RANKED: 25 Greatest Rock Albums of the ’70s

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RANKED: 25 Greatest Rock Albums of the ’70s

Michael Crumpley

Posted: April 19, 2024 | Last updated: April 19, 2024

Alongside the likes of Lou Reed and David Bowie, T. Rex were carving out their own space in the glam rock niche. With Marc Bolan at the helm transforming from a modest folk troubadour to rock icons, their album <em>Electric Warrior</em> became a cornerstone of glam rock, dazzling fans with its combination of fuzzy guitar riffs and an avant-garde approach. Released at the height of glam's popularity, this album featured hits like "Jeepster" and "Get It On," which became anthems of the era. These songs, along with tracks like "Cosmic Dancer" and "Life's A Gas," solidified the album as one of the best in its era.

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25. T. Rex - "Electric Warrior" (1971)

Alongside the likes of Lou Reed and David Bowie, T. Rex were carving out their own space in the glam rock niche. With Marc Bolan at the helm transforming from a modest folk troubadour to rock icons, their album Electric Warrior became a cornerstone of glam rock, dazzling fans with its combination of fuzzy guitar riffs and an avant-garde approach. Released at the height of glam's popularity, this album featured hits like "Jeepster" and "Get It On," which became anthems of the era. These songs, along with tracks like "Cosmic Dancer" and "Life's A Gas," solidified the album as one of the best in its era.

The legend of eccentric and mysterious frontman Jim Morrison tends to overshadow the other talent in the band -- notably, keyboardist Ray Manzarek. One of the early inductees into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (1993), the band, steeped in the blues and experimenting freely in elements of psychedelic rock, released six albums in five years. Its self-titled 1967 rookie effort is considered one the great debut records of all time. Classics such as “Light My Fire,” “L.A. Woman,” “Break on Through (To the Other Side),” “Touch Me” and “Riders on the Storm” are just a few examples of the greatness that still lives on today.

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24. The Doors - "L.A. Woman" (1971)

The Doors undoubtedly had one of the most unique sounds in all of rock. Released just three months before Jim Morrison passed away, L.A. Woman captures the raw, unfiltered essence of the band at its peak. The album is a gritty homage to the city of Los Angeles, filled with bluesy hooks and the deep, poetic musings of Morrison. The album's spontaneous energy, largely due to the live recording style in their makeshift studio, marked a return to their roots and cemented its place as a rock classic.

There's no other choice than to put "Hey Jude" as the top Beatles track. When a sad Julian Lennon sought the attention of his father John amid his parent's divorce, it was his 'uncle' Paul who wrote this song to him as a way to cheer him up. This became one of the most recognizable rock anthems the world has seen. The chorus is something everyone can sing along to, and this track -- without a doubt -- has firmly been embedded as one of the most significant pieces of pop culture fabric within the last century.

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23. Paul McCartney & Wings - "Band on the Run" (1973)

Paul McCartney's album Band on the Run truly defied the odds, becoming a defining piece of the 1970s despite a chaotic recording process. Aiming to infuse the album with a tropical flair, McCartney chose Lagos, Nigeria for its recording -- a decision that backfired when political tensions led to him and his wife being robbed. Furthermore, just before departure, key band members quit, leaving McCartney to play not only bass but also drums, lead guitar, and more. Despite these setbacks and the mediocre studio conditions, he managed to produce an album that not only met but exceeded the lofty expectations set by fans and critics. With tracks like "Let Me Roll It" and "Band on the Run," McCartney tapped into his Beatles roots while showcasing his evolution as a standalone artist.

"Eruption" was a track that Eddie Van Halen himself didn't initially intend for the album, with an electrifying guitar solo that almost didn't make it into rock history. As Eddie warmed up in the studio, his producer was captivated by the fierce, impromptu performance and insisted on recording it on the spot. Despite Eddie's own critical view of his performance, the track has become a seminal piece in the rock guitar canon. The solo kicks off with eight bars that blend bluesy influences with virtuoso licks reminiscent of Jimmy Page's iconic style -- but cranked up to eleven.

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22. Van Halen - "Van Halen" (1978)

When Van Halen was recording this album, he was creating sounds with the guitar that nobody had ever heard before. This pioneering spirit is part of what cements the Van Halen album as legendary. Introducing his signature tapping on the electric guitar technique, the album is Eddie Van Halen at his best -- which mesmerized both fans and fellow musicians alike. Tracks like "Eruption" changed the landscape of rock guitar playing, while "Runnin' with the Devil" and "Ain’t Talkin’ ‘bout Love" solidified the album as a staple in rock history.

