Back in 2005, the landscape of gaming and music merged in a revolutionary way with the arrival of Guitar Hero. This iconic game wasn’t just another title; it was a cultural phenomenon that turned living rooms into concert stages and everyday players into rock legends, all thanks to its innovative guitar controller, addictive gameplay, and an unforgettable tracklist. Guitar Hero perfectly captured the fantasy of being a rock star, making it an instant classic.
More than fifteen years later, the legacy of Guitar Hero continues to resonate with gamers and music lovers alike. Let’s take a nostalgic journey back to the fretboard and revisit 15 of the most unforgettable guitar hero hit songs that allowed us to live out our rock and roll dreams.
Sum 41 – “Fat Lip”
“Fat Lip” by Sum 41 was more than just a track; it was an anthem for a generation. This punk-pop explosion resonated deeply with audiences, becoming an instant hit within the punk scene and beyond. As Deryck Whibley, the lead singer and guitarist, explained, the song embodies the spirit of “…growing up in the suburbs, going to parties, hanging out with friends, and causing trouble.” In Guitar Hero, “Fat Lip” was the perfect high-energy opener or encore, challenging players to keep up with its fast-paced rhythm and showcasing the game’s ability to capture the raw energy of live punk rock. Its inclusion cemented Guitar Hero’s appeal to a broad audience, proving it wasn’t just about classic rock, but also about the contemporary sounds that defined a generation.
Blink 182 – “All The Small Things”
Blink 182, synonymous with teenage angst and a rebellious spirit, delivered a defining track with “All The Small Things.” This song, contrary to its punk rock roots, explored the lighter side of life, focusing on the simple joys that often go unnoticed. Tom DeLonge himself admitted, “I remember thinking, ‘The label’s gonna want a song for the radio – so here’s one,’” and indeed, fans and radio stations embraced it wholeheartedly. In Guitar Hero, “All The Small Things” offered a catchy and accessible tune, a welcome contrast to some of the more technically demanding tracks. Its presence highlighted the game’s diverse musical palette and its understanding of pop-punk’s widespread appeal. The song’s sing-along quality translated perfectly into the gameplay experience, making it a fan favorite for parties and solo sessions alike.
The Darkness – “I Believe in a Thing Called Love”
For those with a penchant for glam-rock extravagance, The Darkness’ 2003 anthem, “I Believe in a Thing Called Love,” was a glorious addition to the Guitar Hero tracklist. Justin Hawkins’ soaring vocals, combined with dazzling guitar riffs, created a wave of passionate nostalgia reminiscent of rock legends like Queen. This track oozed theatrical flair and unadulterated rock energy. In Guitar Hero, “I Believe in a Thing Called Love” was a standout for its sheer fun factor. The guitar parts were challenging yet rewarding, perfectly capturing the over-the-top essence of glam rock. It was a song that encouraged players to embrace the theatrics and truly feel like rock gods on their plastic guitars.
Jet – “Are You Gonna Be My Girl”
Jet burst onto the alternative rock scene with “Are You Gonna Be My Girl,” a breakout single that resonated worldwide. This track’s raw energy and infectious rhythm led to it being voted the “most Australian song of all time” by Triple M’s Ozziest 100 charts, showcasing its cultural impact down under. With its timeless rock sound, “Are You Gonna Be My Girl” was a must-play on any Guitar Hero setlist. The song’s driving beat and simple yet powerful guitar riff made it instantly recognizable and incredibly fun to play in Guitar Hero. It captured the essence of garage rock revival and offered players a chance to feel like part of a chart-topping rock band, even if just for a few minutes of gameplay.
Franz Ferdinand – “Take Me Out”
Hailing from the early 2000s indie rock explosion, Franz Ferdinand’s “Take Me Out” brought a dose of art-rock coolness to Guitar Hero. The track was defined by its punchy rhythm, funky guitar lines, and an undeniable urge to move. It sounded both fresh and like a classic rock anthem reborn. In Guitar Hero, “Take Me Out” stood out for its unique rhythmic structure and angular guitar riffs. It challenged players to master its syncopated beats and offered a taste of the indie rock scene that was rapidly gaining mainstream popularity. The song’s energetic vibe made it a perfect fit for the game, encouraging players to rock out with its infectious groove.
Guns N Roses – “Sweet Child ‘o Mine”
“Sweet Child ‘o Mine” by Guns N’ Roses is instantly recognizable from Slash’s iconic opening guitar riff. Initially conceived as a simple warm-up exercise, this riff evolved into one of the most legendary guitar intros in rock history. It’s a tune that commands attention from the very first note and continues to captivate audiences worldwide. In Guitar Hero, “Sweet Child ‘o Mine” was a crown jewel. The game perfectly translated Slash’s mesmerizing guitar work, offering players the chance to tackle that famous intro and the equally impressive solos throughout the song. It was a test of skill and a moment of pure rock and roll fantasy fulfillment for any Guitar Hero enthusiast.
Aerosmith (feat Run DMC) – “Walk This Way”
The groundbreaking 1986 collaboration between Aerosmith and Run-DMC on “Walk This Way” was a cultural milestone. This fusion of rock and hip-hop, featuring Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith alongside Run-DMC, shattered genre boundaries and achieved massive radio play across both rap and rock stations. Run-DMC later acknowledged the song’s inclusion in a Guitar Hero trailer as “a beautiful thing,” highlighting its continued cultural relevance. In Guitar Hero, “Walk This Way” was a testament to the game’s ability to bridge musical worlds. It was a challenging and incredibly fun track, forcing players to switch between rock riffs and hip-hop rhythms. Its inclusion celebrated the song’s historic impact and its enduring appeal across generations.
