3 Songs That Can Turn Any Kid Into a Music Lover
Many of rock music’s most legendary bands got their start by playing covers of the artists they admired. Both The Beatles and The Rolling Stones scored early successes with reinterpretations, showing that even genre-defining acts began by echoing their influences.
There’s no shortage of rock songs that can spark the desire to form a band. Narrowing it down to just a few is difficult, but a handful of classics stand out for the lessons they offer about what makes rock music tick.
“Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” by AC/DC
AC/DC’s catalog is packed with heavy hitters—“Back In Black,” “For Those About To Rock (We Salute You),” and “Thunderstruck,” among them. Still, the title track from their 1976 album stands out for its deep, infectious groove. Angus and Malcolm Young lay down a powerful, driving riff, while Mark Evans on bass and Phil Rudd on drums demonstrate how a tight rhythm section can anchor even the most unruly rock energy. Add in the gritty, unmistakable vocal style of Bon Scott, and you’ve got a blueprint for classic hard rock.
“Another One Bites the Dust” by Queen
A clear theme emerges: groove is essential. Without it, a rock band is missing a core ingredient. Strong rhythm elevates everything, and Queen’s hit is a perfect example. John Deacon’s sharp, pulsing bass line drives the song forward, complemented by Roger Taylor’s danceable beat. Freddie Mercury’s commanding, chant-like vocals and Brian May’s restrained yet funky guitar work show how simplicity and space can create immense impact.
“In Bloom” by Nirvana
Once the groove is in place, the next step is layering in memorable hooks. “In Bloom” captures this balance brilliantly. The song contrasts soft, restrained verses with explosive, distorted choruses, while Kurt Cobain’s melodic sensibility adds a surprising sweetness to the intensity. It’s also a reminder that you don’t need a large lineup to make powerful music—Nirvana thrived as a trio. For aspiring bands, sometimes all it takes is a couple of bandmates, a practice space, and a willingness to make some noise.