Fifty years ago, David Bowie introduced the world to Ziggy Stardust, marking a major shift in the musical landscape of the '60s and early '70s -- giving way to a vibrant, genre-bending decade. With lyrics that offered love and acceptance, and his iconic look and electrifying sound set him apart, offering a style and energy unlike anything previously seen or heard. Sharing his birthday with Elvis Presley, another RCA icon, Bowie mirrored the King's influence but carved out an unparalleled legacy with his music, making "Ziggy Stardust" a legendary album.

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21. David Bowie - "Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars" (1975)

Fifty years ago, David Bowie introduced the world to Ziggy Stardust, marking a major shift in the musical landscape of the '60s and early '70s -- giving way to a vibrant, genre-bending decade. With lyrics that offered love and acceptance, and his iconic look and electrifying sound set him apart, offering a style and energy unlike anything previously seen or heard. Sharing his birthday with Elvis Presley, another RCA icon, Bowie mirrored the King's influence but carved out an unparalleled legacy with his music, making "Ziggy Stardust" a legendary album.

If Lou and Reed and Velvet Underground were the pioneers of the punk movement in America, the Ramones were the undisputed superstars. Two-plus-minute songs, minimal chord structure, and, of course, the look. Joey, Johnny, Dee Dee, and Tommy, sporting their trademark leather jackets became rock and roll icons while delivering their updated version of the early Beatles’ days. But the band was more than just speed and camp. Its lyrics were political (“Bonzo Goes to Bitburg”), and attacked antisemitism and Nazism (“Today Your Love, Tomorrow the World”). Though all four original members have died, the Ramones’ legacy lives on and is widely celebrated.

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20. Ramones - "Ramones" (1976)

The Ramones' self-titled debut album, released in the mid-70s, stands out for its raw power and direct approach, a stark contrast to the elaborate and extended jams typical of the '70s. Starting as inexperienced musicians, the Ramones honed their craft through rigorous live performances in New York City, facing tough crowds and refining their sound through a process of elimination. This trial-by-fire led to their ability to record an album in just seven days, capturing their live energy in a series of short, sharp tracks that defined the punk rock ethos. Their minimalist style, characterized by rapid-fire songs that rarely breached the two-minute mark, was nothing short of revolutionary.

If you're talking about songs that stand the test of time, not many do it better than hits like "Sweet Home Alabama" or "Free Bird." Lynyrd Skynyrd stands as a towering figure in the Southern rock genre, and their music has become a symbol of freedom and expression. Tragically, the band's journey was cut short by a plane crash in 1977, which claimed the lives of several members, including lead vocalist Ronnie Van Zant. Despite this, Lynyrd Skynyrd's legacy endures strongly today.

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19. Lynyrd Skynyrd - "(Pronounced 'Lĕh-'nérd 'Skin-'nérd)" (1973)

"Free Bird," "Tuesday's Gone," and "Simple Man" all on your debut album is hitting the jackpot on your first try. Lynyrd Skynyrd's self-titled release in 1973 not only introduced the world to their unapologetic blend of Southern rock and blues but also set a standard for music. "Free Bird" with its iconic extended guitar solo became an instant classic and enduring symbol of rock rebellion. The emotional depth of "Tuesday's Gone" and the reflective "Simple Man" offer a more introspective side to the band, showing their versatility and the profound storytelling capabilities of lead vocalist Ronnie Van Zant.

Nearly everyone has experienced heartbreak in their lives, and there are few better albums to make your companion than this one. Bob Dylan in the '70s was much more personal, as opposed to his more whimsical self in the '60s. This album spins tales of love, betrayal, and redemption that resonate with the average person beautifully. Tracks like "Tangled Up in Blue" and "Simple Twist of Fate" are narrative-driven songs that weave intricate stories with each verse, combined with folk-rock instrumentation in a wonderful melody that only Dylan knows how.

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18. Bob Dylan - “Blood on the Tracks” (1975)

Nearly everyone has experienced heartbreak in their lives, and there are few better albums to make your companion than this one. Bob Dylan in the '70s was much more personal, as opposed to his more whimsical self in the '60s. This album spins tales of love, betrayal, and redemption that resonate with the average person beautifully. Tracks like "Tangled Up in Blue" and "Simple Twist of Fate" are narrative-driven songs that weave intricate stories with each verse, combined with folk-rock instrumentation in a wonderful melody that only Dylan knows how.

