Great rock ballads of the 70s

A powerful and enduring song, 'Wish You Were Here' resonates with themes of absence and connection. This poignant acoustic ballad, dedicated to former band member Syd Barrett, is a cornerstone of classic rock.

This epic, multi-part composition is frequently cited as one of the greatest rock songs of all time. It remains a cornerstone of classic rock radio and is often voted as the #1 greatest rock ballad.

A critically acclaimed and commercially successful song, 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' is celebrated for its message of hope and comfort. It features Art Garfunkel's lead vocals and Paul Simon's poignant lyrics.

A highly influential song that helped define the sound of arena rock, 'More Than a Feeling' remains incredibly popular. This classic rock anthem features a soaring chorus, intricate guitar work, and a ballad-like verse structure.

An enduring anthem, 'Free Bird' is particularly popular in live performances and a staple of classic rock. It is known for its extended guitar solos and soaring, emotional vocal performance.

A hugely successful and influential soft rock ballad, 'If You Leave Me Now' defined a sound for the era. It features Peter Cetera's lead vocals and a prominent horn section, becoming a global hit.

Despite not being released as a single by The Eagles, 'Desperado' is one of their most recognized and beloved songs. This country-rock ballad features poignant lyrics and a classic melody, often covered by other artists.

A cultural touchstone, 'American Pie' by Don McLean's narrative depth and memorable chorus ensure its continued relevance and popularity. This epic folk-rock ballad features cryptic lyrics that chronicle the history of rock and roll and American culture.

This simple yet profound love song launched Elton John's career as a global superstar. It remains one of his most cherished and enduring compositions, with lyrics by Bernie Taupin and Elton John's distinctive piano and vocals.

A timeless anthem of perseverance, 'Dream On' is one of Aerosmith's signature songs. It continues to be widely played and celebrated, showcasing Steven Tyler's impressive vocal range.

This piano-driven ballad demonstrated The Rolling Stones' versatility beyond their typical hard rock sound. With Mick Jagger's unusually fragile vocals, it remains a beloved classic.

The original version of 'Without You' by Badfinger is recognized for its raw emotion and beautiful composition. It influenced many artists and was famously covered by Harry Nilsson and Mariah Carey.

One of The Beatles' final singles, this melancholic piano ballad remains a cherished and emotional piece of their legacy. It was written by Paul McCartney and is notable for its orchestral arrangement.

A timeless love song, 'Wonderful Tonight' is often played at weddings and romantic occasions. It showcases Eric Clapton's softer side, inspired by his then-girlfriend, Pattie Boyd.

Known for its intense emotional delivery, 'All By Myself' is a classic anthem of loneliness and self-reliance. This dramatic power ballad features a memorable piano melody and powerful vocals.

This country-tinged ballad with heartfelt lyrics is often considered one of The Rolling Stones' most beautiful songs. It highlights the band's ability to craft tender, introspective tracks alongside their rock anthems.

This piano-rock ballad became Styx's first major hit, showcasing Dennis DeYoung's songwriting. It is a foundational song for the band and a classic example of 70s progressive rock ballads.

A powerful and dramatic song, 'Two Out of Three Ain't Bad' remains a staple of classic rock and a fan favorite. This theatrical rock ballad from the iconic *Bat Out of Hell* album is known for its storytelling lyrics.

A unique and reflective song, 'Dust In The Wind' stands out in the progressive rock landscape of the 70s. This acoustic folk-rock ballad with philosophical lyrics and intricate guitar work is still widely appreciated for its message.