Rock Out With This Classic Rock Trivia Quiz
Do you consider yourself a true classic rock fan? Then, put your knowledge to the test with our ultimate classic rock quiz! This quiz is designed to challenge even the most dedicated fans of classic rock, covering everything from the origins of rock ‘n’ roll to the most influential albums and songs of the era.
With multiple levels of difficulty, this quiz is suitable for both beginners and seasoned rock enthusiasts. So gather your friends and family, and see who can come out on top in this epic battle of classic rock knowledge. Get ready to rock and roll!
What was the name of Pink Floyd’s iconic album released in 1973?
A. Dark Side of the Moon
B. Wish You Were Here
C. Animals
D. The Wall
Answer: Dark Side of the Moon
Dark Side of the Moon is one of Pink Floyd’s most famous and critically acclaimed albums, featuring hits like “Money” and “Us and Them.” Known for its iconic cover art, it had themes of life and the human experience.
Who was the lead singer of the band Queen?
A. John Deacon
B. Freddie Mercury
C. Roger Taylor
D. Brian May
Answer: Freddie Mercury
Freddie Mercury was known for his powerful vocals and flamboyant stage presence, helping to make Queen one of the most iconic bands in rock history. His life can be seen in the biopic Bohemian Rhapsody.
Who played guitar for the band The Doors?
A. Jim Morrison
B. Ray Manzarek
C. Robby Krieger
D. John Densmore
Answer: Robby Krieger
Robby Krieger is a highly respected American guitarist and songwriter, best known for his work with The Doors, where he helped to create some of the most iconic songs and sounds of the 1960s and 1970s.
Which famous music festival took place in 1969?
A. Altamont Speedway Free Festival
B. Isle of Wight Festival
C. Monterey Pop Festival
D. Woodstock
Answer: Woodstock
Woodstock was a three-day music festival that attracted over 400,000 people during the summer of 1969 and featured some of the biggest names in rock music, including Jimi Hendrix and The Who.
What was the title of The Beach Boys’ first US number-one hit single, released in 1964?
A. “I Get Around”
B. “Help Me, Rhonda”
C. “Surfin’ USA”
D. “Good Vibrations”
Answer: “I Get Around”
“I Get Around” was the Beach Boys’ first US number-one hit single and helped to establish them as one of the most successful bands of the 1960s. Brian Wilson went on to create one of the best albums of all time, Pet Sounds.
What was the name of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s famous anti-war protest song released in 1969?
A. “Bad Moon Rising”
B. “Fortunate Son”
C. “Proud Mary”
D. “Down on the Corner”
Answer: “Fortunate Son”
“Fortunate Son” is a well-known protest song by Creedence Clearwater Revival that criticizes the Vietnam War and the class inequalities in the draft system. The song’s lyrics criticize the privileged position of wealthy and influential people who were able to avoid the draft.
What was the title of The Eagles’ hit song that won a Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1977?
A. “Desperado”
B. “Life in the Fast Lane”
C. “Hotel California”
D. “Take it Easy”
Answer: “Hotel California”
“Hotel California” is one of The Eagles’ most famous songs and won a Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1977. Its memorable guitar solo and mysterious lyrics have made it one of the most iconic songs in rock history.
What is the name of Bruce Springsteen’s backing band that he has been performing with since the 1970s?
A. The Band
B. The Heartbreakers
C. The Silver Bullet Band
D. The E-Street Band
Answer: The E-Street Band
Bruce Springsteen’s longtime backing band, The E-Street Band, is known for its energetic live performances and has played on many of Springsteen’s classic albums. The band’s members have included some of the most talented and respected musicians in rock history, including Clarence Clemons, Max Weinberg, and Nils Lofgren.
Which band is credited with “restoring hard rock to the forefront of the music scene”?
A. Van Halen
B. Guns N’ Roses
C. AC/DC
D. Motley Crue
Answer: Van Halen
Van Halen is a legendary American rock band formed in the 1970s, known for their high-energy, guitar-driven sound and dynamic live performances. Led by Eddie Van Halen’s innovative guitar playing and David Lee Roth’s charismatic vocals, the band has become an iconic symbol of hard rock.
What was the name of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s hit song that became their signature tune and is often played as an encore at their concerts?
A. “Sweet Home Alabama”
B. “Free Bird”
C. “Tuesday’s Gone”
D. “Gimme Three Steps”
Answer: “Free Bird”
“Free Bird” is one of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s most famous songs, known for its soaring guitar solo and emotional lyrics. The song has become a classic rock anthem and is often played as a tribute to the band’s legacy and influence.
