The Greatest Classic Rock Bands

Coley Reed
Updated May 2, 2024 539.4K views 238 items
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939.7K votes
47.0K voters
Voting Rules
Vote up the all-time, all-around best rock artists who got their start in the 1960s or '70s.
Latest additions: Redbone, Love
Most divisive: Kiss
Over 47.0K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of Classic Rock Bands

Rock on with the crème de la crème of classic rock right here! In this space, we pay homage to the legendary bands that have carved their riffs, lyrics, and anthems into the annals of music history. These are the acts that made guitars wail and stages roar, groups whose very names conjure up memories of epic concerts and vinyl records that defined an era.

Picture the electrifying riffs of Led Zeppelin, the psychedelic soundscapes of Pink Floyd, the timeless tunes of The Beatles, and the anthemic power of Queen. Our list spans the game changers of the halcyon days of the 70s to icons like Aerosmith and The Rolling Stones who still pack stadiums. It's about the enduring influence and the kind of music that transcends decades.

This isn't your typical rundown of classic rock royalty—it's shaped by you, the fan, the aficionado, the avid listener with vinyl at your fingertips and rock running through your veins. Dive into this interactive lineup and cast your votes for the bands that really epitomize the essence of classic rock. Share your voice, influence the rankings, and see where your favorites land on the grand scale of guitar solos and power ballads. Let's find out together which band takes the crown as the supreme ruler of classic rock.

  • Stevie Ray Vaughan
    31

    Widely regarded as one of the greatest blues guitarists of all time, Stevie Ray Vaughan's virtuosic playing and soulful voice helped to revitalize the genre during the 1980s. His unique blend of power and finesse endeared him to fans across the world, showcasing his incredible talent both as a solo artist and as part of his band, Double Trouble. Although his life was tragically cut short, Stevie Ray Vaughan's influence on the world of blues and rock remains immeasurable.

  • Elton John
    32
    7,506 votes

    As one of the most successful and enduring artists in rock history, Sir Elton John's flamboyant stage presence and virtuosic piano skills have made him an icon of the genre. Known for his prolific songwriting partnership with lyricist Bernie Taupin, Elton John's music has transcended boundaries and touched the lives of millions around the globe. With countless hit songs and a career spanning more than five decades, his influence on the world of classic rock is beyond measure.

  • Simon and Garfunkel
    33

    As one of the most successful folk-rock duos of the 1960s, Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel's harmonious blend of poetic lyrics and intricate arrangements captivated a generation of fans. Their timeless songs struck a chord with listeners, providing a soundtrack for the social and political changes happening around them. With their enduring impact on the world of classic rock and their continued influence on contemporary artists, Simon and Garfunkel's legacy remains untarnished.

  • Boston
    34
    7,116 votes

    As pioneers of the "album-oriented rock" sound, Boston burst onto the scene in the late 1970s with their infectious blend of hard rock and finely crafted harmonies. Their landmark self-titled debut album remains one of the best-selling debut albums in U.S. history, showcasing their unique combination of skilled musicianship and impeccable studio production. With several hit songs and a lasting influence on the world of classic rock, Boston's place in rock history is firmly cemented.

  • Paul McCartney
    35
    5,642 votes

    As a founding member of The Beatles and an incredibly successful solo artist, Paul McCartney's contributions to the world of classic rock are unparalleled. Known for his melodic bass lines, emotive vocals, and prolific songwriting, McCartney's extensive catalog of timeless music spans multiple genres and speaks to generations of fans. With a career that has endured for over six decades, Sir Paul's influence on the world of music shows no signs of diminishing.

  • With their ambitious fusion of rock, pop, and classical elements, Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) carved out a unique niche in the world of classic rock during the 1970s and 1980s. Led by multi-instrumentalist and songwriter Jeff Lynne, their lush arrangements, catchy melodies, and complex harmonies earned them critical acclaim and a devoted following. As pioneers of the "symphonic rock" movement, ELO's innovative approach to music continues to inspire and captivate fans of all ages.

