The Best Rock Songs of the 1970s – A Countdown of Timeless Classics
The 1970s marked a golden era for rock music, where artistry, rebellion, and innovation flourished. From hard rock anthems to progressive masterpieces, the decade produced some of the most enduring songs ever recorded. Here’s a countdown of the 20 best rock songs of the 1970s, based on impact, legacy, popularity, and sheer musical brilliance.
20. The Clash – “London Calling” (1979)
A bridge between punk and classic rock, “London Calling” is both an anthem of rebellion and a showcase of The Clash’s growing musical range. With its urgent rhythm and apocalyptic lyrics, it signaled the arrival of punk as a serious genre with staying power.
19. Queen – “Somebody to Love” (1976)
While Queen is known for many hits, “Somebody to Love” displays their gospel influences, Freddie Mercury’s vocal prowess, and the band’s signature harmonies. It’s as grand as it is emotional—a unique piece in 70s rock.
The Best Rock Songs of the 1970s
18. The Rolling Stones – “Angie” (1973)
This tender acoustic ballad became one of the Stones’ biggest hits. With its poignant lyrics and emotional performance from Mick Jagger, “Angie” is a testament to the band’s versatility beyond bluesy rockers.
The Best Rock Songs of the 1970s
17. Boston – “More Than a Feeling” (1976)
Tom Scholz’s meticulous production and soaring guitar lines created a track that defines 70s arena rock. “More Than a Feeling” is both nostalgic and forward-driving—an essential track of the FM radio era.
16. Blue Öyster Cult – “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” (1976)
With its haunting atmosphere, philosophical lyrics about mortality, and of course, that cowbell, this track became a defining moment of psychedelic-tinged rock. It’s eerie, catchy, and unforgettable.
The Best Rock Songs of the 1970s
15. Yes – “Roundabout” (1971)
One of the greatest examples of progressive rock, “Roundabout” combines intricate guitar work, soaring vocals from Jon Anderson, and complex arrangements. It helped define what “art rock” could be.
14. The Eagles – “Hotel California” (1976)
A dark, mysterious narrative wrapped in a laid-back California vibe, this song blends storytelling with masterful musicianship. The dual guitar solo remains one of rock’s most iconic passages.
13. David Bowie – “Ziggy Stardust” (1972)
More than just a song, “Ziggy Stardust” introduced a character, an album, and a movement. The glam rock sound, Bowie’s theatrics, and the message of alienation made it timeless.
12. Fleetwood Mac – “Go Your Own Way” (1977)
Amidst the emotional turmoil of the Rumours sessions, Lindsey Buckingham delivered this raw, heartbroken anthem. Its explosive chorus and driving rhythm made it an instant rock radio staple.
11. The Who – “Baba O’Riley” (1971)
Opening with a hypnotic synth loop, “Baba O’Riley” fuses technology with rock like never before. Pete Townshend’s concept of “Lifehouse” may have been unfinished, but this track became a masterpiece.
10. Black Sabbath – “Paranoid” (1970)
Short, punchy, and filled with gritty riffs, “Paranoid” is a foundational heavy metal track. Ozzy Osbourne’s eerie vocals and Tony Iommi’s menacing guitar tone defined a new genre in just under three minutes.
The Best Rock Songs of the 1970s
9. The Doors – “Riders on the Storm” (1971)
This moody, rain-soaked track marked the end of The Doors’ run with Jim Morrison. A jazzy, hypnotic atmosphere combined with philosophical lyrics, it’s a haunting goodbye.
8. AC/DC – “Highway to Hell” (1979)
A raw and thunderous hard rock anthem, this song was both a celebration and a premonition. With Bon Scott’s unmistakable growl and Angus Young’s sharp riffs, it paved the way for 80s metal.
7. Pink Floyd – “Comfortably Numb” (1979)
One of the most emotionally resonant songs of the decade, “Comfortably Numb” is a cinematic masterpiece. David Gilmour’s legendary guitar solos are still studied and revered by guitarists today.
6. Aerosmith – “Dream On” (1973)
Steven Tyler’s first true epic, “Dream On” is a slow-burning rock ballad that swells into a cathartic climax. It’s a song about ambition and time—and it made Aerosmith stars.
5. Deep Purple – “Smoke on the Water” (1972)
Few guitar riffs are more instantly recognizable than Ritchie Blackmore’s opening line. Based on a true story, this track tells the tale of a fire in Montreux with style and swagger.
The Best Rock Songs of the 1970s
4. The Rolling Stones – “Brown Sugar” (1971)
Gritty and charged with controversy, “Brown Sugar” features one of the greatest Stones grooves. It’s raw rock ’n’ roll with an infectious riff and a devil-may-care attitude.
3. Lynyrd Skynyrd – “Free Bird” (1973)
“Free Bird” is a southern rock epic. From the heartfelt piano intro to the searing guitar solo finale, it became an anthem of freedom and rebellion—and a staple of live rock shows.
2. Led Zeppelin – “Stairway to Heaven” (1971)
Often hailed as the greatest rock song of all time, “Stairway to Heaven” is a journey in sound. From a delicate acoustic intro to a climactic solo, it showcases Led Zeppelin at their most ambitious and mystical.
1. Queen – “Bohemian Rhapsody” (1975)
Genre-defying and operatic, “Bohemian Rhapsody” changed the game. Freddie Mercury’s magnum opus combined rock, opera, and balladry into one seamless, six-minute experience. It broke every rule—and made history.
Honorable Mentions:
- The Kinks – “Lola” (1970)
- The Ramones – “Blitzkrieg Bop” (1976)
- Creedence Clearwater Revival – “Have You Ever Seen the Rain?” (1971)
- Genesis – “Firth of Fifth” (1973)
- Rush – “Closer to the Heart” (1977)
Closing Thoughts
The 1970s offered an explosion of creativity, rebellion, and technical innovation in rock music. Whether through mind-bending progressive compositions, headbanging riffs, or heartfelt ballads, the songs of this era continue to influence artists today. These tracks are not just relics of the past; they’re timeless testaments to what rock music can achieve.
