In 1973, the world stood at a cultural crossroads. Changes were shaping a generation that was eager for new voices and fresh sounds. With so many situations happening, music became both an escape and a mirror, reflecting the feelings of the era while offering hope, and joy.
Rock grew louder and more experimental, soul grew deeper, and songwriters captured the honesty of life with grace. The sounds of that year stretched across different genres, and different moods, resonating with audiences in profound ways.
No matter what went on, people still loved and enjoyed music. Decades later, the music of 1973 remains timeless, its influence still inspiring modern artists and reminding us how truly transcendent sound can be.
1
The Dark Side of the Moon
By Pink Floyd became an instant classic and stayed on the chart for years.
2
Pink Floyd
From their transcendental album, the people especially loved Money, which would become a radio hit.
3
Goodbye Yellow Brick Road
Elton John released a double album full of hits, cementing his superstar status.
4
Candle in the Wind
His tribute to Marilyn Monroe became specially loved by many.
5
You’re So Vain
Carly Simon released a pop-rock anthem that turned into one of her signature tracks.
6
Aerosmith
With their debut album that included Dream On, they cemented themselves as artists to look out for.
7
Lynyrd Skynyrd
Their debut featured Free Bird, which would cement them as southern rock legends.
8
David Bowie
With Aladdin Sane, Bowie was the face of glam rock and a style icon.
9
Genesis
With Peter Gabriel they were reaching new heights when they released Selling England by the Pound.
10
Queen
Their debut album wasn't mainstream yet but they had loyal fans that will forever remember 1973 as their year.
11
Tubular Bells
Mike Oldfield created the iconic instrumental piece that would later be famous as The Exorcist theme.
12
Piano Man
Became Billy Joel’s signature song and marked his breakthrough.
13
The Who
All eyes were on them with the release of Quadrophenia , at this point they were already legends.
14
Stevie Wonder
Innervisions solidified his role as not just a hitmaker but a visionary.
15
Angie
The soulful ballad that became one of The Rolling Stones' biggest hits to this day.
16
Live and Let Die
A Bond theme turned rock anthem by Paul McCartney & Wings.
17
Let’s Get It On
Marvin Gaye made this smooth and defining track of 1970s soul.
18
Bruce Springsteen
He released two albums in 1973, giving a first glimpse of the storytelling that would later make him “The Boss.”
19
Bob Marley & The Wailers
With Catch a Fire, Marley started breaking reggae into the mainstream.