25 Greatest Albums That Help Define The 70s

The 1970s was a decade of massive change, and nowhere was that reflected more than in the music of the time.

The decade started with the deaths of prominent rock and roll icons Janis Joplin and Jimi Hendrix.

It ended with punk rock and disco ruling the charts. In between was a diverse selection of incredible, decade-defining albums like the ones gathered here.

Parallel Lines — Blondie (1978)

With internationally popular songs such as “One Way or Another” and “Heart of Glass,” it's hard to believe that the members of Blondie were allegedly unhappy with the album's results.

This rock opera about an androgynous alien rock star destined to save Earth entered the National Recording Registry in 2017.

The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and The Spiders From Mars — David Bowie (1972)

The Payback – James Brown (1973)

Despite landing the number one spot on the music charts and being embraced by fans, The Payback did not meet with the same critical success as his previous albums. Numerous rhythm and blues and rap artists have also sampled the title song.

With tracks like “Go Your Own Way,” “Dreams,” “You Make Loving Fun,” and “Don't Stop,” it's easy to see (and hear) why the album has endured.

Rumours – Fleetwood Mac (1977)

Recorded eight months before his death, Hendrix's last full-length album is a masterclass of electric guitar virtuosity and experimentation. His sound can never be imitated or duplicated.

Band of Gypsys — Jimi Hendrix (1970)

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