The punk genre needed to be represented here. The Clash -- a heavyweight within the genre -- was heavily influenced by the English rock bands coming before them. In the end, 'London Calling' has every trait one would want in the ideal punk song. It's loud, brash, unapologetic, and has insanely wicked guitar skills.

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17. The Clash - "London Calling" (1979)

An album that seemingly gets better with each listen, London Calling is the stuff of punk rock legends. Released at the tail end of the 1970s, this album is often mistakenly attributed as an '80s album. It quickly became a commercial success and had accompanying critical acclaim, celebrated for its ambitious scope and socio-political commentary. The iconic title track, "London Calling," speaks to the fears of the time, yet feels eerily relevant in any era, proving that The Clash was making history, not just music.

Who knew that a shy English boy named Reginald Dwight would one day emerge as one of the biggest rock stars on the planet? Dwight had a gift for music right away in a house which didn't necessarily promote the passions of following his dreams. He started a band as a teen -- taking parts of names from two fellow bandmembers to create the 'Elton John' moniker. The singer legally changed his name to Elton John early in the '70's, and thus a titan in the entertainment emerged from the heavy ashes of his home life and exploded as a colorful, flamboyant, and highly driven performer.

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16. Elton John - "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" (1973)

Astonishingly recorded in just two weeks, (and a double album, no less) Elton John's Goodbye Yellow Brick Road is arguably his greatest-ever work. With "Candle in the Wind," to the rollicking "Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting," and the dreamy title track, it's an incredible album that not only topped charts worldwide but also stayed at number one on the Billboard 200 for eight consecutive weeks. Each track serves as a different shade of Elton’s musical ability, proof that he was one of the most dynamic musicians of his time.

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15. AC/DC - "Highway to Hell" (1979)

This was the band's last album featuring lead singer Bon Scott, who brought an energy that perfectly matched the group's electrifying sound. Highway to Hell essentially launched AC/DC into the mainstream. From the popular track "Highway to Hell" to "Girls Got Rhythm" and "Touch Too Much," each song delivers a punchy mix of catchy riffs and shout-along choruses that stay stuck in your head. It’s a testament to the album’s power that it not only became a defining moment for the band but also a beloved classic in rock music, reaching number 17 on the Billboard charts.

Steven Tyler knew how to write a hit, and he knew how to hit an incredible range of vocal notes. This combination led to Aerosmith becoming one of the greatest bands in history. His ability to oscillate between raspy lows and piercing high notes defines the band's dynamic sound, blending rock with bluesy undertones -- such as in hits like "Dream On" and "Crazy." Tyler's energetic stage presence and flamboyant style make Aerosmith's concerts make him one of the most memorable rock figures ever.

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14. Aerosmith - "Toys in the Attic" (1975)

This album is all killer, no fillers. Aerosmith's Toys in the Attic is packed with high-octane hits from start to finish. Launching Aerosmith into the rock stratosphere, it features anthems like "Walk This Way" and "Sweet Emotion," tracks that still get airplay decades later and have influenced countless bands. This powerhouse album didn't just climb to number 11 on the Billboard charts; it firmly established Steven Tyler and his bandmates as rock icons. The success of "Toys in the Attic" turned it into a platinum-selling behemoth.

This album not only soared to the top of the charts, making it the best-selling album of 1972 in the U.S., but it also gifted us with classics like "Heart of Gold" and "Old Man." But what Young notably excelled at was the mix of acoustic strumming and lyrics, striking a chord with listeners during a time of musical and social upheaval. Its raw energy moved audiences, leading "Heart of Gold" to become his only number-one hit, a feat that even surprised Young himself. The album's success was such that it won the Juno Award for Album of the Year in 1973. <em>Harvest</em> is proof that sometimes, a little country twang mixed with rock soul can do more than just tug at heartstrings -- it can lead the charts and win accolades, too.

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13. Neil Young - "Harvest" (1972)

This album not only soared to the top of the charts, making it the best-selling album of 1972 in the U.S., but it also gifted us with classics like "Heart of Gold" and "Old Man." But what Young notably excelled at was the mix of acoustic strumming and lyrics, striking a chord with listeners during a time of musical and social upheaval. Its raw energy moved audiences, leading "Heart of Gold" to become his only number-one hit, a feat that even surprised Young himself. The album's success was such that it won the Juno Award for Album of the Year in 1973. Harvest is proof that sometimes, a little country twang mixed with rock soul can do more than just tug at heartstrings -- it can lead the charts and win accolades, too.

