The 1970s was a golden era for music, producing some of the most iconic albums across various genres. From rock and pop to soul, funk, and disco, the decade saw a diverse range of musical styles and groundbreaking artists. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the best albums of the 70s, exploring the timeless classics that continue to resonate with music lovers around the world.

 

Best Albums Of The 70s- 70-72

 

 

Bridge Over Troubled Water by Simon and Garfunkel is a timeless masterpiece that showcases the duo’s impeccable harmonies and poignant songwriting. The title track, along with classics like “The Boxer” and “Cecilia,” resonate with emotional depth and musical brilliance. This iconic album continues to captivate listeners with its timeless melodies and profound lyrics, solidifying its place in music history.

The album was released in 1970 on Columbia Records

The album features the following tracks:

Side 1

1. Bridge Over Troubled Water
2. El Condor Pasa (If I Could)
3. Cecelia
4. Keep The Customer Satisfied
5. So Long, Frank Lloyd Wright

Side 2

1. The Boxer
2. Baby Driver
3. The Only Living Boy In New York
4. Why Don’t You Write Me
5. Bye Bye Love (live)
6. Song For The Asking

 

 

Every Picture Tells a Story by Rod Stewart is a classic rock album that showcases Stewart’s raw vocals and storytelling prowess. The album’s iconic track “Maggie May” catapulted Stewart to solo stardom with its infectious melody and heartfelt lyrics. With its blend of folk, rock, and blues influences, “Every Picture Tells a Story” remains a timeless gem in Stewart’s discography.

The album was released in 1971 on the Mercury Label.

The album features the following tracks:

Side 1

1. Every Picture Tells A Story
2. Seems Like A Long Time
3. That’s All Right/Amazing Grace
4. Tomorrow Is A Long Time

Side 2

1. Henry
2. Maggie May
3. Mandolin Wind
4. (I Know) I’m Losing You
5. (Find a) Reason To Believe

 

 

Electric Warrior by T. Rex is a glam rock masterpiece that defined the sound of the 1970s. Released in 1971, it features iconic tracks like “Get It On (Bang a Gong)” and “Jeepster,” blending catchy hooks with Marc Bolan’s charismatic vocals. The album’s energetic rhythms and innovative production cemented T. Rex’s influence in rock music, making it a must-listen for fans of the era.

The album was released in 1971 on the Fly label.

The album features the following tracks:

 

 

Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars by David Bowie is a groundbreaking rock masterpiece that introduced the world to the iconic Ziggy Stardust persona. With hits like “Starman” and “Suffragette City,” Bowie’s visionary storytelling and genre-blending music captivate listeners. This album remains a cultural touchstone, showcasing Bowie’s unparalleled creativity and influence in the music industry.

The album was released in 1972 by RCA Records

The album features the following tracks:

Side 1

1. Five Years
2. Soul Love
3. Moonage Daydream
4. Starman
5. It Ain’t Easy

Side 2

1. Lady Stardust
2. Star
3. Hang On To Yourself
4. Ziggy Stardust
5. Suffragette City
6. Rock ‘n’ Roll Suicide

 

 

Transformer by Lou Reed is a landmark album blending glam rock and art pop with Reed’s distinctive style and provocative lyrics. The iconic track “Walk on the Wild Side” highlights Reed’s storytelling prowess, while songs like “Satellite of Love” and “Perfect Day” showcase his musical versatility. “Transformer” remains a timeless classic, capturing Reed’s unique artistic vision and musical genius.

The album was released in 1972 on the RCA Victor label

The album features the following tracks:

Side 1

1. Vicious
2. Andy’s Chest
3. Perfect Day
4. Hangin’ Around
5. Walk On The Wild Side

Side 2

1. Make Up
2. Satellite Of Love
3. Wagon Wheel
4. New York Telephone Conversation
5. I’m So Free
6. Goodnight Ladies

 

 

Never a Dull Moment by Rod Stewart is a rock and roll tour de force filled with infectious energy and heartfelt emotion. The album’s standout tracks like “You Wear It Well” and “Twistin’ the Night Away” showcase Stewart’s charismatic vocals and storytelling prowess. With its catchy melodies and timeless appeal, “Never a Dull Moment” is a must-listen for fans of classic rock.

