Best Selling Folk And Rock Albums Of 1973
Here are the top 10 best-selling albums in the folk and rock genres from 1973, listed in the order they were released.
1. "Don't Shoot Me I'm Only the Piano Player" by Elton John
Release Date: January 26, 1973
Description: This album features a mix of rock and pop, showcasing Elton John's dynamic songwriting and vocal talents. Key tracks include "Crocodile Rock" and "Daniel," both of which became major hits. The album's catchy melodies and polished production contributed to its commercial success, solidifying Elton John's status as a leading artist of the era.
2. "Houses of the Holy" by Led Zeppelin
Release Date: March 28, 1973
Description: Led Zeppelin's fifth studio album features a blend of rock, folk, and experimental sounds. Notable tracks include "The Song Remains the Same," "Over the Hills and Far Away," and "D'yer Mak'er." The album's diverse musical styles and innovative production techniques made it a critical and commercial success.
3. "Desperado" by Eagles
Release Date: April 17, 1973
Description: The Eagles' second studio album is a concept album that tells the story of the Doolin-Dalton gang in the Old West. Key tracks include "Desperado," "Tequila Sunrise," and "Doolin-Dalton." The album's blend of rock and country influences, along with its storytelling lyrics, contributed to its lasting appeal and commercial success.
4. "The Dark Side of the Moon" by Pink Floyd
Release Date: March 1, 1973
Description: Pink Floyd's eighth studio album is a landmark in progressive rock, known for its cohesive concept and innovative use of studio technology. Notable tracks include "Money," "Time," and "Us and Them." The album's exploration of themes like mental illness, time, and greed, along with its atmospheric soundscapes, made it one of the best-selling albums of all time.
5. "Red Rose Speedway" by Paul McCartney and Wings
Release Date: April 30, 1973
Description: This album by Paul McCartney and Wings features a blend of rock, pop, and folk influences. Notable tracks include "My Love," which became a major hit. The album's polished production and catchy melodies helped it achieve commercial success, showcasing McCartney's continued relevance as a solo artist.
6. "There Goes Rhymin' Simon" by Paul Simon
Release Date: May 5, 1973
Description: Paul Simon's third solo album blends folk, rock, and pop with introspective lyrics and memorable melodies. Key tracks include "Kodachrome," "Loves Me Like a Rock," and "American Tune." The album's thoughtful songwriting and diverse musical influences earned it critical acclaim and commercial success.
7. "Goats Head Soup" by The Rolling Stones
Release Date: August 31, 1973
Description: The Rolling Stones' eleventh studio album features a mix of rock and ballads. Notable tracks include "Angie," "Doo Doo Doo Doo Doo (Heartbreaker)," and "Dancing with Mr. D." The album's raw sound and emotive lyrics contributed to its commercial success, continuing the band's streak of hit records.
8. "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" by Elton John
Release Date: October 5, 1973
Description: This double album by Elton John is considered one of his masterpieces, featuring a mix of rock, pop, and glam influences. Key tracks include "Candle in the Wind," "Bennie and the Jets," and the title track "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road." The album's ambitious scope and diverse musical styles made it a critical and commercial triumph.
9. "Band on the Run" by Paul McCartney and Wings
Release Date: December 5, 1973
Description: This album by Paul McCartney and Wings is one of McCartney's most successful post-Beatles projects. Notable tracks include "Band on the Run," "Jet," and "Helen Wheels." The album's cohesive production and strong songwriting earned it critical acclaim and commercial success, solidifying McCartney's status as a leading solo artist.
10. "Innervisions" by Stevie Wonder
Release Date: August 3, 1973
Description: While more aligned with soul and funk, "Innervisions" by Stevie Wonder also incorporates elements of rock and folk. Key tracks include "Higher Ground," "Living for the City," and "Don't You Worry 'Bout a Thing." The album's innovative production and socially conscious lyrics made it a landmark release in Wonder's career.