2025 is a special year for me as a music enthusiast, marking the golden anniversary of some iconic tracks from 1975. These timeless tunes, still ruling the airwaves after half a century, were the undisputed hits of their time, topping the charts and shaping the sound of generations of musicians who came after them.
The 1970s marked a powerful period in the music world, with significant developments taking place. During this time, disco emerged, heavy metal evolved, and rock and roll genres broadened their scope. By 1975, bands like Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Queen, and Fleetwood Mac had risen to prominence, capturing the attention of music enthusiasts and critics across the globe with their chart-topping hits.
These tunes not only topped the charts and made waves in the music scene, but they also left an indelible mark on popular culture, encapsulating the spirit of one of music’s most illustrious epochs. Below is a compilation of the top ten hits that graced our airwaves exactly 50 years ago, in 1975.
The best songs turning 50 in 2025
No. 10 – “Rhinestone Cowboy” – Glen Campbell
Initially, Larry Weiss unveiled “Rhinestone Cowboy” in 1974. However, it only saw modest success as a single until Glen Campbell reinterpreted the song in 1975. His rendition became one of his biggest hits alongside “Wichita Lineman” and “Southern Nights.” Campbell’s version combined elements of country and pop, contributing significantly to the evolution and long-term influence of both genres.
No. 9 – “Crazy On You” – Heart
Initially, ‘Crazy On You’ emerges as a gentle, acoustic melody; however, it soon morphs into an energetic rock track, showcasing strong lead vocals from Ann Wilson and impressive electric guitar riffs by Nancy Wilson and the group. The blend of electric and acoustic guitars was quite unusual in this era, particularly for a band led by two women.
Over the years, despite numerous alterations in Heart’s personnel and components, it is the Wilson sisters who have consistently kept the band on track. Their hits like “Crazy On You,” “Barracuda,” and “Alone” are a significant factor behind their enduring popularity.
No. 8 – “Rock And Roll All Nite” – Kiss
Without a doubt, one of Kiss’s most famous and identifiable tunes is “Rock And Roll All Nite.” This song has been a regular feature in their live performances for many years. The track’s energetic rhythm, punctuated by a segment dominated by Peter Criss and Gene Simmons, has resulted in a rock and roll anthem that continues to be relevant even today.
No. 7 – “T.N.T” – AC/DC
The adage “If it’s not broken, don’t try to fix it” certainly applies to AC/DC. For over five decades, this band has consistently produced a unique, unchanging sound that has become iconic. One of the tracks that kick-started their signature style was “T.N.T,” initially released in Australia in 1975. This gritty, raw hard rock track played a significant role in shaping the AC/DC sound we cherish today.
No. 6 – “Philadelphia Freedom” – Elton John
Many fans mistakenly believe that “Philadelphia Freedom” was penned as an homage to Philadelphia and the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. However, this assumption is incorrect; Elton John actually composed the song as a gesture for Billie Jean King, who belonged to the “Philadelphia Freedoms” tennis team.
The release timing turned out poorly since the song emerged after “Freedons” had already shut down their Philadelphia operations and relocated to Boston. Interestingly, even though it was written for them, “Philadelphia Freedom” has gained significant popularity and is frequently played at patriotic gatherings in Philadelphia and beyond.
No. 5 – “Rhiannon” – Fleetwood Mac
1974 saw Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham join Fleetwood Mac, propelling the band to unprecedented heights they hadn’t experienced before. Within barely a year, this collective released their self-named tenth studio album – the first in a string of chart-topping albums that ruled charts worldwide.
Over time, the song “Rhiannon” about a Welsh witch has earned a devoted fanbase, who frequently rank it among the band’s finest compositions, as they truly should.
No. 4 – “December 1963 (Oh What A Night)” – The Four Seasons
In December of 1963, the Four Seasons released an exceptional track titled “December 1963.” This tune stood out because it featured Gerry Polci and Don Ciccone joining Frankie Valli in lead vocals, along with the legendary Valli. The trio’s harmonious voices were combined with a distinctive fusion of disco rhythms and early ’60s rock and roll, resulting in a lively and festive song that suits the winter season as well as other times of the year.
No. 3 – “Wish You Were Here” – Pink Floyd
Often recognized for their lengthy, intricate, experimental rock pieces, Pink Floyd slightly altered their style in “Wish You Were Here.” This track showcases a straightforward acoustic structure that has a softer, country-rock vibe instead of the music we’re accustomed to from them. David Gilmour takes center stage on lead acoustic guitar and vocals, creating one of Pink Floyd’s most distinctive yet powerful compositions.
No. 2 – “Kashmir” – Led Zeppelin
Four years after Led Zeppelin released their poignant progressive rock masterpiece “Stairway to Heaven”, they managed to recreate that same intensity and enchantment in the song “Kashmir”. This track appeared on the album titled “Physical Graffiti“, and it showcases a lively rhythm with various shifts in tempo.
The song showcases the original band members of Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones, and John Bonham all performing at their peak. A chilling, evocative opening paves the way for a top-notch track that stands tall among Led Zeppelin’s finest works, an achievement remarkable considering their extensive catalog.
No. 1 – “Bohemian Rhapsody” – Queen
In the period when punk music was gaining popularity in America, Queen managed an exceptional accomplishment by releasing a lengthy progressive rock song, “Bohemian Rhapsody,” which found mainstream success. This timeless and intricate composition, known as “Bohemian Rhapsody,” skillfully blends aspects of rock and opera to produce a powerful track that resonates with people across generations.
The tune showcases a range of rhythm shifts, an operatic segment, a skillfully played guitar solo, and a heavy rock finale that will leave you craving for more. With the groundbreaking unveiling of “Bohemian Rhapsody,” Queen significantly altered music history and produced one of the most enduring songs ever made, as well as the standout track from 1975.
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2025-01-29 20:01