Best Selling Folk And Rock Albums Of 1972
Here are the top 10 best-selling albums in the folk and rock genres from 1972, listed in the order they were released.
1. "Harvest" by Neil Young
Release Date: February 1, 1972
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.
2. "Paul Simon" by Paul Simon
Release Date: January 14, 1972
Description: Paul Simon's self-titled second solo album showcased his diverse musical influences, including folk, rock, and world music. Notable tracks include "Mother and Child Reunion" and "Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard." The album's blend of catchy melodies and thoughtful lyrics earned it critical acclaim and commercial success.
3. "America" by America
Release Date: January 1972
Description: America's debut album features their signature harmonies and a blend of folk rock and soft rock. The album includes the hit single "A Horse with No Name," which became an international success. Other standout tracks include "I Need You" and "Sandman." The album's warm sound and catchy melodies made it a commercial hit.
4. "Hunky Dory" by David Bowie
Release Date: December 17, 1971 (UK), January 3, 1972 (US)
Description: While released in late 1971 in the UK, David Bowie's "Hunky Dory" gained significant traction in 1972. The album features a mix of folk rock and glam rock, with notable tracks like "Changes," "Life on Mars?" and "Oh! You Pretty Things." Bowie's eclectic style and innovative songwriting made "Hunky Dory" a critical and commercial success.
5. "Jackson Browne" by Jackson Browne
Release Date: January 1972
Description: Jackson Browne's debut album, also known as "Saturate Before Using," features introspective lyrics and a blend of folk rock and soft rock. Key tracks include "Doctor My Eyes," "Jamaica Say You Will," and "Rock Me on the Water." Browne's reflective songwriting and smooth vocals earned the album widespread acclaim.
6. "Thick as a Brick" by Jethro Tull
Release Date: March 3, 1972
Description: Jethro Tull's fifth studio album is a single continuous piece of music, blending progressive rock and folk influences. The album's intricate compositions and satirical lyrics tell the story of a fictional young poet, Gerald Bostock. "Thick as a Brick" is celebrated for its ambitious structure and musicianship.
7. "Exile on Main St." by The Rolling Stones
Release Date: May 12, 1972
Description: This double album by The Rolling Stones blends rock, blues, and country influences. Notable tracks include "Tumbling Dice," "Rocks Off," and "Happy." The album's raw, loose sound and diverse musical styles have made it a classic, often regarded as one of the greatest rock albums of all time.
8. "Harvest" by Neil Young
Release Date: February 1, 1972
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.
9. "Close to the Edge" by Yes
Release Date: September 13, 1972
Description: Yes's fifth studio album is a landmark in progressive rock, featuring complex compositions and virtuosic musicianship. The album consists of three lengthy tracks: "Close to the Edge," "And You and I," and "Siberian Khatru." Its intricate arrangements and ambitious scope have made it a defining work in the genre.
10. "Eagles" by Eagles
Release Date: June 1, 1972
Description: The debut album by Eagles features a blend of rock, country, and folk influences. Key tracks include "Take It Easy," "Witchy Woman," and "Peaceful Easy Feeling." The album's smooth harmonies and catchy melodies made it a commercial success, establishing the band as a major force in the music industry.