Best Selling Folk And Rock Albums Of 1970
Here are the top 10 best-selling albums in the folk and rock genres from 1970, listed in the order they were released.
1. "Déjà Vu" by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
Release Date: March 11, 1970
Description: This album is the first by the quartet Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, blending folk rock harmonies with rock instrumentation. Key tracks include "Teach Your Children," "Our House," and "Woodstock." The album's diverse musical styles and rich harmonies made it a critical and commercial success, solidifying the group's status in rock history.
2. "Bridge Over Troubled Water" by Simon & Garfunkel
Release Date: January 26, 1970
Description: The final studio album by Simon & Garfunkel features their signature harmonies and a mix of folk, rock, and gospel influences. The title track, "Bridge Over Troubled Water," became an iconic song, along with other hits like "The Boxer" and "Cecilia." The album's emotional depth and polished production earned it widespread acclaim and commercial success.
3. "Morrison Hotel" by The Doors
Release Date: February 9, 1970
Description: "Morrison Hotel" marked a return to The Doors' blues-rock roots, with a more straightforward rock sound compared to their previous albums. Notable tracks include "Roadhouse Blues" and "Waiting for the Sun." The album's raw energy and Jim Morrison's charismatic vocals contributed to its commercial success.
4. "Led Zeppelin III" by Led Zeppelin
Release Date: October 5, 1970
Description: This album showcased Led Zeppelin's exploration of acoustic and folk influences, while still retaining their hard rock edge. Key tracks include "Immigrant Song," "Since I've Been Loving You," and "Gallows Pole." The album's blend of acoustic ballads and heavy rock anthems demonstrated the band's musical versatility.
5. "After the Gold Rush" by Neil Young
Release Date: September 19, 1970
Description: Neil Young's third studio album features a mix of folk, rock, and country influences. With tracks like "Southern Man," "Only Love Can Break Your Heart," and the title track, the album showcases Young's introspective songwriting and distinctive voice. "After the Gold Rush" is considered one of his finest works and a landmark in folk rock.
6. "Moondance" by Van Morrison
Release Date: February 28, 1970
Description: Van Morrison's third studio album blends rock, jazz, and soul influences, creating a smooth and sophisticated sound. Notable tracks include the title track "Moondance," "Into the Mystic," and "Caravan." The album's lyrical depth and musical richness have made it a timeless classic.
7. "American Beauty" by Grateful Dead
Release Date: November 1, 1970
Description: "American Beauty" is one of the Grateful Dead's most acclaimed albums, featuring a mix of folk rock, country, and psychedelic influences. Key tracks include "Truckin'," "Sugar Magnolia," and "Friend of the Devil." The album's harmonious vocals and acoustic arrangements highlighted the band's versatility and songwriting prowess.
8. "Sweet Baby James" by James Taylor
Release Date: February 1, 1970
Description: James Taylor's second studio album features his soothing voice and introspective lyrics, blending folk and soft rock elements. The album includes the hit single "Fire and Rain" and the title track "Sweet Baby James." Its intimate and heartfelt songs resonated with a wide audience, establishing Taylor as a leading singer-songwriter.
9. "Tea for the Tillerman" by Cat Stevens
Release Date: November 23, 1970
Description: Cat Stevens' fourth studio album features a blend of folk rock and pop, with introspective lyrics and catchy melodies. Notable tracks include "Wild World," "Father and Son," and "Where Do the Children Play?" The album's thoughtful songwriting and emotional depth made it a critical and commercial success.
10. "Cosmo's Factory" by Creedence Clearwater Revival
Release Date: July 16, 1970
Description: "Cosmo's Factory" is one of Creedence Clearwater Revival's most successful albums, featuring a mix of rock, blues, and country influences. Key tracks include "Travelin' Band," "Lookin' Out My Back Door," and "Who'll Stop the Rain." The album's tight musicianship and memorable songs solidified CCR's place in rock history.