The 1970s produced some of the most iconic albums in rock history—but one 1975 release has just been ranked the No. 1 nearly perfect classic rock album of the decade.
In a new ranking of classic rock albums of the ’70s, Collider placed Led Zeppelin’s 1975 double album Physical Graffiti at the top of the list.
The outlet explained that these weren’t flawless, untouchable masterpieces, but albums that came remarkably close. Records that might be considered “A-minus” instead of a pure 10/10.
Released in February 1975, Physical Graffiti showcased Led Zeppelin at full creative force. The first half of the double LP—featuring the towering epic “Kashmir”—is widely regarded as one of the strongest runs in classic rock history. While Collider noted the album’s length keeps it from total perfection, much of it was described as “remarkable” and essential listening.
The album topped charts in both the U.S. and U.K., has been certified 16× Platinum in the United States, and remains one of the defining releases of the decade. In fact, the only Led Zeppelin album to sell more copies than Physical Graffiti is their 1971 untitled masterpiece, often referred to as Led Zeppelin IV.
The Full Top 10 List
Here’s how the rest of the ranking shook out, from No. 2 on down to No. 10:
- Aladdin Sane (1973) – David Bowie
- The Wall (1979) – Pink Floyd
- The Wild, the Innocent & the E Street Shuffle (1973) – Bruce Springsteen
- Tusk (1979) – Fleetwood Mac
- A Day at the Races (1976) – Queen
- Talking Heads: 77 (1977) – Talking Heads
- Here Come the Warm Jets (1974) – Brian Eno
- Band on the Run (1973) – Paul McCartney and Wings
- Exile on Main St. (1972) – The Rolling Stones
From glam rock to art rock to arena-filling epics, the list spans some of the most influential artists of the decade, but it was Led Zeppelin’s expansive 1975 statement that ultimately claimed the top spot.
More than five decades later, Physical Graffiti is still towering over the competition.
