50s–70s
78 album and song reviews from the 50s–70s, newest first. Page 1 of 3.
“Ramones” by the Ramones
An essential punk rock turning point turns 50.
“Tapestry” by Carole King
One of my favorite 1970s records turns 55 .
“Ain’t That Good News” by Sam Cooke
I revisit the tragic swan song from one of soul's greatest talents.
“Eyes of Love” by the Edge of Daybreak
I discuss a lesser-known vintage soul gem.
How the Watts Prophets Redefined Spoken Word and Invented Hip-Hop
I explore one of the most culturally significant albums of the 1960s.
Is "Station to Station" David Bowie's Most Intriguing Album?
I celebrate the 50th anniversary of one of the Starman's most intriguing albums.
“A Night at the Opera” by Queen
I take a closer look at the album that turned Queen into global superstars.
Why "The Hissing of Summer Lawns" is Joni Mitchell's Best Album Ever
I delve into what's arguably Joni Mitchell's finest hour for its 50th anniversary.
Why "Wish You Were Here" is Pink Floyd's Finest Hour
Pink Floyd's best album—yes, you heard that right—turns 50 (!).
Why Bruce Springsteen's "Born to Run" is a Perfect Album
Paying tribute to one of the greatest rock records of all time for its 50th anniversary.
“Shaft (Music From the Soundtrack)” by Isaac Hayes
The record that proved to the world that Isaac Hayes was a bad mother (shut your mouth).
“Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” by Elton John
Celebrating a pop-rock icon with a look at his 70s classic.
“Bitches Brew” by Miles Davis
Quantifying the greatness of Miles Davis’ jazz-fusion masterpiece.
“That’s the Way of the World” by Earth, Wind & Fire
Celebrating a soul and funk classic for its 50th anniversary.
“Jive Talkin’” by the Bee Gees
The Fun Song Friday column takes one final turn on the dancefloor with the Gibb brothers.
“Mister Magic” by Grover Washington Jr.
One of the smoothest of all smooth jazz grooves.
“Blood on the Tracks” by Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan's most influential contribution to the rock art form turns 50.
“Twist and Shout” by the Beatles
Finally, the wait is over—I found a fun Beatles song for you to enjoy.
“Johnny B. Goode” by Chuck Berry
One of the most important rock and roll songs ever from a true guitar hero.
“Lust for Life” by Iggy Pop
Ladies and gentlemen, Iggy Pop.
“London Calling” by the Clash
The endlessly influential punk rock album turns 45.
“The Wall” by Pink Floyd
The last great Pink Floyd album remains darkly compelling.
“Get Up With It” by Miles Davis
This album may be the most influential music he's ever released. There. I said it.
“Opposite People” by Fela Kuti
Throwing it all the way back to vintage 70s Afrobeat, arguably the most fun vibes of all.
“Gimme Some Lovin’” by the Spencer Davis Group
A pop-rock perfect 10 from Steve Winwood and company.
“Love in Us All” by Pharoah Sanders
Celebrating the 50th anniversary of my favorite Pharoah Sanders free jazz album.
“Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight)” by ABBA
A late-70s dancefloor anthem celebrates its 45th anniversary!
“These Boots Are Made For Walkin’” by Nancy Sinatra
One of the best folk-pop hits and feminist anthems of its era.
“Cars” by Gary Numan
One of the oddest No. 1 hits ever made.
“Thrust” by Herbie Hancock
A jazz-funk masterclass turns 50.