The 1970s was a decade known for the loss of the Lizard King, Jim Morrison – but it also gave rise to a dynamic and transformative music scene that would shape modern music.
The decade had it all: classic rock, progressive rock, glam, punk, and the emergence of heavy metal.
The experimental sounds and energetic performances were all the rage in the ’70s. It wasn’t just about notes and melodies but about breaking barriers and challenging norms.
The most popular musicians of this era didn’t just perform. In fact, they revolutionized live shows, elevating the concert experience to a new level and inspiring future generations.
So, let’s explore together the most influential bands and singers that shaped the ’70s rock scene.
Metalheads – tighten your leather and tune your amps to eleven – we’ll make some noise!
Source: @8tracks / Pinterest
Key Takeaway
- The 1970s was a transformative decade for rock music, giving rise to various subgenres, including classic rock, progressive rock, glam, punk, and heavy metal.
- Iconic bands like Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, and Queen pioneered new sounds and techniques that shaped the future of rock music.
- These bands were known for their innovative albums, groundbreaking live performances, and ability to blend different musical styles and influences.
- The legacy of 1970s rock bands continues to influence modern music, setting standards for songwriting, performance, and musical experimentation.
Black Sabbath: The Pioneers of Heavy Metal
Source: @repubblicait / Pinterest
“The world is full of kings and queens who blind your eyes and steal your dreams.”
We owe these spooky lyrics to Black Sabbath, often hailed as the pioneer of the heavy metal genre!
The band was formed in Birmingham, England, in 1968. Ozzy Osbourne was on the vocals, Tony Iommi was on guitar, Geezer Butler on bass, and Bill Ward played drums in the original lineup.
As the frontman, Ozzy Osbourne’s distinctive voice and controversial stage presence were crucial to Black Sabbath’s identity.
His unpredictable behavior and wild antics on and off stage contributed to their legendary status. The band’s name and aesthetics were inspired by their fascination with horror films and occult themes, which will later be seen in their shocking performances and images.
Their debut album, “Black Sabbath,” released in 1970, is considered the first true heavy metal album. The hit song “Black Sabbath” stands out with its spooky tritone riff and ominous lyrics. The album’s use of downtuned guitars, heavy distortion, and dark atmospheres defined the band’s sound and influenced the entire heavy metal genre.
“Paranoid,” released in 1970, featured some of the most iconic tracks such as “Paranoid,” “Iron Man,” and “War Pigs.” It is often considered one of the greatest albums in rock and heavy metal history due to its blend of heavy riffs, dark themes, and social commentary.
Other iconic albums include “Master Of Reality,” “Vol. 4,” and “Sabbath Bloody Sabbath.”
Black Sabbath laid the groundwork for many subgenres, including doom metal, stoner rock, and sludge metal. Osbourne’s departure from the band in 1979 didn’t diminish the band’s impact.
Through his solo career, he further cemented his place in heavy metal history.
Led Zeppelin: The Titans of Hard Rock
Source: @eternalrockbot / Pinterest
Led Zeppelin, undoubtedly one of the most popular bands in music history, was formed in England – specifically in London – in 1968.
The band quickly became immensely popular with its unique blend of blues, rock, and country influences. The members were Robert Plant (vocals), Jimmy Page (guitar), John Paul Jones (bass, keyboards), and John Bonham (drums).
Their self-titled debut album, often referred to as “Led Zeppelin,” was released in January 1969. However, they gained the most success with their classic studio albums, such as “Led Zeppelin IV” and “Physical Graffiti.”
“Led Zeppelin IV,” released in 1971, features some of the most iconic songs in the recording industry, like “Stairway To Heaven” and “Black Dog. “Stairway To Heaven is considered one of the greatest rock songs of all time, featuring Page’s intricate guitar intro and Plant’s mystical lyrics.
Led Zeppelin has set a standard for hard rock bands. Their music incorporates elements of blues, folk, and experimental sounds. Tracks like “No Quarter” and “The Rain Song” represent their willingness to explore complex musical structures.
Pink Floyd: Masters of Progressive Rock
“We don’t need no education, we don’t need no thought control.”
In 1965, Pink Floyd was established in London with the original lineup comprising Roger Waters (bass, vocals), Syd Barrett (guitar, vocals), Richard Wright (keyboard, vocals), and Nick Mason (drums). They gained popularity for their experimental music, characterized by psychedelic sound and pioneering live performances.
The iconic album “The Dark Side Of The Moon” is Pink Floyd’s masterpiece. It explores themes like mental illness, time, and mortality. Tracks like “Money,” “Time,” and “Us and Them” showcase the album’s depth and complexity.
The “Wish You Were Here” album was dedicated to Syd Barrett, Syd Barrett’s former bandmate. It reflects the themes of absence, alienation, and the music industry.
Pink Floyd used avant-garde recording techniques, like tape loops, synthesizers, and sound effects, contributing to their atmospheric and immersive songs. Their deep themes and thought-provoking lyrics encouraged listeners to reflect and engage intellectually.