If Black Sabbath is considered the godfather of heavy metal, then Zeppelin certainly refined it. Seriously influenced by the blues, Led Zeppelin is the epitome of classic rock. Jimmy Page’s groundbreaking guitar work and Robert Plant’s stirring, searing voice are both truly one of a kind. And, many rock experts and historians have long cited John Bonham as the greatest drummer to ever sit behind a kit. Known for some of the most iconic riffs of all time, and, of course, “Stairway to Heaven.” Overplayed or overrated, it’s one song every music fan seems to know. However, even the band’s deep cuts like “Ten Years Gone,” “Celebration Day” and “Carouselambra” are highlights of the group’s expansive catalog.

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12. Led Zeppelin - "Physical Graffiti" (1975)

It's rare for a double album to be so good, and it's an even bigger testament to the legacy of Led Zeppelin that Physical Graffiti is arguably one of their greatest-ever works. Released in 1975, this album is the band at its eclectic and expansive best. From the hauntingly powerful "Kashmir" to the bluesy grind of "In My Time of Dying," Led Zeppelin refuses to be pinned down to a single genre, and the sheer scale of Physical Graffiti speaks to the band's ambition and their ability to fulfill it without missing a beat.

With its legendary man-on-fire album cover and vast, lush songs that are endlessly on repeat, Pink Floyd's <em>Wish You Were Here</em> has been a musical enigma since its 1975 release. This album is a tribute to former bandmate Syd Barrett, whose mental decline resonated deeply within the band. The iconic title track has become an anthem for the feeling of missing someone, while "Shine On You Crazy Diamond" serves as a direct homage to Barrett, blending bluesy despair with progressive rock mastery.

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11. Pink Floyd - "Wish You Were Here" (1975)

With its legendary man-on-fire album cover and vast, lush songs that are endlessly on repeat, Pink Floyd's Wish You Were Here has been a musical enigma since its 1975 release. This album is a tribute to former bandmate Syd Barrett, whose mental decline resonated deeply within the band. The iconic title track has become an anthem for the feeling of missing someone, while "Shine On You Crazy Diamond" serves as a direct homage to Barrett, blending bluesy despair with progressive rock mastery.

A song about escape (specifically, from New Jersey), "Born to Run" features a brief drum roll introduction to set the stage for a sonic onslaught, with its iconic riff hitting like a tidal wave. It stands as one of the most memorable in rock history, instantly recognizable to anyone familiar with the genre. This riff is intricate and multi-layered, offering a captivating experience for listeners.

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10. Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band - "Born to Run" (1975)

This third studio effort by Springsteen and The E Street Band not only reached number three on the Billboard 200 but also eventually racked up a jaw-dropping six million sales in the U.S. alone. Not just a commercial juggernaut, Born to Run has been hailed as a critical masterpiece since its release by Columbia Records. Springsteen spent a painstaking fourteen months perfecting it, with a whopping six months dedicated to the title track alone. It was a labor of love and frustration, with Springsteen famously struggling to translate the elaborate 'wall of sound' in his head to his band -- a real 'trying to explain color to a blind person' scenario.

There are plenty of critics and rock historians who credit Black Sabbath as being the first true heavy metal band. When listening to classics like “Paranoid” or “Iron Man,” and brilliant a self-titled debut album from 1970, it’s easy to see why. From Ozzy Osbourne’s sinister voice to Tony Iommi’s blistering, and innovative guitar work (down-tuning his instrument), Sabbath laid the blueprint for heavy, melodic rock and roll that would. That, in turn, influenced greats from Iron Maiden to Slayer to Primus to Korn. Basically, any band that cranked their amps to “11,” and had success doing so.

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9. Black Sabbath - "Paranoid" (1970)

While bands like Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin dabbled in darker aspects of their music, nobody fully leaned into it like Black Sabbath did. Paranoid is their quintessential plunge into the deep, murky waters of heavy metal. This album is a relentless showcase of doom-laden riffs and the birth of metal as we know it. Tracks like "War Pigs" and "Iron Man" are monuments in the genre, with Tony Iommi’s guitar work carving out the template for countless metal bands to follow. Then, of course, there's the title track, "Paranoid," a frenetic expression of anxiety and depression that became an anthem despite its gloomy roots.

