The 1970s was a seismic decade for music, a period where genres fractured and fused, giving birth to sounds that continue to resonate today. While disco balls spun and funk grooves pulsed, the decade undeniably belonged to rock music in its myriad forms. From the raw energy of hard rock to the intricate tapestries of progressive rock and the nascent growl of heavy metal, 1970s rock bands didn’t just create music; they crafted cultural touchstones. This era saw artists not only topping charts but also redefining musical landscapes, influencing generations of musicians to come. The sheer volume of groundbreaking and influential rock acts from this decade makes selecting the “greatest” a thrilling, albeit challenging, endeavor.
To truly appreciate the titans of 1970s rock, we delve into the decade’s diverse subgenres and identify bands that produced not only commercially successful hits but also timeless, genre-defining work. While disco and pop undeniably left their mark, rock music, in its various incarnations, provided the decade’s rebellious spirit and innovative edge. Bands like Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, and Queen became synonymous with the era, but a deeper exploration reveals a wealth of artists who shaped the sonic identity of the ‘70s and beyond.
25. Earth, Wind & Fire
Earth, Wind & Fire 1970s funk band performing live on stage in 1978
Earth, Wind & Fire, though often categorized within funk and disco, infused a rock sensibility into their sound, making them a unique force in the 1970s music scene. Their infectious energy and sophisticated musicianship transcended genre boundaries, contributing significantly to the decade’s sonic tapestry. While disco and funk were ascending, Earth, Wind & Fire carved their own niche with a blend of uplifting melodies, intricate arrangements, and masterful performances.
Hits like “September,” “Boogie Wonderland,” “Fantasy,” and “After the Love Has Gone” are not just disco or funk anthems; they are meticulously crafted songs showcasing a level of musicianship and songwriting that elevated them beyond fleeting trends. Earth, Wind & Fire’s ability to move beyond the stylistic confines of the 70s is a testament to their enduring appeal and the sheer quality of their musical output, establishing them as a funk powerhouse with rock undertones that remains unmatched in influence.
24. Jethro Tull
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
Jethro Tull stands as pioneers of progressive and folk rock, injecting a theatrical flair and literary depth into the rock genre. Their experimental approach and Ian Anderson’s distinctive flute playing set them apart, making them significant figures in the evolution of rock music during the 1970s. This decade marked Jethro Tull’s creative zenith, with 1971’s Aqualung widely regarded as their most influential and critically acclaimed work.
The Aqualung album, featuring hits like “Aqualung,” “Locomotive Breath,” and “Cross-Eyed Mary,” was a critical and commercial triumph. It cemented their status and paved the way for further successes with albums like Thick As A Brick and A Passion Play, both reaching the coveted No. 1 spot on the U.S. charts. Ian Anderson’s songwriting and stage presence laid a foundation for countless rock musicians, and Jethro Tull’s 1970s albums remain cherished examples of progressive rock innovation.
23. The Doobie Brothers
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
The Doobie Brothers, with their blend of funky rhythms and soulful rock melodies, particularly after Michael McDonald joined, became synonymous with the smooth, West Coast sound of 1970s rock. Their music was both sophisticated and accessible, earning them a place among the decade’s most popular and enduring bands. As a quintessential 70s rock act, The Doobie Brothers crafted some of the decade’s most beloved songs, including “Listen to the Music,” “Long Train Running,” and “What A Fool Believes.”
While their career extends beyond the 70s, with 15 studio albums to date, The Doobie Brothers’ legacy is firmly rooted in their 1970s output. They represent a fusion of rock, soul, and funk that defined a significant portion of the decade’s musical landscape, and their songs continue to be staples of classic rock radio.
22. James Brown
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
James Brown, while primarily known for funk and soul, exerted a profound influence on rock music, particularly through his rhythmic innovations and high-energy performances. His impact transcended genre, and the 1970s saw him continue to be a vital and groundbreaking force in music. Though the 1960s produced many of his signature funk and soul anthems, the ’70s were another decade of significant achievement for “The Godfather of Soul.”
