American Songwriter argues that 1973 was an especially experimental year for popular music, highlighting three tracks that pushed beyond conventional songwriting and production. The article presents them as examples of how synthesizers, unusual musical references and extended instrumental structures were entering the mainstream.

– Pink Floyd’s “On the Run” from The Dark Side of the Moon is described as futuristic and an early techno-like track, using a sped-up synthesiser to create a sequenced effect.
– David Bowie’s “Time” combines piano reminiscent of 1920s music with lyrics Bowie later said he realised were connected to sexuality.
– The Edgar Winter Group’s instrumental “Frankenstein”, originally around 20 minutes long, was shortened into a No. 1 hit and featured Edgar Winter’s pioneering use of a strapped-on keyboard.