  • As a veritable supergroup of the late 1960s and 1970s, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young's harmonious blend of folk, rock, and country made them one of the most influential acts of their time. With their socially conscious lyrics and impeccable vocal harmonies, their music struck a chord with fans, capturing the spirit of an era marked by political unrest and social change. With a lasting impact on generations of musicians and fans, their legacy stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and artistic expression.

  • Janis Joplin
    38
    4,110 votes

    Known for her raw, powerful vocals and larger-than-life stage presence, Janis Joplin remains one of the most iconic figures in the world of classic rock. As the frontwoman for Big Brother and the Holding Company and a successful solo artist, her soulful performances and heartbreaking lyrics struck a chord with fans around the world. Though her life and career were tragically cut short, Janis Joplin's influence on rock and roll and future generations of female musicians is immense.

  • Journey
    39
    7,804 votes

    Best known for their anthemic hits and soaring power ballads, Journey's combination of skilled musicianship and emotional songwriting made them one of the most successful and beloved rock bands of the late 1970s and early 1980s. With the incredible vocal range of Steve Perry and the guitar mastery of Neal Schon, their music resonated with fans around the globe. Despite numerous lineup changes and shifts in musical styles, Journey's place in the pantheon of classic rock remains unshakable.

  • Pioneers of Southern rock and among the first to successfully fuse blues, country, and jazz into their sound, The Allman Brothers Band's innovative approach to music has made them one of the most respected and influential bands in rock history. Known for their extended improvisational jams and unforgettable live performances, their music continues to captivate and inspire fans across generations. With a storied career full of triumph and tragedy, The Allman Brothers Band's enduring legacy is a testament to their love of rock and roll.

  • Genesis
    41
    5,259 votes

    As one of the most successful and innovative progressive rock bands of all time, Genesis's influence on the genre is undeniable. Their diverse catalog showcases an array of musical styles, ranging from intricate symphonic compositions to radio-friendly pop hits. With a career spanning decades and several lineup changes, including the departure of original frontman Peter Gabriel, Genesis remains a constant reminder of the power of artistic evolution in the world of classic rock.

  • The Kinks
    42
    7,200 votes

    Often cited as one of the most influential British bands of the 1960s, The Kinks' unique blend of rock, pop, and social commentary struck a chord with fans on both sides of the Atlantic. With sharp-witted lyrics courtesy of frontman Ray Davies, their music offered a biting critique of contemporary culture, while still delivering catchy tunes and unforgettable hooks. Despite numerous lineup changes and internal strife, The Kinks' lasting impact on the world of classic rock is a testament to their innovative spirit and undeniable talent.

  • Yes
    43
    4,658 votes

    As one of the pioneers of progressive rock, Yes's ambitious and elaborate compositions have left an indelible mark on the genre. Known for their virtuosic musicianship and sprawling concept albums, their music showcases the perfect balance of technical prowess and emotional depth. With a career spanning five decades, Yes continues to push the boundaries of rock music and remains a shining example of what can be achieved when artistic vision and skill collide.

  • John Lennon
    44
    5,517 votes

    As a founding member of The Beatles and an influential solo artist, John Lennon's contributions to the world of classic rock were nothing short of revolutionary. With his introspective lyrics, raw vocals, and willingness to push boundaries, Lennon consistently challenged the status quo and inspired countless artists in the process. Though his life was tragically cut short, John Lennon's indelible impact on the world of rock and roll ensures that his legacy will never be forgotten.

  • Bob Dylan
    45
    6,286 votes

    As one of the most iconic and influential songwriters in the history of popular music, Bob Dylan's profound impact on the world of classic rock cannot be overstated. With his poetic lyrics, distinctive voice, and genre-defying approach to music, Dylan's work has influenced and inspired countless artists over the years. As a recipient of the Nobel Prize in Literature, his enduring legacy as a musical poet is a testament to his mastery of the craft and his indelible mark on the landscape of rock and roll.

