Top 10 "Dad Rock" Songs of All Time: The Guitarists and Their Guitars

Dad rock is more than just a playlist—it's a rite of passage, a soundtrack for road trips, barbecues, and nostalgic air guitar sessions. These songs are timeless, defined by iconic riffs, unforgettable solos, and the legendary guitarists who played them. Here are the top 10 dad rock songs of all time, the guitarists behind them, and the guitars that shaped their sound.

If you’re a fan of classic riffs, big choruses, and the kind of guitar tones that make you want to crank up your amp, you’re in the right place. At Music Street, we’re passionate about the gear that shapes your favourite songs—and we love helping you find the perfect guitar to capture those legendary sounds for yourself. Here’s our pick of the top 10 modern dad rock anthems from the 1980s onwards, the guitar heroes behind them, and how you can get your hands on the same models right here at MusicStreet.

1. Livin’ On A Prayer – Bon Jovi

• Main Guitarist: Richie Sambora
• Guitar: Kramer Jersey Star
• YouTube: Livin’ On A Prayer
  
  

Richie Sambora’s talkbox-laden riffs and stadium-sized power chords on his Kramer Jersey Star are instantly recognisable. This song’s uplifting story and infectious chorus have made it a staple of rock playlists for decades. If you’re after that classic Bon Jovi tone, check out our range of Kramer guitars at Music Street—perfect for capturing those big 80s sounds.

2. Sweet Child O’ Mine – Guns N’ Roses

• Main Guitarist: Slash
• Guitar: Gibson Les Paul Standard
• YouTube: Sweet Child O’ Mine
  
  
  

Slash’s opening riff on his Les Paul Standard is pure rock magic—instantly recognisable and endlessly playable. The Les Paul’s warm, sustaining tone is a huge part of this song’s appeal. Want to feel that same inspiration? Music Street stocks a superb selection of Gibson Les Pauls, from classics to modern takes.

3. You Shook Me All Night Long – AC/DC

• Main Guitarist: Angus Young
• Guitar: Gibson SG Standard
• YouTube: You Shook Me All Night Long
  
  
  

Angus Young’s blistering riffs and electrifying lead work on the Gibson SG Standard drive this AC/DC classic. The SG’s biting tone and fast neck are perfect for those high-voltage solos and chunky chords. If you want to channel Angus’s raw energy, come try a Gibson SG at Music Street—ideal for everything from classic rock to modern crunch.

4. I Love Rock ’N Roll – Joan Jett & The Blackhearts

• Main Guitarist: Joan Jett
• Guitar: Gibson Melody Maker
• YouTube: I Love Rock ’N Roll
  
  
  

Joan Jett’s no-nonsense riffing on her Gibson Melody Maker is all about attitude. The Melody Maker’s punchy, straightforward tone is perfect for anyone looking to channel that pure rock spirit. Music Street regularly has Gibson Melody Makers and similar models in stock—come down and find your new go-to rock machine.

5. Pour Some Sugar On Me – Def Leppard

• Main Guitarist: Phil Collen
• Guitar: Jackson Dinky
• YouTube: Pour Some Sugar On Me
  
  
  

Phil Collen’s Jackson Dinky delivers the big, bold sound that made this song a late-80s anthem. Fast necks and hot pickups make the Dinky a favourite for shredders and riff-lovers alike. Check out our Jackson range at Music Street for the perfect guitar to rock your next gig.

6. Jump – Van Halen

• Main Guitarist: Eddie Van Halen
• Guitar: Kramer 5150
• YouTube: Jump
  
  
  

Eddie Van Halen’s Kramer 5150 is built for speed and showmanship. Its hot-rodded features make it perfect for everything from tapping solos to chunky rhythm work. Fancy giving one a spin? We’ve got EVH guitars ready for you at MusicStreet.

7. Money for Nothing – Dire Straits

• Main Guitarist: Mark Knopfler
• Guitar: Gibson Les Paul Standard
• YouTube: Money for Nothing
  
  
  

Mark Knopfler’s fingerstyle riff on his Les Paul Standard gives “Money for Nothing” its unmistakable edge. The Les Paul’s warmth and clarity are perfect for capturing that Dire Straits sound. Explore our Gibson Les Paul lineup at Music Street and find your perfect fit.

8. Layla – Derek and the Dominos

• Main Guitarist: Eric Clapton
• Guitar: Fender Stratocaster
• YouTube: Layla (Full Version)
  
  
  

“Layla” is a true rock epic, bursting with raw emotion and one of the most iconic guitar riffs ever laid down. Eric Clapton’s searing Stratocaster tone, combined with Duane Allman’s slide work, creates a sound that’s both urgent and timeless. The song’s dramatic shifts—from the fiery opening riff to the beautiful piano coda—have inspired generations of guitarists. If you want to chase that classic Strat sound, MusicStreet’s range of Fender Stratocasters will help you get there, whether you’re after vintage vibes or modern playability.

9. Born in the U.S.A. – Bruce Springsteen

• Main Guitarist: Bruce Springsteen
• Guitar: Fender Telecaster/Esquire hybrid
• YouTube: Born in the U.S.A.
  
  
  

Springsteen’s iconic Telecaster/Esquire hybrid delivers the punchy, driving rhythm that powers this anthem. Its bright, cutting tone is a favourite for both rhythm and lead work. Music Street carries a fantastic selection of Fender Telecasters—come try one and find your own “Boss” sound.

10. Free Fallin’ – Tom Petty

• Main Guitarist: Mike Campbell
• Guitar: Rickenbacker 620/12
• YouTube: Free Fallin’
  
  
  

Mike Campbell’s shimmering Rickenbacker 12-string is the secret behind the lush, jangly sound of “Free Fallin’.” If you’re after that classic chime, check out our Rickenbacker guitars and 12-string models at MusicStreet—perfect for adding sparkle to your sound.

At MusicStreet, we’re passionate about helping you find the guitar that inspires you; whether you’re chasing the tones of your heroes or carving your own path. Visit us in-store or online to explore our full range of guitars, amps, and accessories. Your next great guitar is waiting! -  www.musicstreet.co.uk