1970s
1970 in British Music
The Beatles split, heavy rock rises, and the 1970s begin with a bang.
The Story of 1970
The Beatles officially split, and British rock entered a new era of virtuosity and excess. Paul McCartney announced the end in April, and the ensuing solo albums – McCartney's self-titled, Lennon's 'Plastic Ono Band', Harrison's 'All Things Must Pass' – showed the four were individually as talented as they'd been together. Led Zeppelin released 'Led Zeppelin III', showing folk influences alongside their trademark heaviness. Black Sabbath released their self-titled debut and 'Paranoid' in the same year, inventing heavy metal as we know it – dark, downtuned and menacing. Deep Purple's 'Deep Purple in Rock' with 'Child in Time' pushed hard rock further. The Who released 'Live at Leeds', often called the greatest live album ever. Pink Floyd released 'Atom Heart Mother', their first album with a full orchestra. David Bowie toured with 'The Man Who Sold the World', embracing a heavier sound. Free had a massive hit with 'All Right Now'. The Isle of Wight Festival reached its peak, attracting 600,000 people. British rock was bigger, louder and more ambitious than ever. The Sixties hangover was real, but the hangover music was extraordinary.
Key Events
The Beatles officially disband — a decade-defining partnership ends
Black Sabbath release their debut — heavy metal is born in Birmingham
Glastonbury Festival's first edition held at Worthy Farm (tickets: £1)
Dominant Genres
Notable Trends
- →The singer-songwriter emerges as a major force (Cat Stevens, Elton John)
- →Glam rock's earliest stirrings — Marc Bolan goes electric
- →The end of the 1960s dream creates space for darker, heavier music
Key Artists of 1970
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