  • Jefferson Airplane
    46
    Jefferson Airplane was a rock band based in San Francisco, California, that became one of the pioneering bands of psychedelic rock. Formed in 1965, the group defined the San Francisco Sound and was the first from the Bay Area to achieve international commercial success. They were headliners at the three most famous American rock festivals of the 1960s—Monterey (1967), Woodstock (1969) and Altamont (1969)—and the first Isle of Wight Festival (1968) in England. Their 1967 break-out album Surrealistic Pillow ranks on the short list of the most significant recordings of the Summer of Love. Two songs from that album, "Somebody to Love" and "White Rabbit", are among Rolling Stone's "500 Greatest Songs of All Time." The October 1966 to February 1970 lineup of Jefferson Airplane, consisting of Marty Balin (vocals), Paul Kantner (guitar, vocals), Grace Slick (vocals), Jorma Kaukonen (lead guitar, vocals), Jack Casady (bass), and Spencer Dryden (drums), was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996. Marty Balin left the band in 1971. After 1972, Jefferson Airplane effectively split into two groups. Kaukonen and Casady moved on full-time to their own band, Hot Tuna. Slick, Kantner, and the remaining members of Jefferson Airplane recruited new members and regrouped as Jefferson Starship in 1974, with Marty Balin eventually joining them. Jefferson Airplane was presented with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.
  • Santana
    47
    6,456 votes

    Pioneers of the Latin rock sound, Santana's infectious blend of blues, rock, and Afro-Cuban rhythms took the world by storm in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Led by virtuosic guitarist Carlos Santana, their unique fusion of musical styles and unforgettable live performances earned them a devoted following and a lasting impact on the world of classic rock. With a career spanning more than five decades, Santana continues to inspire and captivate fans with their innovative approach to music.

  • The Doobie Brothers
    48
    The Doobie Brothers are an American rock band from San Jose, California. The group has sold more than 40 million albums worldwide. They have been active for nearly five decades, with their greatest success in the 1970s. The band's history can be roughly divided into three eras. From 1970 to 1975 it featured lead vocalist Tom Johnston and a mainstream rock and roll sound with elements of folk, country and R&B. Johnston quit the group in 1975, and was replaced by Michael McDonald, whose interest in soul music changed the band's sound until it broke up in 1982. The Doobie Brothers reformed in 1987 with Johnston back in the fold and are still active, with occasional contributions from McDonald. Every incarnation of the group emphasized vocal harmonies. The Doobie Brothers were inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2004.
  • Foreigner
    49
    5,820 votes

    With their catchy hooks and arena-ready anthems, Foreigner emerged as one of the most successful and enduring rock bands of the late 1970s and 1980s. Their perfect balance of hard-edged rock and melodic power ballads resonated with fans, earning them a string of hit songs and platinum-selling albums. As a testament to their lasting appeal, Foreigner continues to tour and has solidified their place in the pantheon of classic rock legends.

