The 70s are referred to as the golden era of rock, but the music of this era is far more diverse than rock. The decade is known for its different music genres, and the best and most popular songs from the 70s came from rock, disco, funk, and many more. The 70s was a decade of immense innovation in music and cultural transformation. This era gave us unforgettable tunes that spanned a wide range of genres, from the power 70s rock bands and the infectious grooves of disco to the soulful depths of R&B and the electrifying rhythms of funk.
These best 70s songs defined a generation and continue to resonate and influence artists and music lovers today. In this article, we have tried to create a curated list of the 50 best 70s songs – each track proves the decade’s creativity and diversity. Let’s embark on a journey through one of the most profound periods in music history, exploring the famous and top songs from this decade that still captivate audiences and display the enduring appeal of the music in the 1970s.
Top 70s Songs Across Genres
The 1970s produced some of the best songs in music history, leaving a mark on popular culture. Here are some of the most popular songs from the decade without genre limitations.
What Was the Biggest Hit of the 70s?
Determining the single biggest hit of the 70s is subjective. It can depend on metrics like chart performance, sales, and cultural impact. However, one standout track often cited is “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees. The iconic status of the “Saturday Night Fever” movie contributed to this disco anthem, topping the charts worldwide and becoming synonymous with the disco era. Its infectious beat, memorable lyrics, and association with the hit film solidified its place as a defining track of the decade.
It’s hard to tell what the most popular songs of the 70s are. Here is a list of the most listened ’70s songs by year, according to Billboard:
- In 1970, the most listened-to song was “Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon & Garfunkel
- In 1971, the most popular song was “Joy to the World” by Three Dog Night.
- “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” by Roberta Flack ruled the chart in 1972.
- In 1973, the most popular song was “Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree” by Tony Orlando and Dawn.
- “The Way We Were” by Barbra Streisand was the most popular according to Billboard 100
- 1975 “Love Will Keep Us Together” Captain & Tennille
- The most popular music of 1976 was “Silly Love Songs” by Wings
- Rod Stewart and “Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)” topped the 1977
- In 1978, “Shadow Dancing” by Andy Gibb was the most popular
- The most popular The Knack song of the 70s – “My Sharona” was found best by the listeners in 1979
What Music Was Popular in the 70s?
When people say 70s’ music, they usually mean rock and disco music from that decade. However, the 70s saw the rise of plenty of musical genres, each contributing to the rich and varied soundscape; funk, soul, R&B, and jazz remained popular, and some of the best music from these genres was written in this decade.
This decade produced plenty of popular songs that have stood the test of time. Here is a notable 70s songs list:
10 You’re the One That I Want by John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John (1978)
John Travolta was lucky enough to be part of two cult classics. In “Grease,” he performed some of the songs with his costar, Olivia Newton-John. This catchy pop-rock number quickly became an anthem of the late 70s.
The energy of Travolta and Newton-John’s performance in “Grease” is a highlight, contributing to the song’s lasting appeal.
We love
We love its irresistible charm and nostalgic ties to the film.
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09 Rocket Man by Elton John (1972)
“Rocket Man (I Think It’s Going to Be a Long, Long Time)” is one of Elton John’s most recognizable and among the best songs from the 1970s. It is a timeless hymn for anyone grappling with feelings of distance and longing.
We love
We love how the song reflects the feelings of isolation and alienation astronauts face as they travel into space, using space travel as a metaphor for personal struggles.
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08 “Night Fever” by Bee Gees (1977)
“Night Fever” by the Bee Gees is one of the most recognizable tracks of the disco era. The song was part of the soundtrack for the movie “Saturday Night Fever,” which played a significant role in popularizing disco music. Bee Gees were already famous before the film was released, but “Saturday Night Fever” in 1977 catapulted them to international superstardom.
“Night Fever” was a massive commercial success. The song was a number-one hit on the charts in multiple countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom.
We love
We love the song’s ability to transport us to the height of the disco era instantly.
