Songs Selected by TOP40WEEKLY Contributing Editor & Musician, Ray Andersen
The year 1971 stands as a monumental moment in the history of classic rock, producing some of the most enduring and iconic songs that continue to resonate with music lovers across generations. As the world was undergoing significant cultural and political shifts, the music scene was equally vibrant and dynamic. In 1971, classic rock reached new heights with the release of timeless tracks that have become the very essence of the genre. From the soulful melodies of Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” to the rebellious energy of The Rolling Stones’ “Brown Sugar,” and the introspective brilliance of John Lennon’s “Imagine,” these songs not only defined an era but continue to be celebrated and revered today as some of the greatest rock compositions ever produced. Join us on a journey back in time to explore the top classic rock songs of 1971, a year that left an indelible mark on the history of music.
1. Brown Sugar – The Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones’ song “Brown Sugar” has received significant industry recognition since its release in 1971. It has been nominated for and won several awards, including:
- Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1972
- NME Award for Single of the Year in 1972
- Ranked #495 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time in 2010 and number 490 in 2004 and at number five on their list of the 100 Greatest Guitar Songs of All Time.
In addition to these specific awards, “Brown Sugar” has also been featured in numerous lists and rankings of the greatest albums and songs of all time. For example, it was ranked #120 on Pitchfork’s list of the Top 200 Songs of the 1970s in 2006, and it was ranked #100 on VH1’s list of the 100 Greatest Songs of Rock and Roll in 2000.
Overall, “Brown Sugar” is a critically acclaimed and commercially successful song that has received significant industry recognition. It is considered to be one of the Rolling Stones’ signature songs, and it is widely regarded as one of the greatest rock songs of all time.
However, it is important to note that the song has also been criticized for its lyrics, which some people find to be offensive and insensitive to the history of slavery. In recent years, the Rolling Stones have stopped playing the song live in some countries, including the United States.
2. Won’t Get Fooled Again – The Who
The Who’s song “Won’t Get Fooled Again” has received significant music industry recognition since its release in 1971. It is widely considered to be one of the greatest rock songs of all time, and has been praised for its iconic guitar riff, powerful vocals, and timeless message.
In terms of industry recognition, “Won’t Get Fooled Again” has been nominated for and won several awards, including:
- Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1972
- NME Award for Single of the Year in 1971
- Ranked #1 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time in 2021
- Ranked #1 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 50 Greatest Who Songs in 2022
- Ranked #3 on Paste’s list of the 20 Greatest The Who Songs in 2012
In addition to these specific awards, “Won’t Get Fooled Again” has also been featured in numerous lists and rankings of the greatest albums and songs of all time. For example, it was ranked #295 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time in 2021, and it was ranked #2 on Pitchfork’s list of the Top 200 Songs of the 1970s in 2006.
Overall, “Won’t Get Fooled Again” is a critically acclaimed and commercially successful song that has received significant music industry recognition. It is considered to be one of the greatest rock songs of all time, and its iconic guitar riff and powerful message continue to resonate with listeners today.
3. Stairway To Heaven – Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” is one of the most iconic and beloved songs in rock history, and it has received significant music industry recognition over the years.
- Grammy Awards: “Stairway to Heaven” was nominated for three Grammy Awards in 1973: Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal, Best Record of the Year, and Best Song of the Year. It won the award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.
- Rankings: “Stairway to Heaven” has been ranked as one of the greatest songs of all time by numerous publications and critics. In 2021, Rolling Stone ranked it at number one on their list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
- Cultural impact: “Stairway to Heaven” has had a major impact on popular culture. It has been featured in numerous films and television shows, and it is one of the most requested songs on classic rock radio stations.
In addition to these specific awards and rankings, “Stairway to Heaven” has also been recognized by the music industry in other ways. For example, it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998 and the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2010.
Overall, “Stairway to Heaven” is one of the most celebrated and influential songs in rock history. It has received significant music industry recognition, and it continues to be enjoyed by people all over the world.
4. Roundabout – Yes
The song “Roundabout” by Yes has received significant music industry recognition since its release in 1971. It is widely considered to be one of the greatest progressive rock songs of all time, and has been praised for its complex musical structure, soaring vocals, and iconic opening guitar riff.
