Best Selling Folk And Rock Albums Of 1971
Best Selling Folk And Rock Albums Of 1971
Here are the top 10 best-selling albums in the folk and rock genres from 1971, listed in the order they were released.
1. "Pearl" by Janis Joplin
Release Date: January 11, 1971
Description: "Pearl" was Janis Joplin's final studio album, released posthumously. It features a mix of rock, blues, and soul, showcasing Joplin's powerful voice and emotional delivery. Notable tracks include "Me and Bobby McGee," "Cry Baby," and "Mercedes Benz." The album's raw energy and Joplin's unforgettable performances made it a commercial and critical success.
2. "Tapestry" by Carole King
Release Date: February 10, 1971
Description: Carole King's landmark album "Tapestry" blends folk, rock, and pop with introspective lyrics and timeless melodies. The album includes classics like "It's Too Late," "I Feel the Earth Move," and "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman." King's soulful voice and masterful songwriting made "Tapestry" one of the best-selling albums of all time.
3. "Aqualung" by Jethro Tull
Release Date: March 19, 1971
Description: Jethro Tull's fourth studio album combines progressive rock with folk influences. The album features complex compositions and thought-provoking lyrics, with standout tracks like "Aqualung," "Cross-Eyed Mary," and "Locomotive Breath." Ian Anderson's distinctive flute playing and the album's eclectic sound contributed to its enduring popularity.
4. "L.A. Woman" by The Doors
Release Date: April 19, 1971
Description: "L.A. Woman" was The Doors' final album with Jim Morrison. It blends rock and blues, with tracks like "Riders on the Storm," "Love Her Madly," and the title track "L.A. Woman." The album's gritty sound and Morrison's charismatic vocals made it a critical and commercial success, solidifying The Doors' legacy.
5. "Sticky Fingers" by The Rolling Stones
Release Date: April 23, 1971
Description: "Sticky Fingers" is a quintessential rock album, featuring a mix of blues, rock, and country influences. Key tracks include "Brown Sugar," "Wild Horses," and "Can't You Hear Me Knocking." The album is noted for its iconic cover art and the introduction of the band's famous tongue and lips logo. Its raw sound and memorable songs have made it a classic.
6. "Blue" by Joni Mitchell
Release Date: June 22, 1971
Description: Joni Mitchell's "Blue" is a deeply personal and introspective album, blending folk and rock with poetic lyrics. The album features songs like "A Case of You," "River," and "All I Want." Mitchell's emotive voice and confessional songwriting have made "Blue" one of the most acclaimed albums in music history.
7. "Who's Next" by The Who
Release Date: August 14, 1971
Description: "Who's Next" is one of The Who's most celebrated albums, blending rock with electronic and synthesizer elements. Standout tracks include "Baba O'Riley," "Behind Blue Eyes," and "Won't Get Fooled Again." The album's powerful sound and innovative production techniques have made it a cornerstone of rock music.
8. "Every Picture Tells a Story" by Rod Stewart
Release Date: May 28, 1971
Description: Rod Stewart's third solo album features a blend of rock, folk, and blues. The album includes hits like "Maggie May," "Reason to Believe," and the title track "Every Picture Tells a Story." Stewart's raspy voice and heartfelt performances helped make the album a commercial success and a critical favorite.
9. "Led Zeppelin IV" by Led Zeppelin
Release Date: November 8, 1971
Description: Often referred to as "Led Zeppelin IV," this untitled album is one of the band's most iconic releases. It features a mix of hard rock and folk influences, with classics like "Stairway to Heaven," "Black Dog," and "Rock and Roll." The album's powerful sound and enduring songs have cemented its place in rock history.
10. "Harvest" by Neil Young
Release Date: February 1, 1971 (Though the bulk of sales occurred throughout 1971 and beyond)
Description: Neil Young's "Harvest" blends rock, folk, and country, featuring introspective lyrics and acoustic arrangements. Key tracks include "Heart of Gold," "Old Man," and "The Needle and the Damage Done." The album's mellow sound and reflective themes resonated with a wide audience, making it one of Young's most successful albums.