Back in Time Today
The 1970s was a decade rich in musical diversity, spanning genres from rock and disco to punk and funk.
However, not all bands were universally loved, with several generating mixed to negative reactions from audiences and critics alike.
Here, we explore 19 bands from the 1970s that, for various reasons, faced significant backlash or disfavor.
1. The Se* Pistols
The Se* Pistols, spearheaded by Johnny Rotten, were notorious for their rebellious attitude and chaotic performances. Their confrontational approach and controversial lyrics sparked outrage, making them a band that divided opinion.
Despite their short-lived career, their influence was significant, yet not everyone appreciated their style.
Their infamous antics often overshadowed their music, leading to polarized views among audiences. This polarization was both a testament to their impact and a reason for their notoriety.
2. Kiss
Kiss, known for their theatrical performances, were a spectacle of bombast and grandeur. Their style was flashy, often prioritizing showmanship over musicality, which led to criticism from purists.
While they garnered a devoted fanbase, their approach was often seen as style over substance. The elaborate stage antics sometimes received more attention than the music itself, resulting in mixed reviews.
3. Bee Gees
The Bee Gees were synonymous with disco, a genre both loved and reviled. Their high-pitched harmonies and catchy tunes dominated the airwaves, but the disco backlash painted them as emblematic of a sound some despised.
Despite immense success, their association with disco led to criticism from rock aficionados. The eventual decline of disco saw some attributing part of the genre’s downfall to their ubiquitous presence.
4. Emerson, Lake & Palmer
Emerson, Lake & Palmer, a progressive rock titan, were both adored and criticized for their elaborate compositions. Their music, often complex and lengthy, was seen as pretentious by detractors.
While their technical skill was undeniable, some listeners found their work inaccessible. Criticism often centered on their perceived lack of emotional resonance, overshadowed by technical prowess.
5. The Eagles
The Eagles, with their laid-back California sound, achieved massive commercial success. However, their mainstream appeal and polished production were sometimes seen as unadventurous.
Critics accused them of playing it safe, preferring hits over experimentation. Despite or perhaps because of this, their popularity soared, creating a divide between fans and critics.
6. Journey
Journey, known for their power ballads and arena rock sound, faced mixed reviews. Their approach was seen by some as formulaic, prioritizing catchy choruses over depth.
Despite this, their music resonated with many, resulting in substantial commercial success. Critics often pointed to a lack of innovation, making them a target for derision among more discerning listeners.
7. The Carpenters
The Carpenters, with their soft rock sound and wholesome image, were loved by some and dismissed by others. Their clean-cut style was perceived as saccharine by those preferring edgier music.
Despite Karen Carpenter’s exceptional voice, they faced snobbery from rock purists. Their appeal to a broad audience did not sit well with all, leading to mixed critical reception.
8. Grand Funk Railroad
Grand Funk Railroad epitomized the hard rock sound of the early 1970s. Despite a loyal fanbase, they were often panned by critics for their perceived lack of sophistication.
Their straightforward approach was seen as simplistic by some, overshadowing their popularity. Their commercial success contrasted with the sometimes harsh critical assessments.
9. The Osmonds
The Osmonds, a family band, were the face of bubblegum pop, a genre often criticized for its perceived lack of depth.
Their wholesome image and catchy tunes appealed to younger audiences but were less favored by those seeking musical complexity. Their association with commercialized pop earned them as much disdain as it did acclaim.
10. The Bay City Rollers
The Bay City Rollers were a teen sensation, embodying the pop craze of the 1970s. While they were adored by young fans, critics found their music lacking in substance.
Their image-driven appeal often overshadowed their musical talents. Their commercial success was matched by an equal measure of critical derision.
11. Kansas
Kansas, known for their complex compositions and distinctive sound, polarised audiences. Their blend of progressive rock and mainstream appeal was both praised and criticized.
While their musicianship was respected, some found their music overly theatrical. Their elaborate style was either celebrated as innovative or dismissed as excessive.
12. The Partridge Family
The Partridge Family, a fictional band from a TV show, became a real pop sensation. Their upbeat songs and family-friendly image were embraced by many but criticized for being manufactured.
Critics often targeted their lack of authenticity. Despite this, their success in the entertainment industry was undeniable.
13. Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin, though revered today, faced criticism during their time. Their heavy sound and lifestyle attracted as much disdain as admiration.
Critics often accused them of being overindulgent, both musically and personally. Despite this, their legacy has only grown, overshadowing past negativity.
14. ABBA
ABBA, the Swedish pop sensation, achieved worldwide fame with their catchy tunes. While beloved by millions, their music was often dismissed by critics as disposable pop.
Their polished sound and commercial success sometimes overshadowed their artistic contributions. Despite this, their enduring popularity speaks to their impact on pop culture.
15. Rush
Rush, a Canadian progressive rock band, received mixed reviews for their complex music and philosophical lyrics. While admired for their musicianship, critics often labeled their work as overly complex.
Their style attracted a niche audience, leading to divisive opinions. Their commitment to their artistic vision, however, earned them a dedicated fanbase.
16. The Monkees
The Monkees, initially a TV band, faced criticism for being manufactured. Despite their pop success, their credibility was often questioned due to their origins.
Some saw them as a commercial product rather than genuine artists. Their ability to evolve musically, however, eventually earned them a more respected legacy.
17. Black Sabbath
Black Sabbath, pioneers of heavy metal, were polarizing from the start. Their dark themes and heavy sound attracted both fans and detractors.
Critics often viewed them as nihilistic, overshadowing their musical innovation. Over time, their influence on the metal genre became undeniable, despite initial criticisms.
18. Electric Light Orchestra (ELO)
Electric Light Orchestra, or ELO, combined rock with orchestral elements, creating a unique sound. Despite innovative compositions, critics sometimes viewed their music as overly ambitious.
While they achieved commercial success, some saw their style as pretentious. Their ambition was both a draw and a point of contention.
19. Lynyrd Skynyrd
Lynyrd Skynyrd, famous for their Southern rock sound, faced varied reactions. Their rebellious image and lifestyle were celebrated by fans but criticized by some as clichéd.
Critics sometimes dismissed their music as formulaic, overshadowing their genuine musicianship. Nevertheless, their contributions to rock are remembered fondly.