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)
Love of My LifeQueen
A gem of a ballad that sings of eternal love and the ache of farewell.
Its earnest wish to reclaim a lost love resounds alongside an elegant melody.
The lyrical vocals, woven with the gentle timbre of the piano, have long captivated music fans worldwide as a facet symbolizing Queen’s musical versatility.
Featured on the album A Night at the Opera, this piece has been beloved since its 1975 release as a staple that creates a sense of unity with audiences on the live stage.
During the 1981 South American tour, the massive crowd sing-alongs became a sensation, and it was portrayed memorably in the film Bohemian Rhapsody.
This is a song to listen to when you want to be close to the feelings for someone dear and convey love from the heart.
My LovePaul McCartney & Wings
A heartwarming love ballad by the British rock band Paul McCartney & Wings, painted with graceful melodies to express feelings for a loved one.
Upon its 1973 release, it drew major acclaim, spending four consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the U.S.
Billboard chart.
It weaves honest words of deep love and trust that transcends physical distance, while the rich sound of a 50-piece orchestra and Henry McCullough’s memorable guitar solo further heighten the emotion.
Featured on the album Red Rose Speedway, this beautiful song pledges eternal love to a life partner and continues to resonate with many to this day.
It’s a perfect choice for a romantic dinner soundtrack or for conveying your feelings to someone special.
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.
JailbreakTHIN LIZZY
It’s a song by Thin Lizzy, the rock band also known as “heroes of Ireland.” It’s a classic rock number with cool guitar phrases.
The lyrics are full of words that speak for the youth.
It’s the title track from their 1976 album.
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?
Devil Gate DriveSuzi Quatro
You can almost picture Suzi Quatro from the United States, clad in a leather jumpsuit and hammering on her bass.
Released in February 1974, this track topped the UK charts for two consecutive weeks and became a massive hit featured on the classic album “Quatro.” It channels that distinctive thrill and rush of young people heading to a dangerous, alluring hangout, riding on a surge of high-velocity rock ’n’ roll.
Its rebellious spirit—rejecting society’s rules and celebrating freedom—seems to liberate the listener’s heart.
Also known for its use in the popular American TV show “Happy Days,” this song is a surefire way to blast through the monotony of everyday life and leave you feeling refreshed whenever you need a lift.