The 10 Tracks That Made Rock n’ Roll In 1971

The 1960s and 70s are often considered the golden age of music, with sounds that reached unmatched levels of creativity and quality. Among these iconic years, 1971 stands out as one of rock and roll’s finest. It was a year packed with groundbreaking hits and unforgettable tracks that shaped music history. Let’s take a look back at the 10 greatest songs from 1971, as voted by fans.

“Bang A Gong (Get It On)” – T. Rex
The music of 1971 seems to have reached a level of maturity such that, in truth, one could listen to each song 10 times in a day in a row and nothing would happen to it. T. Rex, perhaps the biggest glam rock group that ever existed, despite their sad short life, was really cool, in the broadest sense of the meaning behind the word cool.

“Maggie May” – Rod Stewart
Rod Stewart, a true all-rounder, has done it all—from swing classics to jazz standards as a crooner. Back in the ’70s, he was a total star, already channeling the vibe and style of the ’80s before they even hit. With his bold glam looks, unforgettable voice, and iconic hairstyles (yes, they’re legendary), Rod gave us timeless hits that go way beyond his fashion statements.

“Riders On The Storm” – The Doors
The Doors had it all: charisma, poetry, and an unforgettable frontman Jim Morrison. His early death cemented his status as a legend, but their magic wasn’t just about him. The band pushed the boundaries of psychedelia, crafting dark, immersive tracks that stretched far beyond the typical three-minute limit. Their music wasn’t always easy to follow, but it was groundbreaking, proving that great art doesn’t have to fit into a neat little box.

“Won’t Get Fooled Again”– The Who
The final song on our list has a special claim to fame—it’s the theme for CSI: Miami, the second spin-off in the iconic franchise. Beyond the shared titles and legendary producer, the connection between these shows lies in their unforgettable openings. Back then, those intros made it worth tuning in. But let’s be honest, if it were on Netflix today, would anyone still let it play? Maybe, just maybe, for nostalgia’s sake.

“Lady In Black” – Uriah Heep
We’ve always thought about creating a list of songs featuring a woman in the title, and “Lady in Black” by Uriah Heep definitely deserves a spot. This timeless track from their Bird of Prey album captures a hauntingly beautiful vibe with its powerful melody and soulful lyrics. The album cover itself is unforgettable—bold and mysterious, just like the song. It’s a perfect blend of storytelling and rock, proving Uriah Heep’s ability to connect with listeners truly.

“Brown Sugar” – The Rolling Stones
What are our thoughts on The Rolling Stones’ “Brown Sugar”? This classic song from their Sticky Fingers album embodies the band’s rebellious spirit in a raw, edgy way. It instantly became a classic because of its gritty guitar riffs, Mick Jagger’s distinctive vocals, and an unstoppable groove. Even if the song’s contentious lyrics have generated discussions over the years, its unquestionable daring and fire continue to set it apart in rock history.

“Aqualung” – Jethro Tull
Jethro Tull’s “Aqualung” is the band’s standout masterpiece, even though it was never released as a single. Opening with an unforgettable guitar riff, the song takes listeners on a journey through its more than six minutes of dynamic shifts and intricate layers. It’s a shining example of progressive rock at its peak, blending thought-provoking lyrics with powerful melodies. This track from the Aqualung album remains a cornerstone of the genre and a fan favorite to this day.

“A Horse With No Name” – America
Released in 1971, “A Horse with No Name” by America is a timeless classic that still resonates. Dewey Bunnell and the band crafted a song that turned into an undeniable icon of folk rock. First launched in Europe and later in the U.S. in 1972, it captured the dreamy, introspective vibe of the era. Though folk-rock has faded from the mainstream, this track remains a shining example of the genre’s enduring appeal.

“Imagine”– John Lennon
Following his departure from The Beatles, John Lennon channeled his inner hippy and released an anthem that has endured as an iconic song despite being played repeatedly. The message itself is unassailable, even though some people doubt the messenger. Fundamentally, it’s about aiming for greater things. At least Lennon attempted to encourage constructive change, even if it’s not flawless. Concentrating on the positive intentions underlying the remarks is sometimes worthwhile.

“Stairway To Heaven”– Led Zeppelin
“Stairway to Heaven” is the ultimate rock ballad, a true power ballad in every sense. In Chile, it would be the song that could capture the awe of the mines, representing much more than just music. Led Zeppelin, known for their heavy sound, surprised everyone with this delicate masterpiece, showing a side of sensitivity they hadn’t really revealed before. It’s a song that leaves you in awe, every single time.