  • Chicago
    50
    4,297 votes
    Chicago are an American rock band formed in Chicago, Illinois, in 1967. The group was initially billed as The Big Thing before calling themselves the Chicago Transit Authority in 1968, and then shortening the name in 1969. A self-described "rock and roll band with horns", Chicago's songs often combine elements of classical music, jazz, R&B, and pop music. To date, Chicago have sold over 40 million units in the U.S., with 23 gold, 18 platinum, and eight multi-platinum albums. They have had five consecutive number-one albums on the Billboard 200 and 20 top-ten singles on the Billboard Hot 100. In 1974 the group had seven albums, its entire catalog at the time, on the Billboard 200 simultaneously. The group has received ten Grammy Award nominations, winning one for the song, "If You Leave Me Now". The group's first album, Chicago Transit Authority, released in 1969, was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2014. Chicago were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016.
  • Dire Straits
    51
    6,238 votes
    Dire Straits were a British rock band formed in London in 1977 by Mark Knopfler (lead vocals and lead guitar), David Knopfler (rhythm guitar and backing vocals), John Illsley (bass guitar and backing vocals), and Pick Withers (drums and percussion). They were active from 1977 to 1988 and again from 1991 to 1995. The band became one of the world's best-selling music artists, with album sales of over 100 million.Their first hit single "Sultans of Swing", from their self-titled debut album released in 1978, reached the top ten in the US chart and became a top ten hit in the UK the following year. The band released several hit singles in the 1980s, such as "Romeo and Juliet" (1981), "Private Investigations" (1982), "Twisting by the Pool" (1983), "Money for Nothing" (1985), and "Walk of Life" (1985). Their most commercially successful album was Brothers in Arms (1985), which has sold more than 30 million copies and was the first album to sell a million copies on the compact disc (CD) format.Dire Straits' sound was drawn from a wide variety of musical influences including jazz, folk, and country, as well as the blues-rock of J. J. Cale and Eric Clapton. Their stripped-down sound contrasted with punk rock and demonstrated a roots rock influence that emerged from pub rock. According to the Guinness Book of British Hit Albums, Dire Straits have spent over 1,100 weeks on the UK albums chart, ranking fifth all time. Brothers in Arms is the eighth-best-selling album in UK chart history. There were several changes in personnel over the band's career, with Mark Knopfler and Illsley the only consistent members. After disbanding once again in 1995, Knopfler launched his solo career full-time. Dire Straits won four Grammy Awards, three Brit Awards (Best British Group twice), two MTV Video Music Awards, and various other awards. The band were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2018.
  • The Cars
    52
    4,451 votes
    The Cars were an American rock band that emerged from the new wave scene in the late 1970s. The band originated in Boston in 1976, with singer, rhythm guitarist, and songwriter Ric Ocasek; bassist and singer Benjamin Orr; lead guitarist Elliot Easton; keyboardist Greg Hawkes; and drummer David Robinson. The Cars were at the forefront in merging 1970s guitar-oriented rock with the new synthesizer-oriented pop that was then becoming popular and which flourished in the early 1980s. Robert Palmer, music critic for The New York Times and Rolling Stone, described the Cars' musical style by saying: "they have taken some important but disparate contemporary trends—punk minimalism, the labyrinthine synthesizer and guitar textures of art rock, the '50s rockabilly revival and the melodious terseness of power pop—and mixed them into a personal and appealing blend."The Cars were named "Best New