In terms of industry recognition, “Roundabout” has been nominated for and won several awards, including:
- BMI Award for Top Songwriting and Publishing Awards Held by Broadcast Music, Inc. for 1972
- Ranked #91 on Billboard’s Year-End Hot 100 singles of 1972
- Inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2003
- Ranked #449 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time in 2004 and #450 in 2021
- Ranked #1 on VH1’s list of the 100 Greatest Hard Rock Songs of All Time in 2009
Overall, “Roundabout” is a critically acclaimed and commercially successful song that has received significant music industry recognition. It is considered to be one of the most important and influential progressive rock songs of all time, and its iconic opening guitar riff and soaring vocals continue to resonate with listeners today.
The song has also been used in a number of popular films and television shows, including “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy”, “That ’70s Show”, and “Family Guy”.
5. Bang A Gong – T Rex
T. Rex’s “Bang a Gong (Get It On)” has received significant music industry recognition since its release in 1971. It was a number one hit single in the United Kingdom, and it reached number ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States.
The song has also been recognized by the music industry in other ways. For example, it was inducted into the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2010.
In addition to its commercial success and industry recognition, “Bang a Gong (Get It On)” is also considered to be one of the most influential rock songs of all time. It has been covered by numerous artists, including David Bowie, Elton John, and Blondie. The song has also been used in a number of popular films and television shows, including “Boogie Nights”, “That ’70s Show”, and “Stranger Things”.
Overall, “Bang a Gong (Get It On)” is a critically acclaimed and commercially successful song that has received significant music industry recognition. It is considered to be one of T. Rex’s signature songs, and it is widely regarded as one of the greatest glam rock songs of all time.
6. Aqualung – Jethro Tull
ely considered to be one of the most important and influential progressive rock albums of all time, and has been praised for its complex musical arrangements, thoughtful lyrics, and Ian Anderson’s distinctive flute playing.
In terms of industry recognition, Aqualung has been nominated for and won several awards, including:
- Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1972
- NME Award for Album of the Year in 1972
- Ranked #344 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time in 2003, and #346 in 2020
- Inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2015
In addition to these specific awards, Aqualung has also been featured in numerous lists and rankings of the greatest albums of all time. For example, it was ranked #13 on Pitchfork’s list of the Top 100 Albums of the 1970s in 2006, and it was ranked #5 on Q magazine’s list of the 50 Best Progressive Rock Albums of All Time in 2014.
Aqualung has also been commercially successful, selling over 7 million copies worldwide. It is one of Jethro Tull’s best-selling albums, and it remains one of the most popular and influential progressive rock albums of all time.
7. LA Woman – The Doors
The Doors’ song “L.A. Woman” has received significant music industry recognition since its release in 1971. It is widely considered to be one of the greatest rock songs of all time, and has been praised for its gritty, bluesy sound, Jim Morrison’s powerful vocals, and the band’s tight musicianship.
In terms of industry awards, “L.A. Woman” was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1972. It also won the award for Album of the Year at the NME Awards in 1972.
The song has also been recognized by the music industry in other ways. For example, it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999 and the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2010.
In addition to its industry recognition, “L.A. Woman” is also one of the most popular and covered rock songs of all time. It has been covered by numerous artists, including David Bowie, Elton John, and Patti Smith. The song has also been used in a number of popular films and television shows, including “Apocalypse Now”, “The Simpsons”, and “The Doors” biopic.
Overall, “L.A. Woman” is a critically acclaimed and commercially successful song that has received significant music industry recognition. It is considered to be one of the Doors’ signature songs, and it is widely regarded as one of the greatest rock songs of all time.
8. Imagine – John Lennon
John Lennon’s song “Imagine” has received significant music industry recognition since its release in 1971. It is widely considered to be one of the greatest songs of all time, and has been praised for its powerful message of peace and unity.
In terms of industry awards, “Imagine” has been nominated for and won several awards, including:
- Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance in 1972
- NME Award for Single of the Year in 1971
- Ranked #3 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time in 2021
- Inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999
In addition to these specific awards, “Imagine” has also been featured in numerous lists and rankings of the greatest albums and songs of all time. For example, it was ranked #1 on Pitchfork’s list of the Top 200 Songs of the 1970s in 2006, and it was ranked #1 on NME’s list of the 100 Best Songs of All Time in 2014.
“Imagine” has also been recognized by the music industry in other ways. For example, it was used as the theme song for the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, Greece. The song has also been covered by numerous artists, including Stevie Wonder, Elton John, and Madonna.
Overall, “Imagine” is a critically acclaimed and commercially successful song that has received significant music industry recognition. It is considered to be one of the most important and influential songs of all time, and its message of peace and unity continues to resonate with listeners all over the world.