Who was the original drummer for The Who?
A. Keith Moon
B. Ringo Starr
C. John Bonham
D. Charlie Watts
Answer: Keith Moon
Keith Moon was known for his explosive drumming style and helped to define The Who’s sound during their early years. Other members of the group included Roger Daltrey, Pete Townshend, and John Entwistle.
What was Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers’ first Top 10 single?
A. “Free Fallin'”
B. “Refugee”
C. “Don’t Do Me Like That”
D. “Mary Jane’s Last Dance”
Answer: “Don’t Do Me Like That”
“Don’t Do Me Like That” is a classic rock song by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, released in 1979. The song’s catchy melody, infectious rhythm, and Petty’s emotive vocals helped to make it one of the band’s most popular and enduring hits.
What is the name of ZZ Top’s best-selling album, released in 1983 and known for its hit singles “Gimme All Your Lovin’,” “Sharp Dressed Man,” and “Legs”?
A. Tres Hombres
B. Degüello
C. Afterburner
D. Eliminator
Answer: Eliminator
Eliminator is ZZ Top’s most successful album to date, selling over 10 million copies worldwide and earning the band widespread critical acclaim. Its blend of blues, rock, and electronic music helped to define the sound of the 1980s.
What is the relationship between Nancy and Ann Wilson of Heart?
A. cousins
B. sisters
C. mother and daughter
D. aunt and niece
Answer: sisters
Heart is a legendary American rock band formed in the 1970s, known for their powerful vocals, intricate guitar work, and diverse musical styles. Led by the Wilson sisters, Ann and Nancy, the band has become an iconic symbol of the hard rock and heavy metal genres.
What is the name of KISS’s 1975 hit song that became their signature tune and is often played as an encore at their concerts?
A. “Detroit Rock City”
B. “I Was Made for Lovin’ You”
C. “Rock and Roll All Nite”
D. “Shout It Out Loud”
Answer: “Rock and Roll All Nite”
“Rock and Roll All Nite” is one of KISS’s most famous songs, known for its catchy chorus and energetic performance. The song has become a classic rock anthem and is often played as a tribute to the band’s legacy and influence.
Which of these songs isn’t by Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band?
A. “Night Moves”
B. “Old Time Rock & Roll”
C. “Mainstreet”
D. “At Last”
Answer: “At Last”
Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band is an American rock band formed in the 1970s, known for their blend of hard rock, folk, and blues influences. Led by Bob Seger’s distinctive vocals and songwriting, the band has become a celebrated and influential symbol of the classic rock era.
Which band is pictured in this photo?
A. Black Sabbath
B. Pink Floyd
C. Led Zeppelin
D. Deep Purple
Answer: Led Zeppelin
The band in the picture is Led Zeppelin. Led Zeppelin IV is one of the most iconic albums of all time, featuring classic tracks like “Stairway to Heaven” and “Black Dog.”
What is the name of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young’s 1970 hit song that protests the Vietnam War?
A. “Teach Your Children”
B. “Woodstock”
C. “Ohio”
D. “Suite: Judy Blue Eyes”
Answer: “Ohio”
“Ohio” is one of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young’s most politically charged songs. The song’s powerful lyrics and searing guitar solos have made it a classic of the protest rock genre.
Who is the lead singer of Aerosmith?
A. Steven Tyler
B. Joe Perry
C. Tom Hamilton
D. Joey Kramer
Answer: Steven Tyler
Steven Tyler is an American musician best known as the lead singer of the iconic rock band Aerosmith. Tyler’s powerful voice, dynamic stage presence, and flamboyant style have helped to make him one of the most recognizable and celebrated frontmen in rock history.
Which Elton John song contains the lyric, “And I think it’s gonna be a long, long time”?
A. “Your Song”
B. “Rocket Man”
C. “Crocodile Rock”
D. “Tiny Dancer”
Answer: “Rocket Man”
“Rocket Man” is one of Elton John’s most beloved songs, known for its soaring melody and introspective lyrics. The song’s timeless appeal and John’s powerful vocals have helped to make it a classic rock staple and a fan favorite for over four decades.
Which song by Steve Miller Band starts, “Some people call me the space cowboy”?
