The 100 Greatest Classic Rock Albums of All Time: #1. Sticky Fingers (3 Viewers)

[zamboni]

31. Fleetwood Mac- Fleetwood Mac (1975)

Classic rock radio hits: Rhiannon, Say You Love Me, Landslide, World Turning, Over My Head, Blue Letter, Sugar Daddy

This is the start of Chapter 3 for Fleetwood Mac. To recap:

In Chapter 1, an excellent British rhythm session (John McVie on bass, Mick Fleetwood on drums) teamed up with a few of the best blues players in England, led by the great Peter Green (“Black Magic Women”, among many others.) Together they released some terrific blues records in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Then Green left.

In Chapter 2, the rhythm section acquired two new songwriters: an American guitarist named Bob Welch who was a fairly good easy listening artist (“Sentimental Lady”) and a British keyboardist named Christine Perfect who was destined to become a brilliant writer of pop and soft rock (“Spare Me A Little” was her first excellent tune in this direction). Later on, Perfect married the bass player and became Christine McVie. Then Welch left.

In Chapter 3 the band was joined by two more brilliant American songwriters, guitarist Lindsay Buckingham, and folkie Stevie Nicks, who were also a couple. Now with 3 of the best songwriters in the business, Fleetwood Mac exploded in 1975 with a new sound and a legendary album which almost immediately dominated rock radio.

Monday Morning
Buckingham- Terrific folk rock tune begins the record.

Warm Ways
C. McVie- Great effortless pop song,

Blue Letter
Buckingham- incredibly catchy pop rock.

Rhiannon
Nicks- One of the great classic rock songs of the 70s. Timeless, awesome.

Over My Head
C. McVie- More effortless and sublime soft rock.

Crystal
Buckingham- A very pretty ballad, though not IMO at the high level of most of the other tunes on this record.

Say You Love Me
C. McVie- A rock song which is one of the highlights of her songwriting career. I love the Byrds like Rickenbacker that comes in around the middle. So good,

Landslide
Nicks- One of the best rock ballads and acoustic songs of all time. Legendary.

World Turning
Buckingham- it’s a signature move by this writer for some of his tunes fo start off quietly and then explode. This is one of his very best,

Sugar Daddy
C. McVie- More great rock by Christine. Her vocals shine here.

I’m So Afraid
Buckingham- Rock song designed to show off his guitar playing skills which are prodigious. But, like Crystal, I feel this tune is ordinary compared to the rest of the album.

Final count- Buckingham 5, C. McVie 4, Nicks 2. Only 2 for Nicks but those 2 songs are simply incredible.

Great album - it often gets overlooked a bit because of the subsequent Rumours, but it's almost nearly as good.

 

[pacman_fl]

31. Fleetwood Mac- Fleetwood Mac (1975)

Classic rock radio hits: Rhiannon, Say You Love Me, Landslide, World Turning, Over My Head, Blue Letter, Sugar Daddy

This is the start of Chapter 3 for Fleetwood Mac. To recap:

In Chapter 1, an excellent British rhythm session (John McVie on bass, Mick Fleetwood on drums) teamed up with a few of the best blues players in England, led by the great Peter Green (“Black Magic Women”, among many others.) Together they released some terrific blues records in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Then Green left.

In Chapter 2, the rhythm section acquired two new songwriters: an American guitarist named Bob Welch who was a fairly good easy listening artist (“Sentimental Lady”) and a British keyboardist named Christine Perfect who was destined to become a brilliant writer of pop and soft rock (“Spare Me A Little” was her first excellent tune in this direction). Later on, Perfect married the bass player and became Christine McVie. Then Welch left.

In Chapter 3 the band was joined by two more brilliant American songwriters, guitarist Lindsay Buckingham, and folkie Stevie Nicks, who were also a couple. Now with 3 of the best songwriters in the business, Fleetwood Mac exploded in 1975 with a new sound and a legendary album which almost immediately dominated rock radio.



Rhiannon
Nicks- One of the great classic rock songs of the 70s. Timeless, awesome.


Landslide
Nicks- One of the best rock ballads and acoustic songs of all time. Legendary.



Final count- Buckingham 5, C. McVie 4, Nicks 2. Only 2 for Nicks but those 2 songs are simply incredible.

Stevie has had her issues over the years, but besides being one of the best females vocalists of all time, she is definitely underrated as a writer. Not as prodigious as others perhaps, but these and the songs on Rumors are classics.

 

[Mr. Mojo]

Stevie has had her issues over the years, but besides being one of the best females vocalists of all time, she is definitely underrated as a writer. Not as prodigious as others perhaps, but these and the songs on Rumors are classics.

Really? I don't think that she is even the best female vocalist in Fleetwood Mac.

 

[timschochet]

Stevie has had her issues over the years, but besides being one of the best females vocalists of all time, she is definitely underrated as a writer. Not as prodigious as others perhaps, but these and the songs on Rumors are classics.

Really? I don't think that she is even the best female vocalist in Fleetwood Mac.

They’re very different. Stevie is certainly more distinctive, Chrissie was more traditional. I wouldn’t want to rank them against each other.

 

[FairWarning]

Not a Fleetwood Mac fan under the later lineup, but really like World Turning. They have so many hits on this album, it gets lost.

Agree with Zamboni, it’s a close 2nd to Rumours.