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07 “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” by Michael Jackson (1979)
King of Pop’s first single from “Off the Wall” album proved that Michael would not struggle with his solo career. The song was released in 1979 and was one of the first collaborations between Jackson and Quincy Jones. The song became one of the 70s hits, and the future work of Jackson and Jones brought many hits in the 80s.
Michael Jackson won a Grammy for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance in 1980 for “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough.”
We love
We love Jackson’s smooth vocals and the song’s energetic, upbeat tempo.
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06 “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin (1971)
Often hailed as one of the greatest rock songs of all time, there is not much we can add about “Stairway to Heaven” that hasn’t been said before.
We love
We love the seamless transition from acoustic to electric, Jimmy Page’s guitar solo, Robert Plant’s vocals, and John Bonham’s drumming.
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05 “Dancing Queen” by ABBA (1976)
The disco era would not be what it is without the biggest disco hits from the 70s. Swedish pop group ABBA became a global sensation and remains a favorite at parties and celebrations. “Dancing Queen” is one of ABBA’s most beloved songs.
Before its official release, the song was performed at Sweden’s pre-wedding gala for King Carl XVI Gustaf and Silvia Sommerlath.
“Dancing Queen” was ABBA’s only No. 1 hit in the United States.
We love
We love the song’s infectious energy, joyous spirit, and catchy chorus.
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04 “Imagine” by John Lennon (1971)
Sadly, The Beatles broke up in the early 1970s. Members continued with solo careers but didn’t achieve the band’s success. Imagine by Lennon is one of the best songs from the members’ solo careers. This anthem for peace and unity brought optimism to listeners across generations and became one of the most influential songs ever written.
We love
We love the song’s lyrics, which paint a picture of a better world, a world without war, borders, or religious conflict.
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03 “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver (1971)
“Take Me Home, Country Roads” is a classic song by John Denver, released in 1971. Things could have been different if writers stuck to the original plan. Bill Danoff and Taffy Nivert intended the song for Johnny Cash. Luckily, their collaboration with John Denver convinced them he should record it, and it became one of the most popular 70s songs.
“Take Me Home, Country Roads” is one of West Virginia’s four official anthems.
We love
We love the lyrics, which vividly depict the Appalachian countryside. Whether it’s the feeling of returning home or the love of a simpler rural life, the song captures a universal longing for connection and peace.
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02 “Hotel California” by Eagles (1976)
“Hotel California” by The Eagles is one of the best songs of the 70s. It was released in 1977 on their album of the same name. The guitar intro and the opening lines, “On a dark desert highway, cool wind in my hair,” are instantly recognizable.
Over the years, urban legends have surrounded the song, including theories about its hidden meanings and the identity of the “Hotel California.” In 1978, “Hotel California” won the Grammy for Record of the Year. The song has been included in many best-of-rock compilations and has had many cover versions.
We love
We love the guitar solos and the song’s combination of rock, fold, and Latin influences.
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01 “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen (1975)
“Bohemian Rhapsody” is one of the most exquisite songs in rock history. The song defied conventional song structure. Freddie Mercury, Queen’s lead vocalist, wrote the song. He reportedly had the whole song in his head, bringing it to the band almost fully formed. The complex multi-track recording took place over three weeks. “Bohemian Rhapsody” remains one of the most loved and critically acclaimed songs of all time, and the song’s music video is often cited as one of the first actual music videos.
In 2004, “Bohemian Rhapsody” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
We love
We love “Bohemian Rhapsody,” emotional depth and complexity.
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Best 70s Rock Songs
10 “Let It Be” by The Beatles (1970)
In 1970, The Beatles released their final studio album, and the title track, “Let It Be,” became one of the band’s emblematic songs. The song was inspired by a dream McCartney had about his late mother. In the dream, she comforted him, saying, “Let it be.”
We love
We love the song’s soothing melody and heartfelt lyrics.
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09 “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen (1975)
“Born to Run,” released in 1975, is one of Bruce Springsteen’s best-known songs. The song captures the spirit of youth and yearning for freedom.