A. “The Joker”
B. “Fly Like an Eagle”
C. “Take the Money and Run”
D. “Rock’n Me”
Answer: “The Joker”
If those lyrics sound familiar, then you would know that they are from “The Joker” by Steve Miller Band. The band formed in San Francisco, California in 1966 and is led by Steve Miller on guitar and lead vocals.
This rock band incorporated elements of blues, jazz, and country into their music.
A. The Derek Trucks Band
B. The Allman Brothers Band
C. Lynyrd Skynyrd
D. The Marshall Tucker Band
Answer: The Allman Brothers Band
The Allman Brothers Band is an American rock band formed in the late 1960s, known for their unique blend of blues, jazz, and Southern rock influences. Led by brothers Duane and Gregg Allman, the band has become a celebrated and influential symbol of the classic rock era, inspiring countless musicians and fans around the world.
What is the name of The Ramones’ 1976 debut album that helped to launch the punk rock movement in the United States?
A. Rocket to Russia
B. Leave Home
C. Ramones
D. Road to Ruin
Answer: Ramones
The Ramones’ debut album, simply titled Ramones, was released in 1976 and helped to establish the band as pioneers of the punk rock movement. The album’s stripped-down sound and high-energy performances have made it a classic of the genre and inspired countless bands in the years since its release.
Who is this eccentric entertainer?
A. Ozzy Osbourne
B. Marilyn Manson
C. Rob Zombie
D. Alice Cooper
Answer: Alice Cooper
Alice Cooper is an American musician and performer known for his theatrical stage shows and unique blend of hard rock and shock rock music. His elaborate costumes, makeup, and props have made him an iconic figure in the world of rock and roll and influenced countless musicians and artists.
What is the name of Jimi Hendrix’s band that he formed in the late 1960s and released classic albums such as “Are You Experienced” and “Electric Ladyland”?
A. The Experience
B. The Jimi Hendrix Band
C. The Purple Haze
D. The Voodoo Childs
Answer: The Experience
Jimi Hendrix’s backing band, The Experience, consisted of bassist Noel Redding and drummer Mitch Mitchell. The band’s innovative sound and Hendrix’s virtuosic guitar playing helped to redefine the boundaries of rock music and established Hendrix as one of the greatest guitarists in history.
What is the name of Santana’s classic 1970 album that features the hit songs “Black Magic Woman” and “Oye Como Va”?
A. Santana
B. Santana III
C. Abraxas
D. Caravanserai
Answer: Abraxas
“Abraxas” is widely considered to be one of Santana’s greatest albums, blending elements of Latin jazz, rock, and blues into a unique and distinctive sound. The album’s hits, including “Black Magic Woman” and “Oye Como Va,” helped to establish Santana as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the 1970s.
Fans of the Grateful Dead call themselves this name.
A. Grateful Gurus
B. Grateful Gypsies
C. Deadbeds
D. Deadheads
Answer: Deadheads
The Grateful Dead has one of the biggest followings of any rock group in history. Those who follow them around on tours and buy all of their albums are known as Deadheads.
Who is the lead singer of The Stooges?
A. Iggy Pop
B. Ron Asheton
C. Scott Asheton
D. Dave Alexander
Answer: Iggy Pop
Iggy Pop is an American musician and performer known for his dynamic stage presence and contributions to the punk and alternative rock genres. His influential career spans over five decades, during which he has released countless acclaimed albums and collaborated with numerous artists.
What is the name of The Doobie Brothers’ hit song from 1972 that became their first top 10 hit in the United States?
A. “China Grove”
B. “Listen to the Music”
C. “Long Train Runnin'”
D. “Black Water”
Answer: “Listen to the Music”
“Listen to the Music” is one of The Doobie Brothers’ most famous songs, known for its catchy melody and upbeat lyrics. The song’s success helped to establish the band as one of the premier acts of the 1970s and paved the way for their future success.
What is the name of Boston’s hit song from their 1976 debut album that became their signature tune?
A. “Smokin'”
B. “Peace of Mind”
C. “More Than a Feeling”
D. “Hitch a Ride”
Answer: “More Than a Feeling”
“More Than a Feeling” is Boston’s most famous song, known for its memorable guitar riff and soaring vocals. The song helped to establish the band as one of the most popular and influential rock acts of the 1970s and has since become a beloved classic.
What is the name of Fleetwood Mac’s landmark 1977 album that features hit songs such as “Dreams,” “Go Your Own Way,” and “Don’t Stop”?
