7 Classic Rock Songs To Summarize 1973
The original Rolling Stones, 1964 - Evening Standard / Hulton Archive
Rock was going through a big shift in 1973. The legends from the ‘60s were evolving, new bands were making a name for themselves, and fresh sounds were shaking things up. It was a year that mixed the best of the old and the new, creating some of rock’s most unforgettable moments. Here are seven classic songs that perfectly sum up the era.
1. “Free Bird” by Lynyrd Skynyrd
The song “Free Bird” is one of the best rock ballads ever written. Lynyrd Skynyrd’s 1973 first album featured it, and it steadily gained popularity until November of that year, when it peaked at No. 87 on the Billboard Hot 100. By 1975, it had soared even higher, reaching No. 19, and was one of the band’s biggest singles.
2. “Dream On” by Aerosmith
The power ballad “Dream On” is among Aerosmith’s most well-known songs. The song was composed by lead singer Steven Tyler and was included in the band’s first major hit, Aerosmith. It immediately won over fans with its eerie piano melody and soaring vocals, and it is still one of their favorite songs to this day.
3. “Money” by Pink Floyd
Roger Waters wrote one of Pink Floyd’s best-known songs, which went on to become an iconic moment in rock history. It was included on the 1973 album The Dark Side of the Moon, which is still regarded as one of the most famous of the decade. It contributed to the solidification of Pink Floyd’s reputation in rock music with its profound lyrics and captivating sound.
4. “Angie” by Rolling Stones
This song was written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, just like the majority of Rolling Stones classics. It was included on the band’s 1973 album Goats Head Soup after being recorded in late 1972. It became another classic in the Stones’ illustrious catalog thanks to its distinctive sound and unadulterated emotion.
5. “The Joker” by Steve Miller Band
“The Joker” by the Steve Miller Band became a huge smash and more than just the album’s title track. Early in 1974, the song peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and also spent two weeks at the top of the UK Singles Chart. It became a timeless rock classic and one of the most notable albums of 1973 thanks to its easygoing feel and catchy lyrics.
6. “Ramblin’ Man” by Allman Brothers Band
The highlight song on Brothers and Sisters, the Allman Brothers Band’s fourth album, was “Ramblin’ Man.” Their greatest hit, which was written by guitarist Dickey Betts, peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and even reached No. 12 on the Easy Listening list. It is still regarded as a Southern rock classic and the band’s sole top 10 single.
7. “We’re An American Band” by Grand Funk Railroad
Grand Funk Railroad’s first No. 1 success was “We’re an American Band,” the title track from their eighth album. The song, which was written by Don Brewer and produced by Todd Rundgren, encapsulated the band’s hard-rock fervor. It was released in 1973 and is now regarded as one of their most famous songs, honoring the spirit of American rock ‘n’ roll and life on the road.
