Ten Fabulous 1970s Rock Albums With No Filler

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While there may not be such a thing as the perfect album, there are certainly records in our collections where every song resonates, speaks to us in different ways, and carries deep meaning. Most importantly, these are albums without a single track we’d ever want to skip. That’s what an album with “no fillers” is all about—an album where every single song works.

In the 1950s and early ’60s many albums were often just vehicles for singles, with additional songs thrown together to fill space. But the Beatles changed all that. They revolutionized the album format, creating records where every song could be a potential hit or at least a profound deep track. By the 1970s, the art of the album had surpassed the art of the single, becoming a fully realized form of artistic expression. Here are 10 of our favorites in random order.

Dark Side of the Moon – Pink Floyd

This is the first one that came to mind, and that’s why we’re opening this list with Pink Floyd’s Legendary Classic album. Released on March 1, 1973, Dark Side of the Moon by Pink Floyd is a monumental achievement in rock music, often regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time. Recorded at Abbey Road Studios in London between May 1972 and January 1973, the album was produced by the band themselves, with engineer Alan Parsons playing a crucial role in crafting its innovative sound. The record was a groundbreaking blend of progressive rock, conceptual storytelling, and pioneering studio techniques.

The album features the core lineup of Pink Floyd: David Gilmour on guitar and vocals, Roger Waters on bass and vocals, Richard Wright on keyboards and vocals, and Nick Mason on drums. It also includes memorable contributions from session musicians such as Clare Torry, whose wordless vocals on “The Great Gig in the Sky” became iconic, and saxophonist Dick Parry, who added soulful performances to “Us and Them” and “Money.”

Lyrically, Dark Side of the Moon explores themes of human experience, including mental illness, greed, time, and mortality. Roger Waters’ lyrics are introspective and poignant, while the music showcases the band’s mastery of dynamics and texture. Tracks like “Time,” with its ticking clocks and searing Gilmour guitar solo, and “Money,” with its distinctive cash register rhythm in 7/4 time, became enduring classics. The album’s seamless transitions between tracks and its use of sound effects created a cohesive listening experience that was revolutionary for its time.

Commercially, Dark Side of the Moon was a colossal success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and staying on the chart for a record-breaking 741 weeks. It has sold over 45 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling albums in history. Critically acclaimed upon release, it continues to be revered as a benchmark of artistic and technical excellence in music.

Track Listing:

Side One

“Speak to Me” – 1:30
“Breathe (In the Air)” – 2:43
“On the Run” – 3:30
“Time” – 6:53
“The Great Gig in the Sky” – 4:15

Side Two

“Money” – 6:30
“Us and Them” – 7:51
“Any Colour You Like” – 3:25
“Brain Damage” – 3:50
“Eclipse” – 2:03

Read More: Top 25 Pink Floyd Songs

Born to Run – Bruce Springsteen

Released on August 25, 1975, Born to Run is Bruce Springsteen’s third studio album and the one that catapulted him to stardom. Recorded over a 14-month period, primarily at 914 Sound Studios in Blauvelt, New York, and later at the Record Plant in New York City, the album marked a turning point for Springsteen, both artistically and commercially. Produced by Springsteen, Mike Appel, and Jon Landau, the record represents an ambitious blend of cinematic storytelling, rock ‘n’ roll intensity, and Phil Spector-inspired Wall of Sound production.

The album features the E Street Band in full force, with Clarence Clemons’ saxophone lending a soulful edge to songs like “Jungleland” and “Born to Run,” while Roy Bittan’s piano and Max Weinberg’s precise drumming provide the backbone. Springsteen’s guitar and vocals are the driving force, delivering tales of youth, love, and escape. Garry Tallent, Danny Federici, and Steven Van Zandt also play pivotal roles in creating the album’s lush, layered soundscape.

The title track, “Born to Run,” was painstakingly recorded over six months and became an anthem of liberation, yearning, and the promise of freedom. The album also features the haunting “Thunder Road,” the sprawling epic “Jungleland,” and the visceral energy of “Night” and “Backstreets.” Springsteen’s lyrical craftsmanship shines throughout, weaving poetic narratives that capture the struggles and dreams of ordinary Americans.

Upon release, Born to Run reached No. 3 on the Billboard 200 chart and eventually went platinum multiple times, cementing Springsteen’s place as “The Boss.” Critics hailed the album as a masterpiece, with Jon Landau famously declaring, “I saw rock and roll future, and its name is Bruce Springsteen.” Decades later, the album continues to resonate, celebrated for its raw emotion, musical ambition, and cultural impact.

