Ultimate Rock Anthems of the 2000s: Your 00s Rock Songs Playlist

The dawn of the 21st century ushered in a vibrant era for rock music, delivering a diverse range of sounds that still resonate today. From the tail end of grunge and nu-metal to the rise of indie rock and garage rock revival, the 2000s were a melting pot of rock subgenres, producing iconic tracks that dominated airwaves and defined a generation. If you’re looking to relive the energy of the early 2000s or discover some killer tunes from that era, dive into our curated list of essential Rock Songs 00s that you absolutely need to hear.

This list isn’t just a random selection; it’s a journey through the sounds that shaped the decade. We’ve included everything from hard-hitting anthems to introspective ballads, ensuring a comprehensive overview of the 2000s rock landscape. Get ready to crank up the volume and explore the best rock songs the 00s had to offer.

• 3 Doors Down – “Kryptonite”: Kicking off our list with a post-grunge staple, “Kryptonite” by 3 Doors Down became an instant anthem with its relatable lyrics and powerful chorus. This track solidified the band’s place in the early 2000s rock scene and remains a sing-along favorite.

• Creed – “With Arms Wide Open”: Love them or hate them, Creed’s “With Arms Wide Open” was undeniably massive. This power ballad, dedicated to Scott Stapp’s son, showcased a softer side of post-grunge and resonated deeply with audiences, becoming one of the defining rock songs 00s for heartfelt emotion.

• Red Hot Chili Peppers – “Californication”: The Red Hot Chili Peppers continued their reign into the 2000s with “Californication,” a track that blended their signature funk-rock with a more introspective and melodic approach. The song’s iconic music video and catchy guitar riffs made it a global hit.

• Guns N’ Roses – “Chinese Democracy”: After years of anticipation, Guns N’ Roses finally released “Chinese Democracy” in the late 2000s. The title track itself was a bombastic and ambitious rock epic, showcasing Axl Rose’s enduring vision and guitar virtuosity.

• Red Hot Chili Peppers – “Snow (Hey Oh)”: Proving their versatility, Red Hot Chili Peppers appear again with “Snow (Hey Oh)”, a more mellow and atmospheric track from their Stadium Arcadium album. Its delicate guitar work and Anthony Kiedis’s smooth vocals demonstrated the band’s ability to evolve while staying true to their core sound.

• My Morning Jacket – “Off The Record”: Representing the burgeoning indie rock scene, My Morning Jacket’s “Off The Record” offered a blend of Southern rock, psychedelia, and frontman Jim James’s distinctive vocals. This track highlighted the more experimental and genre-bending side of 2000s rock.

• The Darkness – “I Believe in a Thing Called Love”: Injecting a dose of glam rock flamboyance into the decade, The Darkness exploded onto the scene with “I Believe in a Thing Called Love.” Its over-the-top vocals, scorching guitar riffs, and sheer fun factor made it an unforgettable rock anthem.

• Pearl Jam – “Severed Hand”: Grunge veterans Pearl Jam proved their continued relevance with “Severed Hand,” a powerful and politically charged track from their self-titled album. Eddie Vedder’s passionate vocals and the band’s raw energy showed they were still a force in rock music.

• Aerosmith – “Jaded”: Rock legends Aerosmith kept rocking in the 2000s with “Jaded,” a slick and catchy hard rock tune that proved their timeless appeal. Steven Tyler’s iconic vocals and Joe Perry’s guitar work were as sharp as ever.

• The Cribs – “Moving Pictures”: From the UK indie scene, The Cribs delivered raw energy with “Moving Pictures.” Their lo-fi sound and catchy melodies represented the garage rock revival that was gaining momentum.

• Kings of Leon – “Sex on Fire”: Kings of Leon broke into the mainstream with “Sex on Fire,” a stadium-ready rock anthem that blended Southern rock roots with a modern edge. Its massive chorus and driving rhythm made it a global sensation.

• Audioslave – “Like a Stone”: Supergroup Audioslave, featuring Chris Cornell and members of Rage Against the Machine, delivered a powerful and emotive rock ballad with “Like a Stone.” Cornell’s soaring vocals and the song’s melancholic beauty made it a standout track of the decade.

• Nirvana – “You Know You’re Right”: A posthumous release from Nirvana, “You Know You’re Right” offered a final glimpse into Kurt Cobain’s genius. Recorded shortly before his death, the song was raw, intense, and undeniably Nirvana, becoming an instant classic despite its tragic context.

• Linkin Park – “Numb”: Linkin Park’s “Numb” became an anthem for angst and alienation in the 2000s. Blending nu-metal with electronic elements and Chester Bennington’s powerful vocals, the song resonated with millions and defined a generation’s sound.

• The Killers – “Mr. Brightside”: The Killers burst onto the scene with “Mr. Brightside,” an indie rock anthem with an infectious energy and singalong chorus. Its enduring popularity and presence at parties worldwide cement its status as a 2000s rock classic.

• Jet – “Cold Hard Bitch”: Australian rockers Jet delivered a dose of raw, blues-infused rock with “Cold Hard Bitch.” Its Rolling Stones-esque swagger and high-energy performance made it a standout track of the garage rock revival.

