Top 10 Best Rock Bands of All Time

Rock music has been the soundtrack to rebellion, freedom, and raw emotion for generations. From its early beginnings rooted in blues and R&B, it has morphed into a kaleidoscope of sub-genres, from punk to prog, grunge to glam, and everything in between. And at the heart of it all are rock bands that have redefined what it means to let loose, connect with fans, and deliver anthems that stand the test of time.

The best rock bands don't just play music. They create experiences. They're the architects behind the guitar riffs that give you goosebumps, the drum solos that make your heart race, and the lyrics that articulate feelings you couldn't quite put into words. They offer us catharsis, community, and a break from the monotony of everyday life.

The Top Ten

Led Zeppelin

Led Zeppelin was an English hard rock band formed in London in 1968 as the New Yardbirds. The group consisted of Robert Plant (vocals), Jimmy Page (guitar), John Paul Jones (bass, keyboard), and John Bonham (drums). The band was largely the brainchild of Jimmy Page, who even financed their first tour... read more

Led Zeppelin, the true hard rock originals, placed at No. 2! It sort of pains me. They should be in the number 1 slot. And Metallica doesn't deserve that number 1 position. I have heard Queen, Guns N' Roses, Black Sabbath, The Who, Beatles, AC/DC, and Metallica, but none have that understated elegance in rock music, perfect tunes, great guitar riffs, fantastic drums, and, of course, the lyrics.
I have been a fan of all the above-mentioned rock bands at various times, but finally getting hold of many Led Zeppelin albums made me an honest fan of them. Also, at times, I feel embarrassed that all these years I had been listening to average, run-of-the-mill rock songs (my pre-Led Zeppelin years).
The Beatles

The Beatles were an English rock band formed in Liverpool in 1960. The group comprised John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr. They are regarded as the most influential band of all time and were integral to the development of the 1960s counterculture and the recognition of popular... read more

It seems I was born in the wrong generation because I see that Metallica is in first. The Beatles are a legend, an unbelievable phenomenon in music history.

The idiots who voted Metallica best need to seriously grow up. Metallica is for childish teens with anger issues. Led Zeppelin, on the other hand, is incredible, but the Beatles are still better. In fact, British music is over 1000% better than American music in general.
The Beatles are not just a band. They are a piece of history, something that had such a near-perfect, timeless effect on the planet. Their arrival in the music industry began good rock music. They influenced so many artists, even artists who came before The Beatles, and almost all of the 200 songs they recorded are excellent. Everything about them, including their music, story, films, and relationships, has shaped our lives. The Beatles are not just the best band ever - they are the most important thing to ever happen in history.
Pink Floyd

Pink Floyd are an English progressive rock band formed in 1965 in London, England. They gained international acclaim with their innovative, conceptual music blending progressive rock and psychedelia. The classic lineup included Syd Barrett (vocals and guitar), David Gilmour (vocals and guitar), Nick... read more

I honestly think Pink Floyd should be at number one. The combination of Waters' concepts and lyrics, along with Gilmour's guitar and vocals - as well as the fine musicianship of Rick Wright and Nick Mason - produces a force that continues to create Pink Floyd fans to this day.
I recently saw someone write, "Pink Floyd has never written a bad song. There may be a weak song, or a song that requires thought to understand, but never a bad song." I agree with this 100%. This is one of the few bands that has never released a 'filler' album.