From iconic hits like “It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World” (though initially released in the 60s, it remained popular in the 70s) to “Get Up Offa That Thing,” Brown maintained a massive wave of success. He released his 48th studio album by the decade’s end, showcasing his relentless creativity and enduring appeal. James Brown’s influence on rock rhythms and performance styles is undeniable, and the 1970s were a crucial chapter in his legendary career.
21. Steely Dan
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
Steely Dan, led by songwriting duo Walter Becker and Donald Fagen, became synonymous with the sophisticated sounds of soft rock and yacht rock, achieving their breakthrough success in the 1970s. Their meticulously crafted songs, jazz-infused harmonies, and lyrical wit set them apart in the rock landscape of the decade. Albums like Can’t Buy a Thrill and Aja are consistently hailed as essential albums of the 1970s and within the rock genre as a whole.
Featuring hits like “Do It Again,” “Reelin’ In The Years,” and “Peg,” Steely Dan achieved legendary status by defying typical rock and disco trends of the 70s. Their sophisticated and subtly subversive music resonated deeply, establishing them as a unique and enduring force in 1970s rock.
20. Aerosmith
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
Aerosmith emerged from Massachusetts to become one of the most enduring and beloved hard rock bands of all time, with their 1970s output being particularly explosive and genre-defining. During this decade, Aerosmith operated at peak performance, pushing rock boundaries and achieving mainstream success with their raw energy and blues-infused rock sound. From their self-titled 1973 debut to 1975’s seminal Toys In the Attic, Aerosmith unleashed a string of iconic hits, including “Dream On,” “Sweet Emotion,” and “Walk This Way.”
Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Joey Kramer, and Tom Hamilton were instrumental in sculpting the sound of 70s hard rock, influencing countless bands that followed. Aerosmith’s 1970s work is foundational to modern rock, shaping both its sound and image and solidifying their place as rock icons.
19. The Who
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
The Who’s explosive and theatrical brand of rock and roll played a pivotal role in shaping modern rock and even pop music. Beyond their legendary stage antics, The Who’s musical output throughout the 1970s was as impactful and brilliant as any of their British rock contemporaries. While their initial breakthrough occurred in the 60s with albums like Tommy and My Generation, the 1970s saw them reach new heights of creative achievement.
With their 1971 masterpiece Who’s Next, featuring Roger Daltrey, Keith Moon, Pete Townshend, and John Entwistle, The Who delivered their magnum opus. The album spawned anthems like “Baba O’Riley,” “Behind Blue Eyes,” and “Won’t Get Fooled Again,” cementing their status as rock legends and foundational figures in the 1970s music scene. Who’s Next is not just a 70s rock classic; it’s a landmark album in rock history.
18. John Denver
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
John Denver’s signature country folk sound, while distinct from hard rock, resonated deeply within 1970s pop culture and beyond. His music, characterized by its sincerity and optimistic spirit, provided a softer, more introspective counterpoint to the louder rock sounds of the decade, yet still captured the era’s spirit of musical exploration. His songs, including “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” “Rocky Mountain High,” and “Leaving On a Jet Plane,” became iconic not just for Denver but for American folk music as a whole.
Through these timeless hits and his charismatic persona, John Denver became one of the 1970s’ most successful songwriters and performers, bridging the gap between country, folk, and pop audiences and leaving an enduring legacy.
17. AC/DC
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
AC/DC, the Australian hard rock powerhouse, firmly established themselves as one of rock’s most respected and influential bands during the 1970s. Their raw, high-voltage rock and roll, fronted by the charismatic Bon Scott, resonated powerfully and laid the groundwork for their future global dominance. Much of their early success stemmed from their breakthrough with vocalist Bon Scott, who fronted the band from 1974 until his tragic passing in 1980.
Scott’s tenure produced world-renowned anthems like “Highway To Hell,” “TNT,” and “It’s A Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock N’ Roll),” which remain among AC/DC’s most celebrated songs. While AC/DC achieved even greater commercial heights later, their 1970s output with Bon Scott was crucial in building their legendary status and defining the sound of hard rock for generations.
16. Deep Purple
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
Deep Purple were instrumental in laying the foundations of hard rock and heavy metal genres throughout the 1970s. Their powerful riffs, virtuosic musicianship, and operatic vocals defined a new, heavier sound in rock music, influencing countless metal bands to follow. While the band experienced various lineup changes, the Mark II lineup – featuring Glenn Hughes, Ian Gillan, Jon Lord, Ian Paice, and Ritchie Blackmore – is considered their most iconic. Together, they created hard rock classics like “Highway Star,” “Child In Time,” and the immortal “Smoke on the Water.”
Deep Purple’s early 1970s success was just the beginning. Vocalist David Coverdale replaced Ian Gillan in the mid-70s, ushering in a new era of success with albums like 1974’s Burn and 1978’s When We Rock, We Rock and When We Roll, We Roll. Deep Purple’s consistent innovation and powerful sound throughout the 1970s cemented their place as pioneers of hard rock and early heavy metal and as one of the decade’s most important rock bands.
15. Marvin Gaye
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
Marvin Gaye, though primarily a soul artist, blurred genre lines and influenced rock musicians with his deeply personal and socially conscious music in the 1970s. His seminal 1971 album What’s Going On is not just a soul masterpiece; its themes and musicality resonated across genres, including rock, making him an important figure in the broader musical landscape of the decade. What’s Going On remains one of the most influential and revered albums of the last century.
Combined with other 1970s works like Let’s Get It On and I Want You, Marvin Gaye crafted a body of work that was both commercially successful and artistically profound. Hits like “What’s Going On,” “Let’s Get It On,” and “I Want You” remain incredibly popular, and modern artists across genres, including rock, consistently cite him as a major influence.
14. Al Green
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
Al Green’s powerful and emotionally charged soul records were not just staples of the 1970s music scene but also deeply influential across genres, including rock. His passionate delivery and sophisticated arrangements resonated with a wide audience, transcending genre boundaries and establishing him as a major artist of the decade. Nearly all of the Arkansas singer’s greatest hits and most popular records were produced during the 1970s.
Songs like “Love and Happiness,” “Let’s Stay Together,” and “Take Me to the River” are not just soul and R&B classics; they are foundational pieces of modern music that have influenced artists across the spectrum, including rock musicians. Al Green’s impact on the 1970s music scene is undeniable, and his legacy continues to grow, solidifying his place as one of the decade’s most significant artists.
13. Elton John
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
Elton John, a dominant force in 1970s pop-rock, achieved some of his most commercially and critically successful years during this decade. His flamboyant stage persona, combined with his songwriting genius and piano virtuosity, made him a defining figure in 1970s music and a lasting influence on rock and pop. During the 1970s, the British songwriter became a multiplatinum-selling artist with albums like Madman Across The Water and Honky Chateau.
These albums produced world-renowned hits such as “Tiny Dancer” and “Rocket Man,” among many others, solidifying his status as a global superstar. Elton John’s 1970s legacy is highly acclaimed, establishing him as one of the most important and enduring solo artists in pop and rock history.
12. Bill Withers
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
Bill Withers’s soulful voice and poignant songwriting resonated deeply in the 1970s, creating a lasting impact on music across genres, including rock. His songs, characterized by their honesty and emotional depth, became anthems of the era and continue to influence musicians today. Withers’ performances on multiplatinum hits like “Ain’t No Sunshine” and “Lovely Day” exemplify his ingenious vocal delivery and songwriting talent.
Seven of his eight studio albums were released during the 1970s, marking the peak of his career and solidifying his influence. Bill Withers’s impact extends far beyond genre, and his 1970s anthems remain cherished and influential in pop culture and modern music, including within rock circles.
11. Black Sabbath
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
Black Sabbath are unequivocally the pioneers of heavy metal, and the 1970s were their decade of dominance. Their darker, heavier sound, distinct from the blues-rock prevalent at the time, forged a new genre and influenced countless bands, shaping the landscape of rock music forever. Unlike many acts of the decade, Black Sabbath pursued a darker and grittier musical direction.
Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward laid the groundwork for heavy metal, now a global phenomenon. Whether through anthemic hits like “Paranoid,” “War Pigs,” and “Iron Man” or deeper cuts like “Sabbath Bloody Sabbath” and “Symptom Of The Universe,” Black Sabbath’s sonic innovation and musicianship are undeniable. They remain unique and unmatched in their foundational role in heavy metal and their impact on 1970s rock.
10. Dolly Parton
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
Dolly Parton, a country music icon, transcended genre boundaries to become a beloved figure in 1970s pop culture and beyond. Her songwriting prowess and charismatic personality made her a sensation, and her influence extends across genres, with rock artists frequently covering her work and acknowledging her impact. As one of the most respected artists of the last century, Dolly Parton has significantly impacted both country and pop music since her 1970s breakthrough.
Her songwriting is legendary, with covers by artists like Whitney Houston, Miley Cyrus, and Beyoncé. While Parton has had a prolific career, her 1974 album Jolene was the catalyst for her international stardom, featuring hits “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You.” Dolly Parton’s 1970s work established her as a global icon and a songwriting genius whose influence reaches far beyond country music, even touching the rock world.
9. Fleetwood Mac
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
Fleetwood Mac’s masterful fusion of folk and rock styles is a primary reason for their enduring relevance since the mid-1970s. The addition of Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham in 1975 propelled them to unprecedented success, making them one of the defining rock bands of the decade and beyond. Ever since Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham joined for their 10th studio album in 1975, Fleetwood Mac’s career reached new heights.
1977’s Rumours, their second album with Nicks and Buckingham, is considered their magnum opus and one of the best-selling albums of all time. This Grammy-winning, diamond-certified album spawned hits like “Dreams,” “The Chain,” “Go Your Own Way,” and “Landslide.” The Nicks-Buckingham era Fleetwood Mac not only became one of history’s most popular bands but also cemented their place as 1970s rock royalty.
8. Bob Marley
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
Bob Marley, though a reggae artist, created an international sensation in the 1970s that transcended genre and cultural boundaries. His music, with its messages of peace, love, and social justice, resonated globally and influenced artists across genres, including rock. Not only did Marley pioneer reggae, but his songwriting and messaging promoted love and wisdom through music.
While his 1984 greatest hits album, Legend, is one of the best-selling albums ever, Marley was most active during the 1970s, releasing 10 studio albums with international hits like “Is This Love,” “Stir It Up,” and “No Woman, No Cry.” Bob Marley’s impact on 1970s music and culture is immense, and his legacy as a musical and cultural icon endures.
7. The Eagles
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
The Eagles, one of the best-selling bands of all time, were undeniably one of the defining rock acts of the 1970s. Their blend of country rock and soft rock produced some of the decade’s most enduring anthems and cemented their place in rock history. As one of the most popular rock bands ever, and among the highest-selling bands in history with Hotel California and Their Greatest Hits, The Eagles defined 1970s music.
Formed in Los Angeles in 1971, key members Joe Walsh, Don Henley, Timothy B. Schmit, Glenn Frey, and Don Felder released six of their seven studio albums in the 1970s. With hits like “Hotel California,” “Take It Easy,” and “Life In The Fast Lane,” The Eagles have stood the test of time, becoming one of rock’s most cherished acts and a cornerstone of 1970s music.
6. Stevie Wonder
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
Stevie Wonder’s infectious grooves and soulful melodies made him a dominant force in 1970s music and a lasting influence across genres, including rock. His creative peak in the 1970s produced a string of groundbreaking albums that solidified his status as a musical genius. For over six decades, Stevie Wonder has remained one of the most respected and popular artists in contemporary music. Despite starting in the early 60s, it was the 1970s that saw Wonder’s work truly embraced.
Albums Talking Book, Innervisions, and Songs in the Key of Life transformed him into a global sensation, generating hits like “Sir Duke,” “Superstition,” and “Isn’t She Lovely.” Stevie Wonder’s 1970s output is his most acclaimed and influential, making him one of the greatest and most important artists of the decade and a significant influence even within rock music.
