Some albums that came out in the 1970s were incredible feats for their era. However, not all essential rock albums from the 1970s are the best to introduce to the younger generation. Some are difficult to “get” through the lens of someone who wasn’t alive to feel the vibe of the 1970s. Others didn’t age very well. These five albums, however, are perfect for passing down to the younger generations. Let’s take a look!
1. ‘Houses Of The Holy’ by Led Zeppelin
This 1973 record is often considered Led Zeppelin’s very best album. While that statement is still debatable among superfans, one can’t deny that it’s become an absolute classic. It’s a milder album compared to the band’s previous work, but the creativity and artistic nature of it is one of a kind. The guitar riffs and vocals on “The Song Remains The Same” and “Dancing Days” can mesmerize anyone, regardless of age.
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2. ‘Ramones’ by The Ramones
Ramones is one of many iconic punk albums to come out of the 1970s. However, nobody was doing punk rock in the US quite like The Ramones were in 1976. This album is the holy grail of American punk rock, and few albums in the decades since have matched its brilliance. From the bass lines to the drums to the melodic vocals of Joey Ramone, this album got a lot of people into punk when they were kids; and it can still have that effect on a younger audience.
3. ‘Rumours’ by Fleetwood Mac
Lists of essential rock albums from the 1970s always include this 1976 classic, and for good reason. Nobody was doing folk rock quite like Fleetwood Mac in the 70s. Rumours is the kind of album that doesn’t have much in the way of filler. Each song on this record has strong standalone listening quality.
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4. ‘Loaded’ by The Velvet Underground
This 1970 record from The Velvet Underground introduced a lot of young listeners to the talents of Lou Reed. Loaded was notably different from The Velvet Underground’s previous works. The quality is what sets this one apart, from the songwriting to the production value. It’s definitely different from what you’d expect from rock nowadays, but any young person interested in proto-punk will be able to hear its value. If anything, it’s a solid music history lesson.
5. ‘Dark Side Of The Moon’ by Pink Floyd
When it comes to essential rock albums from 1970s, nothing hits quite like Dark Side Of The Moon by Pink Floyd. Some would say it’s the greatest rock and roll record of all time. Others would say it defined prog-rock and psychedelic rock. Either way, it’s an unforgettable piece of work that must be listened to from beginning to end.
6. ‘L.A. Woman’ by The Doors
So many songs from L.A. Woman by The Doors have since become markers of the 1970s. You can’t hear them without thinking of that era. “Love Her Madly” and “Riders On The Storm” are just a couple of examples. It takes a talented group of people to make something that iconic. Even though Jim Morrison is quite literally the defining image of The Doors, L.A. Woman was an impressive group effort. There’s a reason why this band has so many fans, both old and young.
Photo via ‘LA Woman’ Album Cover
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