The 100 Greatest Classic Rock Albums of All Time: #1. Sticky Fingers (2 Viewers)

[Uruk-Hai]

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.

I can remember when they weren't played, because it perked my ears up when they started to be. I honestly don't know the date though - maybe it 1986 or maybe it was 1989. I know that my CR stations were frozen in time before that.

 

[FairWarning]

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.

Being on Fast Times was the best thing for their career. The people who were fans of the movie were fans of rock radio. That gave it a lot more airplay than others. I would have no problem with The Pretenders on this list, it’s a great album also.

 

[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.

Being on Fast Times was the best thing for their career.

At the time, I'm not so sure. While everyone knows the Phoebe Cates scene, the song seemed to be secondary to "Hi Brad" and Brad going to town in the bathroom.

IMO, what really propelled The Cars to a huge mainstream following in the public domain was MTV and their innovative videos (led by the award-winning “You Might Think”)

 

[Anarchy99]

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.

Being on Fast Times was the best thing for their career.

At the time, I'm not so sure. While everyone knows the Phoebe Cates scene, the song seemed to be secondary to "Hi Brad" and Brad going to town in the bathroom.

IMO, what really propelled The Cars to a huge mainstream following in the public domain was MTV and their innovative videos (led by the award-winning “You Might Think”)

You Might Think was on their 5th album, which came out 6 years after their first album. They were already popular way before then. I agree that MTV helped them (and many other bands at the time). But they were already "a thing" (and had released 3 albums) before MTV launched.

 

[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.

Being on Fast Times was the best thing for their career.

At the time, I'm not so sure. While everyone knows the Phoebe Cates scene, the song seemed to be secondary to "Hi Brad" and Brad going to town in the bathroom.

IMO, what really propelled The Cars to a huge mainstream following in the public domain was MTV and their innovative videos (led by the award-winning “You Might Think”)

You Might Think was on their 5th album, which came out 6 years after their first album. They were already popular way before then. I agree that MTV helped them (and many other bands at the time). But they were already "a thing" (and had released 3 albums) before MTV launched.

For sure - they were already a thing before but MTV put them in the stratosphere.

 

[FairWarning]

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.

Being on Fast Times was the best thing for their career.

At the time, I'm not so sure. While everyone knows the Phoebe Cates scene, the song seemed to be secondary to "Hi Brad" and Brad going to town in the bathroom.

IMO, what really propelled The Cars to a huge mainstream following in the public domain was MTV and their innovative videos (led by the award-winning “You Might Think”)

The Cars album really overshadowed Candy-O and Panorama. Pretty similar actually to VH1 and their next couple of albums. I remember the Shake it Up video, but it was nothing like You Might Think. Unfortunately that album really changed the direction of the band, and not for the better.

 

[Stoneworker]

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.


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.

Great album, great placement, nice writeup. The music was so unique at the time it came out that personally I would have no problem if someone (me) had it ranked even higher.

And IMO transition from Stereo to Mixed Up is even better. One of the things that makes it a true album listening experience is the cohesiveness and flow of the songs.

Lastly, I'm kinda glad they had language filters back then. "All Mixed Up" is far more classy and musical than "All F-d Up," which I'm guessing would have been the 2020's version of same sentiments

 

[Ghost Rider]

I loved the Cars thanks to the Heartbeat City hits, but while I liked most of their earlier stuff once I heard it all years later, especially the featured debut here, they have never been a band to which I give regular album listens.

 

[BassNBrew]

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.


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.

Great album, great placement, nice writeup. The music was so unique at the time it came out that personally I would have no problem if someone (me) had it ranked even higher.

And IMO transition from Stereo to Mixed Up is even better. One of the things that makes it a true album listening experience is the cohesiveness and flow of the songs.

Lastly, I'm kinda glad they had language filters back then. "All Mixed Up" is far more classy and musical than "All F-d Up," which I'm guessing would have been the 2020's version of same sentiments

I wonder why people would pay a Realtor 6% to sell a home and then I see people ranking The Cars over Van Halen and it makes complete sense.

 

[Stoneworker]

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.


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.

