The 1970s was a pivotal time for hard rock and heavy metal music. The decade saw the emergence of some of the most iconic and influential bands in the genre, shaping the course of rock music for decades to come. In this article, we’ll take a look at the best 70’s hard rock and heavy metal bands that rocked our world and still do today.
Aerosmith – The Bad Boys of Boston
Formed in 1970, Aerosmith was one of the most popular rock bands of the 1970s. Known for their unique blend of blues, rock, and roll, and heavy metal, Aerosmith has sold over 150 million records worldwide. With hits like “Sweet Emotion” and “Walk This Way,” the band’s energetic live performances and memorable guitar riffs have earned them a loyal fan base.
Van Halen – The Masters of Electric Guitar
Another influential band of the 1970s was Van Halen. Formed in 1972, the band was known for its lightning-fast guitar solos, pounding drum beats, and energetic live performances. With hits like “Eruption” and “Jump,” Van Halen’s innovative guitar playing and memorable vocals have cemented their status as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
Scorpions – The Kings of Teutonic Rock
Formed in 1965 in Germany, Scorpions was a pioneer of hard rock and heavy metal in the 1970s. Known for their powerful ballads and fast-paced metal songs, Scorpions have sold over 100 million records worldwide. With hits like “Wind of Change” and “Rock You Like a Hurricane,” the band’s distinctive sound has captivated audiences for decades.
Journey – The Pop-Rock Superstars
Journey was formed in 1973 and rose to fame with their hit single “Don’t Stop Believin'” in 1981. While often criticized for their pop-oriented sound, Journey’s anthemic choruses and catchy hooks have made them one of the most successful rock bands of all time. With sales of over 80 million records worldwide, Journey’s music continues to resonate with fans of all ages.
KISS – The Fab Four of Rock ‘n’ Roll
KISS, formed in 1973, was known for its elaborate stage shows and theatrical performances. With their iconic makeup and wigs, KISS was the ultimate spectacle in rock music. While their music often drew criticism for its over-the-top theatrics, KISS has sold over 100 million records worldwide and continues to thrill audiences with their live shows.
Lynyrd Skynyrd – The Southern Rock Gods
Formed in 1964, Lynyrd Skynyrd was a pioneering force in Southern rock and hard rock music. With hits like “Sweet Home Alabama” and “Free Bird,” the band’s powerful vocals, guitar riffs, and soulful ballads have cemented their status as one of the greatest rock bands of all time. Tragedy struck in 1977 when a plane crash claimed the lives of three band members, but the band has continued to make music and thrill audiences to this day.
Pink Floyd – The Experimental Prog-Rock Pioneers
Formed in 1965, Pink Floyd was a British progressive rock band known for their experimental sound and iconic albums like “Dark Side of the Moon” and “The Wall.” With their philosophical lyrics, haunting vocal harmonies, and psychedelic instrumental textures, Pink Floyd pushed the boundaries of rock music, inspiring countless other bands and artists.
Budgie – The Pioneers of Heavy Metal
Formed in 1967, Budgie was a pioneering heavy metal band from Wales. With their innovative blend of hard rock, metal, and psychedelia, Budgie influenced a generation of metal bands, including Iron Maiden, Metallica, and Slayer. While the band never achieved mainstream success, their influence on heavy metal is undeniable.
AC/DC – The High-Voltage Rockers
Formed in 1973, AC/DC is one of the most successful rock bands of all time. Known for their high-energy performances, powerful vocals, and face-melting guitar riffs, AC/DC has sold over 200 million records worldwide. With hits like “Highway to Hell” and “Back in Black,” the band’s distinctive sound has captured the hearts of rock fans everywhere.
Conclusion
The 1970s was a transformative decade for hard rock and heavy metal music, marked by the emergence of iconic bands that shaped the course of rock music for decades to come. From Aerosmith to AC/DC, these bands redefined the sound of rock music, influencing countless other bands and artists. Whether you’re a die-hard rock fan or just discovering the magic of 70’s hard rock and heavy metal, this era remains a testament to the enduring power of rock ‘n’ roll.
FAQs
Q: What were the most influential bands of the 1970s in hard rock and heavy metal?
A: Aerosmith, Van Halen, Scorpions, Journey, KISS, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Pink Floyd, Budgie, and AC/DC are considered some of the most influential bands of the 1970s in hard rock and heavy metal.
Q: Who were some of the key figures in shaping the sound of 1970s hard rock and heavy metal?
A: Guitarists like Eddie Van Halen, Randy Rhoads, and Tony Iommi, vocalists like Freddie Mercury and Robert Plant, and songwriters like Bruce Springsteen and Jimi Hendrix all contributed to shaping the sound of 1970s hard rock and heavy metal.
Q: What were some of the defining characteristics of 1970s hard rock and heavy metal?
A: Key characteristics included powerful vocals, face-melting guitar solos, pounding drum beats, and a sense of rebelliousness and individuality that defined the genre.
![The [Decade]’s Most Successful Artists: A Review of Billboard’s Top 100](https://i3.wp.com/cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2017/03/27/14/45/audience-2179160_960_720.jpg?w=150&resize=150,150&ssl=1 "The [Decade]’s Most Successful Artists: A Review of Billboard’s Top 100")