 

[Ghost Rider]

Not sure in what world I'm So Afraid is ordinary (even compared to the other songs here), but then again I cannot recall the studio version, as that is one of those songs where I always listen to far superior live versions.

I agree that this is about as good as Rumours. Monday Morning, Rhiannon and Landslide are all all-timers as well.

 

[BassNBrew]

The last two were albums I thought Tim would have higher. I guess he's leaving room for 5 Rush albums.

 

[Ghost Rider]

I'm getting ready to laugh when he puts a Velvet Underground album in the top 5 even though 99.999% of classic rock stations out there never played a thing by them.

 

[BassNBrew]

I'm getting ready to laugh when he puts a Velvet Underground album in the top 5 even though 99.999% of classic rock stations out there never played a thing by them.

Since it won't be spotlighting @Ghost Rider , where would you rand the Rush albums in the 100. Just a ballpark, more interested in your album order than exact placement in the 100.

 

[FairWarning]

The last two were albums I thought Tim would have higher. I guess he's leaving room for 5 Rush albums.

I’m in.

 

[timschochet]

30. The Band- The Band (1969)

Classic rock radio hits: The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down, Up On Cripple Creek, Rag Mama Rag

It’s not folk rock, and it’s not country rock either, exactly. A contemporary reviewer called it “ragtime rock”, and years later Emmylou Harris penned the word “Americana” to describe a whole sub-genre of music that began with this album.
This record represents the best of the Band’s studio recordings, despite the fact that their single greatest song, “The Weight”, came from the previous record.

Across The Great Divide
Richard Manuel’s vocals are distinctive and great here. Like all of the Band’s singers he is extremely heartfelt. I suspect he also had something to do with this tune’s composition as well, though like all tunes here it’s credited to Robbie Robertson (a source of dissension for years to come.)

Rag Mama Rag
Understated singing by Levon here. The best feature of this ragtime tune is Garth Hudson’s amazing piano work.

The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down
One of the greatest songs of all time. So brilliant. A tribute to the old South that rivals Gone With The Wind in its questionable claim of loss of innocence. Of course the great irony is that most of the performers here are Canadian. But Levon sings and his vocals are probably the most important element. Truly a legendary performance.

When You Awake
Despite the brilliance of Levon and the honesty of Manuel, Rick Danko has always been my favorite of the three Band lead singers. There is something about his voice that I can’t describe which moves me every time. This is a good example.

Up On Cripple Creek
Really excellent rock and roll here, a little like CCR in its swamp feel. The lyrics are tremendous: “a drunkard’s dream” is one of the great song phrases ever.

Whispering Pines
Gorgeous ballad, and more complex than it initially appears.

Jemima Surrender
More “ragtime rock”. You can tell Levon just loves singing this.

Rockin’ Chair
My favorite song on the album, and in my top 3 tunes by these artists. I find everything about this: the lyrics, the melody, the harmonies, completely sublime. I never get tired of hearing it.

Look Out Cleveland
Yet another great deep cut, with terrific guitars and keyboards and an awesome melody. (Is it obvious I love these guys?)

Jawbone
The only tune on the record I don’t love. I can’t exactly hate it as there are parts that are interesting but overall it’s weird and I just don’t care much for it,

The Unfaithful Servant
And this ballad I absolutely adore. So memorable, so good.

King Harvest (Has Surely Come)
Like Dixie this is a historical tune, about the farmers’ unions of the Great Depression. It’s also terrific rock and roll.

 

[BassNBrew]

The Band over Van Halen....Carolina Panthers over Pittsburg Steelers. I can see it.

 

[timschochet]

The Band over Van Halen....Carolina Panthers over Pittsburg Steelers. I can see it.

Expand your horizons!

JK. I appreciate the feedback, even when you’re wrong, (which you certainly are.)

 

[zamboni]

30. The Band- The Band (1969)



Whispering Pines
Gorgeous ballad, and more complex than it initially appears.

Incredible album, as with their other one that may show up later. As for Whispering Pines, I’ve selected it in a few drafts we’ve had. My favorite song of theirs - Manuel is so haunting here and the call back part with Levon is amazing.

 

[AAABatteries]

The last two were albums I thought Tim would have higher. I guess he's leaving room for 5 Rush albums.

 

[Anarchy99]

We are 20 albums into the Top 50, and there's probably 6-8 selections (of those 20) that probably wouldn't be in my Top 100. To each his (or her) own . . .

 

[DocHolliday]

The Band over Van Halen....Carolina Panthers over Pittsburg Steelers. I can see it.

It’s just silly.

 

[Tau837]

We are 20 albums into the Top 50, and there's probably 6-8 selections (of those 20) that probably wouldn't be in my Top 100. To each his (or her) own . . .

At least 6-8...

 

[Brunell4MVP]

Stevie has had her issues over the years, but besides being one of the best females vocalists of all time, she is definitely underrated as a writer. Not as prodigious as others perhaps, but these and the songs on Rumors are classics.

Really? I don't think that she is even the best female vocalist in Fleetwood Mac.

Not sure best is a good word. Just saw her live. She still has an excellent voice, but it's best characteristic is being distinctive. Stevie sings a song and in less that a second you go "That's Stevie!".

 

[timschochet]

We are 20 albums into the Top 50, and there's probably 6-8 selections (of those 20) that probably wouldn't be in my Top 100. To each his (or her) own . . .