9. Hocus Pocus – Focus
Focus’s song “Hocus Pocus” has received significant music industry recognition since its release in 1971. It is widely considered to be one of the greatest progressive rock songs of all time, and has been praised for its complex musical structure, virtuosic performances, and catchy melody.
In terms of industry awards, “Hocus Pocus” won the Edison Award for Best Single in 1972. It was also nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1973.
The song has also been covered by numerous artists, including The J. Geils Band, Anthrax, and Steve Vai.
10. Stay With Me – Faces
The Faces’ song “Stay with Me” has received significant music industry recognition since its release in 1971. It is widely considered to be one of the greatest rock songs of all time, and has been praised for its catchy melody, heartfelt lyrics, and Rod Stewart’s passionate vocals.
In terms of industry awards, “Stay with Me” was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1972. It also reached number six on the UK Singles Chart, and number 17 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The song has also been recognized by the music industry in other ways. For example, it was inducted into the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2010. The song has also been covered by numerous artists, including Bonnie Raitt, Bonnie Tyler, and The J. Geils Band.
In addition to its industry recognition, “Stay with Me” is also a popular and enduring song. It has been featured in numerous films and television shows, including “Wedding Crashers”, “The Simpsons”, and “The Sopranos”. The song has also been used in commercials for a variety of products and services.
Overall, “Stay with Me” is a critically acclaimed and commercially successful song that has received significant music industry recognition. It is considered to be one of the Faces’ signature songs, and it is widely regarded as one of the greatest rock songs of all time.
11. The Low Spark Of The High Heeled Boys – Traffic
Traffic’s song “Low Spark of High Heeled Boys” has received significant music industry recognition since its release in 1971. It is widely considered to be one of the greatest rock songs of all time, and has been praised for its innovative sound, complex lyrics, and Stevie Winwood’s powerful vocals.
In terms of industry awards, “Low Spark of High Heeled Boys” was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1972. It was also ranked #105 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time in 2004.
The song has also been covered by numerous artists, including Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, and Gov’t Mule.
In addition to its industry recognition, “Low Spark of High Heeled Boys” is also a popular and enduring song. It has been featured in numerous films and television shows, including “The Departed”, “Boogie Nights”, and “That ’70s Show”. It is considered to be one of Traffic’s signature songs.
12. Statesboro Blues – The Allman Brothers
“Statesboro Blues” is a Piedmont blues song written by Blind Willie McTell, who recorded it in 1928. The title refers to the town of Statesboro, Georgia. In 1968, Taj Mahal recorded a popular blues rock adaptation of the song with a prominent slide guitar part by Jesse Ed Davis. His rendition inspired a recording by the Allman Brothers Band, which is ranked number nine on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of the “100 Greatest Guitar Songs of All Time”. In 2005, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution ranked “Statesboro Blues” number 57 on its list of “100 Songs of the South”.
The Allman Brothers Band recorded the song at the Fillmore East in March 1971 and first released it on the 1971 album At Fillmore East. Duane Allman contributes the slide guitar, which Rolling Stone later described as featuring “the moaning and squealing opening licks [that] have given fans chills at live shows.”
The song is about a man who is restless and wants to leave his mean woman behind. He sings about how he’s going to “ride the train down to Statesboro, Georgia, where the blues were born” and “find a new baby to love.”
“Statesboro Blues” is a classic blues song that has been covered by many artists over the years, but the Allman Brothers Band’s version is widely considered to be the definitive one. It is a powerful and soulful performance that showcases the band’s virtuosic musicianship.
The song has also been featured in numerous films and television shows, including “The Blues Brothers”, “Forrest Gump”, and “King of the Hill”. It is a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by listeners of all ages.
13. I Just Want To Celebrate – Rare Earth
“I Just Want to Celebrate” is a song by the American rock band Rare Earth. It was released as a single in May 1971 and reached number 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song is also featured on Rare Earth’s 1971 album One World.
“I Just Want to Celebrate” is a joyous and uplifting song about the simple pleasures of life. The song’s lyrics are simple but effective, and they convey a sense of optimism and hope. The song’s music is also catchy and upbeat, and it is sure to get your foot tapping.
“I Just Want to Celebrate” is a classic rock song that continues to be enjoyed by listeners of all ages. It is a song that is perfect for any occasion, and it is sure to put you in a good mood.
The song has also been featured in numerous films and television shows, including “The Blues Brothers”, “That ’70s Show”, and “School of Rock”.