Great album, great placement, nice writeup. The music was so unique at the time it came out that personally I would have no problem if someone (me) had it ranked even higher.

And IMO transition from Stereo to Mixed Up is even better. One of the things that makes it a true album listening experience is the cohesiveness and flow of the songs.

Lastly, I'm kinda glad they had language filters back then. "All Mixed Up" is far more classy and musical than "All F-d Up," which I'm guessing would have been the 2020's version of same sentiments

I wonder why people would pay a Realtor 6% to sell a home and then I see people ranking The Cars over Van Halen and it makes complete sense.

Lol. Fair enough. While I'd still put Cars above it, VH definitely needs to be much higher. I had an eight-track of that bad boy.

I'm sure we could negotiate something that makes sense for everyone

 

[HellToupee]

I loved the Cars thanks to the Heartbeat City hits, but while I liked most of their earlier stuff once I heard it all years later, especially the featured debut here, they have never been a band to which I give regular album listens.

Heartbeat City was my exit with the Cars. Too slick m too much Mutt Lange. It was over for me

 

[HellToupee]

Bye Bye Love/Moving in Stereo/All Mixed Up

 

[Ghost Rider]

I loved the Cars thanks to the Heartbeat City hits, but while I liked most of their earlier stuff once I heard it all years later, especially the featured debut here, they have never been a band to which I give regular album listens.

Heartbeat City was my exit with the Cars. Too slick m too much Mutt Lange. It was over for me

I get that now, but 10-year old me loved You Might Think like crazy (still a good tune, but much of my love for it has faded). I still love Drive and Magic a ton.

 

[timschochet]

28. Neil Young- After The Gold Rush (1970)

Classic rock radio hits: Southern Man, After The Gold Rush, Only Love Can Break Your Heart, Tell Me Why, Don’t Let It Bring You Down

Here’s another record for the Van Halen fans to complain about. But I firmly believe that Neil Young’s mixture of rock, country, and folk is not only his finest album but one of the greatest records of all time, hence it’s high ranking here. Just a superb selection of songs, recorded in his basement.

Tell Me Why
Brilliant acoustic song. The lyrics are confusing to Neil- years later he admitted “I don’t know what the **** I meant”, but that doesn’t negate their poetic quality.

After The Gold Rush
This piano tune about the environment is arguably Young’s greatest song, or certainly in the top 5 or so. Melodic, moving, timeless (despite the 1970s reference.)

Only Love Can Break Your Heart
Gorgeous love song inspired by Graham Nash’s breakup with Joni Mitchell (how many terrific classic tunes were written about that short relationship?)

Southern Man
The rock is great, with the sound harkening back to the previous album with Crazy Horse. The lyrics are angry, maybe because Young was pissed off at his wife the day he wrote them.

Till The Morning Comes
Almost sounds McCartneyesque; a music hall shortie.

Oh, Lonesome Me
The lyrics are a little whiny here. Hard to feel sorry for a rock star. But another gorgeous melody.

Don’t Let It Bring You Down
So good. One of his most underrated tunes. I just love the way this song flows.

Birds
And this is one of prettiest ballads. Maybe one of the prettiest ballads of all time. Achingly so. And so sad.

When You Dance I Can Really Love
Love that lead guitar. This sounds a lot like CSNY.

I Believe In You
A fine country song. The 2018 hit song “Shallow” from the film A Star Is Born sounds a lot like this to me.

Cripple Creek Ferry
I love this so much, one of my favorite Young songs. But it’s so damn short! Needs more verses.

 

[skol asylum]

28. Neil Young- After The Gold Rush (1970)

Classic rock radio hits: Southern Man, After The Gold Rush, Only Love Can Break Your Heart, Tell Me Why, Don’t Let It Bring You Down

Here’s another record for the Van Halen fans to complain about. But I firmly believe that Neil Young’s mixture of rock, country, and folk is not only his finest album but one of the greatest records of all time, hence it’s high ranking here. Just a superb selection of songs, recorded in his basement.

Tell Me Why
Brilliant acoustic song. The lyrics are confusing to Neil- years later he admitted “I don’t know what the **** I meant”, but that doesn’t negate their poetic quality.