Curious which ones?

 

[pacman_fl]

Stevie has had her issues over the years, but besides being one of the best females vocalists of all time, she is definitely underrated as a writer. Not as prodigious as others perhaps, but these and the songs on Rumors are classics.

Really? I don't think that she is even the best female vocalist in Fleetwood Mac.

Not sure best is a good word. Just saw her live. She still has an excellent voice, but it's best characteristic is being distinctive. Stevie sings a song and in less that a second you go "That's Stevie!".

Tim used the same word. I would agree with distinctive. Keep in mind that I am tone deaf and like what I like. Good to know she still sounds good. It's tough for many aging stars.

 

[Tau837]

We are 20 albums into the Top 50, and there's probably 6-8 selections (of those 20) that probably wouldn't be in my Top 100. To each his (or her) own . . .

Curious which ones?

You didn't ask me, but these would not be in my top 50:

50. Bat Out of Hell - Meat Loaf
49. The Doors - The Doors
48. Hunky Dory - David Bowie
47. The Wild, The Innocent & The E Street Shuffle - Bruce Springsteen
46. Aqualung - Jethro Tull
44. Quadrophenia - The Who
43. American Beauty - Grateful Dead
42. Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere - Neil Young & Crazy Horse
33. All Things Must Pass - George Harrison
30. The Band - The Band

There are others I'm not sure about, since I haven't made my own list. So maybe more wouldn't make it, but I am sure about these.

 

[Ghost Rider]

I'm getting ready to laugh when he puts a Velvet Underground album in the top 5 even though 99.999% of classic rock stations out there never played a thing by them.

Since it won't be spotlighting @Ghost Rider , where would you rand the Rush albums in the 100. Just a ballpark, more interested in your album order than exact placement in the 100.

It depends on what years we are using for classic rock. Classic rock now seems to refer to any rock that is more than 15-20 years old, but it used to be rock from the late 60s through the very early 80s. Using the old standard, Moving Pictures would likely be number 2 behind Dark Side of the Moon, and Permanent Waves would be borderline top 5. 2112 would be top 20 most likely, and then I reckon Hemisphere and A Farewell to Kings would both be somewhere in the bottom half of a top 100. Nothing else would make it (unless I could include Signals).

 

[Anarchy99]

I'm getting ready to laugh when he puts a Velvet Underground album in the top 5 even though 99.999% of classic rock stations out there never played a thing by them.

Since it won't be spotlighting @Ghost Rider , where would you rand the Rush albums in the 100. Just a ballpark, more interested in your album order than exact placement in the 100.

It depends on what years we are using for classic rock. Classic rock now seems to refer to any rock that is more than 15-20 years old, but it used to be rock from the late 60s through the very early 80s. Using the old standard, Moving Pictures would likely be number 2 behind Dark Side of the Moon, and Permanent Waves would be borderline top 5. 2112 would be top 20 most likely, and then I reckon Hemisphere and A Farewell to Kings would both be somewhere in the bottom half of a top 100. Nothing else would make it (unless I could include Signals).

Not where I lived. Rush wasn’t played all that much. They were in the grouping of bands that were considered classic rock but nowhere near the top of the mountain. Played frequently like Styx, Bob Seger, or Steely Dan. But not in the LZ, Stones, PF class.

 

[Ghost Rider]

I'm getting ready to laugh when he puts a Velvet Underground album in the top 5 even though 99.999% of classic rock stations out there never played a thing by them.

Since it won't be spotlighting @Ghost Rider , where would you rand the Rush albums in the 100. Just a ballpark, more interested in your album order than exact placement in the 100.

It depends on what years we are using for classic rock. Classic rock now seems to refer to any rock that is more than 15-20 years old, but it used to be rock from the late 60s through the very early 80s. Using the old standard, Moving Pictures would likely be number 2 behind Dark Side of the Moon, and Permanent Waves would be borderline top 5. 2112 would be top 20 most likely, and then I reckon Hemisphere and A Farewell to Kings would both be somewhere in the bottom half of a top 100. Nothing else would make it (unless I could include Signals).

Not where I lived. Rush wasn’t played all that much. They were in the grouping of bands that were considered classic rock but nowhere near the top of the mountain. Played frequently like Styx, Bob Seger, or Steely Dan. But not in the LZ, Stones, PF class.

I don't care about where you lived.

BassBBrew asked for where I would personally rank the Rush records, and my post answered his question.

 

[Uruk-Hai]

Damn

 

[zamboni]

Damn

You’ve been around as long as anyone, GB. Gets very tense/territorial any time it comes to Rush.

 

[Ghost Rider]

Nah, it's just silly to try and make a point that had nothing to do with the question I was asked.

 

[Psychopav]

30. The Band- The Band (1969)

Classic rock radio hits: The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down, Up On Cripple Creek, Rag Mama Rag

It’s not folk rock, and it’s not country rock either, exactly. A contemporary reviewer called it “ragtime rock”, and years later Emmylou Harris penned the word “Americana” to describe a whole sub-genre of music that began with this album.
This record represents the best of the Band’s studio recordings, despite the fact that their single greatest song, “The Weight”, came from the previous record.

