The 1970s was a transformative decade for music, a melting pot of genres and cultural explosions. From the liberating sounds of disco and funk to the powerful anthems of rock, the soulful depths of R&B, and the heartfelt narratives of country, the 70s gifted us a sonic tapestry that continues to resonate today. These songs, born from ingenious songwriting and electrifying performances, have not only stood the test of time but continue to captivate new generations. The sheer volume of iconic hits emerging from this era is a testament to the musical renaissance that defined the 70s.
The Defining Sounds of a Decade: 70s Music
Rock music, in its now-classic form, reached its zenith during this decade. Bands like Eagles, Led Zeppelin, The Who, and Queen became household names, shaping the landscape of rock for generations to come. Simultaneously, disco and funk rhythms took center stage, driven by solo powerhouses such as Stevie Wonder and Gloria Gaynor, and iconic groups like ABBA and the Bee Gees, who became synonymous with the era’s sound and style.
While countless songs from the 70s deserve recognition, a select few have truly become timeless masterpieces. This curated list celebrates songs that have not only endured through the decades but have also maintained their relevance in pop culture, continuously finding new audiences. Their origin in the 1970s is just the starting point; it’s their enduring influence and iconic status that solidifies their place as all-time classics of the 70s.
30. “Love Train” by The O’Jays (1972)
The infectious joy of The O’Jays’ “Love Train” solidifies its status as a timeless R&B anthem. Its enduring appeal is evident in its frequent appearances across contemporary media and pop culture. While The O’Jays were masters of crafting catchy R&B hooks, “Love Train” remains their most monumentally impactful and universally celebrated song.
29. “Jungle Boogie” by Kool & The Gang (1973)
Kool & The Gang’s “Jungle Boogie” stands as a quintessential example of funk music, a genre that thrived throughout the 70s. The band’s signature groove and innovative arrangements, showcased in “Jungle Boogie,” paved the way for their enduring career and inspired countless artists who followed.
28. “What You Won’t Do for Love” by Bobby Caldwell (1978)
Thanks to a massive resurgence on platforms like TikTok, Bobby Caldwell’s 70s hit, “What You Won’t Do For Love,” has firmly cemented its place as an R&B treasure. Transcending its 70s origins, the song boasts over a quarter of a billion streams, making it an essential listen from the decade.
27. “Barracuda” by Heart (1977)
Featuring an iconic riff that has become a cornerstone of rock music, “Barracuda” propelled Heart and the Wilson sisters to even greater heights of success. It remains a fan favorite and a staple of their live performances. While Heart boasts numerous chart-topping hits, “Barracuda’s” widespread recognition and continuous rediscovery solidify its position as their signature song.
26. “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” by Blue Oyster Cult (1976)
Blue Oyster Cult’s haunting and melancholic anthem, “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper,” has long been recognized as one of the greatest rock songs of the 70s. Despite being their most monumental hit, this multiplatinum track continues to be celebrated across generations and remains an anthem, especially during the Halloween season.
25. “Sweet Emotion” by Aerosmith (1975)
While “Walk This Way” and “Dream On” achieved greater commercial success for Aerosmith, “Sweet Emotion” perfectly captures the swagger and flower-power essence of the 70s. Whether it’s due to its memorable appearance in the iconic 70s film Dazed and Confused or simply its quintessential 70s sound, “Sweet Emotion” evokes a powerful sense of nostalgia for the decade.
24. “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple (1972)
Hard rock pioneers Deep Purple laid much of the groundwork for hard rock and heavy metal in the 70s, but “Smoke On The Water” surpasses all their other work. From its instantly recognizable guitar riff, either loved or loathed by aspiring guitarists, to its status as a household name among rock classics, “Smoke On The Water” is fundamental to the narrative of rock and 70s music.
23. “What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye (1971)
Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On” stands as a masterpiece of production, both as a song and a profound social statement, thanks to its poignant themes and sophisticated instrumental arrangements. Gaye’s celebrated career is filled with hits that reflected the times, with “What’s Going On” serving as a particularly powerful example.
22. “Sultans of Swing” by Dire Straits (1978)
Dire Straits, renowned for their songwriting and musicianship, crafted a guitar-driven symphony with “Sultans of Swing.” The song, packed with intricate guitar licks, riffs, and solos, has long been admired by musicians and guitarists. With over 1.1 billion streams, Dire Straits Legacy proves the enduring appeal of sophisticated guitar-based music.
21. “Baba O’Reilly” by The Who (1971)
The pulsating, arpeggiated energy of “Baba O’Reilly” continues to inspire listeners with the same euphoric drive embodied by The Who’s frontman Roger Daltrey. As one of rock’s greatest bands, The Who’s vast catalog makes choosing a favorite challenging, but “Baba O’Reilly’s” consistent acclaim and popularity have remained strong for over half a century.
20. “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver (1971)
John Denver, a pivotal figure in American folk songwriting, achieved widespread recognition in the late 60s and throughout the 70s and beyond. His commitment to social and environmental activism deeply influenced his songwriting, making “Take Me Home, Country Road” his most iconic and enduring work.
19. “YMCA” by Village People (1978)
Despite its repetitive nature, Village People’s “YMCA” is guaranteed to bring a smile and get crowds chanting its joyful chorus. “YMCA” remains an instantly recognizable contemporary classic and one of the most memorable sonic creations of the 70s.
18. “Starman” by David Bowie (1972)
Pop-rock innovator David Bowie enjoyed numerous hits in the 70s and early 80s, but “Starman” stands out as one of his greatest musical achievements. Alongside many of Bowie’s hits, “Starman” is consistently featured in pop culture and celebrated for its unique blend of quirky euphoria and melancholy.