Pink Floyd being so low down is a disgrace to music. This band has been there right through the ages when there was no MTV, no internet publicity, and yet it survives. The band may no longer be active, but their songs still are what they were meant to be. Is there anyone out there who can say "Comfortably Numb" doesn't give them a high? Or that "Wish You Were Here" doesn't remind them of someone lost?
Floyd was way ahead of their age, maybe of this age too. Waters' concepts and lyrics, Gilmour's musical experimentation, Mason's technicality, all held together by Wright's subtle tones, the concept arts, and of course the pure psychedelic oblivion derived for which no drug is needed. Do they make music like this anymore?
They may not be the "best ever." But #16? Preposterous!
Queen

Queen is an English rock band formed in London in 1970. The original lineup was Freddie Mercury (lead vocals, piano), Brian May (guitar, vocals), Roger Taylor (drums, vocals), and John Deacon (bass guitar). Before Queen, May and Taylor had played together in a band named Smile. Freddie Mercury, a fan... read more

I find that Freddie Mercury has such great vocal talent, and no man in the universe, nor any other creature, can sing like Freddie Mercury! The different styles that Freddie Mercury can perform in different songs are simply incredible!

While I love The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and (sort of) Metallica, Queen is unquestionably the best live performer on this list, and possibly ever. I was blessed with tickets to Live Aid in '85. There has yet to be a musical performance I have seen (and I've been to more rock concerts than I can count) that matches the heavenly sound produced there.
In the studio, they still maintain the talent to hang with the best of them. Brian was the guy who walked in, read the music, played it amazingly (with a bit of improv here and there, almost all of which was kept), and then hung with Freddie outside the recording room.
Freddie was the guy who insisted that he had assistants with notepads on hand at all times, in case inspiration for a song struck. Bohemian Rhapsody was written in one night. Who Wants to Live Forever was written when he was driving back from being diagnosed with AIDS.
Roger was one of the coolest dudes in the group (he wore Ozzy-style glasses before Ozzy), often deviating extremely from the music sheet and wowing everyone in the studio.
Lastly, but certainly not least, came John, who was often the silent one in the background but godlike musically nonetheless. He wrote and did an amazing bass line for Another One Bites The Dust and The Invisible Man. He rocked everyone's (especially Vanilla Ice's) socks with his performance in Under Pressure.
Overall, the four titans of tune came together to make one of the greatest bands to ever exist, and that's why they deserve the #1 spot on this list.
Metallica

Metallica is an American heavy and thrash metal band formed in 1981. The original lineup included James Hetfield (vocals and rhythm guitar), Dave Mustaine (lead guitar), Lars Ulrich (drums), and Ron McGovney (bass). They first gained mainstream fame with their 1991 self-titled album (The Black Album... read more

Metallica opened my world, Metallica opened my eyes, and Metallica opened my ears. They released my soul. Metallica is the best metal band that will be playing in the whole universe. They are great performers! In fact, I listen to Nothing Else Matters now!

I don't respect the Beatles. They were just untalented young men who created simple yet extremely boring tracks. Not to mention Paul McCartney. He's a really bad vocalist. "Hey Jude" and "Yesterday" prove that he never took singing lessons. He should have listened to and learned from Elvis Presley.
On the other hand, Metallica was just great. I mean, can anyone think of that solo in "The Thing That Should Not Be"? No guitarist in the world could have created such an awesome solo. Just listen to "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" and see how badly that was played.
Metallica's career is monumental, and songs like "One" and "Welcome Home" easily prove that.
The Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones are an English rock band formed in London in 1962. The first settled line-up consisted of Brian Jones (guitar, harmonica), Ian Stewart (piano), Mick Jagger (lead vocals, harmonica), Keith Richards (guitar), Bill Wyman (bass), and Charlie Watts (drums).... read more

Here is a fact: They can't ALL be in the top ten. Admittedly, some shouldn't be in the top ten or are too high up on this list. The only ones that should be there are Led Zeppelin and The Beatles. Metallica at number one? The only good albums they've made are "Kill 'Em All" and "Ride The Lightning". That is IT. The Rolling Stones have made about forty albums, all of which are decent, and most of them are brilliant.
Rush should be here as well. And they are. Maybe they should be higher, but you can't have EVERYBODY in the top ten.
Where on earth are Black Sabbath? Although they started off as a twelve-bar blues band, they INVENTED heavy metal, and Tony Iommi is a metal god. Without them, there would be no Metallica! Black Sabbath are 47th.
The Who at 38? Tool at 43? Porcupine Tree not even here at all? Dream Theater not here? Cream so low down?
AC/DC

AC/DC is an Australian hard rock band founded in November 1973 by brothers Malcolm and Angus Young. Bon Scott was the lead singer until his death in 1980 from alcohol poisoning. He was succeeded by Brian Johnson.
The band is known for its blues-influenced rock sound and enduring hits such as Highway... read more

AC/DC's dubious sixth place on this list is a clear indication of the ignorance of the current generation of iTunes-only kids who think Linkin Park is vintage and 30 Seconds to Mars is badass. Pick up a vinyl record or even a compact disc, if you know what that means, and listen to some real rock music. Then come back to this list and make an educated decision.
In what sane universe does Jared Leto wearing far too much eye makeup garner a better spot on a top ten list than AC/DC or Pink Floyd, for that matter? This list needs to be renamed "My Favorite Rock Band" to make any sense at all because this certainly is not a list of "The Top Ten Best Rock Bands of All Time." Surely rock bands that earn a spot on an all-time greatest list should, as a requirement, have a reasonable amount of staying power, not to mention talent.
Perhaps if AC/DC were to sell out and allow their albums to appear in the iTunes Store, the people voting on this list would be better informed, and this list would be more indicative of a true top ten?
Nirvana

Nirvana was an American grunge band formed in Aberdeen, Washington, in 1987. The band consisted of Kurt Cobain (vocals, guitar), Krist Novoselic (bass), and Dave Grohl (drums), who joined in 1990. Nirvana disbanded following Cobain's death by suicide in 1994.... read more

Who the heck is Tokio Hotel? Why isn't Nirvana in the top ten? They changed music forever! How is a band like A-ha or X Japan ahead of Nirvana? I've never even heard of them! Nirvana should have cracked the top ten at least! This list is rigged!
Metallica number 1? They're a really good band, but number one maybe a bit much. I think the Beatles should have made it number 1.

I wouldn't say Nirvana should be number one because they shouldn't be. However, they should certainly be up there. Nirvana is often overlooked on lists like this because they are from a different generation than most bands on the list. Some people view them as too recent to deserve recognition.
Personally, I believe it shows how they actually, in a way, saved the genre. When pop and hip-hop began to take over, rock was a fading genre. Nirvana brought it back into prominence. Some say Cobain was the last great rock star, and that certainly is a true statement.
Raw music and angst made him the voice of a generation. Someone like him nowadays would be almost unheard of. Nirvana put alternative rock in the spotlight and inspired a lot of bands to keep making music with rock elements.
Nirvana speaks to a younger generation and helps the legacy of rock and roll live on. This makes them one of the greatest acts of all time in my opinion. Even though they weren't a part of rock at its start and can't necessarily be considered "classic," they worked hard to make sure real music could take over for one (hopefully not) last time.
Let's just hope someone like Kurt comes around again and delivers this message to yet another generation. Only this time, let's hope this person sticks around for a bit longer.
Guns N' Roses

Guns N' Roses is an American hard rock band from Los Angeles formed in 1985. The classic lineup, signed to Geffen Records in 1986, consisted of vocalist Axl Rose, lead guitarist Slash, rhythm guitarist Izzy Stradlin, bassist Duff McKagan, and drummer Steven Adler. In addition to hard rock, they are also... read more

Well, I saw them live, and even now they have such an awesome aura. They're still doing 28 songs in their setlist continuously, with no pre-recorded vocals or anything.
Before the concert, I hadn't listened to many of their songs, just a few popular ones, but the concert really pushed me to look into more. What I found was a goldmine. Axl Rose is a top lead singer. Sure, he can't hit the top notes anymore, but the aura is still there. Then there's Slash. What a magnificent guitarist.
Appetite for Destruction is such a rocking album, and so are Use Your Illusion I and Use Your Illusion II. Their music videos were top notch, really good stuff. Now I listen to their songs and they're quite enjoyable. Like, really good and premium stuff.
The band is legendary. The stories associated with them, the aura, the awesomeness, and their songs are really enjoyable.
The Who

The Who is an English rock band formed in London, England, in 1964. The most recognizable lineup consisted of Roger Daltrey (lead vocals), Pete Townshend (guitar), John Entwistle (bass guitar), and Keith Moon (drums). They are best known for their live performances and hit songs "Baba O'Riley," "My Generation... read more

A lot of good bands are on here, but the genius of Pete Townshend made/makes The Who the best. Check out the often-overlooked Quadrophenia album. Who can ever forget the drumming of Keith Moon? The bass of Entwistle and the See Me, Feel Me voice of Daltrey? What a band!
I agree, there never has been a better live album than Live at Leeds as the band was so tight for those shows, at their peak back then. Oh, and those jumpsuits Pete wore! Anyone who likes The Who should search for Pete Townshend and listen to his solo stuff, as there are some real treasures to be found. They should be higher up, but I don't think they really tried to be at the top, as they never sold out back then like some others did. Rest in peace, Keith and John!

The Newcomers

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Scummy Monkies

These guys could be the goat if you truly listen to their masterful lyrical content.
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Soul Asylum

With hits like "Runaway Train" and "Somebody to Shove," you may or may not have heard of Soul Asylum. If you have heard of them, good for you! Click the check and move on with your day.
If not, go listen to them right now if you are a fan of rock, alt-rock, punk, grunge, country, or anything like that, really. They are great.

The Contenders

Green Day

Green Day are an American pop punk and punk rock band formed in East Bay, California, in 1987. The core members are Billie Joe Armstrong (vocals, guitar), Mike Dirnt (bass), and Tré Cool (drums), with Jason White often performing live on guitar. They blend punk rock, pop punk, and alternative rock, drawing... read more

Nothing compares to "Jesus of Suburbia"! It's like their songs are for everybody. Every audience that sings back their songs is not just reflecting what Green Day is saying with that song, but also reflecting their lives being in that song.
Billie Joe is an amazing performer, musician, songwriter, and singer. Mike is an awesome, underrated bassist (with the best bass lines in history), and Tre Cool is the most badass, funny, pure energy, and great rock and roll drummer (with awesome drum solos). Their lineup is the best.

I love Green Day! They're absolutely amazing. They've changed the way I think, react, and even live.
I first heard "Holiday" when I was 4 years old, playing on the radio. I remember asking my older brother, "What's the name of that song and who sings it?" My brother looked at me and said, "It's called 'Holiday' and it's by Green Day." Since I was quite young to be listening to their music, I had to wait a while before I could fully embrace my love for them. But they've truly changed my life. They've been there when I needed someone, when I needed help. Through their music, they've taught me so many invaluable lessons. I don't know where or who I would be without them.
Billie Joe is smart, funny, and an amazing singer and guitarist. He really expresses what he believes through his songs.
Mike is the best bassist in all of history. The way he moves his fingers completely captivates my soul.
As for Tre, what can one say about him? He's the quirkiest guy around and can really pound those drums.
There's so much more I could say about them, but if you've read this far, you're probably reaching the end of your patience. I wish I could tell them how much I love and appreciate them, but my feelings are so strong that I can't quite put them into words. Green Day is most definitely one of the best bands in punk rock history.
To: Billie Joe Armstrong, Mike Dirnt, and Tre Cool. Thanks.
Black Sabbath

Black Sabbath were a heavy metal band formed in Birmingham, England, in 1968 by guitarist and songwriter Tony Iommi, singer John "Ozzy" Osbourne, bassist and main lyricist Geezer Butler, and drummer Bill Ward. Their self-titled debut album received mixed reviews, but they quickly gained a strong following... read more

Black Sabbath should definitely be at the top. Had it not been for Black Sabbath, there would be no Avenged Sevenfold, Green Day, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, or Nirvana. Black Sabbath influenced both metal and punk bands like Black Flag, The Melvins, Pantera, and others that went on to influence RHCP, Avenged Sevenfold, Green Day, and Nirvana.
The Misfits should definitely be before Green Day. And Pantera should definitely be above Avenged Sevenfold, along with Megadeth, Anthrax, and Iron Maiden. Don't get me wrong, Avenged Sevenfold kicks a, but it should be at least below these bands, next to System of a Down. Green Day is a disgrace to punk rock. I can list more than 30 punk bands right now that deserve to be on this more than Green Day.
Rush

Rush is a Canadian progressive rock band that was formed in 1968. The band's most iconic lineup consisted of guitarist Alex Lifeson, bassist and vocalist Geddy Lee, and drummer Neil Peart, who joined in 1974. Following Peart's death from brain cancer on January 7, 2020, Lee and Lifeson announced in October... read more

Okay. I bet half of the people here voted for bands they've heard of or because of a song they heard by a band. Seriously, listen to Rush. They've been around since 1973 and have always been a three-piece band. Since 1973, they've released 19 albums, all of which are Gold or higher. Every album has at least one or two hits that most people recognize. They started out with hard rock, then moved to progressive, and that change was amazing. With Neil Peart smacking the drums and writing science fiction-like lyrics, Geddy Lee slapping the bass, hitting those extremely high notes, and playing the keyboards, and Alex Lifeson shredding on guitar, the music doesn't get better than that.
Neil Peart is an amazing drummer. There's not one beat that he can't keep. He uses every piece of his drum kit to make music, and his arms and legs always seem to be moving. Aside from that, he writes most of the lyrics for the band. You can thank him for that.
Geddy Lee is like a one-man band. He plays bass like Eddie Van Halen plays guitar, sings at a really high pitch, and plays keyboards all at the same time. If you want to understand what multitasking is, watch this man. He is absolutely insane, especially when he does bass fills. I've never heard such complicated bass riffs in my life when it comes to this guy.
Alex Lifeson is an absolute monster on the guitar. He plays odd chords that sound amazing while making complex riffs at the same time. He is one of the most underrated guitarists of all time. I don't ever see him on any top 10 or top 20 lists. He can play many different styles, which he puts into the songs we know today as "Rush songs."... read more
Linkin Park

Linkin Park is an American alternative rock band formed in Agoura Hills, California, in 1996. The current members include Mike Shinoda (vocals, keyboards, rhythm guitar), Brad Delson (guitar), Dave "Phoenix" Farrell (bass), Joe Hahn (DJ), Emily Armstrong (vocals), and Colin Brittain (drums). Linkin Park... read more

They've brought to the world an all-new genre. It's called Linkin Park. The combination of Chester (amazing voice) and Mike Shinoda (rap) is just insane. They're awesome. No one can match Chester's voice when it comes to shouting like that and yet find it so pleasing.
Linkin Park forever. They've produced music that no one can ever forget. It lives always somewhere within, somewhere very deep.

They can't be beat. They change their music and have so many hit songs. They are in Transformers. They have the most views of any rock band on YouTube. New Divide, What I've Done, Crawling, In the End, Numb, Faint, Breaking the Habit, and so many more hit songs. They are simply the best.
Iron Maiden

Iron Maiden are an English heavy metal band formed in Leyton, East London, in 1975 by bassist and primary songwriter Steve Harris. Their most critically acclaimed period is widely considered to be from 1983 to 1989, during which they released landmark albums like Piece of Mind, Powerslave, Somewhere... read more

I thought this list was about the best rock bands ever. When I saw the first spot, I see no reason why Iron Maiden should not be in the top ten. Listen to their songs "Flight of Icarus," "Wasted Years," and, of course, their classics like "Hallowed Be Thy Name" and "The Trooper." The vocals can't be called anything other than flawless. Even their newer songs like "Rainmaker," etc., are really, really good.
Everyone should understand this: if Iron Maiden had given more gaps between the classic albums they released in succession (1982, 1983, 1984, 1986, 1988) and promoted them with some mainstream media support, they would have sold more, much more albums than all the bands mentioned above Maiden in this list.
Aerosmith

Aerosmith is an American rock band formed in Boston in 1970. The group consists of Steven Tyler (vocals), Joe Perry (guitar), Tom Hamilton (bass), Joey Kramer (drums), and Brad Whitford (guitar).
Their style, rooted in blues-based hard rock, also incorporates elements of pop rock, heavy metal... read more

How is Aerosmith ranked below Linkin Park, Nirvana, and all those other bands that were inspired by Aerosmith? Aerosmith has already proven that they are one of the best bands ever. They visited Japan during its worst times in 2011 after the earthquake and performed for the people. They've sold 168 million albums in 40 years and have countless hits. They've even covered songs by the Beatles, the Doors, and other bands, making the original songs seem insignificant.
Admit it - Steven Tyler is the best rock band singer, or possibly just the best singer in general. Joe Perry is the best guitarist to walk the Earth, and so is Brad Whitford. Tom Hamilton is the best bassist and wrote their hit "Sweet Emotion," and Joey Kramer creates thunder unlike any other drummer. He can drum so fast that the strobe lights can't even catch him!
Aerosmith has filled so many arenas over the years. There was once so many people that the arena was packed, and the streets surrounding it were crowded with people who wanted to hear them. Their shows are amazing, and I'd love to see one myself. These electrifying shows get the crowd revved up. Aerosmith should have their own genre name because they're so great. Aerosmith will continue to rock until they hit their deathbeds. A true great rock band never stops rocking.
The Jimi Hendrix Experience

The Jimi Hendrix Experience was an English-American rock band formed in Westminster, London, in September 1966. The group featured Jimi Hendrix on vocals and guitar, Noel Redding on bass and backing vocals, and Mitch Mitchell on drums.... read more

I consider all Jimi Hendrix-led bands to be beyond any other rock artist in any given milieu. The only reason I can think of Jimi Hendrix Experience (JHE) languishing at 28 at the time of writing this is that, even to understand JHE, you need to be an experienced musician. His riffs created genres. His lightning-fast solos are, to this day, considered to be untouchable. He was the first to use guitar feedback as music. Mitch Mitchell's drums cannot be recreated by anybody other than himself.
Whoever brings a little bit of Hendrix into their playing style is considered to be a gifted player. Joe Satriani, Slash, Billy Gibbons (ZZ Top), Stevie Ray Vaughan, John Frusciante (RHCP), among others, all consider Jimi Hendrix to be their influence. Heck, even Jimmy Page acknowledged Hendrix to be the greatest.
This goes for the amazing Eric Clapton band, Cream, as well.
Red Hot Chili Peppers

The Red Hot Chili Peppers are an American funk-rock and alternative rock band founded in 1983 in Los Angeles. The current core lineup includes Anthony Kiedis, Michael "Flea" Balzary, Chad Smith, and Joshua Klinghoffer, although John Frusciante remains the most acclaimed guitarist associated with the... read more

Best band to grace this Earth, period. I've been listening to them since I was a little tyke, and let me tell you something: I'm a modern-day Plato from listening to these guys. Kiedis' theory isn't perfect, but it's close. His insightfulness has been the foundation of my constitution, by which I live today. He's taught me more than any teacher could ever teach me, and I love him for that.
Now, back to the band. They fuse all these great sounds that we, as humans, know, love, feel, and can't explain. The Peppers extract those feelings from us and take us on a ride through the beautiful thing we call life. They are more than just a band to me. They are my medicine. I bleed the Red Hot Chili Peppers. If I had one wish, other than everlasting wellness for my family, it would be that these guys would find the fountain of youth.
The Doors

The Doors were an American rock band formed in Los Angeles in 1965, comprising vocalist Jim Morrison, keyboardist Ray Manzarek, guitarist Robby Krieger, and drummer John Densmore. They were among the most influential and occasionally controversial rock acts of the 1960s, largely due to Morrison's poetic... read more

There will never be another Jim Morrison. Jim paved the way for live concerts to come alive, for the audience to really come for a spectacle and witness art. First and foremost, Jim was a scholarly poet, singing and writing timeless classics, but then backed up by Ray, Robby, and John.
These four were masterminds. They had film and literary backgrounds and were one of the smartest bands to date. These guys really were in sync when it came down to music. I've never heard a more consistent discography from any band. Although there are only six albums (with Jim) by them, every song is a masterpiece. The Doors really turned the music scene on its back, true musicianship, and definitely top three.
U2

U2 are an Irish rock band from Dublin. Formed in 1976, the group consists of Bono, the Edge, Adam Clayton, and Larry Mullen Jr. U2's early sound was rooted in post-punk and gradually evolved to incorporate elements of alternative rock, electronic, and pop music. Known for their anthemic sound and use... read more

It's hard to argue the case for U2's greatness, primarily because of their huge popularity. Artists that are this big are usually pretty dismal quality-wise, with the odd obvious exception. U2 is the foremost of these exceptions - they are possibly the greatest rock band of all time and definitely the biggest.
A lot of people don't like them because of this massive success, but they achieved it on the back of genuinely original, transformative music. No one sounds like them (although they certainly try). Their positivity and power stand out a mile amidst the general sea of anger and depression of most modern music. I love them regardless of how much money they make - if all "big" acts were this fantastic, I would live full-time in the mainstream.
Radiohead

Radiohead are an English rock band from Abingdon, Oxfordshire, formed in 1985. The band consists of Thom Yorke, Jonny Greenwood, Colin Greenwood, Phil Selway, and Ed O'Brien.
Known for their experimentation and sonic evolution, they rose to international prominence with OK Computer and continued... read more

If anyone doesn't vote for Radiohead, it's only because they haven't had the opportunity to listen to their music. I've always been a "Radiohead," and as a result, I've listened to a very wide range of music throughout my years. To be really general, I'd categorize my taste in music as eclectic, with a preference for any music that sounds beautiful and actually has meaning (given there are lyrics in the music to analyze). That means that there is some classical music that I find amazing, as well as some present-day "house" music that I feel just as passionately about.
With that being said, from what I've personally heard myself (which I'm confident should serve as a solid foundation to base my opinion on), there have been no musicians or bands as close to perfection as Radiohead are at the moment (keep in mind, Radiohead can only exacerbate how strongly I feel about this claim as time goes on). I don't believe that the word "genius" is actually a word that can be attributed to any human being. We're all geniuses in one way or another, but colloquially speaking, Radiohead is genius. They're not Beethovens of the 21st century. Also, they are not the Beatles of the 21st century. They're better. They're more evolved, sensitive, and thoughtful. It wouldn't make sense to compare a humanoid of the 22nd century to a caveman of the Paleolithic Era, just as it doesn't make sense to compare Radiohead to anything that has existed in the past.
I'm convinced that, with some time (and a few more albums), there will be a widely accepted acknowledgment that Radiohead has been the greatest band that life as we know it has ever been graced with. Not to be vain, but I'm convinced that my opinion should be regarded as earnest. And if you happen to disagree with my opinion, that's fine, just please stay out of my life until you've managed to come around. I understand that it takes time for some people to understand certain things themselves.
Van Halen

Van Halen was an American hard rock band formed in Pasadena, California, in 1972. From 1974 until 1985, the band's lineup consisted of guitarist Eddie Van Halen, vocalist David Lee Roth, drummer Alex Van Halen, and bassist Michael Anthony.... read more

Really, twenty-four? How, just tell me how. Van Halen deserves to be higher, at least in the top ten. They were the first band to combine heavy metal with hard rock and truly produce their own sound. If their first album was their only album, they would still be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Here's one name for you: Eddie Van Halen. He alone is one reason why they should be higher. Eddie is arguably the best guitarist in history. Just listen to Eruption sometime or even Runnin' With the Devil, Panama, Mean Street, or Light Up the Sky. 1984 is an album that not only changed rock history but also pop music with its synth and songs like I'll Wait, Jump, and even the instrumental piece 1984. Just tell me why they aren't number one.
Avenged Sevenfold

Avenged Sevenfold is an American alternative metal band formed in 1999 in California. Their longest lineup consisted of M. Shadows (vocals), Synyster Gates (lead guitar), Zacky Vengeance (rhythm guitar), Johnny Christ (bass guitar), and The Rev (drums).... read more

Um, why is Linkin Park ahead of A7X? They had two good albums! That's it! Avenged Sevenfold has the most unique sound to this date. They have one of the greatest guitarists of all time and probably the best duo of guitarists I have ever heard. And M. Shadows probably has the most unique voice for a rock band I've heard.
Yes, nobody will ever beat Metallica, but Avenged Sevenfold at number 9? Whoever voted apparently doesn't really know what good music is. Thirty Seconds to Mars is trash, Tokio Hotel is trash, and Linkin Park should be off this list. A7X forever.

This band has become one of my favorite bands. Every album had its own special touch. City of Evil was about being rebellious, and Nightmare made me think a lot about death and life after.
Every band member is special in their own way. Synyster Gates is such an amazing guitarist, M. Shadows has a very nice voice, and when he needs to boost the song, he can scream rough. Zacky Vengeance is one of the geniuses who founded the band and has sick guitar skills too. The Rev was an amazing drummer and one of the most creative band members. His replacement plays amazingly well. And lastly, of course, Johnny Christ, who has an amazing backing voice as well.
This band is my favorite band because they're just simply amazing.
Bon Jovi

Bon Jovi is a hard rock and pop rock band formed in 1983. The original lineup consisted of lead vocalist Jon Bon Jovi, guitarist Richie Sambora (who left in 2013), bassist Alec John Such (who left in 1994), keyboardist David Bryan, and drummer Tico Torres.... read more

They are one of the best bands ever. No one can deny that after more than 30 years of a music career, they're still going strong.
I really think some of their music is very underrated. Most people only know their super hits, but I've got to tell you that they've got really amazing songs, such as Silent Night and Wild Is the Wind. Have you heard their outtakes? They're amazing.
In musical terms, this band are GODS.
I really think people, especially the press, should stop criticizing their looks and start taking a deeper look at their music. They would be pleasantly surprised.
Moreover, the fact that after 30 years they're still at the top is something to admire. Not many bands still have Top 10 hits or tours today.
In conclusion, they deserve to be at least in the Top 10 or Top 5.
Anyway, for me, they will always be the best band in the world, and my favorite band.
Foo Fighters

Foo Fighters are an American alternative rock band formed in Seattle in 1994. The band was founded by former Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl after Kurt Cobain's death and Nirvana's breakup. The current lineup consists of Dave Grohl (lead vocals, rhythm guitar, primary songwriter), Pat Smear (rhythm guitar... read more

Dave Grohl is an inspiration. He can play any instrument he wants and has a voice from heaven. The man was in two of the greatest bands on the planet, and that must count for something. Oh, and Taylor Hawkins is a badass on the drums. I wouldn't doubt it if he was actually almost better than Dave.
Dave is the best drummer ever to live, other than John Bonham. Kurt could have been biased when he said he was the best drummer ever, but I'll take his word.

Foo Fighters kick ass. They have won 6 Grammys and are nominated for 6 more in 2011 for the album Wasting Light. Dave Grohl is a genius. He made the entire first album by himself. He's so passionate about his music, and he's a good dad. He doesn't do any drugs.
I went to the Wells Fargo Center in Philly to see them, and they were great. They played for 3 hours, plus Dave's guitar tech even got me a flyer signed and a guitar pick from Dave Grohl. Nicest people ever, totally down to earth.