Across The Great Divide
Richard Manuel’s vocals are distinctive and great here. Like all of the Band’s singers he is extremely heartfelt. I suspect he also had something to do with this tune’s composition as well, though like all tunes here it’s credited to Robbie Robertson (a source of dissension for years to come.)

Rag Mama Rag
Understated singing by Levon here. The best feature of this ragtime tune is Garth Hudson’s amazing piano work.

The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down
One of the greatest songs of all time. So brilliant. A tribute to the old South that rivals Gone With The Wind in its questionable claim of loss of innocence. Of course the great irony is that most of the performers here are Canadian. But Levon sings and his vocals are probably the most important element. Truly a legendary performance.

When You Awake
Despite the brilliance of Levon and the honesty of Manuel, Rick Danko has always been my favorite of the three Band lead singers. There is something about his voice that I can’t describe which moves me every time. This is a good example.

Up On Cripple Creek
Really excellent rock and roll here, a little like CCR in its swamp feel. The lyrics are tremendous: “a drunkard’s dream” is one of the great song phrases ever.

Whispering Pines
Gorgeous ballad, and more complex than it initially appears.

Jemima Surrender
More “ragtime rock”. You can tell Levon just loves singing this.

Rockin’ Chair
My favorite song on the album, and in my top 3 tunes by these artists. I find everything about this: the lyrics, the melody, the harmonies, completely sublime. I never get tired of hearing it.

Look Out Cleveland
Yet another great deep cut, with terrific guitars and keyboards and an awesome melody. (Is it obvious I love these guys?)

Jawbone
The only tune on the record I don’t love. I can’t exactly hate it as there are parts that are interesting but overall it’s weird and I just don’t care much for it,

The Unfaithful Servant
And this ballad I absolutely adore. So memorable, so good.

King Harvest (Has Surely Come)
Like Dixie this is a historical tune, about the farmers’ unions of the Great Depression. It’s also terrific rock and roll.

Timely pick as the 45th anniversary showing of The Last Waltz is in theaters today (one day only). Going with my buddy and son-in-law a few hours from now.

 

[krista4]

I'm bummed that I haven't had time to follow this thread (though I've seen some faves pop up in the title changes). Just stopping in to mention that last night I dreamt that tim put Radiohead's "In Rainbows" in the top 50 here. Wtf is the matter with me?!

 

[rockaction]

Just stopping in to mention that last night I dreamt that tim put Radiohead's "In Rainbows" in the top 50 here.

I dreamt that I was the only fool alive that paid for that album because I believed in the way in which their payment model worked.

Oh wait, I absolutely did pay for that album.

Funny about your dream, though.

 

[timschochet]

I'm bummed that I haven't had time to follow this thread (though I've seen some faves pop up in the title changes). Just stopping in to mention that last night I dreamt that tim put Radiohead's "In Rainbows" in the top 50 here. Wtf is the matter with me?!

I’m actually a pretty big fan of Radiohead but sadly they are not eligible for this list which doesn’t go past 1981.

But I hope you’ll stick around for the remainder as I’d love to get your reaction of my placement of some more of your professed favorites coming up.

 

[timschochet]

30. The Band- The Band (1969)

Classic rock radio hits: The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down, Up On Cripple Creek, Rag Mama Rag

It’s not folk rock, and it’s not country rock either, exactly. A contemporary reviewer called it “ragtime rock”, and years later Emmylou Harris penned the word “Americana” to describe a whole sub-genre of music that began with this album.
This record represents the best of the Band’s studio recordings, despite the fact that their single greatest song, “The Weight”, came from the previous record.

Across The Great Divide
Richard Manuel’s vocals are distinctive and great here. Like all of the Band’s singers he is extremely heartfelt. I suspect he also had something to do with this tune’s composition as well, though like all tunes here it’s credited to Robbie Robertson (a source of dissension for years to come.)

Rag Mama Rag
Understated singing by Levon here. The best feature of this ragtime tune is Garth Hudson’s amazing piano work.

The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down
One of the greatest songs of all time. So brilliant. A tribute to the old South that rivals Gone With The Wind in its questionable claim of loss of innocence. Of course the great irony is that most of the performers here are Canadian. But Levon sings and his vocals are probably the most important element. Truly a legendary performance.

When You Awake
Despite the brilliance of Levon and the honesty of Manuel, Rick Danko has always been my favorite of the three Band lead singers. There is something about his voice that I can’t describe which moves me every time. This is a good example.

Up On Cripple Creek
Really excellent rock and roll here, a little like CCR in its swamp feel. The lyrics are tremendous: “a drunkard’s dream” is one of the great song phrases ever.

Whispering Pines
Gorgeous ballad, and more complex than it initially appears.

Jemima Surrender
More “ragtime rock”. You can tell Levon just loves singing this.

Rockin’ Chair
My favorite song on the album, and in my top 3 tunes by these artists. I find everything about this: the lyrics, the melody, the harmonies, completely sublime. I never get tired of hearing it.

Look Out Cleveland
Yet another great deep cut, with terrific guitars and keyboards and an awesome melody. (Is it obvious I love these guys?)

Jawbone
The only tune on the record I don’t love. I can’t exactly hate it as there are parts that are interesting but overall it’s weird and I just don’t care much for it,

The Unfaithful Servant
And this ballad I absolutely adore. So memorable, so good.