Foo Fighters – “Monkey Wrench”
Following his time with Nirvana, Dave Grohl formed Foo Fighters, embarking on a new journey of producing powerful rock music. “Monkey Wrench” showcases the band’s raw energy, from Taylor Hawkins’ relentless drumming to Grohl’s intense vocals and signature guitar tones. This track has become a staple in the rock canon. In Guitar Hero, “Monkey Wrench” was a true test of endurance and skill. Its fast tempo, complex drum patterns (reflected in the guitar track), and high-energy performance made it a favorite for those seeking a challenge. It perfectly captured the Foo Fighters’ dynamic sound and solidified Guitar Hero‘s reputation for including modern rock anthems.
Jimmy Eat World – “The Middle”
If we’re talking about anthems that defined a generation, Jimmy Eat World’s “The Middle” is undoubtedly a frontrunner. Reaching out to young people seeking a voice and understanding, this song, originally about personal affirmation, became a global phenomenon, played everywhere from homes to cars to parties. Sometimes, music simply says it best. In Guitar Hero, “The Middle” was an instantly relatable and enjoyable track. Its catchy melody and driving rhythm made it accessible to players of all skill levels, while still offering enough challenge to keep it engaging. It was a song that captured the spirit of the early 2000s alternative scene and resonated deeply with Guitar Hero‘s audience.
Bon Jovi – “Livin’ On A Prayer”
Jon Bon Jovi’s magnetic stage presence and powerful vocals on “Livin’ On A Prayer” have made it a timeless singalong classic. Whether on the radio or at a live Bon Jovi concert, this song is a beloved favorite for both the band and their legions of fans. It’s a song that transcends generations. In Guitar Hero, “Livin’ On A Prayer” was an essential inclusion. Its iconic guitar riffs, memorable chorus, and overall anthemic quality made it perfect for the game. It allowed players to experience the thrill of performing a stadium rock classic and feel the energy of a Bon Jovi concert from their living room.
The Eagles – “Hotel California”
Released in 1977, “Hotel California” by The Eagles is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone. Inspiring countless poems, films, and sociological analyses, the song’s mystique and intricate musicianship are undeniable. In Guitar Hero, “Hotel California” offered a chance to experience its legendary guitar solo firsthand. Don Felder and Joe Walsh’s intertwined guitar work was faithfully recreated, allowing players to virtually perform one of rock’s most iconic instrumental moments. It was a challenging yet deeply rewarding track that showcased Guitar Hero‘s ability to bring classic rock masterpieces to life.
Queen – “Killer Queen”
Queen consistently pushed boundaries and achieved new heights with each release, and “Killer Queen” was no exception. No matter how many times you hear it, Brian May’s distinctive guitar work and the song’s sophisticated arrangement remain captivating. For a glam-rock anthem to be included in Guitar Hero, “Killer Queen” was the perfect choice. The game captured the song’s intricate guitar harmonies and Brian May’s signature guitar tone, offering players a chance to shred along to a true rock masterpiece. It was a testament to Guitar Hero‘s commitment to including diverse styles within the rock genre.
Survivor – “Eye of the Tiger”
“Eye of the Tiger,” released in 1982 on Survivor’s third album and famously used as the theme song for Rocky 3, achieved instant anthem status. Decades later, it remains synonymous with the Rocky franchise and serves as a powerful soundtrack for themes of survival and triumph. It’s an anthem that will never lose its motivational power. In Guitar Hero, “Eye of the Tiger” was a pure adrenaline rush. Its driving rhythm and iconic guitar riff were perfectly suited to the game, providing players with a high-energy, fist-pumping experience. It was a song that embodied the competitive spirit of Guitar Hero and encouraged players to push their limits.
Red Hot Chili Peppers – “Suck My Kiss”
When “Suck My Kiss” by Red Hot Chili Peppers starts, you know you’re in for a high-energy funk-rock explosion. Full of funk rhythms, raw rock tones, and an irresistible beat, the song is impossible to sit still to. And Anthony Kiedis’ unmistakable vocals add another layer of energy. For a taste of 1990s alternative funk-rock in Guitar Hero, Red Hot Chili Peppers were essential. “Suck My Kiss” delivered a funky and challenging guitar experience. Flea’s basslines, while not directly playable on guitar in Guitar Hero, influenced the overall feel of the track, making it a unique and memorable inclusion. It showcased the game’s ability to capture the diverse sounds of the 90s rock scene.
Lenny Kravitz – “Are You Gonna Go My Way”
“Are You Gonna Go My Way” by Lenny Kravitz reached number one for a simple reason: Lenny Kravitz himself. Across eras, he has remained a unique and irreplicable force in rock music, defining rock and roll on his own terms. He’s an artist who embodies rock authenticity. In Guitar Hero, “Are You Gonna Go My Way” was a powerful and stylish addition. Its hard-rocking riffs and Kravitz’s signature cool made it a standout track. It allowed players to channel the raw energy and individualistic spirit of Lenny Kravitz and experience a taste of modern rock royalty within the game.
Honorable Mention:
Dragonforce – “Through the Fire and Flames”
No discussion of Guitar Hero is complete without mentioning the legendary “Through the Fire and Flames” by Dragonforce. Countless players have sweated over this track on expert mode, both in their youth and even today. It’s the ultimate Guitar Hero challenge and a true classic. “Through the Fire and Flames” became synonymous with Guitar Hero’s extreme difficulty. Its blisteringly fast guitar solos and relentless pace made it a badge of honor for players who could conquer it. It pushed the boundaries of the game’s difficulty and cemented its place in Guitar Hero history as the ultimate test of skill and dedication.
