Best English Rock Songs Of The 70s & 80s

Hey guys! Get ready to crank up the volume and dive headfirst into a time machine. We're talking about the golden age of rock – the 70s and 80s! This era gifted us with some seriously iconic tunes that still sound epic today. So, buckle up as we explore the best English rock songs from these two legendary decades. We will explore the iconic bands, the anthems that defined generations, and the groundbreaking sounds that made this era unforgettable.

The Undisputed Kings: Led Zeppelin

Led Zeppelin, hands down, is one of the most influential rock bands ever, and their impact on the 70s rock scene is simply colossal. Formed in London in 1968, the band consisted of Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones, and John Bonham. Their blend of blues, folk, and hard rock created a sound that was both powerful and innovative. Led Zeppelin's music was characterized by Page's intricate guitar riffs, Plant's soaring vocals, and the rhythm section's relentless energy. Tracks like "Stairway to Heaven," with its iconic guitar solo, became anthems that defined the era. "Whole Lotta Love" showcased their bluesy, hard-rocking side, while "Kashmir" demonstrated their ability to incorporate diverse musical influences into their sound. Led Zeppelin's albums, including Led Zeppelin IV, are considered some of the greatest rock albums of all time. Their influence can be heard in countless bands that followed, solidifying their status as true rock legends. They not only dominated the charts but also redefined what rock music could be, pushing the boundaries of creativity and technical skill. Their concerts were legendary, filled with improvisations and extended versions of their songs, making each performance a unique experience. Led Zeppelin's legacy is secure, and their music continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

The Groundbreakers: Queen

When you talk about groundbreaking bands, Queen absolutely has to be in the conversation. Fronted by the incomparable Freddie Mercury, Queen carved out a unique space in rock history with their operatic vocals, theatrical performances, and genre-bending compositions. Tracks like "Bohemian Rhapsody" defied all conventional song structures, blending hard rock, opera, and balladry into a six-minute masterpiece. The band's ability to seamlessly fuse different musical styles was evident in songs like "Crazy Little Thing Called Love," a rockabilly tribute, and "Another One Bites the Dust," with its funky bassline. Freddie Mercury's stage presence was magnetic, captivating audiences with his powerful vocals and flamboyant persona. Queen's live performances were legendary, highlighted by their iconic performance at Live Aid in 1985, which is often cited as one of the greatest live performances in rock history. Their album A Night at the Opera is a testament to their musical ambition and creativity. Queen not only created timeless music but also broke down barriers, inspiring future generations of artists to embrace experimentation and individuality. Their songs continue to resonate with audiences of all ages, a testament to their enduring appeal and musical genius. Queen's impact on rock music is immeasurable, and their music remains a vital part of the rock canon. It is the perfect example of how a band can blend artistry, innovation, and sheer talent to create something truly extraordinary.

The Arena Rock Giants: Journey

Moving into the 80s, we can't forget about Journey, who were the kings of arena rock! With Steve Perry's unmistakable vocals leading the charge, Journey delivered anthems that filled stadiums and topped the charts. "Don't Stop Believin'" became an anthem of hope and perseverance, resonating with audiences worldwide and experiencing a resurgence in popularity decades after its release. "Any Way You Want It" and "Separate Ways" showcased their ability to craft catchy, high-energy rock songs that were perfect for singalongs. Journey's album Escape is considered one of the greatest arena rock albums of all time, selling millions of copies and solidifying their place in rock history. The band's ability to connect with their audience through heartfelt lyrics and soaring melodies made them one of the most beloved rock acts of the era. Journey's influence can be heard in many contemporary rock bands, and their songs continue to be staples on classic rock radio stations. Their concerts were known for their high-energy performances and the emotional connection between the band and their fans. Journey proved that rock music could be both commercially successful and artistically fulfilling, and their music continues to inspire and uplift listeners around the globe. Their story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the enduring appeal of well-crafted rock anthems.

The New Wave Pioneers: The Police

The Police emerged as pioneers of the new wave sound, blending rock with reggae and punk influences. Sting's distinctive vocals and songwriting, combined with Andy Summers' innovative guitar work and Stewart Copeland's intricate drumming, created a sound that was both unique and captivating. "Roxanne" became their breakthrough hit, showcasing their ability to infuse reggae rhythms into a rock context. "Message in a Bottle" and "Every Breath You Take" topped the charts, demonstrating their versatility and songwriting prowess. The Police's album Synchronicity is considered a masterpiece of the new wave era, exploring themes of technology, surveillance, and human connection. The band's ability to experiment with different musical styles and create thought-provoking lyrics set them apart from their contemporaries. The Police's influence can be heard in many alternative and rock bands that followed, and their songs continue to be celebrated for their originality and depth. Their concerts were known for their high-energy performances and the band's dynamic interplay on stage. The Police proved that rock music could be both intelligent and accessible, and their music remains a vital part of the new wave canon. They showcased the potential for rock music to evolve and incorporate diverse influences, paving the way for future generations of artists.

The Hard Rock Heroes: AC/DC

For some straight-up, no-nonsense hard rock, AC/DC always delivers. With their high-energy performances and Angus Young's signature guitar riffs, AC/DC became synonymous with raw power and rock 'n' roll attitude. "Highway to Hell" and "Back in Black" are anthems that define the hard rock genre, showcasing their ability to create simple yet incredibly effective rock songs. "You Shook Me All Night Long" became a massive hit, further solidifying their status as one of the biggest rock bands in the world. AC/DC's album Back in Black is one of the best-selling albums of all time, demonstrating their enduring appeal and commercial success. The band's commitment to their signature sound and high-energy performances has earned them a dedicated fan base that spans generations. AC/DC's influence can be heard in many hard rock and metal bands that followed, and their songs continue to be staples on rock radio stations. Their concerts are legendary for their explosive energy and Angus Young's tireless stage presence. AC/DC proved that rock music could be both commercially successful and uncompromising, and their music remains a testament to the power of simplicity and raw energy. They continue to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide with their signature brand of hard rock.

Honorable Mentions:

• The Rolling Stones: Still rocking hard in the 70s, they continued to deliver iconic tracks.
• Pink Floyd: Their concept albums remain timeless masterpieces.
• David Bowie: A true chameleon, constantly reinventing his sound and style.
• Bruce Springsteen: Capturing the heartland spirit with his powerful storytelling.
• Fleetwood Mac: Their blend of rock and pop created some unforgettable hits.

So there you have it, guys! A whirlwind tour of some of the best English rock songs from the 70s and 80s. These bands and their iconic tracks continue to inspire and entertain, proving that rock 'n' roll is truly timeless. Keep rocking!