The 1970s: a decade of seismic shifts, bell-bottoms, and, most importantly, a revolutionary era for rock music. This transformative period witnessed an explosion of creativity, with rock albums dominating the airwaves and the genre itself undergoing a fascinating evolution. The sound of rock songs in the 70s is instantly recognizable, a vibrant tapestry of innovation and raw energy that continues to resonate with listeners today.
At Rockscapes.net, we’re passionate about all things rock, and the 70s hold a special place in our hearts. Join us as we delve into the heart of this golden age, exploring the legendary tracks and artists that defined the decade and gave us some of the greatest 70 Rock Songs of all time.
The 70s Rock Songs Phenomenon: A Genre in Bloom
The 1970s were truly a time of unprecedented growth and diversification for rock music. Emerging from the foundations laid in the 60s, rock branched out into a spectrum of exciting subgenres. Psychedelic rock continued to evolve, folk rock maintained its poetic voice, and hard rock surged into the mainstream with a powerful force. Classic rock, in particular, cemented its status as a cultural powerhouse, characterized by unforgettable guitar riffs, stadium-filling anthems, and increasingly complex musical arrangements.
This decade saw the rise of iconic bands that are now synonymous with rock history. Giants like Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, and Pink Floyd, already established, reached new heights of fame and influence. The Beatles, though disbanding at the start of the decade, cast a long shadow, and new titans like Queen emerged to electrify audiences worldwide. Many consider this era the second golden age of rock & roll, a period of unparalleled artistic achievement and commercial success.
The 70s also marked the ascent of arena rock. Bands began to fill massive venues, crafting spectacular live performances that matched the grandeur of their music. Acts such as Queen, Boston, and Journey became legendary for their electrifying stage presence and anthemic songs designed to resonate with tens of thousands of fans.
Experimentation was a defining characteristic of 70s rock. Artists pushed the boundaries of the genre, incorporating elements from progressive rock, glam rock, southern rock, and even early punk influences. This fearless approach to musical exploration is a key reason why 70 rock songs are often cited as some of the most innovative and impactful music ever created. The sheer variety and quality of music produced during this decade solidified the 70s as a truly exceptional era for rock.
70 Greatest Rock Songs of the 70s: A Definitive List
Without further ado, here are 70 essential rock songs from the 1970s that showcase the breadth, depth, and sheer brilliance of this incredible decade. These are the tracks that have stood the test of time, continuing to inspire and captivate rock fans around the globe.
1. STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN by Led Zeppelin (1971)
“Stairway to Heaven” isn’t just a song; it’s a rock odyssey. Beginning with a delicate acoustic melody, it gradually ascends into an explosive crescendo, crowned by one of the most celebrated guitar solos in history. Mystical lyrics and a progressive structure make it a true icon of 70 rock songs. Led Zeppelin’s masterpiece is a journey through sound and emotion, demonstrating their unparalleled musicianship and songwriting prowess.
2. BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY by Queen (1975)
“Bohemian Rhapsody” shattered conventions and redefined the boundaries of rock music. This groundbreaking epic seamlessly blends opera, rock, and ballad elements into a single, unforgettable track. Freddie Mercury’s breathtaking vocal range and Queen’s audacious experimentation created a genre-defying masterpiece. Its theatricality and sheer ambition remain unmatched in the history of 70 rock songs.
3. HOTEL CALIFORNIA by The Eagles (1976)
“Hotel California” is a haunting and evocative tale of excess and disillusionment, set against the backdrop of a legendary guitar solo. The Eagles’ signature smooth harmonies and Don Henley’s compelling storytelling create an atmosphere that is both captivating and unsettling. This song is a quintessential example of 70 rock songs that defined the era, exploring darker themes with sophisticated musicianship.
4. WISH YOU WERE HERE by Pink Floyd (1975)
“Wish You Were Here” is a poignant and deeply personal song, characterized by its acoustic warmth and reflective lyrics. It serves as a tribute to both absent friends and the feeling of longing. Pink Floyd’s ability to convey profound emotion with minimalist instrumentation makes this one of their most heartfelt and enduring 70 rock songs. Its universal themes of absence and connection resonate deeply with listeners.
