1971: The Year That Music Changed Everything

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1. 1What's Happening?As the unrest of the ’60s evolves into a new decade, musicians like Marvin Gaye and John Lennon become the conscience of the culture.49m
2. 2End of the Acid DreamSly Stone, The Rolling Stones, and Jim Morrison retreat from the world—but there's no escape from the growing epidemic of hard drugs.42m
3. 3ChangesNew sounds and styles emerge following The Beatles' breakup, with Marc Bolan and Alice Cooper bringing glam to the world.47m
4. 4Our Time Is NowCarole King and Joni Mitchell smash sexist boundaries and record iconic albums. Elton John and Lou Reed explore queer music and culture.45m
5. 5The Revolution Will Not Be TelevisedAmerica is convulsed by deep racial unrest. Curtis Mayfield, The Last Poets, and Gil Scott-Heron write about a revolution that feels imminent.46m
6. 6ExileDrugs, drink, and debauchery reach a devastating peak—yet Sly Stone, The Rolling Stones, and Jim Morrison produce some of their best music.42m
7. 7RespectJames Brown, Ike and Tina Turner, and the artists at Stax Records make music on their own terms despite working in an industry rife with racism.44m
8. 8StarmanWith reggae and synthesizers on the rise, a range of artists—from Iggy Pop and Lou Reed to Alice Cooper—inspire a creative triumph.46m