King Harvest (Has Surely Come)
Like Dixie this is a historical tune, about the farmers’ unions of the Great Depression. It’s also terrific rock and roll.

Timely pick as the 45th anniversary showing of The Last Waltz is in theaters today (one day only). Going with my buddy and son-in-law a few hours from now.

Love the cinematography in that film- particularly the performance of “The Weight” and the way the camera cuts across the stage to the Staple Singers. I always thought that was superb filming.

 

[krista4]

I'm bummed that I haven't had time to follow this thread (though I've seen some faves pop up in the title changes). Just stopping in to mention that last night I dreamt that tim put Radiohead's "In Rainbows" in the top 50 here. Wtf is the matter with me?!

I’m actually a pretty big fan of Radiohead but sadly they are not eligible for this list which doesn’t go past 1981.

But I hope you’ll stick around for the remainder as I’d love to get your reaction of my placement of some more of your professed favorites coming up.

Well yeah, not being “classic rock” was my point. Where did I pull that from into my dream?

 

[rockaction]

Well yeah, not being “classic rock” was my point. Where did I pull that from into my dream?

Floyd influence?

 

[timschochet]

29. The Cars- The Cars (1978)

Classic rock radio hits: Just What I Needed, My Best Friend’s Girl, Good Times Roll, Bye Bye Love, Moving In Stereo, You’re All I Got Tonight

The Cars are the only New Wave band to have an album on this list because they managed to bridge the gap between that genre and classic rock. Other New Wave and post-punk bands, like The Police and The Clash, would have the odd song or two that eventually became staples of classic rock, but The Cars did it almost immediately, perhaps because their music was so guitar driven. In any case this is an incredible record, truly one of the great debut albums of all time, with a sound that explodes on the listener and is still great to listen to after all these years.

Good Times Roll
Ric Ocasek was such an extraordinarily good songwriter, and this album begins with three of his greatest ever tunes. This is excellent rock and roll at a high level.

My Best Friend’s Girl
That guitar riff is so distinctive, as are the vocals. One of the great classics of the late 70s.

Just What I Needed
The band’s signature tune. Orr’s vocals are terrific and the musicianship here is off the charts. A tour de force.

I’m in Touch With Your World
A pretty simple 3 chord effort. But it has always sounded great to me.

Don’t Cha Stop
For most bands this great rocker would be worthy of a hit single. Here it’s just filler.

You’re All I Got Tonight
More great guitar and the drums are superb here as well. Anthemic and awesome.

Bye Bye Love
This is a lot of people’s favorite song on the album. And why not? It’s completely brilliant. Another great great listen.

Moving in Stereo
Love how the end of Bye Bye Love merges into this. So good.

All Mixed Up
The closest thing to a ballad on this record. Actually this is really pretty.

 

[pacman_fl]

I've never been a huge Cars fan and I wouldn't put the album this high but I totally forgot how many "good songs" came from this album. It really was a nice debut album by any standard. If nothing else, just for the use of Moving in Stereo in Fast Times makes the album always memorable.

 

[zamboni]

29. The Cars- The Cars (1978)

Classic rock radio hits: Just What I Needed, My Best Friend’s Girl, Good Times Roll, Bye Bye Love, Moving In Stereo, You’re All I Got Tonight

The Cars are the only New Wave band to have an album on this list because they managed to bridge the gap between that genre and classic rock. Other New Wave and post-punk bands, like The Police and The Clash, would have the odd song or two that eventually became staples of classic rock, but The Cars did it almost immediately, perhaps because their music was so guitar driven. In any case this is an incredible record, truly one of the great debut albums of all time, with a sound that explodes on the listener and is still great to listen to after all these years.

Good Times Roll
Ric Ocasek was such an extraordinarily good songwriter, and this album begins with three of his greatest ever tunes. This is excellent rock and roll at a high level.

My Best Friend’s Girl
That guitar riff is so distinctive, as are the vocals. One of the great classics of the late 70s.

Just What I Needed
The band’s signature tune. Orr’s vocals are terrific and the musicianship here is off the charts. A tour de force.

I’m in Touch With Your World
A pretty simple 3 chord effort. But it has always sounded great to me.

Don’t Cha Stop
For most bands this great rocker would be worthy of a hit single. Here it’s just filler.

You’re All I Got Tonight
More great guitar and the drums are superb here as well. Anthemic and awesome.

Bye Bye Love
This is a lot of people’s favorite song on the album. And why not? It’s completely brilliant. Another great great listen.

Moving in Stereo
Love how the end of Bye Bye Love merges into this. So good.

All Mixed Up
The closest thing to a ballad on this record. Actually this is really pretty.

A beauty of a debut. They set the bar so high for themselves that it was impossible to approach (although Candy-O was very solid too IMO). I think this has aged remarkably well. I agree that "Don't Cha Stop" is probably the weak spot, but that's probably just nitpicking.

 

[Anarchy99]

The Cars are the only New Wave band to have an album on this list because they managed to bridge the gap between that genre and classic rock. Other New Wave and post-punk bands, like The Police and The Clash, would have the odd song or two that eventually became staples of classic rock, but The Cars did it almost immediately, perhaps because their music was so guitar driven. In any case this is an incredible record, truly one of the great debut albums of all time, with a sound that explodes on the listener and is still great to listen to after all these years.

Does this mean the first Pretenders album is out of the running? That's one of my favorite debut albums ever . . . although admittedly it may not fit in a "classic rock" category.