After The Gold Rush
This piano tune about the environment is arguably Young’s greatest song, or certainly in the top 5 or so. Melodic, moving, timeless (despite the 1970s reference.)

Only Love Can Break Your Heart
Gorgeous love song inspired by Graham Nash’s breakup with Joni Mitchell (how many terrific classic tunes were written about that short relationship?)

Southern Man
The rock is great, with the sound harkening back to the previous album with Crazy Horse. The lyrics are angry, maybe because Young was pissed off at his wife the day he wrote them.

Till The Morning Comes
Almost sounds McCartneyesque; a music hall shortie.

Oh, Lonesome Me
The lyrics are a little whiny here. Hard to feel sorry for a rock star. But another gorgeous melody.

Don’t Let It Bring You Down
So good. One of his most underrated tunes. I just love the way this song flows.

Birds
And this is one of prettiest ballads. Maybe one of the prettiest ballads of all time. Achingly so. And so sad.

When You Dance I Can Really Love
Love that lead guitar. This sounds a lot like CSNY.

I Believe In You
A fine country song. The 2018 hit song “Shallow” from the film A Star Is Born sounds a lot like this to me.

Cripple Creek Ferry
I love this so much, one of my favorite Young songs. But it’s so damn short! Needs more verses.

Just listened to this today actually in the Neil Young Archives.

 

[UncleZen]

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).

I would like to see your list. Not a next 100 but a total redo. I really appreciate what Tim has done here but it's not a list I can relate to.

 

[Pip's Invitation]

36. Elton John- Goodbye Yellow Brick Road (1973)

Classic rock radio hits: Bennie and the Jets, Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting, Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, Candle In the Wind, Harmony, Grey Seal

I don't ever remember hearing Harmony on the radio, but yes to all the others. Though Candle in the Wind was almost always the live version from Live in Australia with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra that was released as a single as opposed to the studio version. Jamaica Jerk-Off is the only miss on this record for me. All the Girls Love Alice is great and its arrangement makes perfect sense to me.

35. The Beatles- Let It Be (1970)

Classic rock radio hits: Get Back, Let It Be, Across the Universe, The Long And Winding Road, Two of Us

My radio experience was the same. Great album despite flaws, that rose in my estimation after I watched the Get Back documentary.

his later “My Love” which I also adore

Of course you do.

34. The Doors- L.A. Woman (1971)

Classic rock radio hits: L.A. Woman, Riders On the Storm, Love Her Madly

Add The WASP (Texas Radio and the Big Beat) for my stations. This album is a little like Abbey Road in that they knew it was going to be their last album with Morrison and they just gritted their way through their troubles and made a masterpiece with few weaknesses. Some Doors albums have fluff but this one really doesn't. Also, The Changeling is way funkier than a band without a proper bass player has any right to be.

33. George Harrison- All Things Must Pass (1970)

Classic rock radio hits: My Sweet Lord, What Is Life, Isn’t It A Pity, Wah-Wah, All Things Must Pass

My stations only played My Sweet Lord and What Is Life. Isn't that a pity. But it did make hearing the whole thing for the first time even more revelatory. This is far and away the best solo Beatles album and What Is Life is my favorite solo Beatles song (My Sweet Lord and the title track aren't far behind).

32. Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers- Damn The Torpedoes (1979)

Classic rock radio hits: Refugee, Don’t Do Me Like That, Here Comes My Girl, Even The Losers

My radio experience matches up. A better record than anything Springsteen or Seger did, but Petty didn't get that level of accolades from the music press until he became a Wilbury.

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

My radio experience was very different. Minus Blue Letter and Sugar Daddy, and plus Monday Morning. And I never heard Landslide on the radio until the version from The Dance was released as a single. In fact, I heard the Smashing Pumpkins' cover of Landslide before I heard the original. Believe it or not, Warm Ways was the first single from this album, and it flopped. I like Crystal and I'm So Afraid much better than you. They are haunting in a way the rest of the material really isn't. While sporting a Buckingham vocal, Crystal was actually written by Nicks, and first appeared on their duo album released in 1973.

