Music

Best classic rock songs from the 70s

Explore an unparalleled selection of the most influential and memorable classic rock songs that defined the 1970s. This list spans from stadium anthems to timeless ballads, featuring the legendary bands and artists who shaped the sound of rock. Discover the hits that continue to resonate today and are essential for any 70s rock enthusiast. Immerse yourself in the golden era of rock and relive the musical magic of an iconic time.

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  1. 1

    Born to Run (1975)

    193 Global Votes
    • Energetic rock anthem

      (+4)

    Bruce Springsteen's 'Born to Run' is an energetic anthem of escape and freedom, featuring powerful saxophone and hopeful lyrics. It continues to resonate with its themes of youthful ambition and remains a pure catharsis for many.

  2. 2

    Highway to Hell (1979)

    172 Global Votes
    • First LP to break the US Billboard 200 top 100

      (+1)

    AC/DC's 'Highway to Hell' is a quintessential hard rock anthem, known for its high energy, iconic guitar riff, and Bon Scott's distinctive vocals. It continues to be a staple for its raw energy and memorable riff.

  3. 3

    Layla (1971)

    97 Global Votes
    • Regarded as Eric Clapton's greatest musical achievement

      (+4)

    Derek and the Dominos' 'Layla' features two distinct movements and an iconic guitar riff by Eric Clapton and Duane Allman. It showcases exceptional musicianship, making it a classic rock essential that stands the test of time.

  4. 4

    Paranoid (1970)

    31 Global Votes
    • Driving guitar and bass create nervous energy

      (+3)

    Black Sabbath's 'Paranoid' is a foundational track for heavy metal, characterized by its fast tempo and heavy guitar riff. It showcases a dark and powerful sound that influenced countless bands in the genre.

  5. 5

    Money (1973)

    25 Global Votes
    • Anthem for rebelling against capitalist status quo

      (+4)

    Pink Floyd's 'Money' is a distinctive progressive rock track, known for its unusual 7/4 time signature and prominent bassline. Its unique rhythm and social commentary make it a standout.

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  7. 6

    Comfortably Numb (1979)

    10 Global Votes
    • Features ethereal verses and powerful chorus

      (+4)

    Pink Floyd's 'Comfortably Numb' is a progressive rock masterpiece, celebrated for its atmospheric sound and two legendary guitar solos by David Gilmour. Its emotional depth and iconic guitar work ensure its continued recognition.

  8. 7

    Baba O'Riley (1971)

    8 Global Votes
    • An anthem of swaggering defiance

      (+4)

    The Who's 'Baba O'Riley' is a dynamic and influential rock song, recognized for its driving synthesizer intro and powerful vocals. Its innovative use of synthesizers and energetic performance make it a standout track.

  9. 8

    Bohemian Rhapsody (1975)

    5 Global Votes
    • Brave enough to be different

      (+4)

    Queen's 'Bohemian Rhapsody' is a groundbreaking track known for its operatic structure and multi-layered vocals. It continues to captivate audiences with its innovation and theatricality, making it a unique musical experience.

  10. 9

    More Than a Feeling (1976)

    5 Global Votes
    • Features a signature guitar riff

      (+4)

    Boston's 'More Than a Feeling' is a quintessential arena rock anthem, characterized by soaring vocals and layered guitars. Its powerful sound and memorable chorus continue to define the genre.

  11. 10

    Free Bird (1973)

    4 Global Votes
    • Iconic guitar solo

      (+4)

    Lynyrd Skynyrd's 'Free Bird' is a Southern rock anthem known for its extended guitar solos and themes of freedom. Its legendary guitar work and celebratory spirit solidify its place as a classic.

  12. 11

    Smoke on the Water (1972)

    3 Global Votes
    • Features one of the most iconic musical sequences in classic rock history

      (+4)

    Deep Purple's 'Smoke on the Water' is an iconic hard rock track instantly recognizable for its legendary guitar riff. It remains one of the most famous and influential riffs in music history, defining a generation of rock.

  13. 12

    Sultans Of Swing (1978)

    1 Global Votes
    • Unbeatable live performance in 1978

      (+4)

    Dire Straits' 'Sultans of Swing' showcases Mark Knopfler's distinctive guitar playing and evocative storytelling lyrics. Its relaxed rock sound and sophisticated musicianship make it a timeless classic rock track.

  14. 13

    Stairway to Heaven

    0 Global Votes
    • Ranked as the best rock song of all time

      (+4)

    This song is an enduring masterpiece, blending folk and hard rock with an iconic guitar solo. It remains one of the most famous and influential rock songs of all time, showcasing musical versatility and timeless appeal.

  15. 14

    Hotel California

    0 Global Votes
    • Haunting rock classic

      (+4)

    Eagles' 'Hotel California' is a storytelling anthem featuring intricate guitar harmonies and narrative lyrics. Its memorable guitar riff and blend of rock and folk influences make it a staple of classic rock radio.

  16. 15

    Maggie May (1971)

    0 Global Votes
    • Rod Stewart's breakthrough hit

      (+4)

    Rod Stewart's 'Maggie May' is a classic folk-rock track, distinguished by its unique vocal performance and a memorable mandolin solo. It highlights Stewart's storytelling ability and distinctive style.

  17. 16

    The Boys Are Back in Town (1976)

    0 Global Votes
    • Considered the band's best song by Rolling Stone

      (+3)

    Thin Lizzy's 'The Boys Are Back In Town' is an iconic hard rock anthem, celebrated for its memorable dual lead guitar harmonies and anthemic chorus. It captures a celebratory feel that resonates with audiences.

  18. 17

    Dream On (1973)

    0 Global Votes
    • First major hit for Aerosmith

      (+4)

    Aerosmith's 'Dream On' is a powerful and enduring rock ballad, showcasing Steven Tyler's impressive vocal range and a piano-driven arrangement. It remains one of Aerosmith's signature songs, resonating with listeners.

  19. 18

    Sweet Home Alabama (1974)

    0 Global Votes
    • Arguably the band's signature song

      (+1)

    Lynyrd Skynyrd's 'Sweet Home Alabama' is a beloved Southern rock anthem, instantly recognizable for its iconic guitar riff. Its spirited defense of the South and catchy melody have made it a cultural touchstone.

  20. 19

    Kashmir (1975)

    0 Global Votes
    • Symbolizes the search for something greater

      (+4)

    Led Zeppelin's 'Kashmir' is an epic and atmospheric track, blending heavy riffs with orchestral elements and Middle Eastern influences. It showcases the band's experimental side and grand scope.