3 Rock Bands From the 1970s That Surprisingly Never Peaked at No. 1

Procuring a No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 is a symbol of bonified success. Now, it does not measure the quality of an artist, although it certainly doesn’t hurt to have one. However, there are a handful of talented bands and musicians who never received a No. 1 hit on the chart, even in their prime. Frankly, some could argue that it’s criminal and perplexing, but at the end of the day, you can’t argue with the numbers.

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The ’70s hosted some of the greatest rock bands of all time. Consequently, you’d think every major band of the decade would have garnered a No. 1 hit at some point in their careers. That is not the case in the slightest, as these three illustrious ’70 rock groups never scored a No. 1 hit during their prime.

Led Zeppelin

You probably read the subheading and are now asking yourself, “How in the world?” It is not an unfair question in the slightest, as Led Zeppelin ruled and continues to rule music culture. You’d imagine that out of the plethora of bangers they produced, they would have secured a No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. But, alas, nope.

On the chart, Zeppelin’s highest charting single was “Whole Lotta Love,” which peaked at No. 4 on the chart. Additionally, and surprisingly, their other big hit, “Stairway to Heaven,” didn’t even chart on the Billboard Hot 100.

Creedence Clearwater Revival

Creedence Clearwater Revival is undeniably one of the most unique bands of the ’60s and ’70s. Although, that seemingly wasn’t enough, as the band never had a No. 1 single on the world’s most infamous chart. “Have You Ever Seen The Rain,” “Lookin’ Out My Back Door,” and “Up Around The Bend” are a few songs you’d have thought would have peaked at No. 1, but spoiler, they didn’t.

The highest charting song they had on Billboard’s list was “Have You Ever Seen The Rain.” Upon its 1970 release, it cracked the top 10 and peaked at No. 8. Regardless of this crime, CCR is still one of the greatest ’60s and ’70s rock ‘n’ roll bands of all time.

The Who

The Who dominated the ’70s, and other than Led Zeppelin, they were the voice that symbolized youthful rebellion. Despite that very alluring facet, The Who never scored a No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. Matter of fact, their most famous song of all time, “Baba O’Riley,” only peaked at No. 1 on the chart.

Now, No. 10 is not bad in the slightest, however, you’d think it would have gone higher, given its long-lasting legacy. Though, it didn’t, and their other songs that should have peaked at No. 1 include “Won’t Get Fooled Again” and “Behind Blue Eyes.”

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