We’ve all heard the music of the 1970s, and now it’s time to take a peek behind the curtain at the legends who created it. These pics of 70s performers recording or just hanging out in the studio surely don’t tell the whole story, as there had to have been a lot of things going on back then that they didn’t want photographed.

Regardless, though, these vintage photos provide a cool window into a decade of unrivaled musical talent. Imagine how it would feel to be a fly on the wall in some of these studios, hearing some of the most talented musical acts of history writing and rehearsing their biggest songs.

A truly great song seems like it has sprung into existence from nowhere, but that’s not the case. Check out these 24 photos of the inception of some of music’s best songs, from a time when rock and roll was dominant and originality was everywhere.