“Born to Run” has been used in various films and television shows, cementing its place in American pop culture. “Born to Run” has also been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
We love
We love the song’s energy and the masterful way Springsteen captures the essence of youthful dreams and the desire to break free from constraints.
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08 “Layla” by Derek and the Dominos (1970)
There are a few versions of “Layla,” and all could be considered among the best Eric Clapton songs. On the version of Derek and the Dominos, the special guest is Duane Allman.
Leyla is one of many songs inspired by Pattie Boyd. George Harrison’s ex-wife inspired a few of his songs and a few of her future husband, Eric Clapton.
We love
We love the song’s raw emotion, the fantastic guitar work, Clapton and Allman’s guitar interplay, and the piano and guitar outro.
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07 “Paranoid” by Black Sabbath (1970)
“Paranoid” was released early in the 70s and became a massive influence on the future development of the heavy metal genre. Astonishingly, the song was written in under 30 minutes.
“Paranoid” reached number 4 on the UK Singles Chart, and is one of Black Sabbath’s most commercially successful songs.
We love
We love the “Paranoid” iconic guitar riff, infectious energy, and simplicity.
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06 “Have You Ever Seen The Rain” by Creedence Clearwater Revival (1970)
“Have You Ever Seen The Rain” is a classic song by Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), released on their album Pendulum. The song was written during personal and professional turmoil of the band’s lead singer, John Fogerty, and the band. It’s often viewed as a commentary on the band’s disintegration and the changing musical landscape.
We love
We love “Have You Ever Seen The Rain” for its relatable lyrics and emotional resonance.
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05 “Baba O’Riley” by The Who (1971)
Although so many years have passed, “Baba O’Riley” is still a favorite in The Who’s live shows. The title is a blend of Meher Baba, an Indian spiritual master, and Terry Riley, an avant-garde composer. Both figures influenced Pete Townshend, who immortalized them in one of the greatest songs of the 1970s.
We love
We love “Baba O’Riley’s” memorable opening sequence, which is instantly recognizable and integral to rock music history.
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04 “More Than a Feeling” by Boston (1976)
It took Tom Scholz five years to write “More Than a Feeling,” drawing inspiration from the music he loved and his childhood experiences. “More Than a Feeling” quickly reached number five on the Billboard Hot 100 list, launching Boston to stardom.
We love
We love Scholz’s guitar work, Delp’s vocals, the polished production, and the song’s ability to transport us back to our own memories and experiences.
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03 “Free Bird” by Lynyrd Skynyrd (1973)
Starting as a ballad and transforming into a high-energy rock jam, it’s easy to understand why “Free Bird” is considered one of the best 70s rock songs. It may surprise you that the band struggled to complete the song. Guitarist Allen Collins came up with the famous slide guitar part, giving the song its unique sound and helping complete it.
We love
We love the song’s dynamic delivery, starting slow and speeding up into high-energy rock.
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02 “Brown Sugar” by The Rolling Stones (1971)
Brown Sugar is considered one of the Rolling Stones’ best songs and one of the greatest songs of the 1970s. It was the leading single from the album “Sticky Fingers”.
The song is controversial due to references to slavery, interracial sex, and drug use. Even so, “Brown Sugar” remains a significant piece of rock history.
We love
We love the distinctive guitar riff by Keith Richards.
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01 “Time” by Pink Floyd (1973)
The “Dark Side of the Moon” has so many great songs that choosing one is hard. Opening with a cacophony of clock alarms makes the song instantly recognizable. “Time” is not only one of the best songs of the 70s but an ageless classic that addresses the realization of wasted moments and the inevitability of aging.
We love
We love that you will realize the greatness of “Time” as you age and the musical brilliance of Roger Waters and David Gilmour.
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Best 70s Disco Songs
10 “Hot Stuff” by Donna Summer (1979)
“Hot Stuff,” released in 1979, is one of Donna Summer’s best 70s disco songs. “Hot Stuff” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it one of Summer’s biggest hits. It also topped the Dance Club Songs chart. The song earned Summer a Grammy nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.
