10 classic rock albums to hear before you graduate

Hannah Norris, Staff Reporter|January 25, 2016

  1. Untitled (IV) by Led Zeppelin

This album is widely regarded as quintessential classic rock, producing hits like “Stairway to Heaven,” “Black Dog” and “Rock and Roll.” Led Zeppelin has had numerous hit albums and many famous songs, earning them the title of being one of the biggest hard rock bands of all time. Even though Zeppelin sometimes gets a reputation as being a “teen phase” band, they revolutionized music in the early 70s.

 

  1. Dark Side of the Moon by Pink Floyd

Pink Floyd delivered one of the most recognizable album covers with Dark Side of the Moon. Known for their psychedelic guitar sounds, “Money” and “Time” are two songs where this sound is most prominent. Pink Floyd was one of the notable genre-benders of the 70s.

 

  1. Abbey Road by the Beatles

Abbey Road was the second to last album by the Beatles, but it had one of the largest impacts of all their albums. The song “Come Together” is one of the most covered songs, including the famous version by Aerosmith. Other notable songs include “I Want You (She’s So Heavy),” “Something” and “Her Majesty.”

  1. The Doors by the Doors

The Doors first became popular due to the poetic lyrics and wild lifestyle of front man Jim Morrison. In their self-titled debut album, he wrote classics like “Light My Fire,” “Soul Kitchen” and “Break on Through.” Their use of electric organ and dark, psychedelic themes make up their unique and definable sound.

  1. The Ramones by the Ramones

The Ramones made a name for themselves by becoming one of the first commercially popular punk bands, and by changing all their last names to Ramone. This album has some of their most widely-known songs, including “Blitzkreig Bop,” “Judy is a Punk” and “53rd and 3rd.” Known for their snappy, driving delivery and simple songs, the Ramones are still a classic among many teenagers.

 

  1. Goodbye Yellow Brick Road by Elton John

Elton John made waves when he came out as bisexual in the early 70s, and quickly became one of the most significant musicians of the glam rock scene. “Bennie and the Jets,” “Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting” and “Candle in the Wind” were all products of this album. His solo career is still continuing, as he released his latest album on Feb. 6.

 

  1. Pearl by Janis Joplin

An icon for the San Francisco hippie scene, Janis Joplin first got her start with Big Brother and the Holding Company. Pearl was her final album recorded before her untimely death at 27. “Me and Bobby McGee,” “Cry Baby” and the acapella “Mercedes Benz” are among her most renowned songs.

 

  1. Electric Ladyland by The Jimi Hendrix Experience

Even though he also met an untimely death at 27, Jimi Hendrix is consistently ranked among the top guitarists in rock. Electric Ladyland is one of his more experimental efforts, showcasing his wild guitar solos.  A few of his more popular songs from this album are “All Along the Watchtower,” “Voodoo Child” and “Long Hot Summer Night.”

 

  1. Disraeli Gears by Cream

Drawing on psychedelic and blues influences, Disraeli Gears is arguably the most defining album of Cream. “Sunshine of Your Love,” “Tales of Brave Ulysses” and “SWLABR” highlight the prominent use of a wah pedal by guitarist Eric Clapton, heavy bass riffs by Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker’s strong rhythm.

 

  1. Rumours by Fleetwood Mac

Even though Fleetwood Mac was drowning in internal problems, Rumours still managed to reach number one on charts worldwide in 1977. Powered by singer Stevie Nicks’ dark style, this album echoes with lost love in a clean, California manner. Significant songs include “Gold Dust Woman,” “Go Your Own Way” and “The Chain.”

17hnorris@usd489.com