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)
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.
We Are the ChampionsQueen
This is one of the signature songs by Queen, the legendary British band that dominated the rock scene in the 1970s.
Released in November 1977, it broke into the top 10 on charts around the world.
As a stadium-shaking anthem, it’s still widely used at sports events today.
Freddie Mercury’s overwhelming vocal power and the crowd-participation lyrics are especially compelling.
It’s the perfect track for moments when you want to savor victory, feel a sense of achievement, or motivate yourself.
It’s also a great recommendation for those just getting into Queen’s music.
(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.
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.
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.
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.
The Best of My LoveThe Eagles
This Eagles masterpiece weaves a bittersweet love story into a beautiful melody.
While offering the deepest feelings to a beloved, it delicately portrays a man and woman who struggle to truly connect.
The gentle resonance of acoustic guitars and warm harmonies envelop the listener with a tender, heartwarming softness.
Included on the album On the Border, released in March 1974, and issued as a single the following year, the song became the band’s first number-one hit in the United States.
Its refined musicianship, interlacing elements of country rock, has continued to influence countless artists.
It’s a perfect track for reminiscing about someone special or for those in the midst of a wavering romance.