 

[pacman_fl]

The Cars are the only New Wave band to have an album on this list because they managed to bridge the gap between that genre and classic rock. Other New Wave and post-punk bands, like The Police and The Clash, would have the odd song or two that eventually became staples of classic rock, but The Cars did it almost immediately, perhaps because their music was so guitar driven. In any case this is an incredible record, truly one of the great debut albums of all time, with a sound that explodes on the listener and is still great to listen to after all these years.

Does this mean the first Pretenders album is out of the running? That's one of my favorite debut albums ever . . . although admittedly it may not fit in a "classic rock" category.

Obviously Brass in Pocket was everywhere but I wasn't "cool enough" to listen to the Pretenders. What other songs from the album were on classic rock radio. I went and did the same for Blondie. The best I got to was Parallel Lines (One Way or Another & Heart of Glass) or Autoamerican (The Tide is High, & Rapture).

 

[timschochet]

The Cars are the only New Wave band to have an album on this list because they managed to bridge the gap between that genre and classic rock. Other New Wave and post-punk bands, like The Police and The Clash, would have the odd song or two that eventually became staples of classic rock, but The Cars did it almost immediately, perhaps because their music was so guitar driven. In any case this is an incredible record, truly one of the great debut albums of all time, with a sound that explodes on the listener and is still great to listen to after all these years.

Does this mean the first Pretenders album is out of the running? That's one of my favorite debut albums ever . . . although admittedly it may not fit in a "classic rock" category.

Yeah. I love that album too, and Parallel Lines, and Talking Heads ‘77. But I don’t think they belong in this discussion. The Cars debut does. I can’t quite explain this anymore than I can explain the exclusion of certain early 70s singer songwriter classic albums.

 

[Anarchy99]

We are 20 albums into the Top 50, and there's probably 6-8 selections (of those 20) that probably wouldn't be in my Top 100. To each his (or her) own . . .

Curious which ones?

For starters, If I were to make a list (which I probably will when you get done), I would have different guidelines than you have for your list. For my list, I would put more emphasis on popularity / sales / airplay. I also would look at albums that had an all time rock staple that still gets heavy airplay today. I would place less emphasis on the strength of the entire album (ie, songs that most people wouldn't know). Thoughts on each of these albums (they may or may not make my list, but merit more thought on my end).

48. Hunky Dory - David Bowie
There may not be a bigger Bowie fan on the boards than I am. But IMO, the radio songs on this one were essentially Changes and Life On Mars? Most people wouldn't be familiar with the other tracks, and I don't think the album as a whole falls into the classic rock genre. Great album, and one I listen to frequently. More alternative rock than classic rock to me. I think the one Bowie album that best fits the list is Ziggy Stardust, but his other albums weren't popular enough or had enough familiar songs to make my list.

47. The Wild, The Innocent & The E Street Shuffle - Bruce Springsteen
I admit I am not the biggest Bruce fan, but to me the album has Rosalita and not much else in terms of heavy airplay selections. Born To Run would make my list (and The River would merit consideration). But those would be the only ones that I would consider. Even though Springsteen has a lot of fans, his other albums wouldn't fit my criteria.

45. The Stranger - Billy Joel
I am a big Joel fan. I've seen his shows across 5 decades. Love The Stranger album, but as I mentioned back when the album was discussed, I consider it more pop than classic rock. Where I lived, the Billy songs that made the radio were on later albums and there weren't many of them (Big Shot, You May Be Right, Pressure). I would occasionally hear some of his older album tracks (Billy The Kid, Captain Jack, Miami 2017, Say Goodbye To Hollywood, for example). But most stations really didn't play The Stranger songs. Maybe Only The Good Die Young sometimes. Not a knock on the album (or your selection of it) . . . just more of a genre fit for me.

42. Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere - Neil Young & Crazy Horse
A good but not great album in my book, probably not as mainstream or popular enough to the masses to make my list. I would probably only go with Harvest for Neil albums.

40. Disraeli Gears - Cream
This one is fringe Top 100 for me. It had 4 radio songs, but I am not sure it has enough chops to make the list (or was popular enough). Sunshine Of My Love holds the test of time, but the others may not. Like I said, it's a maybe Top 100 but definitely not Top 50 for me.

39. Darkness on the Edge of Town - Bruce Springsteen
See comments above for the E Street Shuffle. There are more songs that people might know . . . but the average rock fan likely won't. Some good tracks, but not true signature songs like Born To Run.

35. Let It Be - The Beatles
I'm torn over this one. I like other Beatles album way more than this one. Most of the songs still get some airplay, and it probably gained some more fans after the documentary. Listening to Paul write Get Back on the fly was magical. Another album that would be borderline Top 100 for me, but it wouldn't come close to #35.

34. L.A. Woman - The Doors
My main issue is that I don't think this album is better or more popular than the first album. I'd have that album int he Top 50 and this one a lot closer to 100 than 34.

33. All Things Must Pass - George Harrison
Don't have a good answer for what I do with this album. I don't think any solo album is better than one of the Beatles albums. So I'd have Let It Be ranked higher than All Things . . . and I'm not sure Let It Be would make my list. (It probably would . . . but bottom line I wouldn't have All Things at 33).