An utter triumph of a track. Combining the vocals of an all-time legend (Freddie Mercury) with a highly complex piece of music. Elements of hard rock, soft rock, pop, and opera are exquisitely woven together to form a track that people know from Manilla to Mogadishu. For us, it is the greatest song ever created.

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8. Queen - "A Night at the Opera" (1975)

Yes, this is the album that houses the legendary "Bohemian Rhapsody," but one could do much worse than listen to the entirety of A Night at the Opera with its diverse soundscapes. The album is a perfect summation of what Queen did best -- a mixture of genres, flaunting the eclectic tastes of its creators. The album is a masterclass in blending rock, opera, and a dash of the experimental, cementing itself as a pinnacle of musical greatness. If "Bohemian Rhapsody" is the crown jewel, the rest of the album builds the kingdom that supports it.

With The Who scheduled to play second-to-last before Jefferson Airplane, their set kicked off in the early hours of Sunday morning at around 5:00 am. They performed their iconic <em>Tommy</em> album, a rock opera narrating the story of a "deaf, dumb, and blind" boy's challenging life and eventual rise to fame. The performance, culminating with the sunrise at 6:05 am, was both powerful and captivating, despite being shorter than their usual sets from the 1969 tour. The set was highlighted by the ritual guitar smashing by Pete Townshend, marking a memorable conclusion to Woodstock.

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7. The Who - "Who's Next" (1971)

The Who's 1971 album Who's Next pretty much sets the bar for rock 'n' roll with its explosive opening track, "Baba O'Riley," famously misnamed as "Teenage Wasteland" by those who can't resist its rebel yell. If that iconic synthesizer intro doesn't hook you, the relentless energy of "Won't Get Fooled Again" will. "Behind Blue Eyes" or the proto-punk grit of "Who's Next" will deliver a knockout from start to finish without even breaking a sweat. Forget asking who's next; The Who tells you why they're here forever.

Perhaps one of the most popular songs in American pop culture, it would be a shame to leave it off this list. Its influence has spanned generations, and almost anybody would know exactly how this song sounds -- a testament to its popularity. Beyond the catchy harmonies, however, is a deep dive into the struggles with addiction and the illusion of the Californian dream. The Eagles crafted a narrative that's both vivid and reflective, using the metaphor of a luxurious hotel to explore themes of excess, temptation, and the search for freedom that's just out of reach.

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6. The Eagles - "Hotel California" (1976)

When you check into the Hotel California, you can never leave -- not that you'd want to with tracks as endlessly playable as these. The Eagles' 1976 album is a cultural landmark, with intricate storytelling with mellow rock that feels like a sun-soaked Californian dream. The title track, with its iconic opening chords and hauntingly beautiful guitar solos, is practically a rite of passage for any music lover. Let's not forget "Life in the Fast Lane" and "New Kid in Town," which round out this Grammy-winning album with tales of excess and fame that are as relevant today as they were in the '70s.

If case you've forgotten the impact <em>Rumours</em> had on music, here's a quick reminder: this Fleetwood Mac masterpiece is one of the best-selling albums of all time, with sales of over 40 million copies worldwide, and swept the 1978 Grammys, snagging Album of the Year amongst other accolades. Hits like "Go Your Own Way," "Dreams," and "The Chain," flesh out a catalog of anthems that sound like an in-depth report from the frontline of broken relationships. The album is a testament to the idea that great art often comes from great strife -- capturing the sound of a band and relationships fraying in real-time. Yet, rather than crumbling under the pressure, Fleetwood Mac delivered a record that resonates with listeners to this day, proving that sometimes, rumors have more than just a kernel of truth.

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5. Fleetwood Mac - "Rumours" (1977)

If case you've forgotten the impact Rumours had on music, here's a quick reminder: this Fleetwood Mac masterpiece is one of the best-selling albums of all time, with sales of over 40 million copies worldwide, and swept the 1978 Grammys, snagging Album of the Year amongst other accolades. Hits like "Go Your Own Way," "Dreams," and "The Chain," flesh out a catalog of anthems that sound like an in-depth report from the frontline of broken relationships. The album is a testament to the idea that great art often comes from great strife -- capturing the sound of a band and relationships fraying in real-time. Yet, rather than crumbling under the pressure, Fleetwood Mac delivered a record that resonates with listeners to this day, proving that sometimes, rumors have more than just a kernel of truth.

