stones are a band that has stood the test of time. They’re best known for their hits “Satisfaction” and “Paint It Black,” but they have a vast catalog of great songs co-written by frontman Mick Jagger and co-founder and guitarist Keith Richards.

8. Foo Fighters

The energy of the Foo Fighters is undeniable. They’re an American rock band known for songs like “The Pretender” and “Best of You”. Formed in 1994, the band is fronted by singer and guitarist Dave Grohl. The band has won numerous Grammy Awards and has sold over 32 million records.

The Foo Fighters’ music is perfect for any fan of alternative rock. They are a band that isn’t afraid to experiment with their sound. Their live shows are always an incredible experience.

7. The Beach Boys

It’s a different level when you can say you’re a fan of The Beach Boys. They’re an American rock band that formed in 1961. The Beach Boys are known for their perfect vocal harmonies and catchy songs. They have sold over 100 million records worldwide and have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988.

They are known for songs like “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” and “Fun, Fun, Fun”. The saxophone solo on “California Girls” is unforgettable. The Beach Boys are the perfect band for a summer road trip.

6. Pink Floyd

The relaxing feels of Pink Floyd’s music are incomparable. Formed in 1965, they are an English rock band known for their concept albums and progressive rock sound. They have sold over 250 million records worldwide and have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996.

Pink Floyd’s music is perfect for any fan of classic rock. Their songs are well-crafted and provide a unique listening experience, some of their tracks are “Wish You Were Here” and “Another Brick in the Wall”. This band’s music is perfect for any fan of classic rock. Their songs are going to get you singing along and just vibing.

5. Led Zeppelin

The exquisite guitar solos from Jimmy Page in every performance, the powerful vocals, the genes… Led Zeppelin is a must-listen. Formed in 1968, they are a British rock band that is widely considered to be one of the greatest bands of all time. They have sold over 300 million records worldwide and have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995.

They’re a British rock band known for songs like “Stairway to Heaven” and “Kashmir”. Unfortunately, in 1980, when the heart of the group, drummer John Bonham passed away, Led Zeppelin disbanded. Even though they’re no longer making new music, their legacy continues to live on.

4. The Doors

An iconic band with a mythic frontman, The Doors are known for songs like “Riders on the Storm” and “Break On Through (To the Other Side)”. Formed in 1965, the band was fronted by the late singer Jim Morrison. The Doors have sold over 100 million records worldwide and have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993.

The Doors were a groundbreaking band in both their music and their stage show. Morrison was known for his wild antics, which often got the band in trouble. The passing of their lead vocalist Jim Morrison in 1971 has not stopped The Doors from being one of the most popular and influential bands of all time.

3. U2

U2 is a legendary band. “With or without you” is one of the emotional anthems of our time. Established in 1976, they are an Irish rock band fronted by singer Bono. U2 has won countless Grammy Awards and has sold over 175 million records worldwide.

U2’s music is perfect for any fan of classic rock. Their songs like “One” and “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” made them one of the most popular bands in the world. U2 is a band that is still making music and touring today. Not only are they good, but they are also socially conscious and use their platform to fight for the causes they believe in.

2. Queen

Who could ever forget Queen? This band was recently immortalized through a movie but for the best reasons. Formed in 1970, Queen is a British rock band that was fronted by the legendary Freddie Mercury. Queen is the first album to pass seven million in UK chart sales.

Some of their notable songs are “We Will Rock You”, “Love of My Life” and “Bohemian Rhapsody”. It’s hard to believe we can sing most of the Queen songs by heart. The band’s iconic lead singer passed away in 1991 and John Deacon retired in 1997 but their music will remain a ‘champion’ and has continued on through guitarist Brian May and drummer Roger Taylor.

1. The Beatles

Of course, I saved the best for last. The Beatles are considered by many to be one of the best rock bands of all time. Formed in 1960, in Liverpool, The Beatles were a British rock band that consisted of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr. The Beatles’ album “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” has sold more than 32 million copies worldwide, making it the band’s best-selling record. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988.

Their songs “Yesterday”, “Let it Be”, “Here Comes the Sun” and “Let it Be”. Every track that they have made would make you want to sing and dance along. Everything is alright when you listen to The Beatles. Whatever you are feeling, The Beatles have a song for it.

Conclusion

There you have it! The 50 best bands of all time. They have greatly influenced the music industry and they continue to do so. These bands have inspired people and enticed musicians to form their own music. If you’re looking for a new artist to listen to, look no further! No matter the genre or era, these bands are sure to give you an amazing music experience. Top-tier talents should not be missed. So, crank up the volume, and enjoy!

Queen Image (Top-Right) by: Carl Lender, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
U2 Image (Bottom-Left) by: Remy, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons