Top 10 Best Pop Rock Artists

The Top Ten

OneRepublic

OneRepublic is an American pop rock band formed in Colorado Springs, Colorado in 2002 by lead singer Ryan Tedder and guitarist Zach Filkins. The band gained early attention and success on Myspace as an unsigned act. Their debut single, Apologize, became a major hit after being remixed by Timbaland.

OneRepublic always has the best songs! They combine their songs beautifully and fluently. Ryan Tedder has one of the most underrated voices. He can hit notes perfectly. The whole band has such an impact on how pop rock is viewed nowadays. You can't find a song off Native that you won't like. Okay, maybe that was a little too much, but really, they have great songs. If you haven't heard Feel Again or Something I Need, I'd advise you to check them out. I'm sure you have already heard If I Lose Myself. Their songs put you in a great mood even if you're in the worst. Easily the best pop rock band and personally my favorite as well.
I used to be really into rap, but after I began to listen to OneRepublic, I couldn't stop! It's amazing how much you can really love songs after you listen to them. Great band, none of the lower bands or singers compare! Go OneRepublic!
Maroon 5

Maroon 5 is an American pop and pop‑rock band formed in Los Angeles, California. The group originally came together in 1994 under the name Kara's Flowers, when Adam Levine, Jesse Carmichael, Mickey Madden, and Ryan Dusick were still in high school. They self‑released a demo and a studio album before... read more

Yes! I think they should be number one. Their songs are so catchy and awesome, but really meaningful at the same time! They're brilliant! And I don't care what the haters think, V was super awesome! My top 3 favorite songs ever are on V! Overexposed, Hands All Over, It Won't Be Soon Before Long, and Songs About Jane are also brilliant. Adam Levine is the best singer of all time (in my opinion). I was listening to This Love when I wrote this!

Maroon 5 stands out the most with their unique mix of rock, funk, and neo-soul. All of Maroon 5's songs are at least co-written by Adam Levine, and most of their songs are written by the band. Although OneRepublic hasn't collaborated with too many outside writers yet, there is a chance they are headed down that road. I hope not because I love them too, but Ryan Tedder's presence may warrant that. True, Ryan Tedder has written for others, including co-writing a few Maroon 5 songs, but Adam Levine has also collaborated with others in performing and songwriting, including with Gym Class Heroes and Slash.
Even though Maroon 5's music is now less rock than it used to be (whose music isn't nowadays?), it's still quality music with plenty of traces of their roots. It may be a little harder to tell under the modern production, songwriting, and instrumentation collaborations, but Maroon 5 is still the best pop rock band out there.
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

The Beatles may or may not deserve to be on an entirely different list of something "above pop rock." However, when you listen to the nature of their songs and compare them to those from other famous rock bands like The Rolling Stones and The Police, and artists like Elvis Presley, their music isn't that far from these pop rockers like Maroon 5, OneRepublic, and Train. No, I'm not saying that the newer ones are better than or as good as they were in music or legendary status. Yes, I'm saying these current bands listed are closer to the original essence of rock music than bands like Linkin Park or any other nu-metal or hardcore/metalcore bands. Maybe this got a little off-topic, but that's just a little spill.
Anyway, The Beatles definitely deserve to be at the top of this list because they were pop and rock (which aren't always different), had great music, and were/are one of the most influential and recognized artists of all time.
The Script

The Script is an Irish pop-rock band formed in 2001. The band consists of keyboardist and lead vocalist Danny O'Donoghue, guitarist and vocalist Mark Sheehan, and drummer Glen Power. They are known for their melodic sound and have released several successful albums and singles.

I cannot believe that anyone would think that Maroon 5 is in any way, shape, or form better than The Script (and this is coming from someone who absolutely loves Maroon 5 too). The Script should be number 1 or at least 2. They're just amazing and so consistent in their delivery of the most beautiful and soul-touching songs ever. They also write and produce all their songs themselves, so you know when they pour out their hearts on a track, that's really what they're feeling at that time.
The way I like to think about it is: whatever situation you're in, there's a The Script song for you. Come on, people, these Irish guys are incredible.
Fall Out Boy

Fall Out Boy is an American pop punk band formed in Wilmette, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago, in 2001. The band consists of vocalist and guitarist Patrick Stump, bassist Pete Wentz, guitarist Joe Trohman, and drummer Andy Hurley.... read more

It's amazing that these guys are still going, and still going strong. I'm not sure that I would classify them as pop rock though. Their sound is just so unique that they almost are their own genre. Great band.

Honestly, I was perfectly okay with their new album, even though it was more pop than punk. They really know how to transition from the emo band they were to the pop-punk legends they are now.

Loved their old alt rock/pop rock stuff! Really unique and had some great tunes that sadly didn't get any appreciation. But their new music is pop. Still should be higher up.
Imagine Dragons

Imagine Dragons is an American pop rock band from Provo, Utah, now based in Las Vegas, Nevada. The band's lineup includes lead vocalist Dan Reynolds, guitarist Wayne Sermon, bassist Ben McKee, and touring drummer Andrew Tolman.... read more

Imagine Dragons are very underrated, but some of their songs get very popular in a short time. Listen to their new album. It's good. And Demons and Warriors are their absolute best.

This band is pure genius. Its lyrics are amazing, it has its own style, its music is amazing, and more. Also, Dream is a really good song, you all should try to listen to it a few times.

I used to hate them "because they are metal," but now I like them since they started mixing genres together. Radioactive is garbage, but Thunder and some others are AWESOME.
Coldplay

Coldplay is a British rock band formed in 1996. The group includes Chris Martin (lead vocals, piano), Jonny Buckland (lead guitar), Guy Berryman (bass), and Will Champion (drums, backing vocals). Their manager, Phil Harvey, is often referred to as the unofficial fifth member.... read more

You can consider their two newest albums pop rock, but overall, they are alternative rock. However, they do incorporate pop elements into their newer albums because they like to experiment and come up with new sounds and ideas. They are by far the best in music, whether it's rock, pop rock, or alt rock. They don't really belong to any genre because they can pull off anything so beautifully.
From A Head Full of Dreams to their first album Parachutes, they have the most meaningful lyrics and the most amazing music, and they always try something new to intrigue their listeners. Each album is distinct from the next. They are still the same Coldplay since their first album. They just have different themes to their albums to show how they are feeling currently. Their quality of music is always at the top.
They should be #1, with all the Grammys and other awards they have won, and their immense popularity. They are by far the best band of the new millennium.
Avril Lavigne

Avril Ramona Lavigne (born September 27, 1984) is a Canadian singer-songwriter and actress. At age 14, she won a radio contest singing with Shania Twain, performing before a large arena crowd. By age 16, she had signed a two-album recording contract with Arista Records, reportedly worth over $2 million.... read more

Yes! Avril deserves to be at least in the top 5, if not the first. She is such an inspiration to kids worldwide, and my parents love her music too. It has such a deep meaning in almost everything she writes. She is my idol - the best artist in the world!
I grew up listening to her songs without knowing that they were by her. When I really started to listen to music, I figured out that Avril was the rock goddess behind all of it. Now, I truly admire her, for she is so amazing. She never disappoints her fans and always comes out with great music. I love you, Avril!

I thought she would be number 1, maybe number 3, but 31?! I don't really listen to pop rock (normally rock and metal), but Let Me Go brought me to her music because of Chad Kroeger. Then I listened to Complicated, Girlfriend, and What The Hell, and it was just perfect.
She's definitely the best along with The Beatles, but One Direction is not pop rock.
One Direction

One Direction (commonly abbreviated as 1D) was a British and Irish pop boy band composed of Niall Horan, Liam Payne, Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, and originally Zayn Malik, who departed on March 25, 2015.
The group formed on The X Factor UK in 2010, finishing third, and then signed with Simon... read more

One Direction has been number one in 37 countries. They also have better looks than any other band in history. Plus, they conquered the world in only one year, won so many Brit Awards that they had to make more just for them, and won a Global Success Award.
In October 2011, their first concert sold out in 10.7 seconds, which is a record. They also performed at the 2012 Olympic Games. They may have lost the seventh season of The X Factor UK, but they're more popular than the person who actually won it and have stolen the hearts of millions of girls across the world.

I really think they should be much higher on the list. And to all the haters, I think they're probably just jealous of their success more than any other band on the planet.
They are where they are because of their talent, their smashing songs, and yes, their looks are a bonus. But this doesn't change the fact that they are incredibly hardworking. Those guys gave us four amazing albums in just four years while going on world tours. This clearly shows how much they are capable of, and criticizing them will never change that.
R5

R5 is an American pop rock band formed in Los Angeles, California, in 2009. The band consists of lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Ross Lynch, along with his siblings Riker Lynch, Rocky Lynch, Rydel Lynch, and family friend Ellington Ratliff. They gained popularity through their energetic performances... read more

R5 is not just a new teen pop Disney group. They have worked hard from the beginning and never gave up, and look where they are now. Some people may say that they don't have talent. I respect their opinion because I'm not a crazy fangirl, but just so you know, they learned to play the instruments they play right now. They aren't just some pretty boys (and girl) who sing and are liked for that. I could make you a list right now, beginning with 1D.
To the person who says they can't write songs, it's just because you have listened to the new songs. The new ones are not completely written by them, but the old ones like Keep Away From This Girl are good songs, and some are better than the ones now. About the fact that they write only love songs, it may be true, but you know what they say, you write what you know. Sorry if R5 doesn't write about the effects of drugs like other bands do.
Lastly, some people need to stop saying that R5 is a Disney band because they are not. Only Ross is acquainted with them, and A&A is near the end.

The Newcomers

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KSM

KSM was an American all-female teen pop rock band from Los Angeles, California. The band was active from 2006 to 2010 and consisted of lead singer Shelby Cobra, lead guitarist Shae Padilla, rhythm guitarist Katie Cecil, bassist Sophia Melon, and drummer Kate Cabebe. They were signed to Walt Disney Records... read more
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Everlife

Everlife was an American pop rock band composed of three sisters, Amber, Sarah, and Julia Ross. The group was active primarily in the 2000s and gained popularity through their association with Disney projects... read more

The Contenders

Train

Train is an American roots rock band from San Francisco that was formed in 1993. The current lineup includes lead vocalist Patrick Monahan, guitarist Jimmy Stafford, keyboardist Jerry Becker, guitarist Luis Maldonado, bassist Hector Maldonado, drummer Drew Shoals, and backing vocalists Nikita Houston... read more

I am a huge fan of Train. I have listened to all of their greatest hits and best-selling songs. Patrick is really a great singer.

I have never heard one of their songs that doesn't have emotion. Definitely my favorite band.
Bee Gees

The Bee Gees were a pop music group formed in 1958. The group consisted of brothers Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb. They gained international fame for their distinctive harmonies and became major contributors to the disco era with hits like Stayin' Alive and Night Fever.

The very best three-part harmony of all time (quote George Martin producer), the very best songwriters, and on the top 10 for five consecutive decades. No need to say more, they are the top!

They're the Bee Gees, the kings of disco. And what's more, their music is still not cringy in the slightest, unlike other disco-era groups. Stayin' Alive is probably one of the most recognizable tracks of all time, to say nothing of their other stuff.
Pink

Alecia Beth Moore, known professionally as P!NK, is an American singer, songwriter, dancer, and actress. She rose to prominence in the early 2000s with her R&B-influenced debut album Can't Take Me Home (2000). P!NK is known for her powerful vocals, acrobatic stage presence, and numerous hit singles,... read more

The queen of pop rock. This goddess needs to be number 1!

Pink is my queen. I love her. She and her music help me get through the day.
Bryan Adams

Bryan Guy Adams is a Canadian singer, songwriter, record producer, guitarist, photographer, philanthropist, and activist. He gained international fame with hits such as Summer of '69 and (Everything I Do) I Do It for You. Adams is also known for his humanitarian efforts and has been involved in various... read more

He is the definition of pop rock.
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
Paramore

Paramore is an American rock band from Franklin, Tennessee, formed in 2004. The band currently consists of lead vocalist Hayley Williams, guitarist Taylor York, and drummer Zac Farro. They rose to fame with albums like Riot! (2007) and Brand New Eyes (2009), known for blending pop-punk and alternative... read more

This band is the best. Their music has evolved a lot since their first album, but I feel like the fans transitioned with them and now the band is greater than ever.

Hayley Williams is amazing. She is so kind. Yes, I've met her. She has an amazing voice, and I think she should be higher on the list, so check out their songs and vote for Paramore.

