Let’s take a look at the 25 most-played songs on rock radio in 2025.
Rock music encompasses a wide range of styles, and in this article, we will focus specifically on the tracks that dominate hard rock stations utilizing the “active rock” programming format. This format features a blend of new releases from contemporary hard rock bands alongside classic hits from legendary heavy rock artists of the past.
Tracking the Most-Played Songs on Rock Radio
To determine the 25 most-played songs, we consulted the latest charts published by Mediabase.
Mediabase operates as a reporting service with a network of over 2,500 affiliates, making it a trusted source for radio programming statistics. Each week, various music charts are released in Pollstar, a well-respected music industry trade publication.
On August 28, 2025, Loudwire gathered the airplay statistics, which reveal how often each track has been played on active rock radio stations this year.
READ MORE: The Best Hard Rock Album of Each Year Since 1970
Understanding the Presence of 2024 Songs
While the following 25 tracks are current, you may notice some that originated from albums released in 2024.
It’s common for radio campaigns to extend well beyond an album’s release date, promoting additional singles to maximize airplay and maintain interest in the record.
For instance, songs from 2024 albums by artists such as Linkin Park, Falling In Reverse, Wage War, The Funeral Portrait, Hardy, and Nothing More have made their way onto this list.
Keep reading to find out which rock songs have been the most popular on the radio in 2025!
The Most Played Songs on Rock Radio in 2025 (So Far)
Here are the most frequently played songs on rock radio as of August 28, 2025. All statistics are courtesy of Mediabase.
Gallery Credit: Loudwire Staff
The 25 Best Rock Songs of the Last 25 Years (2000-2024)
Over the past 25 years, tens of thousands of rock and metal songs have been released. Here’s a curated list of the 25 best tracks from this period!
Entries have been contributed by Rabab Al-Sharif (RA), Chad Childers (CC), Joe DiVita (JD), and Lauryn Schaffner (LS).
Gallery Credit: Loudwire Staff
Conclusion
The rock genre continues to evolve, blending the old with the new. The songs dominating the airwaves in 2025 reflect a rich tapestry of musical influences and the enduring appeal of hard rock. As both classic and contemporary artists vie for listener attention, it’s clear that rock radio remains a vital platform for showcasing talent across generations.
FAQs
What is active rock programming?
Active rock programming is a radio format that plays a mix of new hard rock songs and classic tracks from established heavy rock artists, appealing to a diverse audience of rock fans.
How does Mediabase determine airplay statistics?
Mediabase compiles data from a vast network of radio stations to track and report the frequency of song plays across various genres, including rock music.
Why are songs from previous years included in the current charts?
Radio campaigns often extend beyond an album’s initial release, allowing for ongoing promotion of singles that can lead to continued airplay well into subsequent years.
Who are some of the notable artists featured in the 2025 rock radio charts?
In 2025, popular artists include Linkin Park, Falling In Reverse, Wage War, The Funeral Portrait, Hardy, and Nothing More, with many songs from their 2024 albums making significant impacts on radio airplay.