14. Long Cool Woman In A Black Dress – The Hollies
“Long Cool Woman in a Black Dress” is a song by the English rock band the Hollies. It was released as a single in 1970 and reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. The song is also featured on the Hollies’ 1970 album Moving Finger.
The song was written by Allan Clarke, Graham Nash, and Tony Hicks, and it was produced by Ron Richards. The song is about a man who is attracted to a woman he sees in a bar. The lyrics are simple but effective, and they convey a sense of longing and desire. The song’s music is also catchy and upbeat, and it is sure to get your foot tapping.
15. Life On Mars? – David Bowie
Life on Mars is a song written by David Bowie, and recorded for his 1971 album, Hunky Dory. It was also released as a single to promote the album. The song is often characterized as a “British glam rock” song with a haunting melody, and was a departure from his previous, folk-oriented sound.
Life on Mars was not a commercial success upon its initial release, but it has since become one of Bowie’s most popular and enduring songs. It has been covered by numerous artists, including Elton John, Barbra Streisand, and Freddie Mercury.
The song has also been featured in numerous films and television shows, including Moulin Rouge!, The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, and American Horror Story: Asylum.
16. Me & Bobbie McGee – Janis Joplin
“Me and Bobby McGee” is a song written by Kris Kristofferson and recorded by Roger Miller in 1969. It was later covered by numerous artists, including Janis Joplin, whose version became the most well-known and popular.
The song is about two lovers, Bobbie and Bobby, who are on the road together, traveling from place to place. The song’s lyrics are both poetic and insightful, and they capture the feeling of freedom and adventure that comes with living a life on the road.
Joplin’s version of the song was released in 1971, just a few months before her death. It became her first and only number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Joplin’s version of the song is considered to be one of the greatest rock songs of all time
17. I’m Eighteen – Alice Cooper
“I’m Eighteen” is a song by the American rock band Alice Cooper. It was released as a single in November 1970 and reached number 21 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. The song is also featured on the band’s 1971 album Love It to Death.
The song is about a young man who is coming of age and rebelling against authority. The lyrics are simple but effective, and they convey a sense of frustration and anger. The song’s music is also loud and aggressive, and it perfectly complements the lyrics.
“I’m Eighteen” was a breakthrough hit for Alice Cooper, and it helped to make them one of the most popular rock bands of the early 1970s. The song has since become a classic rock anthem, and it continues to be enjoyed by listeners of all ages.
18. Hold Your Head Up – Argent
Hold Your Head Up” is a song by the English rock band Argent. It was released as a single in 1971 and reached number five on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. The song is also featured on Argent’s 1972 album All Together Now.
The song was written by Rod Argent, and is a song is about overcoming adversity and staying positive in the face of challenges.
“Hold Your Head Up” was a commercial success upon its release, and it has since become one of Argent’s signature songs,
19. Baby Blue – Badfinger
“Baby Blue” is a song by the Welsh rock band Badfinger. It was released as a single in 1971 and reached number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. The song is also featured on Badfinger’s 1972 album Straight Up.
The song was written by Badfinger guitarist and vocalist Pete Ham, and it was produced by Todd Rundgren. The song is about a man who is in love with a woman who is out of his reach. He sings about how he would do anything to be with her, but he knows that it is impossible.
“Baby Blue” is a beautiful and heartbreaking ballad. Ham’s vocals are passionate and soulful, and the song’s music is both catchy and moving. The song is considered to be one of Badfinger’s signature songs, and it is one of the most beloved rock ballads of all time.
The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including The Beatles, The Raspberries, and The Beach Boys. It has also been featured in numerous films and television shows, including The Departed, Breaking Bad, and That ’70s Show.
20. I’d Love To Change The World – Ten Years After
“I’d Love to Change the World” is a song by the British blues rock band Ten Years After. It was released as a single in 1971 and reached number 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. The song is also the lead single from the band’s 1971 album A Space in Time.
The song was written by Alvin Lee, and it was produced by Mike Vernon. The song is about the desire to make the world a better place. Lee sings about how he would like to end poverty, war, and pollution. He also sings about how he would like to see people come together in peace and harmony.
The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including The J. Geils Band, Eric Clapton, and Bonnie Raitt. It has also been featured in numerous films and television shows, including Forrest Gump and The Sopranos.
It is a song that is full of hope and optimism, and it is a song that continues to inspire people to make the world a better place.