They are amazing! I personally think they need to be higher!
Katy Perry

Katheryn Elizabeth Hudson, professionally known as Katy Perry, was born on October 25, 1984, in Santa Barbara, California. She is a singer, songwriter, actress, and has served as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador since 2013.
She is among the best-selling artists ever, with four Guinness World Records... read more
Elton John

Sir Elton Hercules John, born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on March 25, 1947, is an English singer, pianist, and composer. He has collaborated with lyricist Bernie Taupin since 1967 on more than 30 albums. John has sold over 300 million records, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time.... read more

He is obviously the best on this list. I mean, hell no to One Direction, OneRepublic, and Katy Perry. They don't even make real music. It's just computer-generated lip-syncing crap that should never have been created. Elton John is organic, good, and authentic.

He is without a doubt the best pop rock artist. I find it laughable that bad fake pop rock artists such as Coldplay, One Direction, Imagine Dragons, and Katy Perry are above him. They all can't compare to John, and all of those artists are overrated and give pop rock a bad name.
ABBA

ABBA were a Swedish pop group formed in Stockholm in 1972. The group consists of Agnetha Fältskog, Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad.
ABBA became one of the most commercially successful acts in the history of popular music, particularly during the 1970s and early 1980s.
The Fray

The Fray is an American rock band that originated in Denver, Colorado. The band was formed in 2002 by schoolmates Isaac Slade and Joe King. They rose to fame with their 2005 debut album How to Save a Life, which was certified double platinum in the United States and achieved platinum status in Australia... read more

This band saved my life! The first time I heard "You Found Me," I cried. Their songs have a powerful meaning. And Isaac Slade's voice is AMAZING. I have never heard a band more beautiful than them.

Just some quality music, great voice, deep and meaningful lyrics. Way better than most of the artists above. Just sad to see such talent being so underrated.

Why isn't this band higher on the list? How to Save a Life and Over My Head were huge hits back then!
The Beach Boys

The Beach Boys are an American pop rock band formed in Hawthorne, California, in 1961. The original lineup included brothers Brian, Dennis, and Carl Wilson, their cousin Mike Love, and their friend Al Jardine. They are widely recognized for their vocal harmonies and innovative studio work, especially... read more
My Chemical Romance

My Chemical Romance is an American rock band from Newark, New Jersey, formed in 2001. The lineup since 2019 includes lead vocalist Gerard Way, guitarists Ray Toro and Frank Iero, bassist Mikey Way, and drummer Jarrod Alexander. Bob Bryar was the drummer from 2004 to 2010. The band has released critically... read more

Why are Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, and Demi Lovato on this list? They are NOT rock. My Chemical Romance, Blink-182, All Time Low, Fall Out Boy, Sum 41, and Paramore? I would add in all the classics (Beatles, Rolling Stones, Stone Roses), but they go without saying. - Daisy.

I love My Chemical Romance, although they changed their image after Black Parade. Still an awesome band. It's a massive shame that they had to break up after being together for so long.

I feel like this should be number 1. My Chemical Romance are like kings. There is nothing to hate about this band. You just can't.
Robbie Williams

Robert Peter Williams (born February 13, 1974) is an English singer, songwriter, and actor. He was a member of the pop group Take That from 1990 to 1995 and rejoined the group from 2009 to 2012.
He also achieved major commercial success as a solo artist, selling over 75 million records worldwide... read more

The biggest reason why I hate America: Robbie Williams isn't on the music stations. Take That is on the 90's stations, but Robbie Williams needs to be introduced to the American public.

There isn't another artist that comes close to Robbie Williams. He's done some awesome rock songs and he is the king of pop rock.

Slane Castle 1999 has got to be the best pop rock gig I've ever been to.
Michael Jackson

Michael Joseph Jackson (August 29, 1958 - June 25, 2009) was an American singer, dancer, and songwriter. He passed away from cardiac arrest caused by acute propofol and benzodiazepine intoxication, which was ruled a homicide. Jackson is widely regarded as one of the most significant cultural figures... read more

Come on, guys, gotta help him and put him at number 1. Have you not seen his t-shirts, "KING OF POP"? He should be for the next 100 years at least. If you do not like him, sorry because you are a noob.

He's my idol, he's the reason I fell in love with music, he should be number one. All the voters are just teenage girls who think they know real music.

He is music! Michael Jackson is music! RIP the king of pop. We will remember your music forever.
The All-American Rejects

The All-American Rejects are an American rock band formed in Stillwater, Oklahoma, in 1999. The band comprises Tyson Ritter on bass and lead vocals, Nick Wheeler on lead guitar and backing vocals, Mike Kennerty on rhythm guitar and backing vocals, and Chris Gaylor on drums. They gained popularity in... read more