The 1970s, a decade marked by cultural shifts, social upheaval, and groundbreaking innovation, gifted the world with an incredibly diverse and enduring soundtrack. From the lingering echoes of the counterculture movement to the rise of disco and punk, the music of the 70s was as varied and vibrant as the decade itself. This list of the Top 100 Songs Of The 70s isn’t just a countdown; it’s a journey back in time, exploring the iconic tracks that defined a generation and continue to resonate today. Prepare to rediscover the anthems, the ballads, and the groundbreaking sounds that made the 70s a truly golden era for music.
1. Roxy Music – ‘Dance Away’
Roxy Music – Dance AwayBryan Ferry’s suave sophistication is on full display in ‘Dance Away’, a track initially conceived for his solo projects but ultimately becoming a Roxy Music gem. Released in 1979, this song perfectly captures the band’s evolution, bridging their glam rock origins with the sleek sounds of new wave. ‘Dance Away’ became a massive commercial success, demonstrating Roxy Music’s enduring appeal as they seamlessly navigated changing musical landscapes. Its sophisticated cool and catchy melody solidified its place as one of the decade’s best.
2. The Osmonds – ‘Crazy Horses’
The Osmonds – Crazy HorsesKnown for their squeaky-clean image and boyband charm, The Osmonds surprised everyone with the raw power of ‘Crazy Horses’. Released in 1972, this hard rock track is a far cry from their typical schmaltzy ballads. Driven by a powerful, distorted guitar riff and urgent vocals, the song was a conscious effort by the band to break free from their pre-packaged pop persona and explore a heavier sound. ‘Crazy Horses’ became a breakthrough hit in the UK, showcasing a different, edgier side of The Osmonds and proving their musical versatility.
3. Glen Campbell – ‘Rhinestone Cowboy’
Glen Campbell – Rhinestone Cowboy (Official Music Video)
‘Rhinestone Cowboy’, a song about resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity, became Glen Campbell’s signature tune and one of the defining country-pop hits of the 1970s. While originally recorded by Larry Weiss, it was Campbell’s heartfelt rendition in 1975 that catapulted the song to international fame. Campbell connected deeply with the song’s themes of survival and making it against the odds, mirroring his own career resurgence at the time. ‘Rhinestone Cowboy’ cemented Campbell’s status as a country music icon and a crossover star.
4. The Clash – ‘London Calling’
The Clash – London Calling (Official Video)
Released at the tail end of the decade in 1979, ‘London Calling’ is The Clash at their politically charged and musically innovative best. This post-punk anthem is a sonic snapshot of late 70s anxieties, referencing nuclear fears and social decay. Joe Strummer’s lyrics captured a sense of impending doom and societal unease, making ‘London Calling’ more than just a song; it was a cultural statement. Its raw energy, urgent message, and iconic bassline cemented its place as a cornerstone of punk rock and one of the most important songs of the decade.
5. The Temptations – ‘Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone’
The Temptations Papa Was A Rolling Stone 1972 Single Version
‘Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone’ is a sprawling, cinematic soul masterpiece by The Temptations. Originally penned by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong, The Temptations transformed it into a 12-minute epic in 1972, showcasing their vocal harmonies and instrumental prowess. The song delves into the complex and painful legacy of an unreliable father, revealing a story of infidelity and neglect. Its groundbreaking length for a single, combined with its powerful storytelling and mesmerizing groove, made ‘Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone’ a soul anthem for the ages.
6. Wild Cherry – ‘Play That Funky Music’
Wild Cherry – Play That Funky Music
‘Play That Funky Music’ is the quintessential funk-rock one-hit wonder, delivering an infectious groove that dominated airwaves in 1976. Wild Cherry, an Ohio band, crafted a song that seamlessly blended funk, disco, and rock elements, resulting in an irresistible call to the dance floor. The song’s origins are humble, born from a request at a club performance, but its impact was massive. ‘Play That Funky Music’ sold millions of copies, becoming a defining track of the funk era and a testament to the power of a catchy rhythm.
7. Supertramp – ‘The Logical Song’
Supertramp – The Logical Song (Official 4K Video)
‘The Logical Song’, Supertramp’s biggest hit, is a thoughtful and introspective soft rock classic from their iconic album Breakfast in America. Roger Hodgson’s autobiographical lyrics reflect on the pressures of conformity and the loss of individuality experienced during his time at boarding school. Released in 1979, the song’s sophisticated arrangement, memorable melody, and relatable themes of identity and societal expectations resonated deeply with audiences, making it a defining track of the late 70s soft rock scene.
