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 (51–60)
Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout LoveVan Halen
“Ain’t Talkin’ ’Bout Love” appears on Van Halen’s 1978 debut album and quickly became a hit.
It’s considered a pioneer of heavy metal and is said to have helped define the style of ’80s hair metal.
The energetic guitar riff and irony-laden lyrics stand out, with an intent to criticize superficial love and emotionless relationships, challenging the notion that love is always a positive force.
The riff was ranked the fifth-greatest metal riff of all time by Guitar World readers.
It’s a must-listen for those who want to explore the complexities of love and experience the essence of ’70s rock.
Rock and Roll All NiteKISS
Kiss is an American hard rock band that, even in the 2020s, remains beloved around the world for their unmistakable white face paint, flamboyant costumes and stage production, and straightforward rock numbers—imagery everyone’s seen at least once.
If there’s one signature song of theirs, it has to be “Rock and Roll All Nite.” It’s famous as a set-closer at concerts, and its endlessly accessible, brisk guitar riff and irresistibly singalong melody have a way of putting a smile on every listener’s face—a true classic touched by rock’s magic.
Incidentally, the song first appeared on their third album, Dressed to Kill, released in 1975, and it didn’t make a huge splash upon its initial release.
Taking into account that it became a hit when it was re-released later in 1975 as a single from the acclaimed live album Alive!, the story also speaks to just how highly regarded their live shows were.
I’m Not In Love10cc
This work is known as a classic that shines in the history of 70s rock.
The lyrics, which repeatedly say “I don’t love you” as if to conceal a deep affection, are striking and resonate deeply with listeners.
It entered the UK charts in May 1975 and reached number one for two consecutive weeks a month later.
In the United States, it climbed to number two on July 26, becoming a worldwide hit.
Its ethereal sound, created through innovative production techniques, continues to captivate music fans to this day.
It’s especially recommended for those grappling with complex feelings toward someone they love.
Highway StarDeep Purple
Deep Purple is a quintessential British hard rock band that, despite a breakup and numerous lineup changes, released a new album in 2024 and continues to perform as an active band.
As one of the groups that drove the hard rock boom of the 1970s, they enjoy immense popularity in Japan as well.
“Highway Star,” included on their landmark album Machine Head, stands alongside “Smoke on the Water” as a quintessential masterpiece often cited as a model study piece for guitarists.
This famous track is also referenced in JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, where it appears in Part 4, Diamond Is Unbreakable, as Yuya Fungami’s Stand.
The 1970s were the golden age of Western rock! Recommended masterpieces and hit songs (61–70)
La GrangeZZ Top
This is a song that has continued to captivate fans around the world as a classic of blues rock.
It appears on ZZ Top’s album Tres Hombres, released in July 1973, and it reached No.
41 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Its popularity endured for decades, and in 2020 it climbed to No.
12 on the U.S.
Hot Rock & Alternative Songs chart, showing its cross-generational appeal.
The track is characterized by lyrics themed around a famous brothel in Texas and a compelling guitar riff.
While evoking the traditions of the blues, it also shines with ZZ Top’s distinctive sound.
It’s recommended for anyone who wants to fully savor the charm of ’70s rock or who loves powerful guitar-driven 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.
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.