Ranking 5 Of The Southern Classic Rock Bands Of The 70s
ZZ Top / Facebook
While only a few may know it, the southern United States is also the birthplace of a unique brand of rock and roll bands. Rooted in the region’s profound understanding of the blues, Southern classic rock bands of the ’70s crafted poetic lyrics and delivered exceptional guitar riffs, leaving an indelible mark on the music scene.
Here’s a ranking of five iconic Southern classic rock bands that defined the era:
Charlie Daniels Band
Charlie Daniels, renowned for his gravelly voice and the unforgettable narrative of “The Devil Went Down to Georgia,” earns his spot for the sheer breadth of his musical contributions. While not dominating the charts with #1 hits, Daniels infused his work with a touch of the mystical, particularly in transforming the violin’s perception of rock.
The Marshall Tucker Band
With hits like “Fire on the Mountain” and the melancholic yet upbeat “Heard It In A Love Song,” The Marshall Tucker Band carved a distinctive niche. Doug Gray’s vocals embodied the essence of the Southern boy, contributing to their influence. Despite hitting a musical pothole with the latter, their impact on the Southern rock scene remains profound.
ZZ TOP
The enduring presence of ZZ TOP, complete with their iconic beards, deserves applause. From rock guitar anthems like “La Grange” to quirky yet captivating lyrics, such as the infectious “A Haw Haw Haw / A Haw Haw Haw Haw,” ZZ TOP stands as a testament to enduring musical excellence.
Lynyrd Skynyrd
Named in homage to their high school gym teacher, Lynyrd Skynyrd stands as one of the most-played Southern rock bands ever. Anthems like “Free Bird,” “Sweet Home Alabama,” “Gimme Three Steps,” and “Every Mother’s Son” catapulted them to classic status. Tragically, the premature loss of Ronnie Van Zant, along with bandmates, in a plane crash cut short a promising musical journey.
The Allman Brothers Band
With the timeless jam “All Night Train” among their repertoire, The Allman Brothers Band showcased instrumental mastery. The band’s early foundation in musical prowess later intertwined with struggles with drugs and alcohol. Despite challenges, their aesthetic appeal transcended conventional standards, making them a striking force in Southern classic rock.