The album was released in 1972 on the Mercury label

The album features the following tracks:

1. True Blue
2. Los Paraguayos
3. Mama, You Been On My Mind
4. Italian Girls

Side 2

1. Angel
2. Interludings
3. You Wear It Well
4. I’d Rather Go Blind
5. Twistin’ The Night Away

Best Albums Of The 70s- 73-75

 

 

The Dark Side Of The Moon by Pink Floyd is a groundbreaking album that transcends time and genre. Released in 1973, it delves into themes of life, death, and human experience through mesmerizing instrumentals and thought-provoking lyrics. Tracks like “Money” and “Time” showcase the band’s musical prowess and innovative approach, making it a timeless masterpiece in rock music history.

The album was released in 1973 on the Harvest Capitol label

The album features the following tracks:

Side 1

1. Speak To Me
2. Breathe (In The Air)
3. On The Run
4. Time
5. The Great Gig In The Sky

Side 2

1. Money
2. Us And Them
3. Any Colour You Like
4. Brain Damage
5. Eclipse

 

 

Goodbye Yellow Brick Road by Elton John is a legendary album that showcases his musical versatility and songwriting brilliance. Released in 1973, it features hits like “Candle in the Wind” and “Bennie and the Jets,” blending rock, pop, and ballads into a cohesive and unforgettable musical journey. This album solidified Elton John’s status as a music icon.

The album was released in 1973 on the DJM label

The album features the following tracks:

Side 1

1. Funeral For A Friend/Love Lies Bleeding
2. Candle In The Wind
3. Bennie And The Jets

Side 2

1. Goodbye Yellow Brick Road
2. This Song Has No Title
3. Grey Seal
4. Jamaica Jerk-Off
5. I’ve Seen That Movie Too

Side 3

1. Sweet Painted Lady
2. The Ballad Of Danny Bailey (1909-34)
3. Dirty Little Girl
4. All The Girls Love Alice

Side 4

1. Your Sister Can’t Twist (But She Can Rock ‘n’ Roll)
2. Saturday Night’s Alright For Fighting
3. Roy Rogers
4. Social Disease
5. Harmony

 

 

Band on the Run by Wings is a triumphant blend of rock, pop, and storytelling that solidified Paul McCartney’s post-Beatles career. The title track’s infectious energy and melodic hooks are complemented by standout songs like “Jet” and “Let Me Roll It.” With its diverse sound and memorable tunes, “Band on the Run” remains a timeless classic in McCartney’s catalogue.

The album was released in 1973 on the Apple label

The album features the following tracks:

Side 1

1. Band On The Run
2. Jet
3. Bluebird
4. Mrs Vandebilt
5. Let Me Roll It

Side 2

1. Mamunia
2. No Words
3. Picasso’s Last Words (Drink To Me)
4. Nineteen Hundred and Eighty-Five

 

 

 

Atlantic Crossing by Rod Stewart is a dynamic blend of rock, pop, and soul that showcases Stewart’s signature raspy vocals and emotive delivery. The album’s standout tracks like “Sailing” and “This Old Heart of Mine” demonstrate Stewart’s versatility and songwriting prowess. With its catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics, “Atlantic Crossing” remains a classic in Stewart’s extensive discography.

The album was released in 1975 by Riva,Warner Bros

The album features the following tracks:

Fast Side (Side One)

1. Three Time Loser
2. Alright For An Hour
3. All In The Name Of Rock ‘N’ Roll
4. Drift Away
5. Stone Cold Sober

Slow Side (Side Two)

1. I Don’t Want To Talk About It
2. It’s Not The Spotlight
3. This Old Heart Of Mine
4. Still Love You
5. Sailing

Best Albums Of The 70s- 76-78

 

 

Arrival by ABBA is a pop masterpiece that solidified the band’s global success. Released in 1976, it features hits like “Dancing Queen” and “Knowing Me, Knowing You,” showcasing ABBA’s infectious melodies and harmonies. The album’s upbeat tunes and catchy lyrics make it a timeless classic in the world of pop music, earning ABBA a permanent place in music history.

The album was released in 1976 by Polar records.

