The 1970s were the golden age of Western rock! Recommended classics and hit songs
Western music of the 1970s, which began with the symbolic event that signaled the end of the 1960s—the breakup of The Beatles—saw a wide variety of genres flourish alongside traditional rock, including hard rock, progressive rock, and glam rock, with many stadium bands achieving record-breaking hits.
As a counter-movement, punk rock emerged, making it undeniable that this was a pivotal era in rock history.
In this feature, we present a lineup centered on classic, definitive numbers—masterpieces and hit songs that colored the golden age of Western rock in the ’70s.
It’s a recommended guide for young music fans who are interested in ’70s Western rock but aren’t sure where to start listening!
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The 1970s were the golden age of Western rock! Recommended classics and hit songs (41–50)
Just What I NeededThe Cars
Swapping in as the punk rock boom faded, the genre known as “New Wave,” which surged in popularity from the late 1970s to the early 1980s, had many subgenres and an admittedly vague definition.
True to its name, it was a new musical style that incorporated a wide range of elements—electronic music, disco, world music, and even contemporary classical—into traditional rock and pop.
The Cars, the subject of this piece, debuted in that New Wave era and became a worldwide hit-making American band, known for their innovative musicality and highly polished live performances said to be indistinguishable from their studio recordings.
Their 1978 debut single “Just What I Needed”—released in Japan under the striking title “Moeru Yokubō” (“Burning Desire”)—is both a signature song and a bona fide classic.
Benjamin Orr, the handsome bassist and vocalist, delivered a sweet vocal, and the irresistibly catchy melody, loud guitars, and ringing keyboard lines were greeted with astonishment as a fresh style that somehow hadn’t existed before.
Easy Livin’Uriah Heep
The bouncy rhythm is wonderful.
It’s a song by the English rock band Uriah Heep.
It was included on their 1972 album “Demons and Wizards.” Once you hear it, you’ll want to listen again—a highly addictive track.
My Sweet LordGeorge Harrison
Born at the dawn of the ’70s, this is a soulful rock number beloved by music fans around the world! Its lyrics reflect George Harrison’s deep faith, and the sound reveals a sublime fusion of rock and spirituality.
It was included on the 1970 album “All Things Must Pass,” which drew major attention as Harrison’s solo debut.
The song is notable for weaving together Christian and Hindu mantras, carrying a universal message that resonates across religious boundaries.
It’s a perfect track for quiet moments of prayer or when you want to calm your mind.
Highly recommended not only for rock enthusiasts but also for anyone interested in spiritual music.
Hot LoveT-REX
This is a single released in February 1971 by the British band T.
Rex, emblematic of the dawn of the glam rock era.
It dominated the UK charts for six weeks and helped spark the social phenomenon known as “Bolanmania.” The repetitive, simple guitar riff and Marc Bolan’s sweet, whisper-like vocals are especially memorable.
The lyrics convey irrepressible, passionate love and a sense of exhilaration.
As you listen, your heart can’t help but lift, evoking a sparkle akin to the first rush of romance.
It’s often said that their performance of this song on a music show marked the very beginning of “glam rock,” making it an essential track for anyone interested in the genre.
Mr. Blue SkyE.L.O
This track is a classic by ELO that helped cement the pinnacle of ’70s rock.
It features a catchy, Beatles-influenced melody and optimistic lyrics.
Included on the 1977 album “Out of the Blue,” it reached No.
6 in the UK and No.
35 in the US.
It’s been used in numerous films and TV shows, including Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.
2.
Perfect for when you want to feel uplifted or as a soundtrack for a drive.
Listen to it, and your spirits are sure to soar!