Artist" in the 1978 Rolling Stone Readers' Poll and won "Video of the Year" for "You Might Think" at the first MTV Video Music Awards in 1984. Their debut album, The Cars, sold six million copies and appeared on the Billboard 200 album chart for 139 weeks. As of 2001, the Cars have sold over 23 million albums in the United States. The band broke up in 1988, and Ocasek later discouraged talk of a reunion. Orr died in 2000 from pancreatic cancer. In 2005, Easton and Hawkes joined with Todd Rundgren to form a spin-off band, the New Cars, which performed classic Cars and Rundgren songs alongside new material. The original surviving members reunited in 2010 to record a new album, Move Like This, which was released in May 2011, followed by a short tour.In April 2018, The Cars were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and reunited once more to perform at the induction ceremony.
  • The Byrds
    53
    2,778 votes
    The Byrds were an American rock band formed in Los Angeles, California in 1964. The band underwent multiple lineup changes throughout its existence, with frontman Roger McGuinn (known as Jim McGuinn until mid-1967) remaining the sole consistent member. Although they only managed to attain the huge commercial success of contemporaries like the Beatles, the Beach Boys, and the Rolling Stones for a short period in the mid-1960s, the Byrds are today considered by critics to be nearly as influential as those bands. Their signature blend of clear harmony singing and McGuinn's jangly twelve-string Rickenbacker guitar was "absorbed into the vocabulary of rock" and has continued to be influential.Initially, the band pioneered the musical genre of folk rock as a popular format in 1965, by melding the influence of the Beatles and other British Invasion bands with contemporary and traditional folk music on their debut album and the hit singles "Mr. Tambourine Man" and "Turn! Turn! Turn!". As the 1960s progressed, the band was influential in originating psychedelic rock and raga rock, with their song "Eight Miles High" and the albums Fifth Dimension (1966), Younger Than Yesterday (1967) and The Notorious Byrd Brothers (1968). They also played a pioneering role in the development of country rock, with the 1968 album Sweetheart of the Rodeo representing their fullest immersion into the genre.The original five-piece lineup of the Byrds consisted of Jim McGuinn (lead guitar, vocals), Gene Clark (tambourine, vocals), David Crosby (rhythm guitar, vocals), Chris Hillman (bass guitar, vocals), and Michael Clarke (drums). This version of the band was relatively short-lived; by early 1966, Clark had left due to problems associated with anxiety and his increasing isolation within the group. The Byrds continued as a quartet until late 1967, when Crosby and Clarke also departed. McGuinn and Hillman decided to recruit new members, including country rock pioneer Gram Parsons, but by late 1968, Hillman and Parsons had also exited the band. McGuinn elected to rebuild the band's membership; between 1968 and 1973, he helmed a new incarnation of the Byrds that featured guitarist Clarence White, among others. McGuinn disbanded the then-current lineup in early 1973 to make way for a reunion of the original quintet. The Byrds' final album was released in March 1973, with the reunited group disbanding later that year.Several former members of the band went on to successful careers of their own, either as solo artists or as members of such groups as Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, the Flying Burrito Brothers and the Desert Rose Band. In 1991, the Byrds were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, an occasion that saw the five original members performing together for the last time. Gene Clark died of a heart attack later that year, while Michael Clarke died of liver failure in 1993. McGuinn, Crosby, and Hillman remain active.
  • Bruce Springsteen
    54