5. BABA O’RILEY by The Who (1971)
“Baba O’Riley” explodes with energy from its iconic synthesizer intro, becoming an anthem of youthful rebellion. The Who’s innovative fusion of rock and electronic elements was groundbreaking for 70 rock songs. The unforgettable “teenage wasteland” refrain became a rallying cry for generations, encapsulating the spirit of youthful angst and liberation.
6. HIGHWAY TO HELL by AC/DC (1979)
“Highway to Hell” is pure, unadulterated rock rebellion. With an instantly recognizable and explosive riff, this track defines the raw power of hard rock. AC/DC’s relentless energy, combined with Bon Scott’s gritty vocals, cemented this as a definitive 70 rock song. It’s an anthem of freedom and defiance that turns any drive into a high-octane experience.
7. SWEET HOME ALABAMA by Lynyrd Skynyrd (1974)
:format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/artist/255188-lynyrd_skynyrd.jpeg.jpg)
“Sweet Home Alabama” is a Southern rock staple, radiating charm and boasting an undeniably catchy guitar riff. Lynyrd Skynyrd’s feel-good anthem celebrates their Southern roots, blending rock, country, and blues into a timeless favorite. This track embodies the spirit of 70 rock songs with its blend of genres and regional pride.
8. LIFE ON MARS? by David Bowie (1971)
“Life on Mars?” is a cinematic and surreal masterpiece showcasing David Bowie’s visionary artistry. Its sweeping arrangement and thought-provoking lyrics create an otherworldly atmosphere, seamlessly blending glam rock with existential themes. Bowie’s soaring vocals elevate this track into a quintessential example of the artistic ambition found in 70 rock songs.
9. BLACK DOG by Led Zeppelin (1971)
“Black Dog” kicks off with a hypnotic, a cappella vocal riff, immediately grabbing the listener’s attention before launching into a powerful rock groove. Robert Plant’s commanding vocals and the track’s stop-start rhythm, infused with bluesy undertones, highlight Led Zeppelin’s mastery of blending heavy rock with intricate musicianship. It’s a powerful and explosive 70 rock song.
10. GO YOUR OWN WAY by Fleetwood Mac (1976)
“Go Your Own Way” is raw and emotionally charged, capturing the internal tensions within Fleetwood Mac during a turbulent period. Soaring guitar riffs and Stevie Nicks’ and Lindsey Buckingham’s intertwined vocals deliver a powerful breakup anthem that is both cathartic and unforgettable. This song encapsulates the personal drama often woven into 70 rock songs.
11. LONDON CALLING by The Clash (1979)
“London Calling” is a rebellious anthem that transcends genre, blending punk, reggae, and rock with sharp social commentary. The Clash’s raw energy and politically charged lyrics offer a snapshot of late 70s Britain, making this an essential track in the evolution of 70 rock songs and punk’s influence on the genre.
12. ROCKET MAN by Elton John (1972)
“Rocket Man” is a poignant and melancholic exploration of isolation, using space travel as a metaphor for personal alienation. Elton John’s emotive vocals and piano work perfectly capture the loneliness of the astronaut, making this a timeless ballad and a standout among 70 rock songs.
13. SMOKE ON THE WATER by Deep Purple (1972)
“Smoke on the Water” is instantly recognizable thanks to one of the most iconic guitar riffs in rock history. The song tells the true story of a fire at the Montreux Casino during a Frank Zappa concert. Deep Purple’s heavy, blues-infused sound made this track a hard rock anthem and a cornerstone of 70 rock songs.
14. WON’T GET FOOLED AGAIN by The Who (1971)
“Won’t Get Fooled Again” is a defiant anthem of rebellion and disillusionment with political cycles. The Who’s epic track is marked by explosive power chords and Roger Daltrey’s iconic scream, driving home a message of resistance and skepticism. Its powerful message and musical dynamism make it a prime example of 70 rock songs with social commentary.