8. Bee Gees – ‘Night Fever’
Bee Gees – Night Fever (Official Video)
‘Night Fever’ is pure disco energy, a Bee Gees classic born from the soundtrack of the seminal film Saturday Night Fever. Released in 1977, the song’s infectious rhythm and soaring vocals perfectly captured the disco craze sweeping the globe. ‘Night Fever’ topped charts worldwide, becoming synonymous with the Saturday Night Fever phenomenon and cementing the Bee Gees’ status as disco royalty. Its pulsating beat and feel-good vibe continue to make it a disco anthem for generations.
9. Olivia Newton-John – ‘Hopelessly Devoted to You’
GREASE | "Hopelessly Devoted" Clip | Paramount Movies
‘Hopelessly Devoted to You’ is the power ballad heart of Grease, showcasing Olivia Newton-John’s vocal talent and the film’s enduring romantic appeal. Written specifically for the movie after filming had already begun, this song was a last-minute addition that became an instant classic in 1978. Its heartfelt lyrics about unwavering devotion and Newton-John’s emotive performance resonated deeply with audiences, earning an Oscar nomination and solidifying its place as a beloved song from one of the most successful movie musicals of all time.
10. Roberta Flack – ‘Killing Me Softly With His Song’
ROBERTA FLACK KILLING ME SOFTLY LEGENDADO EM PORTUGUÊS BR
Roberta Flack’s soulful rendition of ‘Killing Me Softly With His Song’ is a timeless ballad that transcends genres and generations. Inspired by Lori Lieberman’s experience at a Don McLean concert, the song was transformed by Flack’s smooth vocals and emotive delivery in 1973 into an instant classic. While Lieberman released the original version, it was Flack’s interpretation that resonated deeply, earning Grammy Awards and becoming her signature song. Its enduring appeal is a testament to its poignant lyrics and Flack’s masterful performance.
11. Pink Floyd – ‘Comfortably Numb’
Comfortably Numb‘Comfortably Numb’, from Pink Floyd’s epic concept album The Wall, is a haunting exploration of alienation and emotional detachment. Released in 1979, this song contrasts the feverish vulnerability of childhood illness with the numbing emptiness of adulthood. David Gilmour’s soaring guitar solos and Roger Waters’ introspective lyrics create a powerful and unforgettable track. ‘Comfortably Numb’ is a quintessential Pink Floyd experience, showcasing their musical and lyrical depth and solidifying its place as a rock masterpiece.
12. Harry Chapin – ‘Cat’s in the Cradle’
Harry Chapin – Cats in the Cradle
‘Cat’s in the Cradle’ is a poignant and cautionary folk ballad by Harry Chapin, released in 1974, that explores the cyclical nature of father-son relationships and the consequences of prioritizing career over family. Based on a poem by Chapin’s wife, Sandra Gaston, the song tells a story of missed opportunities and emotional distance between a father and son who struggle to connect. Its simple melody and powerful narrative resonate deeply, serving as a timeless reminder of the importance of family and presence.
13. Lynyrd Skynyrd – ‘Freebird’
Lynyrd Skynyrd – Free Bird‘Freebird’, Lynyrd Skynyrd’s epic Southern rock anthem, is known for its soaring guitar solos and emotional intensity. Released in 1973, the song’s lengthy instrumental outro, born from guitarist Allen Collins’ chord progression, became a defining characteristic. ‘Freebird’ has transcended its rock origins, becoming a cultural phenomenon, often humorously requested at concerts regardless of genre. Its powerful guitar work and themes of freedom and loss have cemented its legacy as a rock classic.
14. Bruce Springsteen – ‘Born to Run’
Bruce Springsteen – Born to Run (Official Music Video)
‘Born to Run’ is Bruce Springsteen’s anthemic rock and roll declaration of freedom and escape, a karaoke favorite and a staple of his legendary live performances. Emerging in 1975, the song, written as a love letter to a girl named Wendy, is also a broader yearning to break free from small-town confines and chase dreams. ‘Born to Run’ captures the spirit of youthful rebellion and the desire for something more, solidifying Springsteen’s status as “The Boss” and becoming an enduring American anthem.
15. Bob Dylan – ‘Tangled Up in Blue’
Bob Dylan – Tangled up in Blue (Audio)
‘Tangled Up in Blue’, from Bob Dylan’s introspective Blood on the Tracks album released in 1975, is an epic folk ballad known for its complex narrative and stream-of-consciousness lyrics. Rumored to be inspired by Joni Mitchell’s Blue album, the song explores themes of love, loss, and memory in a non-linear and emotionally raw way. Dylan’s evocative storytelling and poetic imagery make ‘Tangled Up in Blue’ a masterpiece of songwriting and a highlight of his legendary career.
16. The Police – ‘Roxanne’
The Police – Roxanne‘Roxanne’ marked The Police’s breakthrough and helped launch them as leaders of the new wave movement in the late 1970s. Inspired by prostitutes Sting encountered in Paris in 1978, the song tells the story of a man’s plea to a prostitute to leave her profession. Its reggae-infused rock sound, catchy melody, and Sting’s distinctive vocals made ‘Roxanne’ an instant hit and a defining song for The Police.
