70s 

 

1. I Want You by Marvin Gaye

This was Marvin Gaye's follow-up to 1973's Let's Get It On. Unable to create a clear path on where to progress after his last album, he got help from songwriter Leon Ware who had written songs for other Motown artists. Ware, alongside Diana Ross' younger brother Arthur Ross, wrote most of the songs on the album. The album includes of music styles including soul, R&B, funk and quiet storm, while including of suggestive, erotic lyrics. On several songs, women's moaning can be clearly heard. Because it was released at a time where disco-influenced music wasn't well-received, it was initially not given good reviews by critics. However, overtime, the album proved to be a highly influential work, especially for artists who did R&B, neo soul and hip-hop.

 

(Buy the Album here) 

 

2. Sweet Baby James by James Taylor

This album was James Taylor's breakthrough album. His previous (and debut) album sold poorly. Sweet Baby James includes a mixture of country, blues, rock, folk and gospel, which helped Taylor to stick out as a leading force in what would develop into the singer-songwriter movement in the 1970s. Listeners hear early examples of what would become signatures of Taylor. This includes his unique finger-picking style, confessional yet easygoing lyrics and overall warm, comforting melodies. I've always loved listening to songs on this album while traveling or when I'm in a reflective mood. In my opinion, this is James Taylor's best album.

 

(Buy the Album here) 

 

3. The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway by Genesis

Prior to Phil Collins leading the group, Genesis was led by its lead singer and flute player Peter Gabriel. Under Gabriel, Genesis was considered one of the best progressive rock bands of the 1970s. The band would reach a new height with The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway. A rock opera, the album tells the story of a rebellious young Puerto Rican named Rael who is spray painting and berating the city he is in, New York City, when he sees a lamb mysteriously lying down on Broadway. From there, he goes on a strange and confusing journey in finding himself. The story and writing on the album is very unique in the genres they fall under (which are progressive and art rock). While it's a lengthy listen, it is definitely an album worth listening to. After this album, Gabriel will leave the group and Phil Collins will eventually take over as the frontman. Their progressive sound would soon convert into an art rock and pop sound by the 1980s.

 

  (Buy the Album here)