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 masterpieces and hit songs (61–70)
Rock And Roll (Part 1 & 2)Gary Glitter
This is the debut single by UK artist Gary Glitter, whose glitter-clad outfits came to symbolize the 1970s.
Released in March 1972, it spent three consecutive weeks at No.
2 on the UK charts.
The track is structured in two parts: a vocal section that serves as an ode to rock ’n’ roll, and an instrumental section built solely on a driving rhythm and repeated shouts of “Hey.” Its sheer, unfiltered exhilaration has the power to sweep listeners into a frenzy in an instant.
It was also included on his debut album, Glitter, and many may remember its memorable use in the film Joker.
Give it a listen when you want to feel that stadium-shaking sense of unity.
ViciousLou Reed
Lou Reed, who emerged from New York’s underground scene.
Opening his 1972 album Transformer, this track has long been celebrated as a seductive, glamorous piece that resonated with the UK’s glam rock boom.
The famous anecdote traces back to Andy Warhol’s idea of “malice that hits like a bouquet of flowers.” When the aggressive guitar riff intertwines with Reed’s sardonic vocals, a decadent, dangerous world unfolds—like donning leather and eyeshadow.
Its use in the TV drama Billions is still fresh in memory.
When you crave a jolt to the everyday, why not surrender to the track’s dazzling, provocative sound?
Beauty QueenRoxy Music
Roxy Music, the English band that fused art and fashion and revolutionized 70s glam rock.
This piece is a gem of a song included on the celebrated album For Your Pleasure, released in March 1973 and certified Gold.
The album is also known as the last work featuring the maverick Brian Eno.
Bryan Ferry’s theatrical, resonant baritone is striking as he sings of parting from a beautiful woman with eyes like a swimming pool.
His voice conveys not only sorrow but also a romance and sincerity, as if proposing marriage, that tightens the chest.
Why not immerse yourself in the bittersweet yet beautiful story hidden behind the glittering sound?
Sultans of SwingDire Straits
When it comes to songs that brought a fresh breeze to the rock scene of the ’70s, this is the one! With jazz-influenced guitar playing and richly narrative lyrics, it’s a track that’s highly accessible to the average listener.
Through the story of a local jazz band, it portrays musicians’ passion and dedication, as well as the fleeting nature of fame.
Released in October 1978 and included on the debut album “Dire Straits.” It didn’t become a hit at first, but achieved great success upon its re-release the following year.
As one of Dire Straits’ signature songs, it continues to be loved by many music fans to this day.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to feel a pure love for music.
Baby Hold OnEddie Money
A song that opens with a wistful guitar riff and builds as a powerful drum beat kicks in, making for a striking intro.
It carries a universal message about facing life’s uncertainties without losing hope and choosing to move forward.
Released in December 1977, the track was issued as the lead single from Eddie Money’s debut album, “Eddie Money,” and became a major hit, reaching No.
11 on the Billboard charts.
It has been featured in various films, TV shows, and video games, remaining beloved across generations.
It’s a song that can lift your spirits and give you courage when you’re feeling down or unsure.
Fly By NightRush
This is a song by Rush, a Canadian three-piece rock band.
The high-pitched vocals gently caress the ears.
It carries a message of encouraging us to try again and again.
It’s the title track from their 1975 album Fly By Night.
All Right NowFree
Shining as a monument of 70s rock, this is Free’s signature masterpiece.
With its catchy riff and passionate vocals, the song captures the allure of spontaneous romance while celebrating a free spirit and the joy of living.
Released in June 1970, it reached No.
2 in the UK and No.
4 in the US.
Included on the album Fire and Water, it became a massive hit.
In 1991, it was featured in a chewing gum commercial and re-entered the charts, becoming a track beloved across generations.
It’s perfect for listening to while driving or at parties.
Packed with everything that makes Free so compelling, this is a must-hear for any rock fan.