The drama that dispensed throughout Pink Floyd’s Hall-of-Fame career is almost as entertaining as the music. From the early days led by “Madcap Genius” Syd Barrett to the groundbreaking making of Dark Side of the Moon to Roger Waters’ oversized ego that eventually led to the breakup of the classic lineup that also included David Gilmour, Richard Wright, and Nick Mason. But, there’s no arguing the music. Initially, a blend of psychedelic rock, fused with the blues and eventually led down a more progressive path. The run of <em>Dark Side</em> (1973), <em>Wish You Were Here</em> (1975), <em>Animals</em> (1977), and <em>The Wall</em> (1979) is among the greatest stretch of albums in rock history.

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4. Pink Floyd - "The Wall" (1979)

Pink Floyd was known for their ambitious projects, and their biggest one was perhaps The Wall. It's not just a collection of songs; it's a gripping narrative about isolation, abandonment, and the various metaphorical walls people build around themselves. Featuring classics like "Another Brick in the Wall, Pt. 2," which became an anthem for disillusioned youth (and anyone who ever despised public school), and "Comfortably Numb," which has one of the most celebrated guitar solos in rock history. This album hit a nerve globally -- skyrocketing up the charts, holding the number one spot in the US for 15 weeks and selling millions worldwide. If rock albums had a hall of fame for 'most likely to provoke a midnight existential crisis,' The Wall would be a shoo-in.

Marked by the Vietnam War and civil unrest, "Gimme Shelter" became known for its dark tone and powerful vocals, especially from Merry Clayton, conveying a sense of desperation and a cry for peace amidst the chaos. It highlights the proximity of violence and the hope for love as a remedy, capturing the era's complexity with its haunting lyrics and compelling composition, making it more than just music but a profound emotional experience.

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3. The Rolling Stones - "Exile on Main St." (1972)

Admittedly, this is an album that would likely take multiple listens to fully appreciate it. That is how layered and vast Exile on Main St. is. Released in 1972, The Rolling Stones double album has a gritty sound and influences of rock, blues, and gospel influence mashed into one sprawling masterpiece. Despite its initial mixed reviews, this album has aged like a fine wine, now celebrated as one of the band's finest works and a cornerstone of rock music.

If you're a fan of music, there's a chance people have been forcing this album down your throat as one of the greatest albums to ever grace music. In reality, they're probably correct. Pink Floyd’s <em>The Dark Side of the Moon</em> is a near-masterpiece. Released in 1973, it spent an astonishing 958 weeks on the Billboard 200 chart -- a seemingly impossible feat unless you've got an album packed with tracks like "Money," "Time," and "The Great Gig in the Sky." With its pioneering use of synthesizers and layered production techniques, this album turned Pink Floyd from cult heroes into global rock legends overnight. It’s so iconic, even the album cover -- a prism dispersing light into color -- has become synonymous with classic rock.

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2. Pink Floyd - "The Dark Side of the Moon" (1973)

If you're a fan of music, there's a chance people have been forcing this album down your throat as one of the greatest albums to ever grace music. In reality, they're probably correct. Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon is a near-masterpiece. Released in 1973, it spent an astonishing 958 weeks on the Billboard 200 chart -- a seemingly impossible feat unless you've got an album packed with tracks like "Money," "Time," and "The Great Gig in the Sky." With its pioneering use of synthesizers and layered production techniques, this album turned Pink Floyd from cult heroes into global rock legends overnight. It’s so iconic, even the album cover -- a prism dispersing light into color -- has become synonymous with classic rock.

Does it get much better than "Stairway to Heaven" or "When the Levee Breaks"? Hardly. <em>Led Zeppelin IV,</em> often referred to by its symbols or simply as <em>the untitled album,</em> packs a musical punch so hard we're still feeling it today. Released in 1971, it’s a titan of an album that mingles mysticism with the raw power of rock. The album's artwork, devoid of the band's name or title, adds an extra layer of mystique. Whether you're buying your first turntable or raiding your parents' vinyl collection, this record is undoubtedly the first you should reach for.

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1. Led Zeppelin - "Led Zeppelin IV" (1971)

Does it get much better than "Stairway to Heaven" or "When the Levee Breaks"? Hardly. Led Zeppelin IV, often referred to by its symbols or simply as the untitled album, packs a musical punch so hard we're still feeling it today. Released in 1971, it’s a titan of an album that mingles mysticism with the raw power of rock. The album's artwork, devoid of the band's name or title, adds an extra layer of mystique. Whether you're buying your first turntable or raiding your parents' vinyl collection, this record is undoubtedly the first you should reach for.