1973 was a great year for music, seeing the birth of several groups that have left a permanent mark on the history of music. It is no easy feat for any music artist to still be making music as successfully as icons such as AC/DC, KISS, Billy Joel and Led Zeppelin but these titans of the industry are still showing us how it is done 50 years on. So, what makes these acts so legendary?
AC/DC
Formed in Australia in 1973, AC/DC are a staple in the rock music arena with fans of all ages. Still going strong 50 years later, the band have sold over 200 million records worldwide, ranging from vinyl records to digital downloads. This band have seen the music industry change and develop throughout their careers and have managed to change with the times whilst still being true to their original sound.
Throughout their career AC/DC have seen some changes in their line-up but that hasn’t changed the core of who they are. Their debut album High Voltage was a huge hit in Australia before conquering the world. Although it was not received well initially, it won over fans across the world and is still a fan favourite. AC/DC were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003, cementing their footing in music history.
KISS
KISS are instantly recognisable by their unique style and make-up. Founded in New York, these glam metal legends have been making incredible music since 1973 and continue to impress crowds with their antics today such as fire-breathing, floating drum kits and pyrotechnics.
Starting in 1983 and lasting until 1996 the band decided to perform without their well-known make-up on. During this era, the band found themselves regularly playing on MTV, introducing them to a new wave of fans.
As the band get older, touring gets more challenging. Ending in December 2023, their End of the Road Tour has been treasured by fans worldwide.
Billy Joel
Many Billy Joel fans regularly listen to Piano Man which debuted in 1973 and propelled the singer to international stardom. Since the early seventies, he has released twelve studio albums spanning a wide variety of music styles. In 2001 he even released a one-off album of classical music compilations.
Most recently, Billy Joel has announced that his residency at Madison Square Gardens will end in July 2024, marking his 150th lifetime performance at the venue.
Led Zeppelin
Arguably one of the UK’s best musical exports, Led Zeppelin formed in 1968 and had success early on. Their 1973 album Houses of the Holy was a bit slow off the mark, with some critics unimpressed but it sold over 10 million copies, receiving a Diamond Certification by the Recording Industry Association of America in 1999. More recently, in 2020 the album was ranked 278 in Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.
Although the band broke up in 1980 following the tragic passing of John Bonham, the members have had their own successes with different projects.
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