We love
We love the song’s memorable chorus and danceability.
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09 “Boogie Nights” by Heatwave
“Boogie Nights” is a 1970s disco classic by the funk band Heatwave. The song perfectly captures the vitality of the disco era, blending catchy melodies with an infectious groove. It topped the R&B charts and reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100.
We love
We love “Boogie Nights” feel-good vibes and vibrant energy.
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08 “Disco Inferno” by The Trammps (1976)
“Disco Inferno” owes its popularity to the Saturday Night Fever movie. The song was initially released in 1976 but didn’t reach widespread popularity until it was included in the movie. The track is often associated with the disco craze of the late 1970s and is one of the popular hits of the 70s.
We love
We love the song’s infectious beat, catchy lyrics, and “Burn, baby, burn!”.
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07 “Rock the Boat” by The Hues (1973)
“Rock the Boat” by The Hues is among the best 70s disco songs. It was released on The Hues’ first album, “Rockin’ Soul”. It was one of the first songs to blend soul and disco, and it made way for the disco explosion that followed in the late 70s.
We love
We love the song’s upbeat tempo, joyful energy, and feel-good vibes.
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06 “Daddy Cool” by Boney M. (1976)
Boney M. is one of the few Euro-Caribbean groups. They are known for catchy melodies and rhythms, and “Daddy Cool” is no exception. “Daddy Cool” was Boney M.’s first international hit, setting the stage for their future successes.
We love
We love the rhythmic groove, which is perfect for getting people moving.
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05 “You Make Me Feel Like Dancing” by Leo Sayer
“You Make Me Feel Like Dancing” is a hit single by British singer Leo Sayer. Released in 1976, it is part of his album “Endless Flight” and is Sayer’s first US number-one hit.
We love
We love “You Make Me Feel Like Dancing” for its ability to lift spirits and get us moving.
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04 “Knowing Me Knowing You” by ABBA (1977)
This is the second ABBA song on the list, but it’s well-deserved. “Knowing Me Knowing You” was released in 1977 as part of the album “Arrival.” The song was a huge hit worldwide; it reached the top spot on the charts in the UK, Germany, and Mexico. The song won several awards and is often regarded as one of ABBA’s finest works.
We love
We love the track’s emotional depth, the portrayal of heartbreak, and the bittersweet emotions associated with the end of a relationship.
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03 “YMCA” by Village People (1978)
“YMCA” by Village People is often associated with fun, celebration, and inclusivity. Its catchy tune and simple, engaging dance moves make it a favorite at parties and events where people come together for a good time. While the song doesn’t explicitly reference LGBT themes, Y.M.C.A. is often considered an LGBT anthem.
The lyrics of “Y.M.C.A.” speak about the YMCA as a place where young men can find camaraderie and have a good time. While the lyrics can be interpreted generally, many fans and members of the LGBT community have seen it as a nod to the YMCA’s historical role as a place where gay men could meet and socialize discreetly.
We love
We love the upbeat, feel-good vibe of the YMCA.
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02 “Stayin’ Alive” by Bee Gees(1977)
If a band significantly influenced the disco era and songs in the 70s, it has to be Bee Gees. Their song “Stayin’ Alive” is one of the 70s most recognizable tracks and an unrivaled symbol of the disco era.
We love
We love the Bee Gees’ unique vocal style, upbeat tempo, catchy and optimistic chorus.
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01 “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor (1978)
“I Will Survive” was released in October 1978 as the B-side to Gaynor’s cover of “Substitute.” The song was inspired by personal resilience and still inspires listeners today.
The song won the first and only Grammy Award for Best Disco Recording in 1980.
We love
We love the powerful personal strength and resilience messages and Gloria Gaynor’s powerful vocals.
