17 Best Underrated Rock Songs: Rock Hidden Gems

Hey hey music lovers!

Here, we have for you and ultimate playlist of Rock songs. Every tune real rock head will love.

Here are the best underrated rock songs that you can check out:

List Of Best Underrated Rock Songs

Best underrated rock songs in a list format:

1. “Better Living Through Chemistry” by Queens of the Stone Age

Off of their 2000 album Rated R, Queens of the Stone Age deliver an intoxicating mix of psychedelic vibes and hard rock in “Better Living Through Chemistry”. This song is an otherworldly journey, with Josh Homme’s guitar wizardry taking you places. Addictive, isn’t it?

2. “Stop” by Jane’s Addiction

Straight from Ritual de lo Habitual (1990), “Stop” by Jane’s Addiction is a high-energy track. It blends alternative rock with a tinge of punk. Perry Farrell’s vocals and Dave Navarro’s guitar are pure dynamite. It’s perfect for when you need an adrenaline surge.

3. “Geek U.S.A.” by Smashing Pumpkins

This gem is from Smashing Pumpkins’ 1993 album, Siamese Dream. “Geek U.S.A.” is a whirlwind of loud, emotional guitar riffs and pounding drums. It captures the tumultuous angst and raw energy that defines 90’s alternative rock. Billy Corgan’s vocals soar – crank it up!

4. “Applebite” by Soundgarden

Down on the Upside (1996) features Soundgarden’s “Applebite”. A haunting and experimental track, it’s laden with ominous vibes and Chris Cornell’s ethereal voice. This song is a dark, immersive experience – it’s like walking through a misty forest at night.

5. “So Real” by Jeff Buckley

From Grace (1994), Jeff Buckley’s “So Real” is a mesmerizing blend of his angelic voice and intricate guitar work. The song is a raw emotional rollercoaster, and Buckley’s vocal range is on full display. Simply breathtaking.

6. “A Favor House Atlantic” by Coheed and Cambria

A part of their 2003 album In Keeping Secrets of Silent Earth: 3, this track by Coheed and Cambria is an energetic emo/post-hardcore anthem. With catchy hooks and high-pitched vocals, “A Favor House Atlantic” feels like an adventurous sci-fi tale set to music.

7. “Lazy Eye” by Silversun Pickups

From their 2006 debut album, Carnavas, “Lazy Eye” is an indie rock classic. The Silversun Pickups deliver a crescendo of sound that’s both melodic and intense. It’s like a nostalgic trip through your favorite memory lane.

8. “Panic Switch” by Silversun Pickups

Another one from Silversun Pickups, “Panic Switch” is from their 2009 album Swoon. It’s a brooding track with an anthemic chorus and fuzzy guitars. The song captures the essence of internal struggle and is perfect for those introspective nights.

9. “Eriatarka” by The Mars Volta

Off De-Loused in the Comatorium (2003), “Eriatarka” by The Mars Volta is a progressive rock masterpiece. It’s an explosive concoction of erratic beats, soaring vocals, and intense guitar work. Strap in; this song is a wild ride.

10. “Kyoto Now!” by Bad Religion

From the 2002 album The Process of Belief, Bad Religion’s “Kyoto Now!” is punk rock with a conscience. The song’s fast-paced, aggressive sound is matched by its urgent call for environmental action. It’s like a protest march in audio form.

11. “Rose of Sharyn” by Killswitch Engage

This metalcore classic is from Killswitch Engage’s 2004 album The End of Heartache. “Rose of Sharyn” combines melodic choruses with brutal breakdowns. It’s a poignant tribute to enduring love, and it hits hard.

12. “Muzzle” by Smashing Pumpkins

Another entry from Smashing Pumpkins, “Muzzle” is from the epic Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness (1995). The track is an infectious blend of melodic guitars and passionate lyrics. It’s anthemic and perfect for singing along at the top of your lungs.