30. The Band- The Band (1969)

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

Radio cuts were the same in my world. A record of incredible depth. Most of its tracks are extremely emotionally stirring without being manipulative.

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

Add All Mixed Up for my stations. This album is a monumental achievement that still sounds fresh today.

 

[Pip's Invitation]

Oh, Lonesome Me
The lyrics are a little whiny here. Hard to feel sorry for a rock star. But another gorgeous melody.

He didn't write it. It's a country song from the '50s by Don Gibson.

 

[Pip's Invitation]

Only Love Can Break Your Heart
Gorgeous love song inspired by Graham Nash’s breakup with Joni Mitchell (how many terrific classic tunes were written about that short relationship?)

One. This one. Our House sucks.

When You Dance I Can Really Love
Love that lead guitar. This sounds a lot like CSNY.

When CSNY was rehearsing for their 1974 reunion tour, Graham Nash told Rolling Stone that they were going to open their shows with this tune. They ended up not playing it on that tour at all. (Love the One You're With opened most of the shows.)

 

[Pip's Invitation]

Here is where I ranked the After the Gold Rush songs in my Neil countdown: https://forums.footballguys.com/thr...02-204-notable-covers-and-other-stuff.786493/

10. Southern Man
13. Don't Let It Bring You Down
16. After the Gold Rush
22. Only Love Can Break Your Heart
35. Birds
37. Tell Me Why
78. I Believe in You
80. When You Dance I Can Really Love

That leaves Oh, Lonesome Me, which I didn't rank because it's a cover, and the two very short tunes that are fragments more than songs, as the only things from this album that didn't make my top 204.

As you can tell from the rankings, obviously this is one of Neil's best albums -- on most days I have it in my top 3 of his.

In addition, I had Dance, Dance, Dance, an outtake from this album that Neil sometimes played live, at #151.

And I had Powderfinger at #7. How is that relevant here? Neil first attempted it, under the name Big Waves, at these sessions.

Speaking of Rust Never Sleeps, SMDH that it's not in your top 100. I knew none of the Ditch Trilogy (Time Fades Away, On the Beach, Tonight's the Night) or Zuma would show up because they don't meet your criteria, but RNS is one of the best albums of the '70s by anyone, and if your stations weren't playing Powderfinger and Hey Hey My My, you were listening to the wrong stations.

 

[rockaction]

but RNS is one of the best albums of the '70s by anyone

I'm still pissed they pulled "Hey Hey, My My" from Spotify.

 

[timschochet]

Only Love Can Break Your Heart
Gorgeous love song inspired by Graham Nash’s breakup with Joni Mitchell (how many terrific classic tunes were written about that short relationship?)

One. This one. Our House sucks.

When You Dance I Can Really Love
Love that lead guitar. This sounds a lot like CSNY.

When CSNY was rehearsing for their 1974 reunion tour, Graham Nash told Rolling Stone that they were going to open their shows with this tune. They ended up not playing it on that tour at all. (Love the One You're With opened most of the shows.)

Joni Mitchell’s Blue had 2 songs about Nash: My Old Man and A Case of You. Both classics.

 

[timschochet]

27. Pink Floyd- Wish You Were Here (1975)

Classic rock radio hits: Wish You Were Here, Have A Cigar

Mostly a tribute to Syd Barrett, this brilliant work is a testament to the genius of Roger Waters. He’s a weird dude and lately he’s really gone off the deep end but damn the guy sure wrote some great music on this album and a few others we will be documenting in the upper echelons of this list.

Shine On You Crazy Diamond, Pts 1-5
This begins slowly but eventually we get to the extraordinary guitar solo by Gilmour which is simply sublime and a great listen even after all these years, especially on headphones. Then the actual singing and it’s one of this band’s finest efforts. Somehow the older I get, the better this whole thing is.

Welcome to the Machine
I imagine the sound and instruments used here influenced a lot of early 80s bands (Depeche Mode for one). I’ve never been a particular fan of this actual song though. It’s fine and over the decades it’s grown on me to the point where I don’t turn it off. But I’ve never loved it.

Have A Cigar
On the other hand I love this from start to finish. So good. Sung by Roy Harper (and hats off to him!) Both the melody and lyrics are terrific. “By the way, which one’s Pink?” Is so classic.

Wish You Were Here
In the running for this band’s greatest song. Also in the running for classic rock’s greatest song. Again, an even better listen on headphones so that you get the full stereo sound, especially in the beginning with the alternating guitars.

Shine On You Crazy Diamond Pts 6-9
In case you didn’t get enough of the incredible musicianship the first time around (which I did not!) More great guitar, bass, drums and synthesizer. What’s not to love?

 

[Doug B]

27. Pink Floyd- Wish You Were Here (1975)

Classic rock radio hits: Wish You Were Here, Have A Cigar

Around here, "Welcome To The Machine" and the single edit of "Shine On You Crazy Diamond" were played a lot, as well.

 

[Pip's Invitation]

Only Love Can Break Your Heart
Gorgeous love song inspired by Graham Nash’s breakup with Joni Mitchell (how many terrific classic tunes were written about that short relationship?)

One. This one. Our House sucks.

When You Dance I Can Really Love
Love that lead guitar. This sounds a lot like CSNY.

When CSNY was rehearsing for their 1974 reunion tour, Graham Nash told Rolling Stone that they were going to open their shows with this tune. They ended up not playing it on that tour at all. (Love the One You're With opened most of the shows.)

Joni Mitchell’s Blue had 2 songs about Nash: My Old Man and A Case of You. Both classics.

Simple Man, from Nash's first solo album, is also about the relationship. It's not among his best but it's much better than Our House.

 

[Pip's Invitation]

27. Pink Floyd- Wish You Were Here (1975)

Classic rock radio hits: Wish You Were Here, Have A Cigar

Mostly a tribute to Syd Barrett, this brilliant work is a testament to the genius of Roger Waters. He’s a weird dude and lately he’s really gone off the deep end but damn the guy sure wrote some great music on this album and a few others we will be documenting in the upper echelons of this list.

Shine On You Crazy Diamond, Pts 1-5
This begins slowly but eventually we get to the extraordinary guitar solo by Gilmour which is simply sublime and a great listen even after all these years, especially on headphones. Then the actual singing and it’s one of this band’s finest efforts. Somehow the older I get, the better this whole thing is.

Welcome to the Machine
I imagine the sound and instruments used here influenced a lot of early 80s bands (Depeche Mode for one). I’ve never been a particular fan of this actual song though. It’s fine and over the decades it’s grown on me to the point where I don’t turn it off. But I’ve never loved it.

Have A Cigar
On the other hand I love this from start to finish. So good. Sung by Roy Harper (and hats off to him!) Both the melody and lyrics are terrific. “By the way, which one’s Pink?” Is so classic.

Wish You Were Here
In the running for this band’s greatest song. Also in the running for classic rock’s greatest song. Again, an even better listen on headphones so that you get the full stereo sound, especially in the beginning with the alternating guitars.

Shine On You Crazy Diamond Pts 6-9
In case you didn’t get enough of the incredible musicianship the first time around (which I did not!) More great guitar, bass, drums and synthesizer. What’s not to love?

My stations played the three non-SOYCD songs a lot. On rare occasions I would hear the second half of SOYCD. Maybe they chose it because it was a bit shorter than the first half?

 

[Raging weasel]

27. Pink Floyd- Wish You Were Here (1975)

Classic rock radio hits: Wish You Were Here, Have A Cigar

Around here, "Welcome To The Machine" and the single edit of "Shine On You Crazy Diamond" were played a lot, as well.

Same here

 

[Tau837]

27. Pink Floyd- Wish You Were Here (1975)

Classic rock radio hits: Wish You Were Here, Have A Cigar

Mostly a tribute to Syd Barrett, this brilliant work is a testament to the genius of Roger Waters. He’s a weird dude and lately he’s really gone off the deep end but damn the guy sure wrote some great music on this album and a few others we will be documenting in the upper echelons of this list.

Shine On You Crazy Diamond, Pts 1-5
This begins slowly but eventually we get to the extraordinary guitar solo by Gilmour which is simply sublime and a great listen even after all these years, especially on headphones. Then the actual singing and it’s one of this band’s finest efforts. Somehow the older I get, the better this whole thing is.

Welcome to the Machine
I imagine the sound and instruments used here influenced a lot of early 80s bands (Depeche Mode for one). I’ve never been a particular fan of this actual song though. It’s fine and over the decades it’s grown on me to the point where I don’t turn it off. But I’ve never loved it.

Have A Cigar
On the other hand I love this from start to finish. So good. Sung by Roy Harper (and hats off to him!) Both the melody and lyrics are terrific. “By the way, which one’s Pink?” Is so classic.

Wish You Were Here
In the running for this band’s greatest song. Also in the running for classic rock’s greatest song. Again, an even better listen on headphones so that you get the full stereo sound, especially in the beginning with the alternating guitars.

Shine On You Crazy Diamond Pts 6-9
In case you didn’t get enough of the incredible musicianship the first time around (which I did not!) More great guitar, bass, drums and synthesizer. What’s not to love?

This is top 5-10 for me, no question.

 

[Ghost Rider]

Wish You Were Here would be top 5-10 for me as well. And the crazy thing is that it is only my 3rd favorite Floyd album from the classic rock era.

 

[timschochet]

26. Rod Stewart- Every Picture Tells A Story (1971)

Classic rock radio hits: Maggie May, Mandolin Wind, (I Know) I’m Losing You, Every Picture Tells A Story, (Find a) Reason to Believe

Full admission: of all of the great albums on this list, this one is probably my personal favorite. Rod Stewart is a hit and miss artist for me (over the entirety of his career, mostly misses) but this collection of originals and covers of folk rock moves me greatly and is the most enjoyable listen I can think of. What Stewart and Ron Wood (his main partner here) do is take American folk, blues, and folk rock and merge it with British folk and rock and the combination makes for an incredible dish to consume.

Every Picture Tells A Story
Mainly written by Ron Wood, this is a travelogue of the early days of him and Stewart, hinting at their wild adventures. The brilliant combination of acoustic and electric guitars sets the tone for the entire record. The additional vocals are by the great British blues singer Maggie Bell, whose voice is basically a female version of Rod’s. Their harmony on the the third verse is sublime.

Seems Like a Long Time
Cover of an old folk song that Rod turns into a magnificent sing along.

That’s All Right
Actually two songs. First is a terrific cover of the Arthur Crudup classic. This is followed by an achingly pretty version of “Amazing Grace”. The guitars are incredible here.

Tomorrow is a Long Time
I have often speculated that, of the hundreds of artists who have covered Bob Dylan, Stewart might be the best. Go back and listen to the original version of this song (from Another Side of Bob Dylan, during his early folkie period)- it’s dry, almost with no melody, yet with extremely poetic lyrics. Rod fleshes it out, infuses it with a gorgeous melody with a combination of acoustic and electric guitars and great harmonies. The result is outstanding.

Maggie May
The gorgeous guitar intro, called “Henry” was composed and performed by folk guitarist Martin Quittenton. For years it was left off on radio- I only first heard it when I first heard this album in my early 30s. Later on though classic rock radio did start to play it and nowadays it seems like they always do.
This is of course Rod’s signature song, the tune which turned him from well known vocalist into a superstar. Exploring a true love affair he had with an older woman (one of many) it’s one of the greatest rock songs of all time.

Mandolin Wind
Such a brilliant song. Probably the best thing this artist has ever done. That mandolin solo in the middle is exquisite and the singer has never sounded better.

(I Know) I’m Losing You
Yet another cover, this time of the Temptations. Rod turns it into one of hardest rocking, bluesiest things of his career. Brilliant drum solo by Mickey Waller.

(Find a) Reason to Believe
Folky cover of the Tim Hardin classic. It’s yet another great listen and it was meant to be the album’s hit single; it was released with Maggie May as the B side. Then DJs began playing Maggie May instead and the rest was history.