Their popular music is still well-known among rock enthusiasts, and their songs are hits even today!
Fleetwood Mac: Pop Rock Sensations
Source: discocg.com/Pinterest
The band was originally formed in London in 1967 by drummer Mick Fleetwood, guitarist Peter Green, and bassist John McVie. At first, they focused on blues rock, with early hits like “Albatross” and “Black Magic Woman.”
Peter Green left the band in 1970, and the band experienced several lineup changes and a shift in musical direction. The most significant transformation occurred in 1974 when Lindsey Buckingham (guitar, vocals) and Stevie Nicks (vocals) joined the group. This lineup, which includes Christine McVie, Mick Fleetwood, and John McVie, catapulted Fleetwood Mac to international superstardom.
Some of the most popular albums are “Rumours” and “Tusk.” “Rumors” was released in 1977 and was one of the best-selling records of all time, with over 40 million copies worldwide. It was also an album of the year that won two Grammy Awards in 1978. The album is known for its blend of pop-rock and lyrics that often reflect the tumultuous relationships within the band. Some hit songs from the album are “Go Your Own Way” and “Don’t Stop.”
The “Tusk” album had elements of punk and new wave. It was recognized for its innovation, with hit songs like “Sara” and “Think About Me.”
The Rolling Stones: Enduring Legends
Source: @elgranjesuscartagenero / Pinterest
Formed in London in 1962, the Rolling Stones initially featured Brian Jones, Mick Jagger, and Keith Richards. Bill Wyman and Charlie Watts later replaced Dick Taylor and Mick Avory.
The band started by covering American blues and rock songs, quickly gaining a reputation for their raw, energetic performances. Their self-titled album in 1964 marked the beginning of their rise to fame, and the 1965 single “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” brought them international recognition.
In 1971, they released “Sticky Fingers,” one of their most successful albums. It features a blend of rock, blues, and country. The album cover, designed by Andy Warhol, became iconic. Notable tracks include “Brown Sugar,” “Wild Horses,” and “Can’t You Hear Me Knocking.”
“Exile On Main St.” (1972), recorded in a makeshift studio in France, is considered one of the greatest rock albums. It features a mix of rock, blues, gospel, and country, with standout tracks like “Tumbling Dice,” “Rocks Off,” and “Happy.” This album captures the band’s vibrant energy and lifestyle of the time.
The Rolling Stones brought American blues to a wider audience and heavily influenced rock and roll. Their bad-boy image defined the rebellious spirit of rock, and their concerts were known for high energy and Jagger’s charismatic stage presence.
With over 240 million albums sold worldwide, they have numerous gold, platinum, and multi-platinum albums. They’ve been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the UK Music Hall of Fame.
Lynyrd Skynyrd: Southern Rock Icons
Source:discogs.com/Pinterest
Lynyrd Skynyrd is one of the Southern rock bands that greatly impacted rock’s history. It was formed in Jacksonville, Florida, in 1964 by Ronnie Van Zant (vocals), Gary Rossington (guitar), Allen Collins (guitar), Larry Junstrom (bass), and Bob Burns (drums).
The band’s original name was “My Backyard”, but they have settled on Lynyrd Skynyrd, as a tribute to their high school gym teacher, Leonard Skinner.
In 1973, these southern rock legends introduced their debut album pronounced: “‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd“. This album gave hits like “Free Bird” and “Simple Man,” a blend of rock, blues, and country music.
In 1974, the album “Second Helping” dropped. It featured one of their biggest hits, “Sweet Home Alabama,” which really put them on the map. Other popular tracks on the album are “Don’t Ask Me No Questions” and “The Ballad of Curtis Loew.”
In 1977, a tragic plane crash killed Ronnie Van Zant, Steve Gaines, Cassie Gaines, and several others. Despite the tragedy, the band’s music continued to influence countless bands and fans.
The band reformed in 1987 with Ronnie’s younger brother, Johnny Van Zant, on vocals, carrying on the band’s legacy.
Deep Purple: Hard Rock Innovators
Source: @behance / Source
Ritchie Blackmore (guitar), Jon Lord (keyboards), Ian Paice (drums), Rod Evans (vocals), and Nick Simper (bass) formed Deep Purple in 1968 in Hertford, England. The band shifted the rock and roll genre towards a heavier and more aggressive sound.
Their breakthrough came with the release of the album “Deep Purple in Rock“ in 1970, featuring tracks like “Speed King” and “Child In Time.” Deep Purple’s album “Machine Head“ featured classics such as “Smoke On The Water,” “Highway Star,” and “Lazy,“ and was considered one of the best rock and roll albums of all time.
Their powerful live performances and innovative studio techniques influenced numerous bands and also played an important role in shaping the global music scene, pioneering heavy metal riffs and contributing to the development of hard rock and heavy metal.