5. ABBA
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
ABBA, the Swedish pop phenomenon, became one of the biggest European groups of the 1970s and a global sensation. While primarily pop and disco, their sophisticated songwriting and musicality earned them respect across genres, and their enduring popularity demonstrates their timeless appeal. ABBA are still one of Europe’s most successful contemporary artists. Causing an international sensation with multiplatinum hits “Dancing Queen” and “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!,” ABBA delivered some of the most celebrated hits of the disco era.
Unlike many disco and pop acts of the time, ABBA has remained relevant, with their 1970s records continuing to resonate with new generations. ABBA’s Agnetha Fältskog, Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, and Anni-Frid “Frida” Lyngstad are a rare example of 1970s disco and pop acts that transcended trends with their brilliant songwriting and sonic charisma, earning admiration even from rock fans.
4. Bee Gees
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
The Bee Gees became the face of 1970s music, particularly disco, and their impact on pop culture remains undeniable. While primarily disco, their songwriting and vocal harmonies were admired across genres, and their immense popularity solidified their place as icons of the decade. From hits “Stayin’ Alive” to “How Deep Is Your Love,” Bee Gees became synonymous with 1970s music. Their contributions to the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack in 1977 launched them to global superstardom.
The disco and pop anthems of brothers Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb have profoundly impacted contemporary music, and they remain one of the most recognizable and successful artists from the decade. Their timeless contributions to music and pop culture ensure their continued relevance.
3. Queen
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
Queen’s career spanned the 1970s and 80s, but the 1970s witnessed the creation of much of their finest and most enduring work. Their unique blend of hard rock, progressive rock, and operatic vocals, combined with Freddie Mercury’s charismatic stage presence, made them one of the most innovative and beloved rock bands of all time. While Queen achieved great success in both decades, the 70s saw much of their finest work.
A Night At The Opera, their 1975 masterpiece, featuring hits like “You’re My Best Friend,” “Love Of My Life,” and “Bohemian Rhapsody,” is hailed as one of the greatest albums ever made. Freddie Mercury, Roger Taylor, Brian May, and John Deacon achieved something extraordinary with this record, showcasing the power and artistry of rock music. Queen’s 1970s legacy is robust and highly respected, ensuring their place as rock royalty.
2. Pink Floyd
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
Pink Floyd, the kings of progressive rock, popularized the genre with their ambitious concept albums and powerful songwriting throughout the 1970s. This decade was their defining era, producing Dark Side Of The Moon, one of the best-selling and most influential albums in music history. As kings of prog-rock, Pink Floyd popularized progressive music with powerful songwriting and concept albums. The 1970s were unquestionably their defining decade, featuring 1973’s Dark Side Of The Moon.
Dark Side Of The Moon, a diamond-selling album, has remained culturally relevant across decades. Roger Waters and David Gilmour’s songwriting and instrumental prowess, evident in hits like “Money,” “Wish You Were Here,” and “Time,” established Pink Floyd as innovators and legends. Pink Floyd are easily one of the last century’s most revered bands, making them essential artists of the 1970s and progressive rock.
1. Led Zeppelin
Jethro Tull 1970s progressive rock band members Ian Anderson, John Glascock, and Martin Barre performing in 1977
Led Zeppelin’s impact on the 1970s and rock music as a whole is simply colossal. Their raw power, blues-infused hard rock, and mythical stage presence made them the quintessential rock band of the decade and a lasting influence on music. Led Zeppelin’s infectious influence persists throughout contemporary music, with their reverence growing exponentially. This may be due to nostalgia for raw, old-school rock and roll or simply the timeless quality of hits like “Stairway To Heaven,” “Immigrant Song,” and “Whole Lotta Love.”
John Bonham, Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, and John Paul Jones were a force of nature, achieving unparalleled musicianship, songwriting, and band chemistry. To this day, no band has replicated Led Zeppelin’s unique magic and dominance, making them the ultimate rock band of the 1970s.
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