10 Underrated Blues Rock Songs of the 1970s

The 1970s were a golden era for blues rock, with countless iconic tracks defining the genre. However, not every great song received the recognition it deserved. Here are 10 underrated blues rock songs from the 1970s that deserve a closer listen.

Free – “Heartbreaker” (1970)

“Heartbreaker” by Free is a prime example of raw, unfiltered blues rock. With Paul Rodgers’ powerful vocals and Paul Kossoff’s emotive guitar work, the song captures the essence of the blues with a rock edge. Despite the success of Free’s other hits like “All Right Now,” “Heartbreaker” remains somewhat underappreciated. The song’s driving riff and heartfelt lyrics make it a hidden gem that showcases the band’s ability to blend blues with rock. The song ended up being covered by Joe Bonamassa on the Dust Bowl album.

Rory Gallagher – “Walk on Hot Coals” (1973)

From the album Blueprint, “Walk on Hot Coals” is an electrifying track that highlights Rory Gallagher’s incredible guitar prowess and energetic performance. The song’s fast-paced riff and dynamic solos showcase Gallagher’s skillful blending of blues and rock, making it a standout piece that captures the intensity and excitement of his live performances. Its raw energy and intricate guitar work demonstrate why Gallagher is a revered figure in blues rock, despite the track not always being in the spotlight.

The Faces – “Cindy Incidentally” (1973)

From the album Ooh La La, “Cindy Incidentally” features a mix of blues rock and pub rock. The song’s catchy melody and Rod Stewart’s charismatic vocals make it a memorable, if somewhat underrated, track from The Faces.

Savoy Brown – “Street Corner Talking” (1971)

The title track from Savoy Brown’s album Street Corner Talking is a blues rock gem that features Kim Simmonds’ signature guitar style. Its raw energy and Simmonds’ impressive guitar work provide a snapshot of the band’s potent live performances and their unique place in the blues rock genre. Savoy Brown remains an underrated blues rock band in the scheme of things and “Street Corner Talking” is a track more people should hear.

Groundhogs – “Cherry Red” (1971)

The Groundhogs, a British blues rock band, gained some recognition in the early ’70s, but tracks like “Cherry Red” from their album Split remain underrated. The song is a blistering example of Tony McPhee’s guitar skills and the band’s tight, driving sound.

Johnny Winter – “Silver Train” (1974)

From the album Still Alive and Well, “Silver Train” is a gritty, blues-infused track that showcases Johnny Winter’s guitar work and dynamic vocal performance. The song’s driving rhythm and raw, energetic delivery highlight Winter’s ability to combine blues with a rock edge, making it a gem in his discography. Winter is one of the genre’s all-time greats.

Robin Trower – “Day of the Eagle” (1974)

Robin Trower, often compared to Jimi Hendrix, delivered a stunning blues rock performance with “Day of the Eagle” from his Bridge of Sighs album. The song features Trower’s signature guitar tone and it’s a standout track in his catalog. The kids these days would call this one a banger. Trower is scorching.

Elvin Bishop – “Travelin’ Shoes” (1974)

From the album Let It Flow, “Travelin’ Shoes” is a soulful blues rock track that features Elvin Bishop’s smooth guitar work and laid-back vocals. The song’s steady groove and heartfelt lyrics highlight Bishop’s ability to blend blues with a rock sensibility.

ZZ Top – “Sure Got Cold After the Rain Fell” (1972)

From the album Rio Grande Mud, “Sure Got Cold After the Rain Fell” is a slow blues track that highlights ZZ Top’s ability to blend Texas blues with rock. The track’s somber tone and poignant lyrics reveal a more introspective side of the band, contrasting with their more upbeat, well-known hits. The song’s atmospheric guitar work and dusty, melancholic vibe create a vivid portrayal of a rain-soaked, blues-infused landscape.

Stone Blue – “Foghat” (1978)

Foghat’s “Stone Blue,” the title track from their 1978 album, is a gritty blues rock anthem that showcases the band’s signature sound. The song’s raw energy and Dave Peverett’s commanding vocals make it a powerful addition to the blues rock canon.