An American Songwriter feature makes the case for five opening tracks from classic 1970s rock albums that the writer believes were unfairly overshadowed by their more famous album-mates. The piece argues these songs deserve greater recognition, as they were often eclipsed by hit singles or standout tracks elsewhere on the same record, despite being strong pieces of songwriting in their own right.

The selections span 1974 to 1978 and include Led Zeppelin's "Custard Pie" from Physical Graffiti, overshadowed by "Kashmir"; Dire Straits' "Down To The Waterline", eclipsed by "Sultans Of Swing"; Deep Purple's title track "Burn", whose riff Ritchie Blackmore reportedly improvised on the spot; Little Feat's funky "Rock & Roll Doctor" from Feats Don't Fail Me Now; and Steely Dan's "Black Cow" from Aja, overshadowed by "Peg" and "Deacon Blues".