Track Listing:

“Thunder Road” – 4:49
“Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out” – 3:11
“Night” – 3:00
“Backstreets” – 6:30
“Born to Run” – 4:31
“She’s the One” – 4:30
“Meeting Across the River” – 3:18
“Jungleland” – 9:34

In Rock – Deep Purple

Released on June 3, 1970, In Rock by Deep Purple stands as a cornerstone of heavy metal and hard rock history. This fourth studio album marked the debut of the now-iconic Mk II lineup, featuring Ian Gillan on vocals, Ritchie Blackmore on guitar, Roger Glover on bass, Jon Lord on keyboards, and Ian Paice on drums. Recorded between October 1969 and April 1970 at De Lane Lea Studios and Abbey Road Studios in London, the album saw the band shedding their earlier, more experimental sound in favor of a powerful, guitar-driven approach.

Produced by the band alongside Derek Lawrence, In Rock captures Deep Purple at their most ferocious. Tracks like “Speed King” and “Flight of the Rat” showcase Blackmore’s blistering riffs, Gillan’s dynamic vocal range, and Paice’s thunderous drumming. Lord’s signature Hammond organ gives the album a classical, baroque influence, particularly on “Child in Time,” a 10-minute epic that alternates between haunting melodies and explosive crescendos. This balance of raw energy and intricate musicianship became a blueprint for heavy rock.

The album received critical acclaim for its intensity and virtuosity. Though it initially peaked at No. 4 on the UK Albums Chart, In Rock helped solidify Deep Purple’s status as pioneers of the emerging hard rock and heavy metal genres. In the United States, it earned a steady cult following, eventually going gold. Songs like “Into the Fire” and “Bloodsucker” remain staples of the band’s live performances, revered for their raw power and complexity.

Track Listing:

“Speed King” – 5:52
“Bloodsucker” – 4:10
“Child in Time” – 10:18
“Flight of the Rat” – 7:53
“Into the Fire” – 3:29
“Living Wreck” – 4:30
“Hard Lovin’ Man” – 7:10

Captain Fantastic & The Brown Dirt Cowboy – Elton John

Captain Fantastic & Brown Dirt Cowboy [CD]

Released on May 19, 1975, Captain Fantastic & The Brown Dirt Cowboy marked a pivotal moment in Elton John’s career. The album, a semi-autobiographical concept record, explores the early struggles and triumphs of John and his lyricist Bernie Taupin as they navigated their rise from obscurity to superstardom. Recorded at Caribou Ranch in Colorado and produced by Gus Dudgeon, this album featured Elton’s classic lineup: Davey Johnstone on guitar, Dee Murray on bass, and Nigel Olsson on drums, with Ray Cooper adding percussion.

The title track, “Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy,” opens the album with an intimate portrayal of the duo’s journey, setting the tone for a deeply personal collection of songs. Tracks like “Someone Saved My Life Tonight,” a soaring ballad about a pivotal moment in John’s life, highlight his gift for combining deeply emotional lyrics with lush, cinematic arrangements. “Bitter Fingers” and “Writing” delve into the trials of the songwriting life, while “We All Fall in Love Sometimes” offers a poignant reflection on love and friendship.

Upon its release, Captain Fantastic made history as the first album to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. Critics praised it for its ambitious storytelling and intricate production, solidifying its status as one of Elton John’s most celebrated works. The album was later certified triple platinum in the United States, further cementing its place in rock history.

Track Listing:

“Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy” – 5:46
“Tower of Babel” – 4:28
“Bitter Fingers” – 4:34
“Tell Me When the Whistle Blows” – 4:20
“Someone Saved My Life Tonight” – 6:45
“(Gotta Get A) Meal Ticket” – 4:01
“Better Off Dead” – 2:37
“Writing” – 3:41
“We All Fall in Love Sometimes” – 4:16
“Curtains” – 6:58

Rumours – Fleetwood Mac

Rumours, Fleetwood Mac’s eleventh studio album, was released on February 4, 1977, and stands as one of the most iconic records in rock history. Recorded primarily at the Record Plant in Sausalito, California, between February and August 1976, the album was produced by the band and Ken Caillat and Richard Dashut. Its creation was famously turbulent, with the band’s interpersonal relationships unraveling amid breakups and infidelity, which lent the album an emotional intensity that resonated deeply with listeners.

The band’s classic lineup—Stevie Nicks, Lindsey Buckingham, Christine McVie, John McVie, and Mick Fleetwood—was at the height of its powers. The interplay between the members’ personal struggles and professional brilliance resulted in an album of unparalleled cohesion and emotional depth. Nicks’ ethereal “Dreams,” Buckingham’s driving “Go Your Own Way,” and Christine McVie’s warm and reflective “You Make Loving Fun” highlight the album’s dynamic range, blending rock, pop, and folk influences.

