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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- [70s Western Music] Timeless Masterpieces and Popular Songs by Female Singers
- [Classic Hits of the 70s] A Compilation of Western Songs Used in Commercials
- A collection of nostalgic hit songs and classics from the 70s
- Legendary Western rock masterpieces and hit songs of the 80s
- [1970s] Classic and hit songs of Japanese rock that blazed through the dawn era
- Recommended Western music bands for men in their 60s
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The 1970s: The Golden Age of Western Rock! Recommended Classics and Hit Songs (21–30)
ChangesDavid Bowie
A pioneering figure of the glam rock genre, David Bowie is a singer-songwriter from England.
This song is included on Hunky Dory, his fourth album, released in 1971.
It sings about oneself and the surrounding circumstances gradually changing.
His bright, clear vocals really resonate with the heart.
MoneyPink Floyd
A song by Pink Floyd, pioneers of progressive rock.
In Japan it’s also known by the title “Madness,” and it’s included on the 1973 album The Dark Side of the Moon.
As the title suggests, it’s about money, and it’s interesting how the track includes sounds like cash registers and coins partway through.
I Want You to Want MeCheap Trick
There are many bands whose popularity first caught fire in Japan rather than in their home countries, and Cheap Trick from Illinois, USA, is a prime example.
Debuting in 1977, they first became popular in Japan as mentioned at the outset, and on their very first visit they immediately pulled off a successful show at the Nippon Budokan.
The 1978 classic Cheap Trick at Budokan, which captured that performance, was “re-imported” to the U.S., broke into the Top 10 on the charts, and led to the band joining the ranks of popular acts in their home country—a trajectory that feels very much like something unique to the golden age of Western pop in the 1970s.
Their signature song I Want You to Want Me, also known in Japan by the title Amai Wana (“Sweet Trap”), pairs a bouncy rhythm with an irresistibly catchy melody that makes your heart flutter just by listening.
It’s a classic of so-called power pop, and its fusion of loud guitars and sweet melody shines with a brilliance that will never fade.
Carry On Wayward SonKansas
This is a song by the American progressive rock band Kansas.
It is included on their 1976 album Leftoverture.
The single-cut version was used as the theme song for the film The Pursuit of Happyness, which drew attention.
Its dramatic guitar work leaves a lasting impression.
Do It AgainSteely Dan
This is a song by the American band Steely Dan, whose jazzy yet rock-influenced sound has won support.
It was included on their debut album, “Can’t Buy A Thrill,” released in 1972.
The pleasant sound makes you want to keep listening.
Reading the lyrics, you get the feeling you’re glimpsing an outlaw side of America from the past.