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!
- [A Collection of Classics] Nostalgic 70s Western Hit Songs
- Classic and hit Western pop songs from the 1970s
- [Masterpiece Selection] A Compilation of Classic Western Rock Songs
- The Greatest American Rock Band [All Time Best]
- Great Western rock classics and hit songs of the '60s
- Love songs in Western music that were hits in the 1970s. World-famous classics and popular tracks.
- [1970s] Recommended Nostalgic Western Music: Female Singers
- Legendary Western rock masterpieces and hit songs of the 80s
- Recommended Western music bands for men in their 60s
- A classic blues rock masterpiece. A highly recommended album you should listen to at least once.
- [50s–60s] A Collection of Rock ’n’ Roll Classics
- [2025] A Collection of Classic Piano Rock/Pop Songs (Western Music)
- Great Western rock classics and hit songs of the ’90s
The 1970s were the golden age of Western rock! Recommended classics and hit songs (51–60)
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.
My Sweet LordGeorge Harrison
Born at the dawn of the ’70s, this is a soulful rock number beloved by music fans around the world! Its lyrics reflect George Harrison’s deep faith, and the sound reveals a sublime fusion of rock and spirituality.
It was included on the 1970 album “All Things Must Pass,” which drew major attention as Harrison’s solo debut.
The song is notable for weaving together Christian and Hindu mantras, carrying a universal message that resonates across religious boundaries.
It’s a perfect track for quiet moments of prayer or when you want to calm your mind.
Highly recommended not only for rock enthusiasts but also for anyone interested in spiritual music.
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.
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.
The 1970s were the golden age of Western rock! Recommended masterpieces and hit songs (61–70)
Love of My LifeQueen
A gem of a ballad that sings of eternal love and the ache of farewell.
Its earnest wish to reclaim a lost love resounds alongside an elegant melody.
The lyrical vocals, woven with the gentle timbre of the piano, have long captivated music fans worldwide as a facet symbolizing Queen’s musical versatility.
Featured on the album A Night at the Opera, this piece has been beloved since its 1975 release as a staple that creates a sense of unity with audiences on the live stage.
During the 1981 South American tour, the massive crowd sing-alongs became a sensation, and it was portrayed memorably in the film Bohemian Rhapsody.
This is a song to listen to when you want to be close to the feelings for someone dear and convey love from the heart.
Mr. Blue SkyE.L.O
This track is a classic by ELO that helped cement the pinnacle of ’70s rock.
It features a catchy, Beatles-influenced melody and optimistic lyrics.
Included on the 1977 album “Out of the Blue,” it reached No.
6 in the UK and No.
35 in the US.
It’s been used in numerous films and TV shows, including Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.
2.
Perfect for when you want to feel uplifted or as a soundtrack for a drive.
Listen to it, and your spirits are sure to soar!
Wild HorsesThe Rolling Stones
This is a song by the British rock band The Rolling Stones.
It was released in 1971 and is included on the album Sticky Fingers.
The deeply emotive guitar solo really tears at your heart.
It’s a love ballad that likens a cherished person to a wild horse.
It’s also known as a song by the American band The Flying Burrito Brothers.