A summer playlist needs a variety ofmusic; therefore,these classic rock albums are perfect as they provide something for every occasion. There’s everything fromsongs ideal for road tripsto tunes that are great for the beach. These albums come from the biggest artists, who have createdsongs so monumental that they’re relevant 50 years later. Additionally, many of their works thrive even on new platforms, achievingover one billion streams on Spotify.
This is a chance to dive back into the tremendous history of classic rock and enjoy some of the best works ever created. These include several concept albums, which remain revered for their creativity. Furthermore, a dive into an album offers a chance to hear some deep cuts that may not have received as much attention. Each time these records are played, there’s something new to discover, asthey paved the way for others, yet they still deserve their time in the sun.
10The Stranger
Artists: Billy Joel (1977)
Over the course of his career, Billy Joel has become one of the most iconic performers. He is known for hit albums such as “Piano Man” and “The Stranger,” with the latter ranking number two on theBillboard200. Making this record so great wasa perfect mix of storytelling, catchy melodies, and Joel’s signature piano playing.
This is a perfect opportunity to see what made Joel such a revered artist in his younger days.
This album contains nine tracks that take listeners on a journey. From it, two of the biggest hits were"Only the Good Die Young" and “Just the Way You Are.“With a chance to kick back and enjoy some tunes during the summer, this is a perfect opportunity to see what made Joel such a revered artist in his younger days.
9Electric Ladyland
Artist: The Jimi Hendrix Experience (1968)
The third and final studio album created by the Jimi Hendrix Experience was yet another masterpiece for the band. Having already had one of the best debuts of all time, this was a chance for them to further cement their legacy.This record explores the intricacies of psychedelic rock elements, showcasing some of the best tracks they produced.
On this album is one of the greatest covers, “All Along the Watchtower.” They were able to take this Bob Dylan hit and make it uniquely their own. Additionally, this features one of their signature songs, “Voodoo Chile.” While there is no turning back time to go to the first Woodstock,this album can provide a taste of what it was like to be there on that August day, hearing Hendrix play.
8Cheap Thrills
Artist: Big Brother Band And The Holding Company (1968)
Before she left for her solo career,Janis Joplin recorded her second and final album with Big Brother and the Holding Company,Cheap Thrills. This record explores three main rock genres: blues, acid, and psychedelic. The band is praised for its energy and raw sound, with Joplin admired for her powerful vocals.
This record is perfect for summer, as the band actually has a track on it called “Summertime.” In fact, it was released during this period, coming out in August 1968. Throughout the years, it has remained revered by music pundits. Now, it has become 2x platinum,further cementing its legacy as one of the most important pieces of San Francisco rock.
7The Rise And Fall Of Ziggy Stardust And The Spiders From Mars
Artist: David Bowie (1972)
If you want to take a trip into the mind of a true rock and roll artist, David Bowie is a great musician to explore. Bowie is one of the kings of reinvention, always knowing when he needed to pivot in his career. One of his most iconic moveswas the creation of his persona, Ziggy Stardust,which was enhanced by his 1972 album.
It was praised for its innovative concept and what many considered a groundbreaking musical style. Bowie drew from some of the hottest acts of the time and found a unique way to blend glam rock and proto-punk. The high energy and catchiness of the tracksmake this a perfect listen for all occasions during the summer months.
6The Cars
Artist: The Cars (1978)
In 1978, the world was introduced to The Cars with their self-titled debut studio album. This is one of the most iconic debuts, with not a single skip on it. At least five of the nine tracks became either radio hits or were used in movies. Some of the biggest ones were"Good Times Roll,” “My Best Friend’s Girl,” and “Just What I Needed.”
The National Recording Registry is managed by the Library of Congress to preserve sounds that are considered historically, culturally, or aesthetically significant.
With this tremendous legacy, this album is a trip down memory lane. The nostalgia it evokes is so special that it was even added to the National Recording Registry on June 04, 2025. With that, this record hasbecome perfect for listeners of multiple generations. These songs have now spanned decades, making it easy to find common ground.
5Let It Bleed
Artist: The Rolling Stones (1969)
It’s hard to go wrong when selecting any Rolling Stones album, butLet It Bleed, in particular, has a few of the band’s most iconic hits. Additionally, this record was praised for capturing the tone of a turbulent era, making it an important piece of music history. Over the course of 42 minutes,the band blends country, rock, and blues to create magnificent energy.
Starting off this record is “Gimme Shelter,” with the ending track being “You Can’t Always Get What You Want.” Both of these tunesare perfect for gatherings as they are very well-known. Other tracks, such as “Country Honk” or the title track, provide a chance for reflection. This album is a journey worth taking.
4Kinks
Artist: The Kinks (1964)
Making one of the biggest impressions of any English rock band in the 1960s was The Kinks. Their self-titled 1964 debut became popular for many reasons,one being the international hit, “You Really Got Me.“Additionally, they proved their ability to mix their style when they kicked off the record with a cover of Chuck Berry’s “Beautiful Delilah.”
The album’s youthful energy makes it perfect for all summer occasions. Even though this arrived 60 years ago, it still holds up against albums of today. Furthermore, it is yet another piece of music history, asit was a key part of the British music invasion during that time, which included acts such as The Beatles and the Rolling Stones.
3Hotel California
Artist: The Eagles (1976)
When selecting an album,it’s hard to go wrong with one of the best-selling of all time. This record topped theBillboard200 during its initial release, receiving all the praise that has warranted its rich history. Even though the Eagles' 1976 record,Hotel California, came out in December of that year, it actually plays well in the warmer months.
With tracks like “Hotel California” and “Life in the Fast Lane,” this record was made for road trips. Additionally, this record features “New Kid in Town,” which is the song that the band ended up winning a Grammy for. Besides these three tunes, there are six others on her,accumulating over 43 minutes of pure rock.
2Pet Sounds
Artist: The Beach Boys (1966)
One of the best bands for summertime, in general, is The Beach Boys. With the word “beach” in their name, you can’t go wrong with many of their records, as they write specifically for the occasion. However,Pet Soundswasa little different from their carefree surf tunes. This album features more melancholic sounds, with an emphasis on soul-searching.
While this takes a different turn, it can still play a crucial part in the atmosphere. It’s a beautiful thing when the sun is shining, but when it goes down,there’s nothing wrong with some softer tunes. This shows the versatility of the band, and it truly makes them perfect for any playlist, as they are not always just surfing in the USA.
1Hot Space
Artist: Queen (1982)
One of the most impressive bands of all time is Queen. Led by the incredible Freddie Mercury, they were able to reach heights that very few ever do. They have created tunes that remain some of the most revered in music. They’re yet another band where it’s hard to go wrong picking one of their albums, but1982’sHot Spaceis too fun to ignore.
Before even listening to it, the colorful cover art fits the summer months well. Once you start listening, you hear the upbeat nature and the danceable rhythms. With tunes such as “Body Language” and “Cool Cat,“it is certain to keep the mood vibrant. Additionally, this is the record where one of the greatest collaborations happened when the band teamed up with David Bowie.