15. ANOTHER BRICK IN THE WALL (PART 2) by Pink Floyd (1979)
“Another Brick in the Wall (Part 2)” is Pink Floyd’s powerful and critical commentary on rigid education systems. Blending rock with disco-influenced rhythms, the song’s haunting chorus of children chanting “We don’t need no education” became a defining and rebellious moment in 70 rock songs.
16. WE WILL ROCK YOU by Queen (1977)
“We Will Rock You” is an anthemic stadium rock track built on a simple but incredibly effective stomping beat and chant-along lyrics. Queen’s genius in engaging massive audiences with just rhythm and voice makes this a timeless anthem, a staple of sporting events and crowd participation worldwide, and a perfect example of 70 rock songs designed for live performance.
17. PARANOID by Black Sabbath (1970)
“Paranoid” is a heavy, fast-paced track that epitomizes Black Sabbath’s raw, gritty sound and laid the foundation for heavy metal. Its pounding riff and Ozzy Osbourne’s anguished vocals capture feelings of inner turmoil and anxiety. It’s a cornerstone of early heavy metal and a seminal 70 rock song.
18. IMAGINE by John Lennon (1971)
“Imagine” is a hopeful and enduring anthem for peace and unity. John Lennon’s simple piano melody and poignant lyrics envision a world without division, conflict, or borders. Its message of hope and universal brotherhood makes it one of the most iconic and influential songs of all time, transcending genre and becoming a timeless 70 rock song.
19. MORE THAN A FEELING by Boston (1976)
“More Than a Feeling” is a powerful rock ballad with soaring vocals and an instantly recognizable, unforgettable guitar riff. Boston’s polished sound and layered harmonies evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing. It’s one of the great anthems of 70 rock songs, known for its emotional resonance and perfect blend of hard rock and melody.
20. (DON’T FEAR) THE REAPER by Blue Öyster Cult (1976)
“(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” blends haunting lyrics exploring mortality and love with melodic guitar lines and a distinctive cowbell rhythm. Blue Öyster Cult’s eerie atmosphere and driving beat make this one of their most enduring and recognizable tracks, a unique entry in the landscape of 70 rock songs.
21. DREAM ON by Aerosmith (1973)
“Dream On” is a classic rock power ballad that builds from a soft piano intro to an explosive, high-note climax showcasing Steven Tyler’s incredible vocal range. The song’s themes of perseverance and ambition resonate deeply, making it a timeless anthem of hope and determination and a signature 70 rock song for Aerosmith.
22. LISTEN TO THE MUSIC by The Doobie Brothers (1972)
“Listen to the Music” is a joyful and carefree track that perfectly captures the optimistic spirit of the early 70s. The Doobie Brothers’ upbeat harmonies and infectious rhythm create a feel-good vibe, inviting listeners to let go and enjoy the simple pleasures of music and life. It’s an uplifting and classic 70 rock song.
23. TINY DANCER by Elton John (1971)
“Tiny Dancer” is a beautifully crafted ballad with vivid imagery and heartfelt emotion. Elton John’s melodic piano and Bernie Taupin’s poetic lyrics paint a picture of California’s sun-soaked, carefree lifestyle. It’s a classic of the era and a testament to the songwriting partnership that defined many 70 rock songs.
24. AMERICAN WOMAN by The Guess Who (1970)
“American Woman” is a bold and gritty anthem with an iconic, instantly recognizable guitar riff and defiant lyrics. The Guess Who’s raw energy and powerful delivery give the song a rebellious edge, reflecting the social and political tensions of the era and making it a powerful 70 rock song.
25. WHOLE LOTTA ROSIE by AC/DC (1977)
“Whole Lotta Rosie” is a high-energy, hard rock anthem celebrating a larger-than-life woman. AC/DC’s driving riffs and Bon Scott’s spirited, humorous vocals make this a standout track, full of their trademark intensity and irreverent attitude and a quintessential 70 rock song for pure rock energy.
