Im not sure Rock has ever been as predominant in the general population as we think. Certain musicians are remembered as they wrote such decent music it survives across many generations but a quick google of uk top selling singles of the 1960s, 70s and 80s shows that other than the expected Beatles and Stones many of the legendary artists barely have a foothold.
Sure they had a big sway in the music press and album sales but were not as omnipresent as would be expected.
Most of the bands I loved in the 80s and 90s made far less money and received less airplay than Banarama or Wham!/Bros.
My kids definitely play songs by Stone Roses, The Cure and The Specials though and haven’t even heard of Bananarama.
I don’t think rock is quite dead yet, it’s just having a lie down.