5 1970S ROCK ALBUMS THAT PAVED THE WAY FOR HAIR METAL

2. Aerosmith – “Rocks” (1976)

Aerosmith’s fourth studio album, “Rocks,” released in 1976, is often hailed as one of the greatest rock albums of all time. Its gritty sound, raw energy, and bluesy undertones provided a template for many 1980s bands seeking to blend hard rock with catchy melodies.

Raw and Gritty Sound

The album’s production, characterized by its raw and unpolished sound, influenced the gritty aesthetic of hair metal. Aerosmith’s combination of blues-rock elements with hard-hitting riffs set the stage for bands like Guns N’ Roses and Bon Jovi to craft their signature sounds.

Key Tracks

• “Back in the Saddle” – Known for its powerful opening riff and Steven Tyler’s soaring vocals.
• “Last Child” – A blend of funk and rock, showcasing the band’s versatility and appeal.

3. Queen – “Sheer Heart Attack” (1974)

Queen’s “Sheer Heart Attack,” released in 1974, marked a turning point in the band’s career, showcasing their ability to blend various musical styles. The album’s eclectic mix of glam rock, hard rock, and theatrical elements made it a precursor to the flamboyant style of hair metal.

Glam and Theatrical Elements

With Freddie Mercury’s charismatic stage presence and the band’s penchant for dramatic performances, Queen became a model for the glam aspects of hair metal. Their ability to seamlessly integrate theatricality and rock music was mirrored by many 1980s bands.

Notable Tracks

• “Killer Queen” – A hit single that combines glam rock with complex harmonies.
• “Stone Cold Crazy” – Known for its fast-paced and aggressive sound, influencing the heavier side of hair metal.

4. Van Halen – “Van Halen” (1978)

Van Halen’s self-titled debut album, released in 1978, is a cornerstone in the evolution of rock music. Its groundbreaking guitar work, courtesy of Eddie Van Halen, and charismatic frontman David Lee Roth, created a blueprint for hair metal bands in the following decade.

Innovative Guitar Techniques

Eddie Van Halen’s innovative use of tapping and harmonics revolutionized guitar playing, inspiring countless guitarists in the hair metal genre. His technical prowess and showmanship became benchmarks for aspiring musicians.

Essential Tracks

• “Runnin’ with the Devil” – Known for its driving rhythm and anthemic chorus.
• “Eruption” – A virtuosic guitar solo that showcased Eddie Van Halen’s groundbreaking techniques.

5. AC/DC – “Highway to Hell” (1979)

AC/DC’s “Highway to Hell,” released in 1979, is an album that epitomizes rock and roll energy. Its straightforward, no-nonsense approach to rock music and infectious hooks made it a significant influence on the hair metal bands that followed.

High-Energy Rock and Roll

The album’s focus on high-energy performances and catchy, riff-driven songs became a blueprint for hair metal bands looking to capture audiences with memorable hooks and dynamic stage shows.

Significant Tracks

• “Highway to Hell” – A rock anthem that embodies the rebellious spirit of both AC/DC and the hair metal genre.
• “Girls Got Rhythm” – A track that combines infectious rhythms with lyrical themes that would be echoed in hair metal.

Conclusion

The 1970s were a pivotal decade for rock music, with several albums laying the foundation for the hair metal explosion of the 1980s. Bands like Kiss, Aerosmith, Queen, Van Halen, and AC/DC not only influenced the sound and style of the genre but also set new standards for live performances and theatricality. By examining these five albums, we gain a deeper understanding of the roots of hair metal and the enduring legacy of 1970s rock.