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 era of Western rock! Recommended masterpieces and hit songs (’71–’80)
LaylaEric Clapton
A signature work by Eric Clapton, the British guitarist, expressing the pain and passion of unrequited love through a grand melody.
Released in November 1970 under the name Derek and the Dominos, the piece was inspired by a 12th-century Persian love story.
It portrays his secret feelings for his best friend’s wife with a powerful guitar riff.
In 1992, the acoustic version won a Grammy Award.
It was also used memorably in the film Goodfellas, and it continues to move people as a universal tale of love.
On a night when you want to look back on the bittersweet memories of youth, why not listen quietly?
I’mamanJobriath
Emerging with massive promotion, America’s tragic genius Jobriath.
Featured on his 1973 debut album “Jobriath” and released as a single the following year in 1974, this song is emblematic of his very presence.
The dazzling piano and theatrical sound meld into one, and the way he boldly sings of his identity is nothing short of breathtaking.
His performance on the TV show The Midnight Special, paired with glittering costumes, left an indelible impression on viewers.
It really drives home the preciousness of staying true to oneself.
If you ever want to immerse yourself in the fleeting brilliance and fervor of ’70s glam rock, this is a must-listen.
Dyna-miteMud
Released in October 1973, this is a signature track by the British band Mud.
It reached No.
4 on the UK Singles Chart and was also included on the soundtrack of the 2013 film Rush.
Crafted by hitmakers Nicky Chinn and Mike Chapman, it was reportedly originally intended for a different band.
Kicking off with a guitar riff like a dynamite blast, it’s an irresistibly upbeat slice of rock ’n’ roll.
It seems to celebrate the shock of falling in love and the pure, unreasoned joy that comes with it, conjuring images of the band performing in dazzling outfits.
A exhilarating number that’s perfect for lifting your spirits to the max.
TrashNew York Dolls
Formed in New York City and hugely influential on the later punk scene, the New York Dolls left an indelible mark.
This work, released in July 1973 as a double A-side single with “Personality Crisis,” stands as a milestone of glam punk.
Set against a decadent city backdrop, the song belts out a tale of fleeting love and a way of life, its sweet, aching melody shining through the raw performance.
It was also showcased on NBC’s television program The Midnight Special.
Have you ever felt the urge to be yourself, unbound by conventional values? On a night when you feel compelled to rebel against something, why not immerse yourself in this sound where danger and purity coexist?
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?
Make Me Smile (Come Up And See Me)Steve Harley & Cockney Rebel
Steve Harley & Cockney Rebel, a London-born act that stood out with literary lyrics and a theatrical sound.
Released in January 1975, this single became a massive hit, reaching No.
1 on the UK charts in February of the same year.
Its brisk, catchy melody has a charm that lifts anyone’s spirits the moment they hear it.
Yet what the song contains is Steve Harley’s biting irony and loneliness toward his former bandmates after experiencing their departure.
Even as he’s been betrayed, the protagonist puts on a brave face and says, “Go ahead, make me laugh,” which only deepens the poignancy.
It’s likely for this very depth that the track has been used in many works, including the film The Full Monty.
If you know the bittersweetness of human relationships, it will surely resonate with your heart.
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.