32. Damn The Torpedoes - Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
A lot of good songs, but not enough great songs. The first album had two iconic songs that still get played all the time (American Girl and Breakdown). IMO, those two more define TP than anything on Torpedoes.

30. The Band - The Band
Maybe it's me, but I wouldn't have anything from The Band anywhere near my list. Not popular enough, not enough radio songs, not enough airplay, and hardly ever played where I lived. If they were hugely popular elsewhere, so be it. But I hardly heard them on the radio other than Cripple Creek and The Weight. But those were once in a while and not in regular rotation.

29. The Cars - The Cars
I love this album and listen to it all the time (for better or for worse). But I struggle to call it classic rock when it was a pop station staple. I don't ever recall The Cars getting played a lot on either current rock or classic rock stations. They were more Top 40 where I lived. Including this one opens up a can of worms, as that introduces a lot of other bands as candidates for a classic rock list that probably really aren't (see Tim's post above this one).

 

[Anarchy99]

The Cars are the only New Wave band to have an album on this list because they managed to bridge the gap between that genre and classic rock. Other New Wave and post-punk bands, like The Police and The Clash, would have the odd song or two that eventually became staples of classic rock, but The Cars did it almost immediately, perhaps because their music was so guitar driven. In any case this is an incredible record, truly one of the great debut albums of all time, with a sound that explodes on the listener and is still great to listen to after all these years.

Does this mean the first Pretenders album is out of the running? That's one of my favorite debut albums ever . . . although admittedly it may not fit in a "classic rock" category.

Obviously Brass in Pocket was everywhere but I wasn't "cool enough" to listen to the Pretenders. What other songs from the album were on classic rock radio. I went and did the same for Blondie. The best I got to was Parallel Lines (One Way or Another & Heart of Glass) or Autoamerican (The Tide is High, & Rapture).

This may be a regional thing, but growing up in suburban NYC, most of the debut Pretenders album made it to radio airwaves . . . The Wait, Mystery Achievement, Precious, Tattooed Love Boys, Stop Your Sobbing, Kid, and Private Life. With Brass In Pocket, that made for 8 songs off of one album (at least where I lived). Admittedly, when I went to other places, The Pretenders were not as popular. Still doesn't answer the "classic rock?" question. Either way, I still love the album. Various places have ranked it as one of the Top 150 albums of all-time. Who knows what that means for a list like this one, though.

 

[zamboni]

If the Cars aren't considered "classic rock", I don't know what is despite many people deciding to call them New Wave.

We really need to get away from all this narrow labeling though.

 

[northern exposure]

I've never been a huge Cars fan and I wouldn't put the album this high but I totally forgot how many "good songs" came from this album. It really was a nice debut album by any standard. If nothing else, just for the use of Moving in Stereo in Fast Times makes the album always memorable.

I agree. Not a Cars fan, but can't deny the number of hits they had on their debut album.

 

[timschochet]

We are 20 albums into the Top 50, and there's probably 6-8 selections (of those 20) that probably wouldn't be in my Top 100. To each his (or her) own . . .

Curious which ones?

For starters, If I were to make a list (which I probably will when you get done), I would have different guidelines than you have for your list. For my list, I would put more emphasis on popularity / sales / airplay. I also would look at albums that had an all time rock staple that still gets heavy airplay today. I would place less emphasis on the strength of the entire album (ie, songs that most people wouldn't know). Thoughts on each of these albums (they may or may not make my list, but merit more thought on my end).

48. Hunky Dory - David Bowie
There may not be a bigger Bowie fan on the boards than I am. But IMO, the radio songs on this one were essentially Changes and Life On Mars? Most people wouldn't be familiar with the other tracks, and I don't think the album as a whole falls into the classic rock genre. Great album, and one I listen to frequently. More alternative rock than classic rock to me. I think the one Bowie album that best fits the list is Ziggy Stardust, but his other albums weren't popular enough or had enough familiar songs to make my list.

47. The Wild, The Innocent & The E Street Shuffle - Bruce Springsteen
I admit I am not the biggest Bruce fan, but to me the album has Rosalita and not much else in terms of heavy airplay selections. Born To Run would make my list (and The River would merit consideration). But those would be the only ones that I would consider. Even though Springsteen has a lot of fans, his other albums wouldn't fit my criteria.

45. The Stranger - Billy Joel
I am a big Joel fan. I've seen his shows across 5 decades. Love The Stranger album, but as I mentioned back when the album was discussed, I consider it more pop than classic rock. Where I lived, the Billy songs that made the radio were on later albums and there weren't many of them (Big Shot, You May Be Right, Pressure). I would occasionally hear some of his older album tracks (Billy The Kid, Captain Jack, Miami 2017, Say Goodbye To Hollywood, for example). But most stations really didn't play The Stranger songs. Maybe Only The Good Die Young sometimes. Not a knock on the album (or your selection of it) . . . just more of a genre fit for me.

42. Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere - Neil Young & Crazy Horse
A good but not great album in my book, probably not as mainstream or popular enough to the masses to make my list. I would probably only go with Harvest for Neil albums.

40. Disraeli Gears - Cream
This one is fringe Top 100 for me. It had 4 radio songs, but I am not sure it has enough chops to make the list (or was popular enough). Sunshine Of My Love holds the test of time, but the others may not. Like I said, it's a maybe Top 100 but definitely not Top 50 for me.

