The 1970s was an era of sweeping change and innovation in the music industry. This decade gave us some of the most iconic albums in music history, from rock and roll to disco, from pop to punk. With vinyl records making a comeback, these 11 albums from the ‘70s are must-haves for any serious music collector.
1. Pink Floyd – The Dark Side of the Moon
Released in 1973, “The Dark Side of the Moon” by Pink Floyd is one of the most iconic albums of all time. This concept album explores themes of greed, conflict, and mental illness, and it spent a staggering 741 consecutive weeks on the Billboard charts. The combination of thought-provoking lyrics and groundbreaking production techniques make this album a must-have for any collector.
2. Fleetwood Mac – Rumours
Fleetwood Mac’s “Rumours” is an album born out of personal turmoil and relationship drama among the band members, which only added to its raw, emotional appeal. Released in 1977, this album features some of the band’s biggest hits like “Go Your Own Way”, “Dreams”, and “You Make Loving Fun”. Its enduring popularity and influence make it a collector’s gold.
3. Led Zeppelin – Led Zeppelin IV
Known also as “Zoso” or “The Runes Album”, Led Zeppelin IV remains one of the biggest-selling albums in history. Released in 1971, it includes timeless tracks like “Stairway to Heaven” and “Black Dog”. This album represents the pinnacle of Led Zeppelin’s hard rock and folk fusion, making it a cornerstone in any 70s music collection.
4. David Bowie – The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars
David Bowie’s 1972 concept album introduced the world to his alter ego, Ziggy Stardust. The album, filled with theatrical narratives and glam-rock anthems like “Starman” and “Rock ‘n’ Roll Suicide”, cemented Bowie’s status as a musical innovator. Any serious music collector would want this album as a representation of the glam rock era.
5. The Rolling Stones – Sticky Fingers
“Sticky Fingers”, released in 1971, was the first Rolling Stones album to feature their iconic lips-and-tongue logo. With tracks like “Brown Sugar” and “Wild Horses”, it shows the Stones at their swaggering best. Its cover, designed by Andy Warhol, makes it a collector’s item.
6. Joni Mitchell – Blue
Joni Mitchell’s “Blue” is often hailed as one of the greatest albums of all time. Released in 1971, this introspective album features deeply personal songs that touch on relationships and femininity. Its influence on subsequent singer-songwriters makes it indispensable in a music collection.
7. The Clash – London Calling
The Clash’s “London Calling”, released in 1979, is widely considered one of the greatest rock albums ever. Fusing punk with reggae, ska, and rockabilly, it delivered socially conscious lyrics with an infectious energy. Every serious collector would want to own this landmark album.
8. Marvin Gaye – What’s Going On
Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On”, released in 1971, is a masterpiece of socially conscious soul music. The album’s themes of war, poverty, and racial injustice remain as relevant today as they were in the ’70s. It’s a must-have album for those who appreciate music with a message.
9. The Eagles – Hotel California
The Eagles’ “Hotel California”, released in 1976, is one of the best-selling albums of all time. The title track and “Life in the Fast Lane” are classic rock standards. The album’s blend of rock and country, and its unforgettable guitar solos, make it a must for any music collection.
10. Michael Jackson – Off the Wall
While “Thriller” might be Michael Jackson’s best-known album, “Off the Wall”, released in 1979, is a disco-funk masterpiece that marked his arrival as a solo superstar. With hits like “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” and “Rock with You”, it is essential for any MJ fan or music collector.
11. Sex Pistols – Never Mind the Bollocks, Here’s the Sex Pistols
The Sex Pistols’ one and only studio album, released in 1977, is a punk rock classic. “Never Mind the Bollocks, Here’s the Sex Pistols” is brash, aggressive, and confrontational, and it played a key role in the punk movement. Its historical significance makes it a collector’s gold.
