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.
My SharonaThe Knack
Isn’t it a familiar song? It’s a track by The Knack, a rock band from Los Angeles, USA.
It was released in 1979.
In Japan, it’s widely loved as a commercial jingle, TV program background music, and a tune used by comedians in their routines.
It’s a youthful love song that expresses feelings for someone special.
Baba O’RileyThe Who
This is a song by The Who, regarded alongside The Beatles and The Rolling Stones as one of the three great British rock bands.
It’s included on the 1971 album “Who’s Next.” At the time, its cutting-edge use of synthesizers shocked many music fans.
The powerful vocals and the message of “let’s keep moving forward!” give you strength to live.
(Don’t Fear) The ReaperBlue Oyster Cult
A monumental presence in ’70s rock that confronts the fear of death.
Released by Blue Öyster Cult in 1976, this song is known for its distinctive guitar riff and philosophical lyrics.
Featured on the album Agents of Fortune, it became a major hit, reaching No.
7 on the U.S.
singles chart.
Said to draw inspiration from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, the piece explores themes of life, death, and eternal love.
Seamlessly blending hard rock and psychedelic elements, it’s recommended not only for rock enthusiasts but also for those who want to reflect deeply on life and love.
Its influence extends beyond the music world, having been quoted in works by Stephen King.
Maggie MayRod Stewart
A melodic mandolin tone and Rod Stewart’s distinctive voice weave together a 1970s rock masterpiece! The lyrics, depicting the complex relationship between a young man and an older woman, were inspired by Stewart’s personal experiences and resonate with a universal theme that touches many listeners.
Released in August 1971, the song became a global smash, reaching No.
1 on the U.S.
Billboard Hot 100, and marked a pivotal turning point in Stewart’s solo career.
Incorporating elements of folk rock, this track is perfect for moments when you want to look back on the sweet, bittersweet memories of youth.
Savor this romantic, atmospheric classic of 1970s rock!
Locomotive BreathJethro Tull
When it comes to classic rock masterpieces of the ’70s, you can’t forget this landmark of progressive rock.
Featuring a heavy sound and an awe-inspiring flute performance, this track appears on the acclaimed album Aqualung, released in March 1971.
Its lyrics, which symbolically depict the busyness of modern society and a sense of personal despair, resonate deeply with listeners.
As one of Jethro Tull’s signature songs, it continues to be loved by many fans to this day.
It’s a must-listen not only for those who enjoy hard-edged music, but also for anyone interested in progressive rock.
Benny and the JetsElton John
Opening with audience cheers and a striking piano riff, this track appears to be influenced by the glam rock boom and was crafted by the legendary British musician Elton John.
Included on the classic 1973 album Goodbye Yellow Brick Road and released as a single in February 1974, it soared to No.
1 on the U.S.
charts.
The song depicts a fervor for a futuristic, sci-fi-style fictional band.
You can practically picture their stage show—dazzling costumes and performances that captivate the crowd.
Its live-like immediacy, despite being a studio recording, transports you to the glittering world of the 1970s.
Why not give it a listen on a night when you want to forget the everyday and lose yourself in a sparkling spectacle?