17. Buzzcocks – ‘Ever Fallen in Love (with Someone You Shouldn’t’ve)?’
Buzzcocks – Ever Fallen In Love (With Someone You Shouldn’t’ve?) (TOTP, 1978)
‘Ever Fallen in Love (with Someone You Shouldn’t’ve)?’ is a punk rock classic by Buzzcocks, released in 1978, known for its melodic sensibility and relatable lyrics about forbidden love. Inspired by a line from the musical Guys and Dolls, Pete Shelley crafted lyrics that resonated with the universal experience of longing for someone unattainable. The song’s catchy chorus and punk energy helped it transcend genre boundaries and become a beloved anthem of unrequited affection.
18. Sweet – ‘Ballroom Blitz’
Sweet – The Ballroom Blitz – Disco/Promo Clip 27.10.1973 (OFFICIAL)
‘Ballroom Blitz’ is a high-energy glam rock anthem by Sweet, released in 1973, inspired by a chaotic concert experience where the band was driven offstage by unruly audience members. The song’s pulsating rhythm, shouted vocals, and glam rock swagger perfectly capture the rebellious spirit of the era. Written by glam rock hitmakers Chinn and Chapman, ‘Ballroom Blitz’ became a signature song for Sweet and a quintessential example of 70s glam rock excess.
19. Jeff Wayne and Justin Hayward – ‘Forever Autumn’
![Justin Hayward - Forever Autumn (1978) [with lyrics on screen]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/77rinB5pYqA/hqdefault.jpg)
Justin Hayward – Forever Autumn (1978) [with lyrics on screen]
‘Forever Autumn’, featuring Justin Hayward of The Moody Blues, is a hauntingly beautiful song originally conceived as a jingle for a Lego commercial in 1969 by Jeff Wayne. Reimagined and expanded for Wayne’s War of the Worlds album in 1978, the song’s melancholic melody and Hayward’s emotive vocals evoke a sense of longing and nostalgia. Its unexpected origins and subsequent transformation into a beloved ballad highlight the unpredictable paths of musical creativity.
20. The Knack – ‘My Sharona’
The Knack – My Sharona (Official Video)
‘My Sharona’, The Knack’s chart-topping hit from 1979, is instantly recognizable for its driving riff and infectious energy. Inspired by Doug Fieger’s infatuation with a 17-year-old named Sharona Alperin, the song captures the intensity of instant attraction. The song’s raw energy and catchy hooks made it a new wave sensation and a defining song of the late 70s power pop resurgence.
21. Slade – ‘Coz I Luv You’
Slade – Coz I Luv You (1971) HD 0815007
‘Coz I Luv You’ was Slade’s breakthrough hit in 1971, marking the beginning of their reign as glam rock giants. Written quickly by Noddy Holder and Jim Lea, the song’s catchy melody and singalong chorus, combined with Slade’s distinctive misspelling of the title, propelled it to number one. ‘Coz I Luv You’ established Slade’s signature sound and songwriting partnership, launching their string of glam rock hits throughout the 70s.
22. John Denver – ‘Annie’s Song’
John Denver – Annie's Song (Live from The Wildlife Concert)
‘Annie’s Song’ is John Denver’s tender and heartfelt ode to his wife, Annie Martell Denver, released in 1974 and becoming his only UK chart-topper. Famously written in just ten and a half minutes on a ski lift, the song’s simple beauty and sincere expression of love resonated with audiences worldwide. ‘Annie’s Song’ remains a classic love ballad and a testament to Denver’s songwriting talent and heartfelt delivery.
23. Bread – ‘Make It With You’
Bread – Make It with You‘Make It With You’ was Bread’s breakthrough hit in 1970, showcasing David Gates’ songwriting and multi-instrumental talents. Gates wrote and performed most of the instruments on the track, creating a soft rock ballad with a gentle and romantic vibe. The song’s smooth melody and tender lyrics about making a relationship work resonated with audiences, establishing Bread as a leading force in the soft rock genre.
24. Ian Dury and the Blockheads – ‘Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick’
![Ian Dury - Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick [Official Video]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/0WGVgfjnLqc/hqdefault.jpg)
Ian Dury – Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick [Official Video]
‘Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick’ is Ian Dury and the Blockheads’ quirky and unconventional number one hit from 1979. Dury’s witty lyrics, delivered in his distinctive style, combined with the Blockheads’ funky and eclectic musical backdrop, created a unique and memorable track. The song’s nonsensical charm and infectious rhythm made it a surprise hit and a testament to Dury’s unique artistic vision.
