EP817 Best Album Opening Tracks of the 70s and 80s

In the 70’s & 80’s the album was the artist’s statement about who they were and where they were at that time in history. In order for an album to serve as a complete statement, many things needed to be considered and many decisions needed to be made in order to “get it right.” . One of the most important decisions was what track would open the album. 

 

On this week’s Loudini Rock & Roll Circus we take a look back at the most effective opening tracks from some of the biggest albums of the classic rock era.

 

1970s

1. “Whole Lotta Love” – Led Zeppelin (Led Zeppelin II, 1969)

• This track features one of rock's most iconic riffs and showcases the band's blues influences blended with hard rock.
• More about Led Zeppelin II

“War Pigs” – Black Sabbath (Paranoid, 1970)

• A heavy metal anthem with anti-war themes, setting a dark and powerful tone for the album.
• More about Paranoid

“Immigrant Song” – Led Zeppelin (Led Zeppelin III, 1970)

• Known for its Viking-inspired lyrics and Robert Plant's wailing vocals, this song is a hard rock staple.
• More about Led Zeppelin III

“Baba O’Riley” – The Who (Who’s Next, 1971)

• Featuring a distinctive synthesizer intro, this track is often mistakenly called "Teenage Wasteland."
• More about Who’s Next

“Black Dog” – Led Zeppelin (Led Zeppelin IV, 1971)

• A complex, riff-driven song that became one of the band's most popular tracks.
• More about Led Zeppelin IV

“Speak to Me / Breathe” – Pink Floyd (The Dark Side of the Moon, 1973)

• An atmospheric opening that sets the conceptual tone for the album.
• More about The Dark Side of the Moon

“Sweet Emotion” – Aerosmith (Toys in the Attic, 1975)

• A breakthrough hit for the band, featuring innovative use of the talk box.
• More about Toys in the Attic

“Shine On You Crazy Diamond (Part 1)” – Pink Floyd (Wish You Were Here, 1975)

• A tribute to former band member Syd Barrett, this epic piece is divided into nine parts.
• More about Wish You Were Here

“More Than a Feeling” – Boston (Boston, 1976)

• A defining song of classic rock, known for its melodic guitar work and vocal harmonies.
• More about Boston

“Detroit Rock City” – Kiss (Destroyer, 1976)

• A fan favorite that captures the energy of the band's live performances.
• More about Destroyer

“Hotel California” – Eagles (Hotel California, 1976)

• A classic track known for its intricate guitar solos and enigmatic lyrics.