The best Pop Rock albums
of the 1970s.
Where to start with 1970–1979 pop rock — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1970s — pop rock
Top picks from 1970–1979, ranked by where we would start.
ABBA
Arrival
A vibrant blend of disco rhythms and catchy melodies that captures the exuberance of the mid-70s pop landscape.
Start here
ABBA
Waterloo
A vibrant tapestry of catchy melodies and shimmering harmonies that defined the early sounds of disco-pop.
Start here
Prince
Prince
A vibrant blend of funk, pop, and R&B that showcases Prince's signature sound and charismatic songwriting.
Start here
Prince
For You
A vibrant blend of funk, soul, and pop that showcases Prince's early musical genius and distinctive vocal style.
Start here
Kate Bush
Lionheart
A kaleidoscope of theatrical sounds interwoven with lush melodies and introspective lyrics, capturing the essence of a burgeoning artist's vision.
Start here
Kate Bush
The Kick Inside
A haunting blend of ethereal vocals and whimsical arrangements that evoke literary themes and emotional depth.
Start here
David Bowie
Diamond Dogs
A theatrical blend of glam rock and dystopian themes enveloped in rich, cinematic soundscapes.
Start here
David Bowie
Lodger
A vibrant fusion of world rhythms and avant-garde pop, showcasing Bowie's adventurous spirit in the late '70s.
Start here
U2
Three
Raw post-punk energy combines with melodic hooks and anthemic choruses, showcasing U2's early songwriting prowess.
Start here
Elvis Presley
Today
A blend of soulful ballads and country-infused rock, showcasing Elvis's emotional depth and vocal prowess.
Start here
Elvis Presley
Love Letters from Elvis
A tender blend of heartfelt ballads and soulful grooves, showcasing Elvis's enduring vocal charisma and emotional depth.
Start here
Ringo Starr
Sentimental Journey
A lush collection of standards infused with Ringo's warm vocals and a nostalgic, laid-back charm.
Start here
Ringo Starr
Bad Boy
A breezy collection of pop rock melodies laced with Ringo's signature charm and playful storytelling.
Start here
Mike Oldfield
Incantations
A sprawling tapestry of ethereal melodies and rhythmic pulses, blending classical structures with progressive rock's expansive spirit.
Start here
Mike Oldfield
Hergest Ridge
A sprawling, atmospheric journey blending progressive rock with tranquil, pastoral melodies that evoke the Welsh countryside.
Start here
Elton John
Elton John
A captivating blend of heartfelt ballads and vibrant rock, showcasing Elton John's early songwriting prowess and distinctive vocal style.
Start here
Elton John
Don't Shoot Me I'm Only the Piano Player
A vibrant blend of pop rock and glam influences, infused with Elton John's signature piano-driven melodies.
Start here
Paul McCartney
McCartney
A lo-fi exploration of melody and introspection woven through gentle acoustic arrangements and heartfelt vocals.
Start here
Paul McCartney
Thrillington
A whimsically orchestrated reimagining of McCartney's earlier works, blending playful melodies with lush arrangements.
Start here
Franco Battiato
L'era del cinghiale bianco
Eclectic soundscapes blend progressive rock, electronic textures, and operatic vocals to create a uniquely Italian sonic experience.
Start here
Franco Battiato
Fetus
A bold fusion of avant-garde experimentation and pop sensibilities, drenched in surreal, cerebral themes.
Start here
Queen
Queen II
A theatrical blend of hard rock and intricate harmonies, weaving darkness and whimsy into a compelling sonic tapestry.
Start here
Queen
A Day at the Races
A vibrant blend of operatic vocals, intricate harmonies, and theatrical rock arrangements that push the boundaries of traditional music forms.
Start here
Leonard Cohen
Songs of Love and Hate
A haunting exploration of love and despair, woven through Cohen's baritone and stark instrumentation.
Start here