25. Chicago – ‘If You Leave Me Now’
Chicago – If you leave me now – 1977 (HQ)
‘If You Leave Me Now’ marked Chicago’s crossover into mainstream pop success in 1976, topping charts in both the UK and US. This soft rock ballad, surprisingly lacking a traditional chorus, became one of the decade’s defining breakup songs. Its smooth vocals, gentle instrumentation, and heartfelt plea for love to remain made ‘If You Leave Me Now’ a radio staple and a testament to Chicago’s versatility.
26. Michael Jackson – ‘Rock With You’
Michael Jackson – Rock With You (Official Video)
‘Rock With You’, from Michael Jackson’s breakthrough solo album Off the Wall, released in 1979, is considered one of the last great disco hits and a showcase for Jackson’s burgeoning talent. Written by Rod Temperton, who later penned ‘Thriller’, the song’s smooth groove and Jackson’s silky vocals created an irresistible dance track. ‘Rock With You’ signaled Jackson’s transition into a solo superstar and the end of the disco era’s dominance.
27. Chic – ‘Good Times’
CHIC – Le Freak (Official Music Video)
‘Good Times’ by Chic, released in 1979, is a disco masterpiece and one of the most sampled songs in music history, introducing the world to Nile Rodgers’ iconic guitar work. Even bigger than their hit ‘Le Freak’, ‘Good Times’ infectious bassline and celebratory vibe have been sampled countless times, most notably in Sugarhill Gang’s ‘Rapper’s Delight’, a foundational track in hip-hop. ‘Good Times’ is a testament to Chic’s disco brilliance and its lasting impact on music genres beyond disco.
28. Barry White – ‘You’re the First, the Last, My Everything’
‘You’re the First, the Last, My Everything’ is a signature Barry White soul classic, released in 1974, showcasing his deep baritone voice and lush orchestral arrangements. Originally written as a country song decades prior, White completely transformed it into a soulful declaration of love. The song’s dramatic instrumentation and White’s unmistakable vocals propelled it to number one and cemented its place as a timeless love anthem.
29. The Bellamy Brothers – ‘Let Your Love Flow’
Bellamy Brothers – Let Your Love Flow (1976) HD 0815007
‘Let Your Love Flow’ by The Bellamy Brothers, released in 1976, is a feel-good country-pop crossover hit with a simple message of positivity and love. Originally turned down by Neil Diamond, the song found its perfect interpreters in The Bellamy Brothers, becoming their signature tune and launching their career. Its catchy melody and uplifting lyrics have ensured its enduring popularity, even resurfacing in the UK charts decades later due to a TV advertisement.
30. Gary Numan – ‘Cars’
Gary Numan – Cars‘Cars’ by Gary Numan, released in 1979, is a pioneering synth-pop track that topped charts and heralded the arrival of electronica and New Romantics in the music scene. Inspired by a road rage incident, the song’s minimalist synth arrangement and Numan’s robotic vocals created a futuristic and detached sound. ‘Cars’ is a landmark song in the development of synth-pop and a defining track of the late 70s electronic music movement.
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98. Elton John – ‘Your Song’
Elton John – Your Song (Top Of The Pops 1971)
‘Your Song’, from Elton John’s self-titled second album, is a timeless piano ballad and one of his most beloved songs. Though Three Dog Night recorded it first, it’s Elton’s version released in 1970 that became iconic. Bernie Taupin’s heartfelt lyrics, written on a London rooftop, perfectly capture the innocence and sincerity of young love, beautifully complemented by Elton’s emotive vocals and piano melody. ‘Your Song’ established Elton John as a major musical force and remains a staple of his incredible catalog.
99. Queen – ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’
Queen – Bohemian Rhapsody (Official Video Remastered)
‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ by Queen, released in 1975, is an operatic rock masterpiece, frequently hailed as one of the greatest songs ever recorded. This six-minute epic defies genre with its distinct sections, from ballad to opera to hard rock, all seamlessly woven together. Freddie Mercury’s vision and Queen’s musical innovation resulted in a song that broke all the rules and achieved phenomenal success, reaching number one twice in the UK and experiencing a resurgence in popularity after its iconic use in Wayne’s World. ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ is a testament to Queen’s artistic ambition and enduring legacy.
100. ABBA – ‘Dancing Queen’
Abba – Dancing Queen (Official Video)
‘Dancing Queen’, ABBA’s signature song released in 1976, is a disco-pop anthem that epitomizes the joy and exuberance of the 70s. Its irresistible melody, shimmering instrumentation, and Agnetha and Frida’s harmonious vocals created a global phenomenon. Even Queen Elizabeth II reportedly favored this track, highlighting its universal appeal. ‘Dancing Queen’ remains a timeless feel-good song and a perfect closing track for any top 100 songs of the 70s playlist, encapsulating the decade’s vibrant and unforgettable musical spirit.
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