The Big Four Rock Bands That Defined the 1970s Music Scene

Who were the 'Big Four' of 1970s rock bands?

Debate continues among fans, but four bands dominated the rock scene in the 1970s by album sales, hit singles, artistic achievements and cultural impact.

Eagles

By 1976, the Eagles had become one of the decade's top acts. Their blend of country-rock and mainstream rock led to several hit albums and singles, including the chart-topping "One of These Nights." The release of "Their Greatest Hits (1971-1975)" sold 40 million copies in the U.S., making it the first album to achieve quadruple diamond certification by the Recording Industry Association of America. It remains the highest-selling album in U.S. history.

The band followed with "Hotel California," which produced hits like "Life in the Fast Lane" and the title track. Don Henley and Glenn Frey led the group, joined by guitarists Don Felder and Joe Walsh. After a demanding tour, the Eagles released "The Long Run" in 1979, which sold 7 million copies and included the Grammy-winning "Heartache Tonight." The group disbanded soon after but reunited in 1994 and remain a top concert draw.

Led Zeppelin

Led Zeppelin defined 1970s rock with their heavy, guitar-driven sound. They incorporated blues, folk, psychedelia, country and funk into their music, influencing many bands that followed. Early critics dismissed "Led Zeppelin III," but the band quickly silenced doubters with their untitled fourth album, known as "Led Zeppelin IV." Songs like "Black Dog," "Rock and Roll" and "Stairway to Heaven" became staples of rock radio. "Led Zeppelin IV" sold more than 24 million copies in the U.S.

The band continued with "Houses of the Holy" and "Physical Graffiti," both of which sold well and expanded their musical style. Led Zeppelin became a major live act, and albums like "Presence" and "In Through the Out Door" further extended their influence. The death of drummer John Bonham in 1980 ended the band's run. Led Zeppelin has reunited only occasionally for special performances.

Pink Floyd

Pink Floyd achieved both commercial and critical success in the 1970s. Their 1973 album "The Dark Side of the Moon" sold more than 15 million copies in the U.S. and about 45 million worldwide. It holds the record as the longest-charting album on the Billboard 200. The album explored themes of mental health and the pressures of band life, blending art-rock with radio-friendly singles.

The group continued with "Wish You Were Here" and "Animals," both of which sold millions. Their 1979 double album "The Wall" included hits such as "Comfortably Numb," "Hey You" and "Another Brick in the Wall, Part 2." By the end of the century, "The Wall" was certified 23-times platinum by the RIAA, making it the best-selling double album ever. Pink Floyd released one more album in 1983 before Roger Waters left the group.

The Rolling Stones

The Rolling Stones entered the 1970s after two acclaimed albums, "Beggars Banquet" and "Let It Bleed." The band continued with "Sticky Fingers," featuring the No. 1 hit "Brown Sugar." The album mixed blues jams and ballads, setting up their double album "Exile on Main St.," which drew from country, gospel and blues influences.

Following "Exile," the Stones released "Goats Head Soup," "It's Only Rock 'n Roll" and "Black and Blue." These albums faced criticism, but the band maintained strong sales and successful tours. In 1978, "Some Girls" marked a comeback, updating their sound to fit the punk and disco era. The single "Miss You" reached No. 1 and remains one of their biggest hits.

Which of these bands left the biggest mark on your music taste? Do their 1970s records still resonate with you today?