Rock music is an art form that thrives on volume. While it's possible to appreciate the intricacies of a well-crafted song at a moderate volume, something about it feels incomplete. It's as if the essence of rock is lost in the subtleties, and the true experience is reserved for those who turn up the volume. This is especially true for the songs from the 1970s that have become iconic in the rock genre. In my opinion, these seven tracks from the decade showcase the raw power and energy that only loud volumes can truly bring to life.
One of the most iconic songs from the era is "Into The Void" by Black Sabbath. The album Master of Reality is a masterpiece of heavy metal, and the closing track is a perfect example of why this band is so revered. The sludgy, doomy guitar riffs are best experienced at a volume that allows Tony Iommi's guitar tone to completely take over your brain. It's a full-blown requirement, if not a knee-jerk reaction already. The song demands attention and immerses the listener in its dark, heavy atmosphere.
Another classic from the 70s is "Overkill" by Motörhead. The band's music is known for its loud and aggressive sound, and this song is no exception. The title track from their second studio album is a perfect example of how rock music should be experienced. The double bass drum and powerful vocals are best enjoyed at a ludicrous volume, allowing the song to truly come alive. It's a song that demands to be played loud, and those who don't agree are missing out on a true rock experience.
Led Zeppelin's "Since I've Been Loving You" is a sultrier rock song that also benefits from a loud volume. The slow, bluesy groove ebbs and flows, eventually climaxing with Robert Plant's vocals and Jimmy Page's guitar blending together perfectly. At a moderate volume, the song is still enjoyable, but the true impact of the musical build-up is lost. Turning it up allows the song to reach its full potential and showcase the band's incredible talent.
Pink Floyd's "Shine On You Crazy Diamond" is a song that requires a loud volume to be fully appreciated. The song begins in such a quiet, delicate way that you might miss the full impact of the musical build-up if you don't turn up the volume. All nine parts of the song deserve to be listened to loud, and it's a matter of functionality rather than preference. The song's epic, progressive rock sound is best experienced at a high volume, allowing the listener to fully immerse themselves in the band's vision.
Ram Jam's cover of "Black Betty" is a fun and energetic song that is best enjoyed at a high volume. The traditional blues tune is given a rock 'n' roll twist, and the "bam-a-lam"s are best sung as loud as possible. The song's impressive rock jam deserves as much juice as your speakers can dole out, and it's a perfect example of how rock music should be experienced.
Fleetwood Mac's "You Make Loving Fun" is a groovy song that doesn't rely on guitar-led power. The song is infectiously groovy, and turning it up seems like the most obvious choice. The song's smooth, soulful sound is best experienced at a high volume, allowing the listener to fully appreciate the band's incredible talent and the song's infectious energy.
Finally, The Who's "Baba O'Riley" is a song that is especially satisfying at a high volume. The slow build-up of synthesizer arpeggios gives way to Pete Townshend's powerful guitar, and the song's energy is best experienced at a loud volume. The song's iconic status is in large part due to its ability to captivate and immerse the listener, and it's a perfect example of how rock music should be experienced.
In my opinion, these seven songs from the 1970s are a testament to the power of volume in rock music. They showcase the raw energy and passion that can be conveyed through loud, aggressive sounds, and they are a reminder of why rock music is so beloved by fans around the world. So, the next time you listen to these songs, turn up the volume and experience the true essence of rock music.