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Best 70s Funk Songs
10 “One Nation Under A Groove” by Funkadelic (1978)
“One Nation Under a Groove,” with its catchy chorus and irresistible rhythm, has become synonymous with Funkadelic and the P-Funk movement. The song was a commercial success too, reaching the top of the Billboard R&B charts, making it one of the best 70s funk songs.
We love
We love the song’s uplifting and unifying message, contagious groove, catchy lyrics, and danceable beat.
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09 “Chameleon” by Herbie Hancock (1973)
“Chameleon” is a fusion of jazz, funk, and rock that revolutionized jazz. The song was part of the “Head Hunters,” which became a commercial breakthrough for Hancock, and played a role in the album’s success.
We love
We love the amazing bass line and the song’s groundbreaking use of the ARP Odyssey synthesizer, played by Hancock.
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08 “Play That Funky Music” by Wild Cherry (1976)
“Play That Funky Music” is an essential funk-rock anthem that took the music scene by storm in the mid-1970s. The song was inspired by an incident in which the band was asked to play a funk song despite being a rock band. Who knew the incident would mark the best 70s funk songs?
We love
We find the combination of funky guitar riffs, energetic vocals, and catchy lyrics that make “Play That Funky Music” irresistible.
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07 “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder (1972)
“Superstition” by Stevie Wonder is one of the best 70s funk and soul classic songs. It was released in 1972 as part of his album “Talking Book.” The song has an infectious, funky groove, driven by its irresistible rhythm and the clavinet riff that immediately hooks listeners.
We love
We love Stevie Wonder’s masterful performance.
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06 “Give Up The Funk (Tear The Roof Off The Sucker)” by The Parliament (1975)
“Give Up The Funk (Tear The Roof Off The Sucker)” is one of Parliament’s most recognizable tracks. It is a masterclass of George Clinton’s pioneering work in the funk genre, blending groove with extraterrestrial themes.
We love
We love the entire alien theme of the “Mothership Connection” album. “Give Up the Funk” is a culmination of the alien invasion story in the quest to find the funk.
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05 “Theme from Shaft”by Isaac Hayes (1971)
“Theme from Shaft” was composed and performed by Isaac Hayes for the 1971 film “Shaft”. “Theme from Shaft” won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1972. Isaac Hayes became the first African American to win the award.
We love
We love the iconic opening: wah-wah guitar and groovy bass, including other instruments like horns and strings later in the song, and Hayes’s charisma makes “Shaft” a timeless classic.
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04 “Brick House” by The Commodores (1977)
“Brick House” is a hit from the 1970s and one of the best funk songs. Thanks to its infectious groove and upbeat tempo, it is also a favorite on the dance floor. Interestingly, “Brick House” was not sung by Lionel Richie, who was the band’s lead vocalist, but by the drummer Walter “Clyde” Orange.
We love
We love the way the lyrics celebrate a confident and attractive woman. “She’s a brick house” has become a cultural catchphrase.
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03 “Le Freak” by Chic (1978)
“Le Freak” is one of Chic’s most memorable songs. The song was inspired by a night when the duo was denied entry to the New York nightclub Studio 54.
The song was an instant hit. It sold over seven million copies and spent six weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 top.
We love
We love the song opening: “Aaaaah, freak out!” that immediately hooks us and sets up for infectious energy and danceable beat that follows.
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02 “Jungle Boogie” by Kool & The Gang (1973)
“Jungle Boogie” by Kool & The Gang is one of the band’s best 70s funk songs. It is part of their album “Wild and Peaceful”. The song has a distinctive horn section and funky bassline, making it an enduring classic in the funk genre. It reached number four on the Billboard Hot 100.
We love
We love the energetic and joyous vibe of “Jungle Boogie.”
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01 “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire (1978)
“September” is one of Earth, Wind & Fire’s most iconic songs. It is recognizable by its fusion of disco, funk, and soul. The song reached the eighth spot on the Billboard Hot 100 and the top on the R&B charts.
We love
We love “September” for its infectious rhythm, joyous vibe, and the song’s ability to unite people.