A. Fleetwood Mac
B. Tusk
C. Mirage
D. Rumours
Answer: Rumours
Rumours is widely regarded as one of the greatest albums in rock history, blending elements of pop, rock, and folk into a seamless and unforgettable sound. The album’s hits helped to establish Fleetwood Mac as one of the most popular and enduring bands of the 1970s and beyond.
This band sings the hit song “Don’t Stop Believin’.”
A. Journey
B. Foreigner
C. REO Speedwagon
D. Styx
Answer: Journey
Journey is an American rock band formed in the 1970s, known for their blend of melodic hard rock and power ballads. Led by Steve Perry’s distinctive vocals, the band has become a celebrated and influential symbol of the classic rock era, inspiring countless musicians and fans around the world.
What is the name of Jefferson Airplane’s 1967 hit song that became an anthem of the counterculture movement?
A. “Somebody to Love”
B. “White Rabbit”
C. “Crown of Creation”
D. “Volunteers”
Answer: “White Rabbit”
“White Rabbit” is one of Jefferson Airplane’s most famous songs, known for its psychedelic sound and evocative lyrics. The song’s success helped to establish the band as pioneers of the San Francisco rock scene and remains a beloved classic of the era.
Which Steely Dan song has the lyric, “Learn to work the saxophone. (I) I play just what I feel”?
A. “Reelin’ In the Years”
B. “Do It Again”
C. “Dirty Work”
D. “Deacon Blues”
Answer: “Deacon Blues”
“Deacon Blues” is a 1977 song by Steely Dan, known for its intricate jazz-rock instrumentation and introspective lyrics. The song tells the story of a struggling musician searching for meaning and validation in his life and has become a beloved classic of the band’s catalog.
Which Bob Dylan song did The Byrds cover in 1965?
A. “Mr. Tambourine Man”
B. “Blowin’ in the Wind”
C. “Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right”
D. “The Times They Are A-Changin'”
Answer: “Mr. Tambourine Man”
The Byrds’ cover of Bob Dylan’s “Mr. Tambourine Man” helped to define the folk-rock genre and became one of the band’s most famous and enduring songs. The song’s jangly guitars and ethereal harmonies have made it a classic of the era and inspired countless musicians and artists in the years since its release.
Andy Warhol frequently collaborated with this music group.
A. The Modern Lovers
B. The Velvet Underground
C. Television
D. The Jesus and Mary Chain
Answer: The Velvet Underground
The Velvet Underground was a pioneering rock band formed in New York City in the mid-1960s. Their music blended elements of art rock, avant-garde, and pop, creating a unique sound that would go on to influence countless musicians and artists in the years to come.
What is the name of Buffalo Springfield’s hit song from 1966 that is often cited as one of the greatest protest songs of all time?
A. “Mr. Soul”
B. “Bluebird”
C. “For What It’s Worth”
D. “Rock & Roll Woman”
Answer: “For What It’s Worth”
“For What It’s Worth” is one of Buffalo Springfield’s most famous songs, known for its haunting melody and evocative lyrics about the unrest and political turmoil of the 1960s. The song has since become a classic of the protest rock genre and a timeless anthem of social and political change.
What is the name of The Beatles’ landmark album, released in 1967, that is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most innovative albums in rock history?
A. Rubber Soul
B. Revolver
C. The White Album
D. Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band
Answer: Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band
“Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” is a seminal album by The Beatles that helped to redefine the boundaries of rock music and popular culture. The album’s groundbreaking production, eclectic musical styles, and richly imaginative lyrics have made it a classic of the era and an enduring influence on countless artists in the years since its release.
What is the name of Chicago’s 1976 hit song that features a distinctive guitar riff and soaring vocals?
A. “25 or 6 to 4”
B. “Saturday in the Park”
C. “Make Me Smile”
D. “Hard to Say I’m Sorry”
Answer: “25 or 6 to 4”
“25 or 6 to 4” is a classic rock song by Chicago, known for its powerful horns and intricate guitar work. The song’s catchy melody and driving rhythm have made it a staple of classic rock radio and a beloved classic of the era.
What is the logo for the Rolling Stones?
A. lightning bolt
B. tongue and lips
C. rainbow
D. a fist
Answer: tongue and lips
The Rolling Stones’ iconic logo, featuring a stylized tongue and lips, was designed in 1971 by British artist John Pasche. The logo has since become one of the most recognizable and enduring symbols of rock and roll, synonymous with the band’s rebellious spirit and enduring legacy.
