Rock Radio’s Most Played Songs of 2025
According to the Mediabase chart tracking Active Rock radio spins from January 2025 to December 30, 2025, Papa Roach’s “Even If It Kills Me” dominated the airwaves, securing the title of the most played song of the year. With a remarkable 47,987 spins, the track has maintained its popularity since its release in January, allowing it to gather spins throughout the entire calendar year. It also held the top position at the year’s mid-point, solidifying its status as a fan favorite.
Late Year Dynamics: Biggest Gains and Losses
In August, when we last reviewed the most played songs, Papa Roach’s “Even If It Kills Me” was firmly at the top. However, as the year progressed, several songs experienced significant changes in their rankings. Architects’ “Everything Ends” made the most impressive leap, climbing from No. 21 in August to No. 4 by year-end. In contrast, Wage War’s “Blur” and Nothing More’s “House on Sand” saw declines in their standings, dropping from No. 6 to No. 12 and from No. 16 to No. 23, respectively.
Multiple Hits: Bands That Doubled Up
Several artists had a standout year in rock radio by placing multiple songs in the Top 25. Papa Roach not only secured the top spot with “Even If It Kills Me” but also made the list with “Braindead,” the final entry at No. 25. Linkin Park achieved a similar feat, placing at No. 6 with “Heavy Is the Crown” and No. 8 with “Up From the Bottom.” Additionally, Three Days Grace had two entries, ranking at No. 7 with “Mayday” and No. 17 with “Apologies.”
The Most Played Songs on Rock Radio in 2025
Here’s a look at the most played songs on rock radio for the year, based on data from Mediabase as of December 30, 2025:
- Papa Roach – Even If It Kills Me
- Architects – Everything Ends
- Linkin Park – Heavy Is the Crown
- Three Days Grace – Mayday
- Papa Roach – Braindead
- Linkin Park – Up From the Bottom
- Three Days Grace – Apologies
- Wage War – Blur
- Nothing More – House on Sand
Conclusion
As 2025 draws to a close, the landscape of rock radio has been shaped by a mix of longstanding favorites and new contenders. Papa Roach’s “Even If It Kills Me” exemplifies the power of a well-received single, while bands like Architects and Linkin Park demonstrate the continued evolution of rock music. Fans eagerly await what the new year will bring as the genre continues to evolve.
FAQs
What song was the most played on rock radio in 2025?
The most played song on rock radio in 2025 was “Even If It Kills Me” by Papa Roach.
Which song saw the biggest rise in rankings late in the year?
Architects’ “Everything Ends” saw the biggest rise, moving from No. 21 in August to No. 4 by year-end.
Did any bands have multiple songs in the Top 25?
Yes, both Papa Roach and Linkin Park had multiple songs in the Top 25, as did Three Days Grace.
What was the overall trend for rock radio in 2025?
The trend indicated a mix of established bands maintaining their popularity while new songs from various artists gained traction throughout the year.