Upon release, Rumours became a commercial juggernaut, spending 31 non-consecutive weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart and producing four Top 10 singles. The album won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 1978 and has since sold over 40 million copies worldwide, earning its place as one of the best-selling albums of all time. Its themes of heartbreak, resilience, and redemption continue to captivate new generations of fans.

Track Listing:

“Second Hand News” – 2:56
“Dreams” – 4:17
“Never Going Back Again” – 2:14
“Don’t Stop” – 3:13
“Go Your Own Way” – 3:43
“Songbird” – 3:20
“The Chain” – 4:30
“You Make Loving Fun” – 3:36
“I Don’t Want to Know” – 3:15
“Oh Daddy” – 3:56
“Gold Dust Woman” – 4:55

Aja – Steely Dan

Aja, released on September 23, 1977, marked a high point in Steely Dan’s career, combining their signature blend of jazz, rock, and pop with an unparalleled level of studio craftsmanship. Recorded across several studios in Los Angeles and New York, including The Village Recorder and Sound Labs, the album was produced by band members Donald Fagen and Walter Becker alongside Gary Katz. Featuring an all-star cast of session musicians, Aja is often celebrated for its meticulous production, sophisticated arrangements, and masterful performances.

Steely Dan enlisted some of the finest musicians of the time to bring their vision to life, including drummer Steve Gadd, guitarist Larry Carlton, bassist Chuck Rainey, and saxophonist Wayne Shorter, whose brilliant solo on the title track remains a highlight. Each song on the album reflects the duo’s perfectionism, blending introspective lyrics with intricate musical structures. Tracks like “Deacon Blues,” an anthem for outsiders, and “Peg,” with its infectious groove and stellar Michael McDonald harmonies, exemplify the album’s broad appeal and enduring brilliance.

Aja was a critical and commercial success, peaking at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 and becoming Steely Dan’s first platinum-selling album. It earned a Grammy Award for Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical, and has been widely regarded as one of the greatest albums of the 1970s. Its seamless fusion of rock and jazz influences continues to inspire musicians and audiophiles alike.

Track Listing:

“Black Cow” – 5:10
“Aja” – 7:57
“Deacon Blues” – 7:37
“Peg” – 3:57
“Home at Last” – 5:34
“I Got the News” – 5:07
“Josie” – 4:30

Read More: Top 10 Steely Dan Songs

Exile On Main Street – The Rolling Stones

Exile on Main St., released on May 12, 1972, stands as a defining statement in rock and roll history. The Rolling Stones’ double album encapsulates the chaos, grit, and raw energy of the band at their creative peak. Recorded primarily at Villa Nellcôte, a rented mansion in the South of France, during the band’s self-imposed exile from England, the sessions were marked by a loose, often chaotic atmosphere. Producer Jimmy Miller and the core lineup of Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Charlie Watts, Bill Wyman, and Mick Taylor were joined by a rotating cast of musicians, including Bobby Keys on saxophone, Nicky Hopkins on piano, and Jim Price on horns.

The album is a kaleidoscopic journey through rock, blues, country, gospel, and soul, reflecting the Stones’ deep connection to American roots music. Tracks like “Tumbling Dice,” a swaggering anthem of vice, and the soulful “Let It Loose” showcase the band’s versatility and ability to channel raw emotion. The murky, layered production adds to the album’s mythos, giving it a distinctly unpolished yet immersive feel.

Commercially, Exile on Main St. debuted at No. 1 on both the UK Albums Chart and the US Billboard 200, solidifying its success despite its initially mixed critical reception. Over time, it has been hailed as one of the greatest rock albums of all time, earning spots on numerous “best-of” lists and cementing the Rolling Stones’ legacy as rock icons.

Track Listing:

Side One:

“Rocks Off” – 4:31
“Rip This Joint” – 2:22
“Shake Your Hips” – 2:59
“Casino Boogie” – 3:33
“Tumbling Dice” – 3:45

Side Two: 6. “Sweet Virginia” – 4:25
7. “Torn and Frayed” – 4:17
8. “Sweet Black Angel” – 2:54
9. “Loving Cup” – 4:23

Side Three: 10. “Happy” – 3:04
11. “Turd on the Run” – 2:36
12. “Ventilator Blues” – 3:24
13. “I Just Want to See His Face” – 2:52
14. “Let It Loose” – 5:17

Side Four: 15. “All Down the Line” – 3:49
16. “Stop Breaking Down” – 4:34
17. “Shine a Light” – 4:14
18. “Soul Survivor” – 3:49

Led Zeppelin IV – Led Zeppelin

Led Zeppelin IV, released on November 8, 1971, stands as one of the most transformative rock albums ever crafted, merging thunderous hard rock, ethereal folk, and blues influences into a seamless whole. The band recorded the album at various locations, including Headley Grange, a Victorian-era house in England, where the band famously used the Rolling Stones Mobile Studio to achieve a raw and organic sound. Produced by Jimmy Page, the album’s unique sonic textures stemmed from innovative recording techniques, such as John Bonham’s iconic drum sound on “When the Levee Breaks,” captured in a stairwell to achieve its cavernous resonance.

