Rock and Culture Anniversaries

This album became their first U.K. chart-topper, and first American Top 10 hit.

This may be their most impressive LP not fronted by Ozzy Osbourne or Ronnie James Dio.

This historic concert was held a month before the groundbreaking double album arrived.

This was the last opportunity to hear their classic lineup for more than a decade.

Tax season is unpleasant for everyone (except the IRS), but imagine the plight of many popular British bands in the '60s and '70s.

At this point, their future standing as bona fide hard-rock legends was anything but guaranteed.

Included were future fan favorites, an outstanding cover of "Call Me the Breeze" and, most importantly: "Sweet Home Alabama."

MTV-anointed success followed more than a decade of club gigs and financial frustration.