 

[rockaction]

Rod Stewart?

 

[rockaction]

Is classic rock?

Okay, I guess.

 

[zamboni]

26. Rod Stewart- Every Picture Tells A Story (1971)

I never was, nor will be, be the biggest RS fan, but I recently listened to this album on vinyl and it sounds really, really good. Particularly the great "Mandolin Wind."

 

[Stoneworker]

If I Like this selection do I get a signed soccer ball?

 

[Anarchy99]

If I Like this selection do I get a signed soccer ball?

Pretty sure it would be a signed football. Cuz they don't call the sport soccer.

 

[zamboni]

If I Like this selection do I get a signed soccer ball?

That's hard to stomach, although urban legend has it that Rod could plenty.

 

[Tau837]

OMG Rod Stewart over Van Halen, Are You Experienced, Wish You Were Here, Moving Pictures, etc. for "classic rock"... this is a joke, right?

 

[AAABatteries]

Can’t wait for the Barry Manilow reveal.

 

[shuke]

Rod is definitely classic rock, but this wouldn't sniff my top 100.

 

[New Binky the Doormat]

yeah, this is indeed classic rock - can't believe this selection is getting grief

I love this album and have no issues with it being ranked this high - good job tim.

 

[rockaction]

Rod Stewart is a dental chair feeling like it needs a patient to complete the mood.

 

[timschochet]

Before I get to pick # 25, let me comment for a moment about my last pick. I strongly suspect that most of those who panned my last pick hasn’t ever listened to the album in question and is instead commenting on Rod Stewart in general. And I get that, because since about 1977 (“Do Ya Think I’m Sexy), Rod has been a sellout, a showman, much more of a Vegas schmaltzy performer than a rock star.

But this was not the case in 1971 and for those who feel this way, I strongly urge you to at least sample the record chosen. It’s pretty incredible.

 

[rockaction]

Welp, if "Mandolin Wind" is good enough for the Everlys, it's sure as shootin' good enough for me.

I recall the night we knelt and prayed
Noticing your face was thin and pale
I found it hard to hide my tears
I felt ashamed I felt I'd let you down
No mandolin wind couldn't change a thing
Couldn't change a thing no, no
The coldest winter in almost fourteen years
Could never, never change your mind

Dusty in here, boys.

 

[timschochet]

25. The Beatles- Magical Mystery Tour (1967)

Classic rock radio hits: Magical Mystery Tour, The Fool On the Hill, I Am the Walrus, Hello, Goodbye, Strawberry Fields Forever, Penny Lane, Baby You’re A Rich Man, All You Need Is Love

For whatever reason, like Let It Be, this album just doesn’t get the love that the big 3 late era Beatles albums do (Sgt Pepper, The White Album, Abbey Road). And yet the quality of songs here is pretty incredible. Some of their greatest and most famous tunes are on this record. And lots of psychedelic weirdness as well.

Magical Mystery Tour
Sort of the poor man’s Sgt Pepper, without the reprise. Still great though.

The Fool On the Hill
Absolutely classic Paul McCartney.

Flying
Pretty good mostly instrumental, written for the movie.

Blue Jay Way
George in his psychedelic phase. I love it.

Your Mother Should Know
McCartney loved doing the British music hall thing. This is kind of a ballad version of that.

I Am The Walrus
Tremendous , really weird, classic rocker by John. People have spent decades trying to decipher the lyrics, but I think he was just screwing around having fun.

Hello, Goodbye
Happy go lucky song, similar to “We Can Work It Out”. The best part is the ending: hey la, hey hello.

Strawberry Fields Forever
Both this and Penny Lane were actually double sides of a single released before the Sgt. Pepper album. Obviously this one of the Beatles’ greatest tunes. But I have to say that on a recent tour of Central Park in New York City, I was shown the garden known as “Strawberry Fields” and I can’t say I was impressed. Weeds everywhere and a homeless dude on a bench scratching out Beatles songs on a guitar, rather poorly. Big disappointment.

Penny Lane
For decades after the Beatles, whenever I would hear a song on the radio by some other artist that sounded “Beatlish” it inevitably sounded a bit like Penny Lane. It has all the elements that makes you think Beatles, especially the horns.

