12 Best Punk Songs of All Time

2023-06-14

Punk icon Iggy Pop.

Iggy Pop has one of the best punk songs of all time on Audio Ink Radio’s best-of list – Story by Anne Erickson, photo by Harmony Korine

Here’s Audio Ink Radio’s list of the 12 best punk songs of all time

Punk music is for those who will fight against the establishment and speak their minds. From blistering bands like The Ramones to The Clash to The Stooges, punk has enjoyed a lengthy, exciting life. It also has a discography of songs that need to be celebrated. One could call them the best punk songs of all time.

When people think punk, three chords and a sharp attitude come to mind. But, there’s more to a great punk song. The best punk songs often reference sociopolitical issues and have irresistible hooks.

So, which punk rock songs helped form the genre and have stood the test of time? Read on for Audio Ink Radio’s list of the 12 best punk songs of all time.

12. Dead Kennedys – “Holiday in Cambodia” (1979)

Punk music and politics have a tight relationship. Dead Kennedys’ “Holiday in Cambodia” is a shining example of both, as the song discusses the Cambodian genocide and throws shade at Westerners who blissfully ignore atrocities in third world and developing countries.

11. Green Day – “Welcome to Paradise” (1991 and 1994)

Green Day first released “Welcome to Paradise” on 1991’s “Kerplunk” and then re-recorded it for 1994’s “Dookie.” The song, which was an instant hit, features the catchy, three-chord riffs for which Green Day are known, as well as lyrics laced with social commentary. We know that including Green Day on a best-of punk list often gets groans, but there’s no denying their place in the genre.

10. The Buzzcocks – “Ever Fallen in Love” (1978)

Not all punk music is niche. Some punk music is extremely accessible, such as The Buzzcocks’ 1978 track, “Ever Fallen in Love (With Someone You Shouldn’t’ve).” The track features catchy hooks and romantic lyrics that simply make it a fun punk tune.

9. Bikini Kill – “Rebel Girl” (1992)

The Joan Jett-produced “Rebel Girl” by Bikini Kill is a snapshot of the crucial riot grrrl movement. Kathleen Hanna and company deliver a song about the strength of feminist culture. While the subject matter is heavy, they keep the music light and upbeat, with edgy riffing and bouncy rhythms.

8. The Sex Pistols – ““Anarchy in the UK” (1976)

One could call The Sex Pistols a “one album wonder” band, since they only had one proper studio album, but that really doesn’t do this influential band justice. The legendary punk band released their debut single, “Anarchy in the UK, in 1976. With it, they helped shape the genre. With anarchistic themes and sharp musicality, it’s simply a punk rock anthem.

7. The Stooges – “I Wanna Be Your Dog” (1969)

As with all the bands on this list, The Stooges helped define what it meant to be punk rock. Their debut single, “I Wanna Be Your Dog,” arrived in 1969, making it one of the earliest songs ever to bring that punk rock style to the world. It was groundbreaking, and the song sounds as fresh and creative today as it did in the ’60s.

6. The Clash – “I Fought The Law” (1997)

The Clash didn’t write “I Fought the Law,” but they covered this single by The Crickets. Instead of just copying the original song, The Clash really made it their own, adding plenty of anger and rebellion. It’s one of the most recognizable punk songs of all time.

5. Ramones – “I Wanna Be Sedated” (1978)

“I Wanna Be Sedated” is a juxtaposition of sorts. Its pop-driven, upbeat beats and guitars don’t match the song’s lament over the difficulty of band life and touring. The Joey Ramone-penned track is one of punk music’s most popular songs and one of the only classic punk songs that’s still on rock radio.

4. Minor Threat – “Straight Edge” (1984)

Minor Threat are one of the most hardcore punk bands on this tally. With “Straight Edge,” the band sang about the then-burgeoning “straight edge” trend in punk music. That basically means abstaining from drugs and alcohol and, sometimes, sex. The song is fast, loud and just 45-seconds long, and it packs a punch.

3. The Clash – “London Calling” (1979)

The Clash is on this list twice, but that’s okay, because they deserve it. The band unleashed “London Calling” in 1979, well after they had already been crowned the kings of punk rock. The song’s motif surrounds complex social issues, making this one of the most politically influential punk songs ever.

2. The Ramones – “Blitzkrieg Bop”(1976)

The Ramones are another band on this tally twice, and for good reason. “Blitzkrieg Bop” is often credited as being the very first pure punk rock song. Thanks to this song, many consider The Ramones the true pioneers of the genre. It’s simple, fast, fun and has made a true cultural impact.

1. Iggy Pop – “Lust for Life” (1977)

Selecting a song to top our list of the best punk songs of all time was a difficult task. While many might credit the aforementioned “Blitzkrieg Bop” or “London Calling” with that honor, we truly think it’s “Lust for Life” by Iggy Pop. This song bleeds from Pop’s personal experiences and heart. In it, he sings about his experiences with drugs and rock, amid huge rhythms and gut-hitting bass. It’s raw, real and pure. For that, Iggy Pop with “Lust for Life” is our No. 1 greatest punk song of all time.

Check out Audio Ink Radio’s list of 10 underrated punk albums that need to be heard here.

Anne Erickson
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Posted by Anne Erickson | Alternative, Features, Music, Rock