Ritchie Blackmore’s guitar work and Ian Gillan’s powerful vocals (who replaced Rod Evans as the band’s frontman) left a lasting impact on many young musicians. Additionally, the organ playing of Jon Lord became a defining element of Deep Purple’s music.
Queen: Rock Royalty
Source: thequeenonline.com/Pinterest
Our show must go on with a blend of rock, opera, hard rock, progressive pop, and glam rock.
Queen, the iconic band, was formed in London in 1970 by the one and only Freddie Mercury (known for his amazing vocals and piano skills), Brian May (guitar), Roger Taylor (drums), and John Deacon (bass). It’s difficult to say that they belong to a particular genre, but their breakthrough with “A Night at the Opera” blended rock and opera.
Their debut studio album, “Queen,” was released in 1973 and was influenced by heavy metal and progressive rock. “A Night at the Opera,” released in 1975, was one of the greatest albums ever, showcasing their innovative style and approach to music. The “Bohemian Rhapsody” hit song is a groundbreaking masterpiece combining rock, opera, and ballad elements into an epic six-minute suite.
“News of the World” in 1977 is known for hits like “We Will Rock You” and “We Are the Champions.” These songs are listened to today and are considered the best rock and roll.
Queen’s theatrical performances, vivid music videos, and innovative music pushed the boundaries of what was possible in the rock genre. Their versatility and creativity set a new standard for other bands to follow, making them a force to be reckoned with in the music world.
The Allman Brothers Band: Southern Rock Pioneers
Source: @rollingstone/Pinterest
Brothers Duane Allman (guitar) and Gregg Allman (vocals, keyboards), along with Dickey Betts (guitar), Berry Oakley (bass), Butch Trucks (drums), and Jai Johanny “Jaimoe” Johanson (drums), formed The Allman Brothers Band in Georgia in 1969.
They quickly became known for blending blues, jazz, and country styles. Their dual guitar harmonies, live performances with extended jams, and technical skills influenced many bands and set standards for Southern rock.
A live album, “At Fillmore East,” released in 1971, captured their improvisational skills and became a landmark recording in Southern Rock.
The 1972 album “Eat a Peach” was a tribute to Duane Allman, who tragically died in a motorcycle accident. It combines studio and live performances and features songs like “Melissa” and “Mountain Jam.”
The Doobie Brothers: Versatile Rockers
Source: @eternalrockbot / Pinterest
The band that was known for its blend of rock, folk, and R&B, was formed in 1970 in San Jose, California, by Tom Johnston (guitar, vocals), John Hartman (drums), and later joined by Patrick Simmons (guitar, vocals).
A commercial breakthrough was marked by the album “Toulouse Street” in 1972, featuring hits like “Listen to the Music” and “Jesus Is Just Alright“.
“The Captain and Me” album in 1973 was known for tracks like “Long Train Runnin'” and “China Grove.”
One of their signature songs was “Listen to the Music,” a feel-good anthem, and “Long Train Runnin‘.”
The Doobie Brothers’ vocal harmonies and well-crafted songwriting influenced bands in rock and pop. They were so good at making catchy melodies with these vocal arrangements that they set the standard for all the vocal harmony groups that came after them.
Aerosmith: Hard Rock Giants
Source: @chaptersindigo / Pinterest
Aerosmith, known for its bluesy hard rock sound and high-energy performances, was formed in Boston in 1970 by Steven Tyler (vocals), Joe Perry (guitar), Tom Hamilton (bass), Joey Kramer (drums), and Ray Tabano (guitar), who Brad Whitford later replaced.
The band released popular studio albums such as “Toys in the Attic,” and “Rocks.”
“Toys in the Attic” features hits like “Sweet Emotion,” “Walk This Way,” and “Toys in the Attic.” “Rocks” includes tracks such as “Back in the Saddle,” “Last Child,” and “Rats in the Cellar,” reaffirming Aerosmith’s place as a premier rock band.
The band’s ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes, blending hard rock, blues, and glam, contributed to and influenced the evolution of rock music and the aesthetics of the 1970s and beyond. Their high-energy performances have set standards for stage presence and audience engagement in the music industry.
They saw a resurgence during the 1980s and 1990s with successful albums and collaborations that solidified their status as rock icons.
The Legacy of 70s Rock Bands
The rock legends of the 1970s paved the way for future hit songs, bands, and subgenres.
Notable songs like “Hotel California” by the Eagles and outstanding bands and performers such as Van Halen, Tom Petty, David Bowie, and Creedence Clearwater Revival have also left their mark on the decade.
These bands pioneered new sounds and techniques that continue to influence contemporary rock musicians.
Thanks to them, the underground scene of hard rock and heavy metal has something for everyone, ranging from progressive rock, punk rock, and grunge to more intense genres like thrash, black metal, and death metal.
Conclusion
If you are a rock and roll fan or a metalhead, now you know: the popular 70s bands have shaped your music taste.
If you haven’t listened to these popular bands, it’s not too late to try – I’m sure you’ll find something that strikes a chord with you.