The best Classic Rock albums
of the 1970s.
Where to start with 1970–1979 classic rock — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1970s — classic rock
Top picks from 1970–1979, ranked by where we would start.
Deep Purple
Fireball
A fiery blend of hard rock and progressive elements, igniting with intense riffs and dynamic instrumental exchanges.
Start here
Deep Purple
Stormbringer
A blend of hard rock and soul, infused with funk rhythms and contemplative lyrics that explore themes of love and loss.
Start here
Van Halen
Van Halen
High-octane riffs and virtuosic guitar solos collide with dynamic vocals, redefining hard rock for a new generation.
Start here
Van Halen
Van Halen II
A vibrant fusion of hard rock energy and melodic hooks, propelled by Eddie Van Halen's virtuosic guitar work.
Start here
Electric Light Orchestra
The Electric Light Orchestra
Symphonic rock arrangements intertwine with pop sensibilities, creating a lush soundscape that is both innovative and accessible.
Start here
Electric Light Orchestra
Discovery
A vibrant fusion of orchestral arrangements and catchy pop melodies that epitomizes the late '70s rock era.
Start here
Status Quo
Whatever You Want
A raucous blend of boogie rock and hard-hitting riffs, driven by infectious hooks and lively rhythms.
Start here
Status Quo
If You Can't Stand the Heat...
Energizing boogie rock anthems blend infectious riffs and upbeat melodies, inviting listeners to dance and sing along.
Start here
Alice Cooper
Muscle of Love
A gritty blend of glam rock and hard-hitting riffs, punctuated by theatrical storytelling and raw energy.
Start here
Alice Cooper
From the Inside
A theatrical exploration of personal demons, blending hard rock riffs with introspective lyrics and Alice Cooper's signature macabre flair.
Start here
The Who
Who's Next
A powerful fusion of rock anthems and introspective ballads, layered with innovative production and Pete Townshend's visionary songwriting.
Start here
The Who
Quadrophenia
A sweeping rock opera that intertwines raw emotion with intricate instrumentation and vivid storytelling.
Start here
Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin IV
A fusion of hard rock and folk elements, encapsulating a mystical journey through powerful riffs and introspective lyrics.
Start here
Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin III
A dynamic blend of hard rock energy and acoustic folk intimacy, showcasing the band's diverse musical landscape.
Start here
AC/DC
Highway to Hell
A thunderous blend of anthemic rock riffs and rebellious spirit, driving listeners towards a euphoric musical recklessness.
Start here
AC/DC
Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap
Raucous, high-voltage rock anthems collide with cheeky humor and gritty blues-infused riffs that define hard rock's rebellious spirit.
Start here
The Guess Who
10
A blend of bluesy rock rhythms and introspective lyrics, layered with the band’s signature harmonies and eclectic instrumentation.
Start here
The Guess Who
Artificial Paradise
A blend of eclectic rock styles with introspective lyrics, showcasing both folk and progressive influences.
Start here
Golden Earring
Seven Tears
A blend of progressive rock and Nederbeat, creating expansive soundscapes filled with emotional depth and lyrical introspection.
Start here
Golden Earring
Moontan
A blend of hard rock and progressive elements, driven by atmospheric guitar riffs and infectious rhythms.
Start here