The 70s were a decade where hard rock ruled the airwaves. Bands like Led Zeppelin and KISS became titans, their music echoing through generations. But beneath the megawatt glow of these giants lurked a lesser-known breed: the one-hit wonders.
These weren’t bands content with mediocrity. They crafted electrifying anthems, songs that perfectly captured the raw energy and rebellious spirit of the era. For a fleeting moment, they dominated the radio, their music a soundtrack to countless road trips and basement jams. But fame, as fickle as a dropped guitar pick, proved elusive.
This list delves into three such forgotten gems. We’ll revisit the bands behind these forgotten anthems, exploring the infectious melodies, powerhouse vocals, and killer riffs that made their songs stand out. So, dust off your air guitar and prepare to rediscover the forgotten heroes of 70s hard rock!
“Never Been Any Reason” by Head East (1975)
The 1970s hard rock scene was a breeding ground for one-hit wonders. Head East’s “Never Been Any Reason” stands out as a prime example. Written by guitarist Mike Somerville in 1975, the song served as both the band’s debut single and a track on their album Flat As A Pancake.
While it only reached number 68 on the Billboard Hot 100, the song’s impact was undeniable. It sold out the band’s entire stock of vinyl and 8-track records, sparking a wave of initial success.
Head East continued to find success in later years, particularly with their self-titled 1978 album. However, “Never Been Any Reason” remained their signature song, a testament to the power of a single, well-crafted anthem.
“Black Betty” by Ram Jam (1977)
“Black Betty” is a song that might sound familiar even if the rapid-fire lyrics leave you scratching your head. Its origins stretch back to an old African-American folk tradition, with Lead Belly’s rendition being a well-known version.
But in 1977, rock band Ram Jam took the song and transformed it. Their high-energy, auctioneer-style delivery injected a new life into the classic tune.
However, Ram Jam’s success was fleeting. Formed in 1977, the band only lasted a year. Despite their short lifespan, “Black Betty” became their signature song, a testament to their ability to breathe new fire into an old tradition.
“Mississippi Queen” by Mountain (1970)
Mountain stands as a pillar of 1970s hard rock, their music helping pave the way for the rise of heavy metal. Their most recognizable track, “Mississippi Queen”, holds a unique origin story. Frontman Leslie West claimed the song’s iconic riff and chords materialized in a flash of inspiration – “got real high, took out a napkin,” as he described it.
This creative spark translated into a massive hit. “Mississippi Queen” became Mountain’s only song to crack the Billboard Top 40, solidifying their place in rock history.
Though the band may not have produced a string of chart-toppers, “Mississippi Queen” remains a testament to their undeniable influence and the power of a single, unforgettable riff.