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Hidden Gems of the 70s
10 “Black Betty” by Ram Jam (1977)
Originally a traditional American folk song, “Black Betty,” was popularized by the band Ram Jam in the late 70s. Ram Jam’s song version became an international hit, reaching spot 18 on the Billboard Hot 100.
We love
We love the song’s energy and intensity.
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09 “Dancing in the Moonlight” by King Harvest (1973)
Good vibes, catchy melody, and upbeat rhythm have made “Dancing in the Moonlight” a timeless favorite, often associated with good vibes and summer nights.
We love
We love how “Dancing in the Moonlight” always uplifts our mood; catchy lyrics and infectious chorus make this one of the best feel-good songs.
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08 “Come and Get Your Love” by Redbone (1974)
I’ll admit it: I had no idea who Redbone was before “Guardians of the Galaxy,” and apparently, I wasn’t the only one. The movie renewed its popularity and brought the songs to a new generation of fans.
We love
We love the song’s infectious chorus and catchy melody.
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07 “Jolene” by Dolly Parton (1973)
“Jolene” is one of Dolly Parton’s most iconic songs, and while we didn’t have a special list for 70s country songs, “Jolene” deserved at least a mention. The song is inspired by a real-life experience involving a bank teller flirting with Dolly’s husband, Carl Dean. It turns out that both the song and Parton’s marriage are eternal.
We love
We love the simplicity and honesty in the lyrics.
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06 “Video Killed the Radio Star” by The Buggles (1979)
“Video Killed the Radio Star,” released in the late 70s, became one of the best recognizable songs of the decade. The song furthered its iconic status as the first music video on MTV when the network started on August 1, 1981.
We love
We love the song’s catchy chorus and clever commentary.
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05 “Stuck in the Middle With You” by Stealers Wheel (1973)
With a memorable melody and catchy chorus, it’s easy to see why “Stuck in the Middle With You” by Stealers Wheel is a timeless classic. Like “Come and Get Your Love,” the song found a second life after being featured in Quentin Tarantino’s film Reservoir Dogs.
We love
Like most of the song’s fans, we love the “Clowns to the left of me, jokers to the right” line of the lyrics.
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04 “My Sharona” by The Knack (1979)
The biggest hit by The Knack was “My Sharona,” which came as the first single of their debut album, “Get the Knack.” The song was inspired by the member Doug Fieger’s real-life girlfriend, Sharona Alperin. The band has several more albums but didn’t replicate the song’s success.
We love
We love the song’s raw energy and catchy chorus.
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03 “Lovely Day” by Bill Withers (1977)
“Lovely Day” was released in the late 1970s but is one of the decade’s best songs. Its ability to instantly lift the spirit makes it clear why it is one of the beloved songs of the period.
We love
We love Withers’ smooth and soulful voice and the joy and positivity in the song lyrics.
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02 “Kung-Fu Fighting” by Carl Douglas (1974)
Often forgotten hit of the era, “Kung Fu Fighting” was released in 1974 and became an instant hit. Ironically, the song was initially considered the B-side track. Carl Douglas recorded “Kung Fu Fighting” in just ten minutes at the end of a recording session. Imagine their surprise when it became a massive hit.
We love
We love the song’s infectious energy, memorable lyrics, and fun, danceable beat.
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01 “One Love/People Get Ready” by Bob Marley (1977)
Originally recorded by The Wailers in 1965, the song gained global recognition when it was re-recorded for Bob Marley and the Wailers’ 1977 album “Exodus.” This version became one of Marley’s most famous tracks. The song was used by the United Nations in 1978 to promote peace and unity. In 2005, it was honored by UNESCO as a song of peace.
We love
We love song lyrics and the timeless message of unity and peace.
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The legacy of 70s music, with its profound messages and diverse sounds, continues to inspire and unite. Songs like Bob Marley’s “One Love/People Get Ready” or Lenon’s “Imagine” remind us of music’s power to transcend time and culture. Explore more from this vibrant era and music factors to experience its enduring impact.
