7 Songs That Pioneered Various Rock Sub-Genres

Rock music has evolved through numerous styles and sub-genres, each marked by groundbreaking tracks that set new directions. Here are eight songs that played pivotal roles in shaping different facets of rock.​

“Good Rockin’ Tonight” by Wynonie Harris (1948)

Originally written and recorded by Roy Brown in 1947, “Good Rockin’ Tonight” became a significant hit when Wynonie Harris released his version in 1948. Harris’s energetic rendition, characterized by its upbeat tempo and lively vocals, is often credited as a precursor to rock and roll, blending elements of blues and rhythm.​

The song’s enthusiastic embrace of dance and celebration themes resonated with audiences, influencing future rock artists. Its success marked a shift in musical tastes, paving the way for the rock and roll movement that would dominate the following decade.

“Rock Around the Clock” by Bill Haley & His Comets (1954)

“Rock Around the Clock,” released in 1954 by Bill Haley & His Comets, is widely regarded as the song that brought rock and roll into mainstream culture. Its catchy rhythm and relatable lyrics captivated a broad audience, making it a defining track of the era.​

The song’s prominence grew after its inclusion in the 1955 film “Blackboard Jungle,” aligning it with youthful rebellion. This association helped cement rock and roll’s place in popular music and influenced countless artists who followed.

“That’s All Right” by Arthur Crudup (1946)

Arthur Crudup’s 1946 song “That’s All Right” is a notable example of early blues influencing the development of rockabilly. Crudup’s soulful performance and rhythmic guitar work laid the groundwork for future interpretations.​

Elvis Presley’s 1954 cover of “That’s All Right” introduced the song to a wider audience, blending country and blues elements. This fusion became a hallmark of the rockabilly style, highlighting the song’s foundational role in the genre’s evolution.

“Helter Skelter” by The Beatles (1968)

In 1968, The Beatles released “Helter Skelter,” a track that departed from their earlier sound with its raw energy and heavy guitar riffs. The song’s aggressive style is often cited as an early influence on hard rock and heavy metal.​

Paul McCartney’s intense vocals and the band’s powerful instrumentation in “Helter Skelter” showcased a heavier side of rock music. This experimentation expanded the genre’s boundaries and inspired numerous hard rock bands in the subsequent decades.

“The Witch” by The Sonics (1965)

“The Witch,” released in 1965 by The Sonics, is recognized for its raw sound and high-energy performance. The track’s distorted guitar and aggressive vocals are considered early examples of punk rock’s rebellious spirit.​

The Sonics’ unpolished style in “The Witch” set them apart from their contemporaries, influencing the garage rock scene. Their approach to music emphasized emotion and energy over technical perfection, a characteristic that would define punk rock.

“The Necromancer” by Rush (1975)

Rush’s 1975 song “The Necromancer,” from their album “Caress of Steel,” is an early example of progressive metal. The track features complex arrangements and narrative lyrics, blending progressive rock’s intricacy with a heavier sound.​

Divided into three sections, “The Necromancer” showcases Rush’s musical versatility and storytelling ability. Its fusion of fantasy themes with elaborate instrumentation influenced the development of progressive metal as a distinct sub-genre.

“Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana (1991)

“Smells Like Teen Spirit,” released by Nirvana in 1991, became an anthem for the grunge movement. Its dynamic shifts between quiet verses and explosive choruses, along with its raw sound, defined the genre’s aesthetic.​

The song’s success brought grunge and alternative rock into the mainstream, challenging the dominance of polished pop and hair metal. Nirvana’s approach in “Smells Like Teen Spirit” influenced a generation of bands seeking authenticity and emotional expression in their music.

“Rapper’s Delight” by The Sugarhill Gang (1979)

Released in 1979, “Rapper’s Delight” by The Sugarhill Gang is credited with bringing hip-hop to a wider audience. The track features rhythmic spoken lyrics over a repetitive beat, introducing rap as a new form of musical expression.​

By sampling Chic’s “Good Times,” “Rapper’s Delight” bridged disco and hip-hop, demonstrating the genre’s potential for mainstream appeal. Its success paved the way for future hip-hop artists and solidified rap as a significant cultural movement.