• Velvet Revolver – “Fall to Pieces”: Another supergroup, Velvet Revolver, featuring former Guns N’ Roses members and Scott Weiland, delivered a raw and emotional rock ballad with “Fall to Pieces.” Weiland’s vulnerable vocals and the band’s musicianship created a powerful and moving track.

• Green Day – “Holiday”: Green Day’s politically charged rock opera American Idiot spawned the hit single “Holiday.” Its punk energy, catchy melodies, and anti-war message resonated deeply in the mid-2000s.

• Foo Fighters – “The Pretender”: Foo Fighters continued their rock dominance with “The Pretender,” a high-energy stadium rock anthem from Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace. Dave Grohl’s powerful vocals and the band’s dynamic performance made it an instant hit.

• Limp Bizkit – “Rollin’ (Air Raid Vehicle)”: Love them or hate them, Limp Bizkit were a defining force in nu-metal. “Rollin’ (Air Raid Vehicle)” was one of their most recognizable tracks, blending rap and rock with an aggressive and energetic delivery.

• Weezer – “Hash Pipe”: Weezer continued their quirky rock journey with “Hash Pipe,” a heavier and more riff-driven track than some of their earlier work. Its catchy chorus and humorous lyrics made it a fan favorite.

• Bon Jovi – “It’s My Life”: Bon Jovi proved their enduring appeal with “It’s My Life,” a motivational rock anthem for the new millennium. Its catchy chorus and positive message resonated with audiences worldwide.

• The Strokes – “Last Nite”: The Strokes spearheaded the garage rock revival with “Last Nite,” a raw, energetic, and undeniably cool track that defined the sound of early 2000s indie rock in New York City and beyond.

• U2 – “Beautiful Day”: U2 entered the 2000s with “Beautiful Day,” an uplifting and anthemic rock song that showcased their stadium-rocking prowess. Its positive message and soaring melody made it a global hit.

• Lenny Kravitz – “Again”: Lenny Kravitz delivered a smooth and soulful rock ballad with “Again.” Its romantic lyrics and Kravitz’s charismatic vocals made it a radio staple.

• Everclear – “Wonderful”: Everclear continued their post-grunge run with “Wonderful,” a bittersweet track that balanced catchy melodies with introspective lyrics about the complexities of life.

• Papa Roach – “Last Resort”: Papa Roach’s “Last Resort” became an anthem for those struggling with mental health issues. Its nu-metal energy and relatable lyrics about desperation and seeking help resonated deeply with young audiences.

• Rage Against The Machine – “Sleep Now In The Fire”: Though released in 1999, “Sleep Now In The Fire” gained significant airplay and impact in the early 2000s. Rage Against The Machine’s politically charged lyrics and powerful rock-rap fusion continued to inspire and provoke.

• Nine Days – “Absolutely (Story Of A Girl)”: Nine Days delivered a catchy and upbeat pop-rock hit with “Absolutely (Story Of A Girl).” Its feel-good vibe and relatable lyrics made it a summer anthem.

• Lifehouse – “Hanging By A Moment”: Lifehouse’s “Hanging By A Moment” was a massive crossover hit, blending post-grunge with a more accessible and radio-friendly sound. Its emotional lyrics and soaring chorus propelled it to the top of the charts.

• Coldplay – “Yellow”: Coldplay’s breakthrough hit “Yellow” showcased their melodic and emotional brand of alternative rock. Chris Martin’s distinctive vocals and the song’s heartfelt lyrics made it a global phenomenon.

• Blink-182 – “First Date”: Blink-182 continued their pop-punk reign with “First Date,” a fun and energetic track from Take Off Your Pants and Jacket. Its catchy hooks and humorous lyrics made it a staple of early 2000s pop-punk.

• The White Stripes – “Seven Nation Army”: The White Stripes’ “Seven Nation Army” became an instantly recognizable rock anthem with its iconic guitar riff. Its minimalist blues-rock sound and Jack White’s raw vocals made it a genre-defining track.

• Matchbox Twenty – “Mad Season”: Matchbox Twenty continued their run of melodic rock hits with “Mad Season,” a reflective and emotionally resonant track. Rob Thomas’s distinctive vocals and the band’s polished sound made it a radio favorite.

• Default – “Wasting My Time”: Canadian rockers Default delivered a solid post-grunge track with “Wasting My Time.” Its catchy chorus and relatable lyrics about frustration resonated with audiences.

• Barenaked Ladies – “Pinch Me”: Barenaked Ladies offered a more alternative and quirky rock sound with “Pinch Me.” Its clever lyrics and catchy melodies showcased their unique style.

• Disturbed – “Down With The Sickness”: Disturbed’s “Down With The Sickness” became a nu-metal anthem with its aggressive sound and David Draiman’s distinctive vocals. Its heavy riffs and intense energy made it a staple of the genre.

• Franz Ferdinand – “Take Me Out”: Franz Ferdinand injected art-rock influences into the garage rock revival with “Take Me Out.” Its angular guitars, danceable rhythm, and catchy chorus made it a standout track of the mid-2000s.

