25 classic artists Gen Z is rediscovering right now

The Beatles will forever be one of the most iconic bands out there. However, it seems Gen Z is rediscovering them and realizing just how talented they were. Whether due to social media trends or simply their parents exposing them to the wonders of The Beatles, the band has experienced a resurgence in attention in recent years.

Queen has had some viral moments on social media recently. This has naturally made them more appealing to Gen Z. However, I’m not sure “Bohemian Rhapsody” ever went out of style to begin with.

Fleetwood Mac is a prime example of a rediscovered artist. Thanks to TikTok exposing Gen Z to classics like “Dreams” and the iconic live performance of “Silver Springs,” the band is experiencing an increase in attention and streams. This revival has been significant for the band (which is no longer together) and its former members, particularly Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham, who have since gone their own way musically. 

Though they might not be making music anymore, Led Zeppelin has remained a legend in rock music. For this reason, TikTok has naturally furthered the band’s reach and exposed Gen Z to their mastery. Many Gen Z music-lovers are fans of the iconic rock band. 

Pink Floyd is still getting the recognition it deserves as a band. In fact, many Gen Zers (stoners and sobers alike) admire the band’s experimental sound.

It’s no shock that Gen Z is rediscovering The Rolling Stones, as this band has remained one of the most influential rock groups for decades. Still, we all know that Gen Z is hard to impress, especially when it comes to music. Whether it’s their parents’ good music taste or social media’s promotion of the icons, fans of The Rolling Stones span various generations. 

Another timeless classic rock band is AC/DC. From social platforms to popular modern-day films, various forms of media have fueled the band’s ongoing popularity—even among Gen Zers.

Guns N’ Roses is one of the most well-known rock bands of all time. Their inescapable track “Sweet Child O’ Mine” is still a massive hit on social media platforms like TikTok. It doesn’t seem this band will ever go out of style. That is, not if Gen Z has anything to say about it.

Iconic rock band Journey is experiencing a major comeback right now—in large part due to TikTok. Of course, their arena shows only further their reach. The band’s signature song "Don’t Stop Believin’" is going strong, and I’m not sure it’ll ever lose its charm.

Eagles is another classic rock band that’s still impressing new generations. With over 23 million monthly listeners on Spotify, the group is thriving.

Deftones is another band that’s appealing to the Gen Zers, primarily in the alt scene. This '90s metal band is still going strong and adding to its loyal following. Of course, social media and TikTok play a large role in this.

Nirvana is still just as cool as it once was. Many teens are behind the resurgence of grunge, embracing Nirvana as the iconic band they’ve always been.

Gen Z appears to love Pearl Jam for their “moody” vibe. The grunge icons are still doing numbers on TikTok and other social media platforms. 

Gen Z seems to appreciate the raw and heavy sound of Alice in Chains. In fact, the band is experiencing a resurgence in popularity in large part due to this demographic. TikTok and other social media platforms highlight the group’s legendary angst.

TikTok and algorithm playlists are driving a new wave of listeners for Soundgarden. This band still has over 9 million monthly listeners on Spotify, and many of them are of the Gen Z population.

I’m convinced Radiohead will never go out of style. The Gen Z alt-rock lovers adore this iconic band, and for good reason. Their songs are all over TikTok and other social media platforms, contributing to their continued popularity.

I might be a Millennial, but I personally discovered Elliot Smith on TikTok. I’ve been obsessed with his discography ever since, and it seems Gen Z is also on board with his deep, melancholic music.

Type O Negative’s cult following now includes some more explorative Gen Z music-lovers. Whether discovered on TikTok or through exposure from their parents, I’m just happy to see the band gaining recognition among younger generations.

The Smiths were one of the most iconic rock bands from the '80s. Through TikTok’s trending audios to popular movies like 500 Days of Summer and The Perks of Being a Wallflower, the band has plenty of exposure. As a result, many Gen Zers have become devoted fans.

Many Gen Zers are discovering The Cure, which—in my opinion—is one of the best bands out there. Not to mention, The Cure recently released a new album in 2024 and just won two Grammys in 2026: Best Alternative Music Album and Best Alternative Music Performance.

Thanks to the incredible soundtracks of popular shows like Stranger Things, Prince’s music is experiencing a revival. Gen Z has discovered and fallen in love with the icon that was Prince.

Another legend that earned his right on this list is David Bowie. The English singer-songwriter was one of the most influential musicians of his time. Thankfully, Gen Z is not sleeping on the musical mastermind.

I don’t think ABBA will ever go out of style, especially with their involvement in the timeless movie, Mamma Mia! Gen Z adores their high-energy, pop/disco sound. 

It seems any time I scroll on TikTok, I hear Billy Joel’s beautiful, soothing voice singing “Vienna.” The social media platform has undoubtedly triggered a resurgence in streams for the iconic singer-songwriter.

Duran Duran is having its moment on TikTok. The iconic English pop-rock band has always been a favorite of mine, and it’s exciting to see them continue to grow their Gen Z fanbase. Songs like “Hungry Like the Wolf” and “Ordinary World” are especially popular among this generation.