26. IMMIGRANT SONG by Led Zeppelin (1970)
:format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/artists/339867-1474722982-1724.jpeg.jpg)
“Immigrant Song” is a fast-paced and powerful track inspired by Norse mythology and Viking imagery. Led Zeppelin’s pounding drums, driving guitar, and Robert Plant’s fierce, wailing vocals create an exhilarating, battle-ready atmosphere that is both epic and primal. It’s a powerful and iconic 70 rock song.
27. REELIN’ IN THE YEARS by Steely Dan (1972)
“Reelin’ in the Years” is a masterclass in witty, jazz-infused rock, featuring razor-sharp guitar riffs and clever, biting lyrics. Steely Dan’s sophisticated musicianship and catchy melodies make this an enduring favorite of 70 rock songs, appreciated for its musical complexity and lyrical intelligence.
28. RUNNIN’ WITH THE DEVIL by Van Halen (1978)
“Runnin’ with the Devil” is a hard-hitting rock anthem that announced Van Halen’s arrival on the scene with explosive energy. Driven by Eddie Van Halen’s revolutionary guitar work and David Lee Roth’s charismatic vocals, its raw energy and rebellious spirit define Van Halen’s early sound and its impact on 70 rock songs.
29. MONEY by Pink Floyd (1973)
Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon album cover, the iconic prism dispersing light into a rainbow.
“Money” is a groundbreaking track from The Dark Side of the Moon, featuring a distinctive 7/4 time signature and a hypnotic bass line. Pink Floyd’s exploration of greed and consumerism, along with its memorable cash register sound effects, makes this a standout track and a socially conscious 70 rock song.
30. HIGHWAY STAR by Deep Purple (1972)
“Highway Star” is a high-octane rock anthem, packed with blistering guitar solos and relentless energy. Deep Purple’s fast-paced, aggressive style shines in this track, making it one of the ultimate driving songs of the 70s and a prime example of high-energy 70 rock songs.
31. MR. BLUE SKY by Electric Light Orchestra (1977)
“Mr. Blue Sky” is an exuberant and uplifting track that celebrates the joy of sunny days and positive vibes. ELO’s signature orchestral pop sound and Jeff Lynne’s optimistic lyrics create a bright, irresistible anthem that’s impossible not to smile along to, a truly feel-good 70 rock song.
32. MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE by The Police (1979)
“Message in a Bottle” combines a catchy reggae-rock rhythm with introspective lyrics about loneliness and the desire for connection. The Police’s infectious energy and Sting’s distinctive voice make this track a memorable moment in late 70 rock songs and a showcase of their innovative sound.
33. CARRY ON WAYWARD SON by Kansas (1976)
“Carry On Wayward Son” is an epic rock anthem that seamlessly blends progressive rock complexity with heartfelt emotion. Kansas’ soaring harmonies and powerful instrumentation have made this a timeless track, inspiring generations and remaining a classic example of ambitious 70 rock songs.
34. ROCK AND ROLL by Led Zeppelin (1971)
“Rock and Roll” is a fast-paced, high-energy tribute to the very roots of the genre. With its infectious rhythm and fiery guitar work, Led Zeppelin captures the raw spirit of rock in this classic. It’s a crowd favorite at live shows and a pure distillation of the energy of 70 rock songs.
35. DESPERADO by The Eagles (1973)
“Desperado” is a soulful and melancholic ballad that reflects on themes of loneliness, freedom, and redemption. The Eagles’ lush harmonies and heartfelt lyrics make this one of their most emotionally resonant and enduring songs, a ballad that stands out among even the most powerful 70 rock songs.
36. RHIANNON by Fleetwood Mac (1975)
“Rhiannon” is a mystical and enchanting track that showcases Stevie Nicks’ ethereal voice and Fleetwood Mac’s atmospheric sound. Its haunting melody and mythical storytelling, inspired by Welsh legend, make it one of the band’s signature songs and a unique and captivating 70 rock song.
37. KILLER QUEEN by Queen (1974)
“Killer Queen” is a glamorous and witty track that highlights Freddie Mercury’s flamboyant vocal style and Queen’s playful sophistication. Its clever lyrics and catchy melody make this a standout song in their vast catalog and a perfect example of the theatricality present in many 70 rock songs.
38. TUMBLING DICE by The Rolling Stones (1972)
“Tumbling Dice” combines a groovy, blues-rock rhythm with Mick Jagger’s playful lyrics about love and gambling. The Rolling Stones’ signature bluesy sound and loose, laid-back vibe make this a standout track from their iconic Exile on Main St. album and a classic 70 rock song.
39. LA GRANGE by ZZ Top (1973)
“La Grange” is a blues-rock classic featuring one of ZZ Top’s most recognizable and iconic guitar riffs. With its infectious rhythm and gritty vocals, the song captures the essence of the band’s Southern rock sound, bringing Texas swagger to the forefront of 70 rock songs.
40. JESSICA by The Allman Brothers Band (1973)
“Jessica” is a lively and uplifting instrumental that showcases The Allman Brothers Band’s incredible musicianship. With its upbeat, flowing guitar melodies, the track is a joyful ode to carefree Southern living, capturing a sense of freedom and adventure in instrumental form, a unique entry in 70 rock songs.
41. SWEET EMOTION by Aerosmith (1975)
“Sweet Emotion” blends a funky and unforgettable bassline with Steven Tyler’s raspy, sensual vocals to create a sultry and laid-back groove. Aerosmith’s clever use of layering and dynamics gives the song a hypnotic quality that has made it one of their most beloved tracks and a standout among 70 rock songs.
42. COME SAIL AWAY by Styx (1977)
“Come Sail Away” is an epic rock ballad that builds from a gentle piano intro to a powerful and uplifting climax. Styx’s mix of progressive rock and pop elements, combined with Dennis DeYoung’s soaring vocals, makes this a timeless anthem of hope and escapism and a classic example of 70 rock songs that blend balladry with rock power.
43. COMFORTABLY NUMB by Pink Floyd (1979)
“Comfortably Numb” is a haunting and introspective track that explores themes of alienation and emotional detachment. David Gilmour’s legendary, emotionally charged guitar solo and the song’s atmospheric production make it one of Pink Floyd’s most iconic and emotionally resonant songs and a pinnacle of 70 rock songs.
44. GOODBYE YELLOW BRICK ROAD by Elton John (1973)
“Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” is a nostalgic and introspective reflection on fame and the longing for simplicity. Elton John’s rich piano melodies and Bernie Taupin’s evocative lyrics create a dreamlike atmosphere, making it one of the most memorable and poignant tracks from the 70s, a ballad that stands out among 70 rock songs.
45. RIDERS ON THE STORM by The Doors (1971)
“Riders on the Storm” is a moody and atmospheric track that blends jazz, rock, and psychedelia. The Doors’ haunting instrumentation, including the sound of rain and thunder, and Jim Morrison’s whispered, evocative vocals create a sense of mystery and impending danger, like a storm rolling in from the horizon – a truly atmospheric 70 rock song.
46. WALK THIS WAY by Run DMC and Aerosmith (1975)
“Walk This Way” in its original Aerosmith form is a funky and hard-hitting track that fuses rock and early hip-hop elements. With its memorable riff and playful, suggestive lyrics, Aerosmith’s infectious energy turned this song into a cross-genre classic, cementing its place in rock history and demonstrating the genre-bending possibilities of 70 rock songs.
47. IRON MAN by Black Sabbath (1970)
“Iron Man” is a heavy metal anthem with an iconic, crushing guitar riff that is instantly recognizable. Black Sabbath’s dark and powerful sound and Ozzy Osbourne’s intense vocals make this track a defining moment in metal, telling a story of a man turned to steel seeking vengeance – a cornerstone of heavy 70 rock songs.
48. KASHMIR by Led Zeppelin (1975)
“Kashmir” is an epic and mystical track that masterfully blends rock with orchestral and Middle Eastern influences. Led Zeppelin’s sweeping arrangements and evocative lyrics transport listeners to another world, making it one of the most ambitious and powerful songs in their catalog and a truly unique 70 rock song.
49. STARMAN by David Bowie (1972)
“Starman” is a glittering and hopeful anthem about a cosmic savior reaching out to the lonely. David Bowie’s distinctive vocals and glam rock sound combine to create a sense of wonder and optimism, solidifying his role as a musical and cultural icon and a defining figure in 70 rock songs.
50. ONE OF THESE NIGHTS by The Eagles (1975)
“One of These Nights” is a smooth and soulful track that blends rock with elements of R&B. The Eagles’ haunting harmonies and dark, seductive lyrics make this song a perfect late-night anthem, full of mystery and allure, showcasing the versatility of 70 rock songs.
51. THE LOGICAL SONG by Supertramp (1979)
“The Logical Song” is a thoughtful and introspective track that questions the meaning of modern life and conformity. Supertramp’s blend of catchy melodies and philosophical lyrics make it a poignant reflection on education and societal expectations, a thought-provoking 70 rock song.
52. THE CARPET CRAWLERS by Genesis (1974)
“The Carpet Crawlers” is a dreamy and atmospheric track that showcases Genesis’ progressive rock prowess. With its surreal lyrics and lush instrumentation, the song creates an ethereal mood, inviting listeners into a strange, otherworldly journey, a classic example of progressive 70 rock songs.
53. DUST IN THE WIND by Kansas (1978)
Kerry Livgren of Kansas playing acoustic guitar on "Dust in the Wind" during a live performance.
“Dust in the Wind” is a haunting acoustic ballad about the fleeting nature of life and mortality. Kansas’ simple yet profound lyrics paired with delicate instrumentation make this song a timeless meditation on existence and meaning, a deeply philosophical 70 rock song.
54. D’YER MAK’ER by Led Zeppelin (1973)
“D’yer Mak’er” is a reggae-influenced track that playfully blends Led Zeppelin’s rock sensibilities with a laid-back Caribbean groove. The band’s unexpected foray into reggae demonstrates their versatility and willingness to experiment, making it a unique and lighter-hearted 70 rock song in their catalog.
55. WITCHY WOMAN by The Eagles (1972)
“Witchy Woman” is a mysterious and sultry track with dark, seductive lyrics. The Eagles’ haunting harmonies and evocative storytelling paint a picture of an enigmatic femme fatale, giving the song an alluring and slightly eerie vibe, a darker and more mystical 70 rock song from the band.
56. MACHINE GUN by Jimi Hendrix (1970)
“Machine Gun” is a powerful and politically charged track that highlights Jimi Hendrix’s extraordinary guitar skills and improvisational genius. With its intense, distorted sound and raw emotion, the song is a searing commentary on the Vietnam War and the violence of the era, a protest anthem among 70 rock songs.
57. LANDSLIDE by Fleetwood Mac (1975)
“Landslide” is a tender and introspective ballad about change, growth, and self-reflection. Stevie Nicks’ heartfelt vocals and the song’s simple acoustic arrangement give it an intimate, timeless quality that continues to resonate with listeners, a deeply personal 70 rock song.
58. DON’T STOP ME NOW by Queen (1978)
“Don’t Stop Me Now” is an energetic and feel-good anthem with Freddie Mercury’s exuberant vocals driving the infectious melody. The song’s upbeat tempo and joyful lyrics make it a celebration of life and living in the moment, one of Queen’s most uplifting and purely fun 70 rock songs.
59. BURN by Deep Purple (1974)
“Burn” is a high-octane rock track featuring powerful guitar riffs and fiery vocals from David Coverdale in his early Deep Purple days. Deep Purple’s blend of hard rock and heavy blues makes this song a standout, full of intensity and raw energy that leaves a lasting impact, a high-energy 70 rock song.
60. NO SUGAR TONIGHT / NEW MOTHER NATURE by The Guess Who (1970)
This two-part track showcases The Guess Who’s versatility, blending rock and folk influences. “No Sugar Tonight” is softer and acoustic, transitioning seamlessly into the punchier and more rhythmic “New Mother Nature.” The Guess Who’s tight harmonies and dynamic shifts create a compelling and unique listening experience within a single 70 rock song.
61. THE SPIRIT OF RADIO by Rush (1979)
“The Spirit of Radio” is a complex and progressive rock anthem that celebrates the power and freedom of music, particularly radio. Rush’s intricate musicianship and thoughtful lyrics make this an inspiring and energetic tribute to the essence of rock and roll and a landmark 70 rock song for progressive rock.
62. DO IT AGAIN by Steely Dan (1972)
“Do It Again” is a smooth and sophisticated jazz-influenced rock track with a hypnotic rhythm and cryptic, morally ambiguous lyrics. Steely Dan’s blend of musical styles and clever storytelling create a laid-back yet intellectually engaging vibe, a uniquely styled 70 rock song.
63. LOVE REIGN O’ER ME by The Who (1973)
“Love Reign O’er Me” is a powerful and emotionally charged track from Quadrophenia, showcasing Roger Daltrey’s soaring and passionate vocals. The Who’s dramatic instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics capture the intensity of love, longing, and spiritual yearning, making this one of their most memorable and moving 70 rock songs.
64. WHEEL IN THE SKY by Journey (1978)
“Wheel in the Sky” is a melodic rock anthem that reflects on the passage of time, destiny, and the uncertainties of life on the road. Journey’s soaring vocals and driving guitar work make this a quintessential late 70 rock song and a staple of arena rock.
65. JAMIE’S CRYIN’ by Van Halen (1978)
“Jamie’s Cryin'” blends Van Halen’s signature hard rock sound with a story of regret and heartache. David Lee Roth’s charismatic vocals and Eddie Van Halen’s driving guitar riffs make this track a dynamic mix of high-energy performance and emotional storytelling, showcasing the range of 70 rock songs.
66. FOREPLAY/LONG TIME by Boston (1976)
“Foreplay/Long Time” is an epic track that begins with a progressive instrumental section, “Foreplay,” before launching into the soaring rock anthem “Long Time.” Boston’s tight harmonies and meticulous production create a powerful and spacey vibe that has become a defining feature of their sound and a key element of 70 rock songs.
67. FREE BIRD by Lynyrd Skynyrd (1973)
“Free Bird” is a Southern rock anthem that famously builds from a soulful ballad into a legendary, extended guitar-fueled climax. Lynyrd Skynyrd’s heartfelt lyrics and the iconic guitar solo make this track a symbol of freedom and resilience, a cornerstone of 70 rock songs.
68. SHINE ON YOU CRAZY DIAMOND (PARTS 1-5) by Pink Floyd (1975)
“Shine On You Crazy Diamond (Parts 1-5)” is a sprawling and deeply moving tribute to former band member Syd Barrett. Pink Floyd’s rich, progressive instrumentation and haunting lyrics create a masterpiece of reflection and tribute, a monumental and emotionally complex 70 rock song.
69. BEAST OF BURDEN by The Rolling Stones (1978)
“Beast of Burden” is a laid-back and soulful rock ballad that explores vulnerability and emotional labor in relationships. The Rolling Stones’ smooth groove and Mick Jagger’s raw, expressive vocals make this a timeless track full of emotional nuance and a more tender side of 70 rock songs.
70. LYIN’ EYES by The Eagles (1975)
“Lyin’ Eyes” is a classic country-rock tune that tells a compelling narrative of infidelity and deception. The Eagles’ trademark harmonies and storytelling ability are on full display, creating a timeless narrative of love, regret, and the complexities of relationships within a catchy 70 rock song.
Final Thoughts on 70 Rock Songs
The 70 rock songs we’ve explored here are just the tip of the iceberg, representing a decade overflowing with innovation, passion, and sheer musical talent. The 1970s were a pivotal period, not just shaping the sound of rock music but also establishing it as a global cultural phenomenon. These songs, and countless others from the decade, have influenced generations of musicians and continue to inspire listeners worldwide.
The impact of 70 rock songs is undeniable. They represent a golden age of creativity and experimentation, a time when rock music truly came into its own and cemented its place in music history.
If you’ve enjoyed this journey through some of the greatest rock songs of the 70s, be sure to explore more of rockscapes.net for deeper dives into rock history, artist spotlights, and more curated lists for every rock enthusiast!
