By Jacob Baumann

Before big hair and pop were prevalent, rock and power ballads were all the rage.

While there were many bands throughout the years, these are my favorite from one decade.

3. Rush

When it comes down to pure musicianship and musical compostion, Rush is the first group that comes to mind.

In the 70s, the Canadian group was known for the quirky style and their unforgettable lyrics.

In the beginning, they were heavy metal and they went to hard rock.  A short time was spent using synthesizers, but they soon returned to their rock origins.

With a vocalist like Geddy Lee, it was hard to say that they were like any other group.  Their originality is what makes them exceptional.

2. Aerosmith

Being known for their blues based rock, Aerosmith is sometimes called “America’s Greatest Rock and Roll Band.”

In 1973, Aerosmith released their first album self-titled Aerosmith.  The highest rated single and my favorite is “Dream On.”

From their next album, I liked the songs “Walk this Way” and “Sweet Emotion.”

Lead singer Steven Tyler was known for having cloth around his mic at every concert.

Today he is a judge on American Idold, but Aerosmith lives on.

1. Queen

When it comes to arena rockers, Queen stacks among the elite.

With the voice of Freddie Mercury front and center, the British group was a great success.  Mercury was known for his ability to connect with every member of the crowd.  Watching live concerts from the past, I can feel the connection with the audience that Mercury emitted.

Although some of their songs are  overrated, it is for the right reasons.

Every time they come on the radio, I will be found with it turned up all the way and rockin’ out to it.

By Jacob Baumann

On the stage next to Eddie Van Halen is how the dream began.  We both jammed out to the guitar solo in Billie Jean.

With classic 80s hair and attire, an audience of thousands stood and cheered us on waiting for Michael Jackson to come out on stage.

Preparing for bed can be a difficult task, it takes some a glass of milk, a run, or watching a boring TV show.  Music, doesn’t get the credit it deserves.

As I lay in bed, I snatch my ipod and headphones from my nightstand and begin to select a track of music to play.

Depending on my mood from the day, I choose a song.  A bad day would consist of lighter rock music, and a good day would be composed of heavier rock tracks.

When in a bad mood, I would suggest songs by Journey like “Don’t Stop Believin’.”  Any track by Journey will make you calmer.  A few bands I would suggest are Boston, Kansas, Michael Jackson, and Elton John

Although lighter music sounds like a good idea when in a good mood, I prefer the heavier classic rock.  Bands such as Def Leppard and Bad Company are regulars that I listen to.  Some tracks in my library are Photograph, Shooting Star, The Stroke, and Round and Round.

Being able to become an idol for a moment is great, even if it’s just a dream.