The album features the following tracks:

Side 1

1. When I Kissed The Teacher
2. Dancing Queen
3. My Love, My Life
4. Dum Dum Diddle
5. Knowing You, Knowing Me

Side 2

1. Money,Money,Money
2. That’s Me
3. Why Did It Have To Be Me?
4. Tiger
5. Arrival

 

 

 

The Eagles’ Hotel California is a landmark album that epitomizes the quintessential sound of 1970s rock. Released in 1976, it remains one of the band’s most iconic and enduring works, blending intricate harmonies, guitar-driven melodies, and thought-provoking lyrics.

The album was released in 1976 on the Asylum label

The album features the following tracks:

1. Hotel California
2. New Kid in Town
3. Life in the Fast Lane
4. Wasted Time
5. Wasted Time (Reprise)
6. Victim of Love
7. Pretty Maids All in a Row
8. Try and Love Again
9. The Last Resort

The title track, “Hotel California,” is a timeless classic known for its haunting lyrics and unforgettable guitar solos. Songs like “New Kid in Town” and “Life in the Fast Lane” showcase The Eagles’ knack for catchy hooks and melodic storytelling. The album’s introspective moments, such as “Wasted Time” and “The Last Resort,” add depth and emotional resonance to the overall experience.

“Hotel California” not only solidified The Eagles’ status as rock legends but also captured the essence of the 70s music scene with its impeccable musicianship and diverse range of songs. It remains a must-listen for fans of classic rock and a timeless masterpiece in the band’s illustrious discography.

 

 

Songs in the Key of Life by Stevie Wonder is a magnum opus that transcends genres with its soulful melodies and profound lyrics. Wonder’s virtuosic musicality shines through tracks like “Sir Duke” and “Isn’t She Lovely,” showcasing his unmatched talent as a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. This timeless album is a testament to Wonder’s genius and enduring influence in music.

The album was released in 1976 by Tamla Records

The album features the following tracks:

Side 1

1. Love’s In Need Of Love Today
2. Have A Talk With God
3. Village Ghetto Land
4. Contusion
5. Sir Duke

Side 2

1. I Wish
2. Knocks Me Off My Feet
3. Pastime Paradise
4. Summer Soft
5. Ordinary Pain

Side 3

1. Isn’t She Lovely
2. Joy Inside My Tears
3. Black Man

Side 4

1. Ngiculela – Es Una Historia
2. If It’s Magic
3. As
4. Another Star

 

 

Rumours by Fleetwood Mac is a timeless masterpiece that defined the sound of 1970s rock. The album’s iconic tracks like “Go Your Own Way” and “Dreams” showcase the band’s harmonious vocals and captivating songwriting. With its emotional depth and infectious melodies, “Rumours” remains a quintessential album in music history, captivating listeners with its raw emotion and musical brilliance.

The album was released in 1977 by Warner Bros

The album features the following tracks:

Side 1

1. Second Hand News
2. Dreams
3. Never Going Back Again
4. Don’t Stop
5. Go Your Own Way
6. Songbird

Side 2

1. The Chain
2. You Make Loving Fun
3. I Don’t Want To Know
4. Oh Daddy
5. Gold Dust Woman

 

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Parallel Lines by Blondie is a new wave and punk rock gem that propelled the band to stardom. The album’s hit singles, including “Heart of Glass” and “One Way or Another,” showcase Debbie Harry’s captivating vocals and the band’s infectious energy. With its catchy hooks and edgy sound, “Parallel Lines” remains a standout in 1970s rock and pop music.

The album was released in 1978 on the Chrysalis label

The album features the following tracks:

Side 1

1. Hanging On The Telephone
2. One Way Or Another
3. Picture This
4. Fade Away And Radiate
5. Pretty Baby
6. I Know But I Don’t Know

Side 2

1. 11.59
2. Will Anything Happen
3. Sunday Girl
4. Heart Of Glass
5. I’m Gonna Love You Too
6. Just Go Away

There are 3 Rod Stewart albums in this list by I am a big fan and I was in my teens when they were released.

Thanks for visiting today to read this post about the best albums of the 70s. Let me know in the comments below what your favourite albums from the 70s were and the memories you have of playing them.