The album features the legendary lineup of Robert Plant (vocals), Jimmy Page (guitar), John Paul Jones (bass, keyboards, mandolin), and John Bonham (drums). Together, they crafted eight tracks that range from the swaggering groove of “Black Dog” to the haunting beauty of “The Battle of Evermore,” the latter featuring guest vocals by Sandy Denny of Fairport Convention. “Stairway to Heaven,” widely considered one of the greatest songs in rock history, showcases Page’s masterful guitar work, Plant’s poetic lyrics, and Jones’ atmospheric arrangement, building to a soaring climax that has become a rite of passage for guitarists worldwide.

The album achieved immense commercial success, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and selling over 37 million copies globally. Certified 24× Platinum in the United States, Led Zeppelin IV cemented the band’s legacy as rock innovators. The album’s lack of an official title or band name on the cover added to its mystique, as fans referred to it by its symbols, further enhancing its iconic status in rock lore.

Track Listing:

“Black Dog”
“Rock and Roll”
“The Battle of Evermore”
“Stairway to Heaven”
“Misty Mountain Hop”
“Four Sticks”
“Going to California”
“When the Levee Breaks”

Van Halen – Van Halen

Released on February 10, 1978, Van Halen is a landmark debut album that redefined rock music with its energy, innovation, and technical brilliance. Recorded at Sunset Sound Recorders in Hollywood in late 1977, the album was produced by Ted Templeman and engineered by Donn Landee. The lineup of Eddie Van Halen on guitar, David Lee Roth on vocals, Michael Anthony on bass, and Alex Van Halen on drums brought an electrifying chemistry to the forefront of rock music.

Van Halen introduced Eddie Van Halen’s groundbreaking “finger-tapping” guitar technique to the world, with “Eruption” becoming a showcase of his virtuosic style. The album opens with “Runnin’ with the Devil,” a hard rock anthem driven by Roth’s charismatic vocals and Anthony’s thunderous bass lines. Songs like “Ain’t Talkin’ ’Bout Love” and their spirited cover of The Kinks’ “You Really Got Me” display a perfect balance of aggression, melody, and showmanship.

Critically acclaimed upon its release, the album peaked at No. 19 on the Billboard 200 and eventually went on to achieve Diamond certification, signifying over 10 million copies sold in the United States alone. Tracks such as “Jamie’s Cryin’” and “Atomic Punk” became fan favorites, with the album influencing countless bands and musicians in the decades that followed.

Track Listing:

“Runnin’ with the Devil” – 3:36
“Eruption” – 1:42
“You Really Got Me” – 2:38
“Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout Love” – 3:47
“I’m the One” – 3:47
“Jamie’s Cryin'” – 3:31
“Atomic Punk” – 3:01
“Feel Your Love Tonight” – 3:40
“Little Dreamer” – 3:23
“Ice Cream Man” – 3:20
“On Fire” – 3:01

Who’s Next – The Who

Emerging from the ashes of Pete Townshend’s ambitious but ultimately abandoned Lifehouse project, Who’s Next became a defining album for The Who and a cornerstone of rock music. Released in August 1971, the album was recorded between April and June of that year at Olympic Studios in London and Mick Jagger’s Stargroves estate using the Rolling Stones’ mobile studio. Co-produced by Townshend and the accomplished Glyn Johns, the album showcases a perfect balance of raw power and innovative artistry, with Townshend incorporating the ARP synthesizer in groundbreaking ways.

The album features The Who’s classic lineup: Roger Daltrey delivering powerful vocals, Pete Townshend on guitar and synthesizers, John Entwistle on bass, and Keith Moon providing dynamic drumming. Who’s Next includes some of the band’s most iconic tracks, such as “Baba O’Riley,” “Behind Blue Eyes,” and the thunderous “Won’t Get Fooled Again.” These songs not only pushed sonic boundaries but also explored themes of rebellion, personal introspection, and the quest for truth.

Critically acclaimed and commercially successful, the album reached number four on the Billboard 200 in the United States and topped the UK charts. Its innovative use of synthesizers and emotionally charged performances cemented its place in rock history. From the energetic “Bargain” to the contemplative “The Song Is Over,” Who’s Next is a masterclass in blending innovation with rock’s raw essence, making it a perennial favorite for fans and critics alike.

CD Track Listings: