Four overplayed songs from the 1970s that deserve all the love they get

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As a child of the ’70s and a die-hard rock enthusiast, I can wholeheartedly say that these four overplayed tracks from the 1970s are absolute gems that deserve their airtime.

Whenever I hear certain tunes playing on my radio or preferred streaming platform, there’s a moment when I find myself muttering, “Is this it once more?” More often than not, my instinct is spot-on. For example, songs by Michael Bolton can sometimes leave me wondering, “Why does this keep coming up?”

The reason a song becomes overplayed is often due to listener demand or popular appeal, rather than radio stations simply playing it excessively. In other words, these songs continue to be played because audiences enjoy them and request to hear them again.

These four songs from the 1970s are often played excessively, but that doesn’t make them any less deserving of being listened to. Quite the contrary, they are among the rare instances where a song truly earns the title of being overplayed.

Four songs from the 1970s that are overplayed but are worthy of being so

“More Than a Feeling” – Boston

This rock song has a strong melody but carries an intense vibe, and you might think it veers too far. The vocals sometimes seem over-the-top, like they’re saying, “Really? That’s too much!” Yet, what makes this song so amazing is that despite its grandeur, it can make you unconsciously belt out the lyrics at the top of your lungs while driving alone. It’s pure, golden fun.

Additionally, the powerful guitar riffs significantly influenced the trajectory of subsequent notable bands, including Smashing Pumpkins. However, whether “More Than a Feeling” was overproduced or not is debatable; it simply embodied the distinctive Boston sound. Remarkably, no other band managed to replicate their unique style in their first two albums quite like they did.

“Free Bird” – Lynyrd Skynyrd

As a devoted fan, I must admit that there’s an ongoing predicament with this particular track: fans keep shouting “Play Free Bird” regardless of whether Lynyrd Skynyrd are even present. This constant demand can grow tiresome for someone unfamiliar with the song, making it seem as if the track is being mocked by repeatedly asking for it to be played.

Instead, the melody serves as a Southern rock counterpoint to the subsequent track on the playlist. Both compositions exceed eight minutes in length and deviate significantly (for the most part) from their initial to final forms. “Free Bird” is a song that conveys the idea of letting someone go, which inevitably may lead to sadness for them.

What isn’t sad is listening to several minutes of the doubling of the lead guitars in the second half of the song. It’s great rock and roll. That’s all it needs to be.

“Stairway To Heaven” – Led Zeppelin

Delving into “Stairway To Heaven” reveals its charm by unveiling its intricate layers. Initially, it seems monotonous, but it evolves masterfully into a powerful demonstration of how to construct a song from subtlety to grandiosity. The lyrics carry a celestial and somewhat mystical ambiance that adds to the track’s enchantment. Its vivid imagery is a significant part of what makes the piece so captivating.

A less boastful group likely wouldn’t create a track like this one. However, Led Zeppelin had justification for their confidence: They were convinced they could execute any melody with perfection. The potential downside of excessively playing the eight minutes of this song is that the tune might outshine other Zeppelin tracks, such as “When the Levee Breaks,” which are arguably superior.

“Rock and Roll All Nite” – Kiss

Is the lyrics rather frivolous and devoid of deep meaning? Quite possibly. However, that’s not the intention behind this song at all. It’s intended for people who are ready to dance and enjoy themselves. The melody also fits perfectly with the lively atmosphere of a Kiss concert. The song doesn’t aim to be anything more than the lighthearted fun it presents, and it does that exceptionally well.

1. To clarify, we’re talking about KISS here – a band known for its lighter tracks that provide an escape from life’s harsh realities. While “Rock and Roll All Nite” might not be the greatest song ever composed, it certainly outshines over 99% of what you hear on streaming radio in terms of fun.

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2024-09-01 13:00