Side One Openers That Deserve More Love

Session Musicians Behind Huge Hits

These session musicians brought consistency, creativity, and professionalism to every track. Many famous 70s hits owe as much (or more) to the session players as to the named artists. They were the secret weapon behind the polished, radio-ready sound that defined the decade

Basslines You Feel More Than Hear

These basslines weren’t just holding down the low end — they were driving the songs, creating hooks, and giving the music its backbone and personality. A truly great 70s bassline could make you move even when the rest of the song was subtle

Drummers Who Played for the Song

These drummers understood that the song always comes first. They locked in with the bass, left space where it was needed, and knew exactly when to push or pull back. Their playing often went unnoticed precisely because it was so perfect for the music

Guitarists With Instantly Recognizable Tone

These guitarists didn’t just play notes — they had a sonic signature. You could pick them out of a crowd of players because their tone told a story before the first phrase was finished. That instant recognition is a rare gift in music

70s Keyboards Changed Everything

The 70s keyboards were dynamic — warm analog synths, roaring Hammonds, and ethereal Mellotrons — became the sonic signature of the decade’s ambition. It was the perfect marriage of technology and musicality