13. “10 A.M. Automatic” by The Black Keys

From Rubber Factory (2004), The Black Keys’ “10 A.M. Automatic” is gritty, blues-infused rock. The raw guitar and steady beat make it a foot-tapping, head-bobbing experience. It’s the bluesy garage rock you didn’t know you needed.

14. “Spanish Sahara” by Foals

Featured on their 2010 album Total Life Forever, Foals’ “Spanish Sahara” is an ethereal and expansive track. The song’s gradual build-up to an explosive crescendo is utterly captivating. It’s like watching a beautiful sunrise in musical form.

15. “Rusty Cage” by Soundgarden

Another Soundgarden track, “Rusty Cage” is from their 1991 album Badmotorfinger. This song is a powerhouse of heavy riffs and rock intensity. Chris Cornell’s raw vocals and the song’s driving pace make it a rock classic.

16. “Unfinished Sweet” by Alice Cooper

From the 1973 album Billion Dollar Babies, “Unfinished Sweet” showcases Alice Cooper’s theatrical side. With its creepy, carnivalesque vibes, it’s like a spooky funhouse ride. Classic Alice Cooper – weird and wonderful.

17. “The Motherload” by Mastodon

Ending our list with a bang, “The Motherload” from Mastodon’s 2014 album Once More ‘Round the Sun is a triumph of progressive metal. With a blend of heavy riffs, melodic vocals, and intricate drumming, this song is a headbanger’s delight.

Fun Facts: Best Underrated Rock Tracks

“Better Living Through Chemistry” by Queens of the Stone Age

• Origin of the Title: The title “Better Living Through Chemistry” is actually a variant of a popular advertising slogan used by the DuPont company in the mid-20th century. The original slogan was “Better Things for Better Living…Through Chemistry.”

“Stop” by Jane’s Addiction

• Inception of a Festival: Jane’s Addiction’s frontman Perry Farrell created the alternative rock festival Lollapalooza. Originally started as a farewell tour for Jane’s Addiction in 1991, it grew into one of the most iconic music festivals in the world.

“Applebite” by Soundgarden

• Cornell’s Multi-instrumentalist Talents: In “Applebite,” Chris Cornell is not only singing but also playing the drums. He’s known for his versatile talent, and this song is an example of his prowess beyond vocals.

“So Real” by Jeff Buckley

• Critics’ Favorite: While Jeff Buckley’s “So Real” didn’t gain major commercial success, it was lauded by critics. Rolling Stone magazine included the album Grace in its list of “The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.”

“Lazy Eye” by Silversun Pickups

• A Familiar Sound: Some people initially thought “Lazy Eye” was by Smashing Pumpkins due to the similarities in sound. The band members have stated in interviews that they are fans of Smashing Pumpkins, but their sound developed naturally.

“Eriatarka” by The Mars Volta

• Inspired by Literature: The Mars Volta’s album De-Loused in the Comatorium, which includes “Eriatarka”, is a concept album that tells a story inspired by the band members’ friend who passed away. The lyrics often reference literary works and are known for their poetic complexity.

“10 A.M. Automatic” by The Black Keys

• Simple Roots: The Black Keys recorded Rubber Factory in an abandoned tire factory. The band is known for its stripped-down, raw sound, and this environment helped capture the gritty essence of their music.

“Spanish Sahara” by Foals

• Video Game Fame: “Spanish Sahara” was featured in the video game Life Is Strange. The song plays during one of the game’s emotional climaxes, and it was praised for how it enhanced the storytelling and atmosphere of the game.

“Unfinished Sweet” by Alice Cooper

• Rock Theatrics: Alice Cooper is famous for his theatrical live performances, and “Unfinished Sweet” was no exception. During live performances of this song, the stage would often be decorated like a giant dentist’s office, with Cooper theatrically portraying fear of the dentist.

Now that you’re armed with these epic tracks and cool facts, go rock your world! Don’t forget to spread the love for these underrated anthems. Keep the volume high! 🎸✌️

Thanks for reading.

TBone