• OutKast – “Hey Ya!”: While not strictly rock, OutKast’s “Hey Ya!” transcended genre boundaries and became a cultural phenomenon in the 2000s. Its infectious energy and rock-infused elements made it a must-include for capturing the decade’s musical spirit.

• Sum 41 – “Fat Lip”: Sum 41 delivered high-energy pop-punk with “Fat Lip,” a skate-punk anthem with catchy hooks and youthful rebellion. Its fast tempo and catchy chorus made it a staple of the genre.

• Andrew W.K. – “Party Hard”: Andrew W.K.’s “Party Hard” is the ultimate party rock anthem. Its simple, repetitive lyrics and high-octane energy are designed for pure, unadulterated fun.

• OK Go – “Here It Goes Again”: OK Go gained viral fame with “Here It Goes Again” and its incredibly creative treadmill music video. The song itself is a catchy indie rock tune, but the visual element propelled it to another level of popularity.

• Yeah Yeah Yeahs – “Maps”: Yeah Yeah Yeahs delivered a raw and emotional indie rock ballad with “Maps.” Karen O’s passionate vocals and the song’s building intensity made it a standout track of the early 2000s indie scene.

• Phoenix – “Lisztomania”: Phoenix brought French indie pop-rock to the masses with “Lisztomania.” Its catchy melodies, synth-infused sound, and upbeat vibe made it a popular track of the late 2000s.

• Maroon 5 – “She Will Be Loved”: Maroon 5 blended pop and rock with “She Will Be Loved,” a soulful ballad with Adam Levine’s smooth vocals and a memorable melody. Its crossover appeal made it a huge hit.

• Modest Mouse – “Float On”: Modest Mouse broke into the mainstream with “Float On,” an quirky and optimistic indie rock track. Isaac Brock’s distinctive vocals and the song’s upbeat message resonated with audiences.

• Muse – “Uprising”: Muse delivered a stadium-sized rock anthem with “Uprising,” channeling Queen and electronic influences into a powerful and politically charged track. Its massive sound and singalong chorus made it a concert staple.

• The Hives – “Hate to Say I Told You So”: The Hives injected garage rock with a punk energy on “Hate to Say I Told You So.” Its driving rhythm, catchy guitar riff, and black-and-white aesthetic made it a stylish and energetic track.

• Jimmy Eat World – “The Middle”: Jimmy Eat World’s “The Middle” became an anthem for embracing imperfection. Its positive message, catchy melodies, and pop-punk energy made it a defining track of the early 2000s emo and pop-punk scene.

• MGMT – “Kids”: MGMT’s “Kids” blended psychedelic pop and rock with a dreamy and atmospheric sound. Its synth-heavy production and catchy melodies made it a defining track of the late 2000s indie electronic scene.

• The Flaming Lips – “Do You Realize??”: The Flaming Lips delivered a psychedelic and philosophical rock ballad with “Do You Realize??” Its introspective lyrics and dreamy soundscape made it a unique and beloved track.

• AC/DC – “New Satellite Blues”: Rock legends AC/DC proved they could still deliver the goods in the 2000s with “New Satellite Blues.” Its classic AC/DC riffage and Brian Johnson’s vocals showed their timeless rock power.

• Tantric – “Breakdown”: Tantric offered a heavier and more brooding post-grunge sound with “Breakdown.” Its dark atmosphere and powerful vocals made it a staple of active rock radio.

• New Found Glory – “My Friends Over You”: New Found Glory delivered pop-punk perfection with “My Friends Over You.” Its catchy hooks, singalong chorus, and relatable lyrics about friendship made it a genre classic.

• Diffuser – “Karma”: Diffuser brought a melodic and introspective edge to post-grunge with “Karma.” Its thoughtful lyrics and catchy melodies made it a radio hit.

• Lucky Boys Confusion – “Fred Astaire”: Lucky Boys Confusion offered a more ska-punk influenced sound with “Fred Astaire.” Its upbeat energy and catchy horns made it a fun and energetic track.

• Ben Folds – “Rockin’ The Suburbs”: Ben Folds delivered a witty and self-aware piano rock anthem with “Rockin’ The Suburbs.” Its humorous lyrics and catchy piano melodies made it a fan favorite.

• Queens of the Stone Age – “No One Knows”: Queens of the Stone Age delivered desert rock perfection with “No One Knows.” Its hypnotic groove, Josh Homme’s vocals, and Dave Grohl’s drumming made it a genre-defining track.

• Bruce Springsteen – “The Rising”: Bruce Springsteen delivered a powerful and poignant rock anthem with “The Rising,” reflecting on the aftermath of 9/11. Its emotional depth and Springsteen’s storytelling made it a moving and important song of the decade.

[Energetic crowd enjoying live rock music at a vibrant venue, reminiscent of 2000s rock anthems.

Relive the glory of 2000s rock and experience the energy of live music! Howl at the Moon is the perfect venue to celebrate with friends, enjoy awesome drinks, and of course, rock out to all your favorite 00s anthems. Whether it’s a birthday, corporate event, or just a night out, Howl at the Moon brings the party to life. Check out your nearest location and get ready to rock!