    Hailed as "The Boss" by devoted fans, Bruce Springsteen's heartfelt songwriting and electrifying live performances made him one of the most revered figures in classic rock. With his gritty vocals and blue-collar sensibilities, Springsteen's music has resonated with fans across generations, earning him countless accolades and sold-out stadium tours. As a passionate advocate for social justice and a symbol of American resilience, Bruce Springsteen's impact on the world of rock and roll is truly unmatched.

  • Jethro Tull
    55
    4,644 votes
    Jethro Tull, a prominent figure in the progressive rock scene, is a British band formed in Blackpool, Lancashire, in 1967. The band's name was derived from Jethro Tull, an 18th-century farmer and inventor of the seed drill, a tribute to the agricultural revolution in Britain. However, the music they played was anything but antiquated. The group's pioneering blend of rock, folk, and jazz elements brought them international acclaim, making them one of the most successful and enduring bands of their era. The band's frontman and only consistent member, Ian Anderson, was a creative force behind Jethro Tull. His distinct stage presence, featuring him standing on one leg while playing the flute, became a hallmark of their performances. Besides the flute, Anderson also played acoustic guitar and sang lead vocals, penning most of the band's lyrics as well. His lyrical themes often encompassed complex social issues and philosophical musings, contributing to the band's reputation for intricate, thought-provoking music. Jethro Tull's breakthrough came in 1969 with their album Stand Up, which topped the UK charts. Their subsequent releases, including Aqualung and Thick as a Brick, were also met with considerable commercial success. Known for their live performances, Jethro Tull toured extensively around the globe, gaining a dedicated fan base.
  • Steve Miller Band
    56
    The Steve Miller Band are an American rock band formed in 1966 in San Francisco, California. The band is managed by Steve Miller on guitar and lead vocals, and is best known today for a string of mid-1970s hit singles that are staples of classic rock radio, as well as several earlier acid rock albums. Steve Miller left his first band to move to San Francisco and form the Steve Miller Blues Band. Shortly after Harvey Kornspan negotiated the band’s landmark contract with Capitol Records in 1967, the band shortened its name to 'Steve Miller Band'. In February 1968, the band recorded its debut album Children of the Future. They went on to produce albums Sailor, Brave New World, Your Saving Grace, Number 5, Rock Love and more. The Steve Miller Band’s Greatest Hits 1974-1978, released in 1978, sold over 13 million copies. They continued to produce more albums and in 2014, Steve Miller Band is touring with the rock band Journey.
  • Neil Young
    57
    5,540 votes
    Born in Toronto, Canada, in 1945, Neil Young is a quintessential singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who has significantly influenced the music world for over half a century. Known for his idiosyncratic vocal style and deeply personal lyrics, Young's vast musical repertoire spans across several genres, including rock, folk, country, and experimental. His prolific career began in the 1960s as part of the folk-rock band Buffalo Springfield, followed by collaborations with Crosby, Stills & Nash, and later his success as a solo artist. Young's songwriting often reflects his political activism and concern for environmental issues, lending a unique depth and relevance to his music. His most notable albums include After the Gold Rush (1970), Harvest (1972), and Rust Never Sleeps (1979). These have been hailed as some of the greatest albums in rock history, showcasing Young's ability to evolve his sound while remaining true to his artistic vision. Despite facing several career disruptions due to health issues, Young has remained persistently active in the music industry, releasing dozens of albums and earning multiple awards. Neil Young's impact on music extends beyond his discography. He co-founded Farm Aid, an annual benefit concert that raises funds for family farmers in the United States. As an inventor, he developed Pono, a high-resolution music download service and player to deliver better audio quality than MP3s. This multi-faceted artist has not only shaped the sound of rock and roll but also used his platform to effect meaningful change, solidifying his legacy as one of the most influential musicians of his generation.
  • Billy Joel
    58
    5,442 votes
    Billy Joel, born William Martin Joel on May 9, 1949, in the Bronx, New York, is a renowned American musician, singer-songwriter, and composer. His musical journey began at a young age when he started piano lessons at his mother's behest, laying the foundation for what would become an illustrious career. An alumnus of Hicksville High School in Long Island, Joel's high school years were marked by a growing passion for music that culminated in him joining the Echoes, a British Invasion cover band, even before his graduation. Joel's breakthrough came in 1973 with the release of Piano Man, a song that not only became his first major hit but also earned him his nickname. This song solidified his reputation as a gifted storyteller capable of capturing the human experience through his lyrics. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, he released a series of successful albums including The Stranger and 52nd Street, both of which topped the U.S. album charts. His ability to seamlessly blend various musical styles, from pop and rock to jazz and classical, resulted in a diverse discography that appealed to a broad audience. Beyond his success in the music industry, Joel's life has been characterized by resilience in the face of personal and professional challenges. His battles with substance abuse and high-profile divorces have been well-documented, yet he has continued to create music and perform, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to his craft. In recognition of his contributions to music, Joel was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999 and received the Kennedy Center Honors in 2013.
  • Bad Company
    59
    5,293 votes
    Bad Company are an English hard rock supergroup formed in Westminster, London, in 1973 by singer Paul Rodgers and guitarist Mick Ralphs later adding drummer Simon Kirke and bassist Boz Burrell. Peter Grant, who managed the rock band Led Zeppelin, also managed Bad Company until 1982. Bad Company enjoyed great success throughout the 1970s. Their first three albums, Bad Company (1974), Straight Shooter (1975), and Run with the Pack (1976), reached the top five in the album charts in both the UK and US. Many of their singles, such as "Bad Company", "Can't Get Enough", "Good Lovin' Gone Bad", "Feel Like Makin' Love", "Ready for Love", "Shooting Star", and "Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy" remain staples of classic rock radio.
  • Ozzy Osbourne
    60
    3,802 votes

    Best known as the frontman for heavy metal pioneers Black Sabbath and as a successful solo artist, Ozzy Osbourne's contributions to the world of classic rock are nothing short of legendary. With his powerful vocals, dark lyrics, and larger-than-life persona, Osbourne helped define the heavy metal genre, influencing countless artists in the process. Despite numerous controversies and challenges throughout his career, Ozzy Osbourne's impact on the world of rock music is immeasurable.