39. Darkness on the Edge of Town - Bruce Springsteen
See comments above for the E Street Shuffle. There are more songs that people might know . . . but the average rock fan likely won't. Some good tracks, but not true signature songs like Born To Run.

35. Let It Be - The Beatles
I'm torn over this one. I like other Beatles album way more than this one. Most of the songs still get some airplay, and it probably gained some more fans after the documentary. Listening to Paul write Get Back on the fly was magical. Another album that would be borderline Top 100 for me, but it wouldn't come close to #35.

34. L.A. Woman - The Doors
My main issue is that I don't think this album is better or more popular than the first album. I'd have that album int he Top 50 and this one a lot closer to 100 than 34.

33. All Things Must Pass - George Harrison
Don't have a good answer for what I do with this album. I don't think any solo album is better than one of the Beatles albums. So I'd have Let It Be ranked higher than All Things . . . and I'm not sure Let It Be would make my list. (It probably would . . . but bottom line I wouldn't have All Things at 33).

32. Damn The Torpedoes - Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
A lot of good songs, but not enough great songs. The first album had two iconic songs that still get played all the time (American Girl and Breakdown). IMO, those two more define TP than anything on Torpedoes.

30. The Band - The Band
Maybe it's me, but I wouldn't have anything from The Band anywhere near my list. Not popular enough, not enough radio songs, not enough airplay, and hardly ever played where I lived. If they were hugely popular elsewhere, so be it. But I hardly heard them on the radio other than Cripple Creek and The Weight. But those were once in a while and not in regular rotation.

29. The Cars - The Cars
I love this album and listen to it all the time (for better or for worse). But I struggle to call it classic rock when it was a pop station staple. I don't ever recall The Cars getting played a lot on either current rock or classic rock stations. They were more Top 40 where I lived. Including this one opens up a can of worms, as that introduces a lot of other bands as candidates for a classic rock list that probably really aren't (see Tim's post above this one).

Appreciate the feedback.
Based on this I suspect you won’t like my choice for #28 either (though after that I’m betting you’ll be fine with the rest of the selections.)

 

[FairWarning]

The Cars are the only New Wave band to have an album on this list because they managed to bridge the gap between that genre and classic rock. Other New Wave and post-punk bands, like The Police and The Clash, would have the odd song or two that eventually became staples of classic rock, but The Cars did it almost immediately, perhaps because their music was so guitar driven. In any case this is an incredible record, truly one of the great debut albums of all time, with a sound that explodes on the listener and is still great to listen to after all these years.

Does this mean the first Pretenders album is out of the running? That's one of my favorite debut albums ever . . . although admittedly it may not fit in a "classic rock" category.

Obviously Brass in Pocket was everywhere but I wasn't "cool enough" to listen to the Pretenders. What other songs from the album were on classic rock radio. I went and did the same for Blondie. The best I got to was Parallel Lines (One Way or Another & Heart of Glass) or Autoamerican (The Tide is High, & Rapture).

This may be a regional thing, but growing up in suburban NYC, most of the debut Pretenders album made it to radio airwaves . . . The Wait, Mystery Achievement, Precious, Tattooed Love Boys, Stop Your Sobbing, Kid, and Private Life. With Brass In Pocket, that made for 8 songs off of one album (at least where I lived). Admittedly, when I went to other places, The Pretenders were not as popular. Still doesn't answer the "classic rock?" question. Either way, I still love the album. Various places have ranked it as one of the Top 150 albums of all-time. Who knows what that means for a list like this one, though.

I remember the Cars on rock radio in the Chicago area, but the pretenders weren’t. I think the main reason is how the bands were marketed to radio.

 

[Uruk-Hai]

If the Cars aren't considered "classic rock", I don't know what is despite many people deciding to call them New Wave.

That's because people keep moving the goal posts. If tim is using what was played on CR radio in the late '80s & beyond, he's definitely right in placing the Cars here. They were the first "new" artist (along with Petty) I can recall getting added to the CR format. When the Cars first hit, though, they were lumped in with New Wave (so was Petty). A lot of folks here are (still) responding to something tim is not claiming.

We really need to get away from all this narrow labeling though.

"Well, songs 3/6/8/9 are soft rock, #s 2 & 7 are pop, #1 is New Wave, 4 & 5 are rock. So this album shouldn't be here". Ask someone to defend the labeling and you get the boring old pornography quote.

 

[zamboni]

That's because people keep moving the goal posts. If tim is using what was played on CR radio in the late '80s & beyond, he's definitely right in placing the Cars here. They were the first "new" artist (along with Petty) I can recall getting added to the CR format.

It probably depends on the market/region, but I seem to recall The Cars being played on traditional CR radio even back in the '80s. Or maybe I don't remember it well enough and it's a bit of revisionist history. Or more likely, I don't care enough to cut it that fine.

 

[Lehigh98]

29. The Cars- The Cars (1978)

You’re All I Got Tonight
More great guitar and the drums are superb here as well. Anthemic and awesome.

Bye Bye Love
This is a lot of people’s favorite song on the album. And why not? It’s completely brilliant. Another great great listen.

As a child of the 80's The Cars Greatest Hits was on regular rotation in my CD player but these two songs were not included.
I just recently "rediscovered" them maybe a year or so ago and they've been in my regular Spotify rotation.