Baby You’re A Rich Man
My favorite tune on the record. I love when they used it to great effect at the end of the film The Social Network. Great listening experience.

All You Need Is Love
Long before “Do They Know It’s Christmas” and “We Are the World”, the Beatles gathered all the biggest rock stars at the time and performed this rather simple but heartfelt song. I’ve always liked how they incorporate the French national anthem at the beginning.

 

[timschochet]

Welp, if "Mandolin Wind" is good enough for the Everlys, it's sure as shootin' good enough for me.

I recall the night we knelt and prayed
Noticing your face was thin and pale
I found it hard to hide my tears
I felt ashamed I felt I'd let you down
No mandolin wind couldn't change a thing
Couldn't change a thing no, no
The coldest winter in almost fourteen years
Could never, never change your mind

Dusty in here, boys.

You know Frank Sinatra covered the Beatles’ Something, right? Does that ruin that song for you too?

Also Mandolin Wind has some of my favorite lyrics of all time.

 

[pacman_fl]

25. The Beatles- Magical Mystery Tour (1967)

Classic rock radio hits: Magical Mystery Tour, The Fool On the Hill, I Am the Walrus, Hello, Goodbye, Strawberry Fields Forever, Penny Lane, Baby You’re A Rich Man, All You Need Is Love

For whatever reason, like Let It Be, this album just doesn’t get the love that the big 3 late era Beatles albums do (Sgt Pepper, The White Album, Abbey Road). And yet the quality of songs here is pretty incredible. Some of their greatest and most famous tunes are on this record. And lots of psychedelic weirdness as well.



Strawberry Fields Forever
Both this and Penny Lane were actually double sides of a single released before the Sgt. Pepper album. Obviously this one of the Beatles’ greatest tunes. But I have to say that on a recent tour of Central Park in New York City, I was shown the garden known as “Strawberry Fields” and I can’t say I was impressed. Weeds everywhere and a homeless dude on a bench scratching out Beatles songs on a guitar, rather poorly. Big disappointment.

100% on the album. As for Strawberry Fields - "Lennon based the song on his childhood memories of playing in the garden of Strawberry Field, a Salvation Army children's home in Liverpool." Perhaps what you saw is what actually what that was in a bizarre sort of way. It is said that John wrote the song as he envisioned what he wanted the fields to be, not what they were. I guess the NY variety has become not what they wanted but what they could have been?

 

[rockaction]

You know Frank Sinatra covered the Beatles’ Something, right? Does that ruin that song for you too?

I was being dead serious. Good enough for the Everlys, good enough for me.

The lyrics are great.

You shouldn't be so defensive, tim. I only rip on this stuff for schtick.

"Mandolin Wind" is quite the song.

Oh, I love the Everlys. I chose them in the Pick-A-Pair album draft we did. It was them and Simon and Garfunkel for the harmonies alone.

Pick-A-Pair Playlist

Playlist · rockaction · 78 items

open.spotify.com

 

[timschochet]

You know Frank Sinatra covered the Beatles’ Something, right? Does that ruin that song for you too?

I was being dead serious. Good enough for the Everlys, good enough for me.

The lyrics are great.

You shouldn't be so defensive, tim. I only rip on this stuff for schtick.

"Mandolin Wind" is quite the song.

Oh, I love the Everlys. I chose them in the Pick-A-Pair album draft we did. It was them and Simon and Garfunkel for the harmonies alone.

Pick-A-Pair Playlist

Playlist · rockaction · 78 items

open.spotify.com

All right, but you did compare listening to Rod Stewart to being in a dentist chair, I take umbrage!

 

[rockaction]

All right, but you did compare listening to Rod Stewart to being in a dentist chair, I take umbrage!

It wasn't an analogy. I've heard both "Maggie May" and "Do Ya Think I'm Sexy" in the dentist's chair. Swear to it. It's a miserable experience. And I like the song "Maggie May."

It's a classic.

 

[rockaction]

They did not play that sublime guitar intro in the office.