17. “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor (1978)
The 70s were the golden age of disco, producing a wealth of captivating hits, and Gloria Gaynor’s “I Will Survive” is a prime example. This empowering anthem has transcended the disco era, enduring through subsequent decades and solidifying Gaynor’s hit as a masterpiece of the 70s and a bygone musical era.
16. “Highway to Hell” by AC/DC (1979)
The hard rock band AC/DC consistently delivered masterclass music throughout the 70s. Although they reached even greater commercial heights in the early 80s with singer Brian Johnson, “Highway To Hell” remains their most universally recognized anthem. Bon Scott’s bluesy charisma powers this song, cementing AC/DC’s legacy as one of rock’s greatest bands.
15. “War Pigs” by Black Sabbath (1970)
While “Paranoid” was Black Sabbath’s biggest commercial success, “War Pigs” captured the profound themes of the 70s, many of which still resonate today. This epic track is a masterclass in both political songwriting and heavy riff creation, and Black Sabbath continues to be celebrated for both aspects of their artistry.
14. “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers (1971)
Featuring one of the most iconic melodies in R&B history, Bill Withers’ debut album was profoundly impactful, largely due to “Ain’t No Sunshine.” The song remains widely celebrated alongside other hits in Withers’ catalog, yet “Ain’t No Sunshine” stands out as his most frequently played and covered original.
13. “One Love/People Get Ready” by Bob Marley (1977)
Exodus is considered one of the most pivotal albums of the 70s and the 20th century, and Bob Marley’s genius and message are vast. While difficult to capture in a single song, “One Love/People Get Ready” serves as the most comprehensive representation. Marley’s signature reggae rhythm and potent message resonate powerfully through “One Love/People Get Ready,” making it an essential song of the decade.
12. “Rocket Man” by Elton John (1972)
Sir Elton John achieved widespread mainstream success throughout the 70s, much of it fueled by his chart-topping hit “Rocket Man.” While his career continued to soar, with over 40 multiplatinum records and a diamond record, “Rocket Man” remains one of his most significant musical achievements.
11. “Jolene” by Dolly Parton (1973)
A true classic of American folk music, Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” is a country-folk masterpiece from the early 70s and remains one of her most cherished works. From her haunting vocal performance to the stripped-back arrangement, “Jolene” continues to evoke awe and goosebumps, proving its songwriting brilliance nearly half a century later.
10. “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire (1978)
Few songs evoke pure joy like Earth, Wind & Fire’s “September.” From its mid-tempo funk groove to its irresistibly soulful chorus, “September” has rightfully become an enduring classic in contemporary music.
9. “Imagine” by John Lennon (1971)
Despite The Beatles disbanding in the early 70s, John Lennon’s solo career produced one of the most iconic songs from any of the four members. “Imagine”‘s powerful lyrics and moving chord progression have made it timeless, continuing to serve as a song of hope and reflection on society’s persistent issues.
8. “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder (1972)
Stevie Wonder’s soulful rhythms and undeniable swagger were hallmarks of the 1970s, especially evident in his globally acclaimed single “Superstition.” This track has become one of his defining songs from the decade, and its sustained popularity suggests it might be the most successful song of his illustrious career.
7. “Hotel California” by Eagles (1976)
Just as the 70s epitomized disco, the decade also delivered epic rock guitar anthems, with the Eagles’ “Hotel California” standing as one of the greatest. For a band with over 120 million albums sold, the Eagles have no shortage of hits, yet “Hotel California” is widely considered their best and most beloved song.
6. “Time” by Pink Floyd (1973)
Given Pink Floyd’s numerous classic albums and hits throughout the 70s, pinpointing their greatest song is challenging. While many exceptional tracks exist, “Time” best embodies the band’s virtuosity and captivating progressive rock qualities that have solidified their iconic status.
5. “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac (1977)
Already one of Fleetwood Mac’s most recognized songs, “Dreams” experienced a surge in popularity during the TikTok era, becoming one of their single greatest achievements. This over 50-year-old song continues to captivate new listeners with its delicate beauty, proving its timeless appeal as one of the 70s greatest hits.
4. “Dancing Queen” by ABBA (1976)
As a quintessential classic from one of the 70s’ most beloved groups, ABBA’s disco anthem “Dancing Queen” remains a staple of the dance and disco era. The group’s popularity has exploded with social media and streaming platforms, leading to a resurgence for ABBA and their similarly iconic hits.
3. “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin (1971)
Featuring one of rock music’s most iconic chord progressions and song structures, Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway To Heaven” deserves every accolade it has received. “Lightning in a bottle” perfectly describes the magic this band possessed, and “Stairway to Heaven” best encapsulates the pure essence of their sonic brilliance.
2. “Stayin’ Alive” by Bee Gees (1977)
If any song instantly transports you to the dazzling, sparkling groove of the 70s, it’s The Bee Gees’ “Stayin’ Alive.” In a decade overflowing with R&B, rock, and funk, disco reigned supreme, and the Bee Gees were among its most formidable forces.
1. “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen (1975)
With A Night At The Opera, Queen single-handedly revolutionized rock music, expanding the boundaries of what was possible within the genre. To this day, “Bohemian Rhapsody” stands as the band’s magnum opus, continuing to inspire generations of rock fans, both young and old. With nearly 2.5 billion streams, the track and Queen’s genius have undeniably stood the test of time, as all true masterpieces should.
Bottom Line
This list clearly demonstrates the 70s as a pivotal era for diverse music genres, whose influence is fundamental to modern music. While the numerical ranking of these best 70s songs remains subjective, each song on this list shares the defining characteristic of being a timeless work of art.
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