9 No Skip Classic Rock Albums from the ’70s
via Early Led Zeppelin Band Portrait / YouTube
The 1970s were a golden era for rock music, producing albums that fans still enjoy from start to finish. These records showcased the creativity and talent of bands that defined the decade. Here are ten classic rock albums from the ’70s that you can listen to all the way through without skipping a track.
1. Led Zeppelin – Led Zeppelin IV (1971)
Released in 1971, Led Zeppelin IV is one of the band’s most successful albums. It features iconic songs like “Stairway to Heaven” and “Black Dog.” The album blends hard rock with folk influences, creating a unique sound that appealed to a wide audience.
The album has sold over 37 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling albums of all time. Its success helped solidify Led Zeppelin’s place in rock history. The band’s ability to combine different musical styles contributed to the album’s enduring popularity.
2. Pink Floyd – The Dark Side of the Moon (1973)
The Dark Side of the Moon, released in 1973, is a concept album that explores themes like time, money, and mental health. The album’s seamless transitions between tracks create a continuous listening experience.
The album spent over 900 weeks on the Billboard 200 chart, a testament to its lasting appeal. Songs like “Time” and “Money” became radio staples, and the album’s innovative use of sound effects and synthesizers influenced many artists.
3. The Rolling Stones – Sticky Fingers (1971)
Released in 1971, Sticky Fingers features hits like “Brown Sugar” and “Wild Horses.” The album showcases the band’s blend of rock, blues, and country influences.
The album’s cover, designed by Andy Warhol, became iconic. Sticky Fingers was the first album released on the band’s own label, Rolling Stones Records, marking a new chapter in their career.
4. Fleetwood Mac – Rumours (1977)
Rumours, released in 1977, was recorded during a time of personal turmoil for the band members. Despite this, they produced a cohesive album with hits like “Go Your Own Way” and “Dreams.”
The album won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 1978 and has sold over 40 million copies worldwide. Its polished production and emotional lyrics resonated with a wide audience.
5. The Who – Who’s Next (1971)
Who’s Next, released in 1971, features songs like “Baba O’Riley” and “Behind Blue Eyes.” The album blends hard rock with synthesizer-driven tracks, showcasing the band’s musical evolution.
The album was a commercial success, reaching number four on the US Billboard 200 chart. Its innovative use of technology and powerful songwriting have made it a classic in the rock genre.
6. The Eagles – Hotel California (1976)
Hotel California, released in 1976, includes the title track and “New Kid in Town.” The album marked a shift from the band’s country roots to a more rock-oriented sound.
The album won the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1978. Its themes of disillusionment and excess resonated with listeners, and the guitar work on the title track is particularly notable.
7. Bruce Springsteen – Born to Run (1975)
Born to Run, released in 1975, features the title track and “Thunder Road.” The album captures themes of youth and escape, with a sound that blends rock and roll with poetic lyrics.
The album was a commercial breakthrough for Springsteen, reaching number three on the Billboard 200 chart. Its success helped establish him as a major figure in rock music.
8. Queen – A Night at the Opera (1975)
Released in 1975, A Night at the Opera includes the hit “Bohemian Rhapsody.” The album showcases Queen’s diverse musical styles, from hard rock to opera-inspired tracks.
The album was a commercial success, reaching number one in the UK and number four in the US. Its ambitious production and eclectic sound have made it a standout in Queen’s discography.
9. Pink Floyd – Wish You Were Here (1975)
Wish You Were Here, released in 1975, pays tribute to former band member Syd Barrett. The album features tracks like “Shine On You Crazy Diamond” and the title song.
The album reached number one in both the UK and US charts. Its themes of absence and the music industry struck a chord with fans, and it remains a favorite among Pink Floyd’s works.
