20 Famous 70s Songs That Captured the Spirit of the Era

20 Famous 70s Songs That Captured the Spirit of the Era

The 1970s stands as a transformative decade that saw the world undergo significant shifts in various spheres. These shifts shaped an era marked by its distinctive cultural, social, and political dynamics.

Against the backdrop of post-60s counterculture and the aftershocks of the civil rights and feminist movements, the 70s witnessed a complex interplay of social change, global events, and artistic evolution.

With the Vietnam War ending and the Cold War tensions persisting, the world was navigating through political turmoil and attempting to redefine its global identity. Which is where music came in to play a very significant role.

The 70s saw a diverse soundscape ranging from disco to rock, punk to funk, and singer-songwriters to electronic experimentation. Iconic artists like Led Zeppelin, Queen, and David Bowie shaped the musical landscape and became synonymous with the decade.

The music of the 70s not only provided an auditory escape from the tumultuous times but also served as a mirror reflecting the era’s spirit of rebellion, self-expression, and resilience. In this article, we delve into some 20 famous songs of the 70s that not only captured the essence of their time but also left an indelible mark on the cultural fabric of history.

1. Rocket Man By Elton John

Rocket Man was released in 1972 as the lead single from Elton John’s album Honky Château. The song was an immediate hit, reaching number two on the UK Singles Chart and number six on the US Billboard Hot 100.

It has since been certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The song is a ballad about an astronaut who is feeling isolated and lonely in space.

The lyrics explore the themes of alienation, longing, and the human condition. The song’s soaring melody and dramatic piano solo have made it a classic of 70s music.

It was praised for its innovative sound and its powerful message. The song has been sampled by many artists over the years including in 2018 on Young Thug’s “High”.

“Rocket Man” is one of the most famous songs of the 70s. It captured the spirit of the era by exploring the themes of technology, isolation, and the future. The song is a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Here are some facts about the life and career of Elton John!

2. Take Me Home, Country Roads By John Denver

Take Me Home, Country Roads was released in 1971 and quickly became one of John Denver’s signature songs. The song peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

It is considered to be a classic of the 1970s and has been praised for its beautiful melody and wistful lyrics. The song is about a longing for home, and the simple life that is associated with it.

The opening line, “Almost heaven, West Virginia,” immediately evokes images of rolling hills, lush forests, and clear mountain streams. The song’s nostalgic tone resonated with many people who were feeling disconnected from their roots in the midst of the social and political upheaval of the 1970s.

“Take Me Home, Country Roads” was not without its critics. Some people felt that the song was too sentimental and idealized a way of life that was no longer possible. However, the song’s popularity has only grown over the years, and it remains a beloved classic that continues to inspire people of all ages.

It is a pop culture phenomenon,  featured and referenced in several movies and television shows, including “The Shawshank Redemption” (1994), “Kingsman: The Golden Circle” (2017), and “The Office” (2005-2012).

3. Me And Bobby McGee By Janis Joplin

Me and Bobby McGee is a song written by Kris Kristofferson and originally released in 1969 by Roger Miller. However, it was Janis Joplin’s version, released posthumously in 1971, that became the most famous.

The song is a moving ballad about two drifters who travel the country together, looking for love and freedom. Joplin’s powerful vocals and raw emotion made the song a perfect fit for her, and it quickly became a hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

The song was also praised by critics, who admired its honest depiction of the human condition. “Me and Bobby McGee” is a timeless classic that captures the spirit of the 1970s, a time of great social and cultural change.

It is a song about freedom, love, and loss, and it continues to resonate with listeners today. The song was released in January 1971, just four months after Joplin’s death.

Me and Bobby McGee is a classic song that continues to be enjoyed by listeners today. It is a reminder of the power of music to connect with people and to capture the spirit of an era.

Here are some facts about the life and career of Janis Joplin!

4. Cracklin Rosie By Neil Diamond

Neil Diamond’s Cracklin Rosies’s Cover, Wikipedia

Cracklin’ Rosie is a song by American singer-songwriter Neil Diamond. It was released in 1970 and quickly became a hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in October of that year.

The song is a catchy and upbeat ode to a woman who is both beautiful and down-to-earth. The lyrics celebrate the simple pleasures of life, such as spending time with loved ones and enjoying a glass of wine.

The song was well-received by critics and fans alike, and it has been covered by many artists. The song’s popularity can be attributed to a number of factors.

The catchy melody and simple lyrics made it easy to sing along to, and the message of the song was relatable to many people.

“Cracklin’ Rosie” is a timeless song that continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a reminder of the simple pleasures of life and the importance of finding joy in the everyday.

Here are some famous Baritone singers you need to know about including Neil Diamond!

5. ABC By The Jackson 5

CBS Television, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

“ABC” is a song by The Jackson 5, released as a single on February 24, 1970. The song was an immediate hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and number two on the UK Singles Chart.

It was also a critical success, winning a Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals in 1971. The song is a catchy and upbeat ode to the alphabet, with simple lyrics that are easy for everyone including children to sing along to.

The song’s message of love and friendship was also well-received by audiences, and it helped to solidify The Jackson 5’s status as one of the most popular and successful groups of the 1970s.

The song was not controversial in any way, and it has been sampled in several other songs, including “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town by Justin Bieber (2011) and “Go Crazy” by Megan Thee Stallion feat. Big Sean and 2 Chainz (2020).

ABC is a classic 70s song that continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a reminder of a time when music was simple, fun, and full of positive messages.

Perhaps one of the most famous products of the Jackson 5 is Michael Jackson. Here are some facts about him!

6. Heroes By David Bowie

The song “Heroes” by David Bowie was released in 1977. It was not quite an immediate hit, peaking at number 2 in the UK charts in 1978.

The song was written about the divided city of Berlin, and it is considered to be one of the most iconic songs of the 1970s. The song’s message of hope and resilience in the face of adversity resonated with many people, and it has been covered by countless artists over the years.

The song captured the spirit of the 1970s, which was a time of great political and social upheaval. “Heroes” is a timeless classic that continues to be relevant today.

7. Bohemian Rhapsody By Queen

Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen is one of the most famous songs of all time, and it was released in 1975. The song is a six-minute epic that tells the story of a man who commits suicide.

It is notable for its complex structure, which includes elements of opera, hard rock, and balladry. Arguably Queen’s best work by far! It peaked at number nine on the UK charts, but it did not reach number one until 1991, after Freddie Mercury’s death.

The song has since been certified diamond by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), and it is considered one of the greatest songs of all time.

“Bohemian Rhapsody” was not without its controversy. Some critics found the song’s length and structure to be too experimental. Others criticized the lyrics, which are often interpreted as being about suicide.

However, the song’s popularity has only grown over the years, and it is now considered a classic of rock music. The song has been sampled in a number of other songs, including “Open Your Eyes” by Pusha T in 2011 and “Mama” by Bebe Rexha in 2021.

Bohemian Rhapsody is a testament to the genius of Queen and Freddie Mercury, and it is sure to continue to be enjoyed for many years to come.

8. Stairway To Heaven By Led Zeppelin

Released in 1971, Stairway to Heaven is a song by the infamous English rock band Led Zeppelin. It was composed by the band’s guitarist Jimmy Page and lead singer Robert Plant for their untitled fourth studio album. Though untitled, it is often known as Led Zeppelin IV.

The song quickly became a popular choice for radio airplay and live performances. It peaked at number 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1972. The song was well-received by critics, who praised its complex composition and Plant’s soaring vocals.

Some people have accused Led Zeppelin of plagiarizing the song from another artist, but these accusations have never been proven. The song’s lyrics are open to interpretation, but they are generally thought to be about the search for spiritual enlightenment.

The song’s slow, acoustic opening gives way to a more powerful electric section, reflecting the journey from the material world to the spiritual realm. “Stairway to Heaven” is a timeless classic that has captured the imaginations of listeners for generations.

It is a powerful and moving song that continues to resonate with people today.

9. What’s Going on By Marvin Gaye

English: Photograph by Jim Britt, whose other (copyrighted) photos of Gaye from the same session—many of them in full color—can be seen at his website. Originally distributed by Motown Records., Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

“What’s Going On” is a song by American singer-songwriter Marvin Gaye, released in 1971. Written by Marvin Gaye, Renaldo Benson, and Al Cleveland, the song was released on Motown’s subsidiary known as Tamla.

The song was Gaye’s first work following his departure from the Motown Sound towards more personal material. It addressed the social and political issues of the time, such as the Vietnam War, poverty, and racism.

It was inspired by a police brutality incident that had been witnessed by Renaldo. The song was not an immediate hit, but it peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1972. It has since been recognized as one of the greatest songs of all time.

The song was controversial for its time, as it was one of the first mainstream songs to address the Vietnam War and other social issues in the USA at the time. However, it was also praised for its honesty and its message of hope.

“What’s Going On” has been covered by many artists, including Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, and The Fugees. It has also been sampled in songs by artists such as Public Enemy, A Tribe Called Quest, and Kendrick Lamar.

Here is our list of some of the best and most popular songs by Marvin Gaye!

10. Superstition by Stevie Wonder

Motown Records, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

“Superstition” was released in October 1972 as the lead single from Stevie Wonder’s fifteenth studio album, Talking Book. The song was an immediate hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in January 1973.

It was also a critical success, winning two Grammy Awards for Best R&B Song and Best R&B Vocal Performance, Male. The song’s lyrics are a playful take on superstition, with Stevie Wonder singing about how he doesn’t believe in things like broken mirrors, black cats, and walking under ladders.

The song’s catchy melody and funky groove made it a popular choice for dancing, and it has been covered by many artists over the years. Superstition is considered one of the most iconic songs of the 1970s.

The song’s message of empowerment and its celebration of individuality makes it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners today.

11. Wuthering Heights By Kate Bush

Wuthering Heights was released in January 1978 as the debut single by English singer-songwriter Kate Bush. The song is a dramatic and atmospheric ballad inspired by the 1847 novel of the same title by Emily Brontë.

It tells the story of the passionate and doomed love between Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff and is sung from the perspective of Catherine. The song’s unique blend of folk, rock, and electronic music was groundbreaking for its time, and it quickly became a hit. It reached number one on the UK Singles Chart.

“Wuthering Heights” was also a critical success, and it helped to establish Bush as a major new talent. The combination of Bush’s pixie-like vocals and the memorable guitar solo from Pink Floyd’s guitarist David Gilmour, make the song one of Bush’s best works.

As captivating as the song is, the video also is as impressive if not more. With its dream-like visuals and choreography, it perfectly encapsulates what makes the song so captivating.

Wuthering Heights is a landmark song that helped to shape the sound of 1970s music, and it remains a popular and influential song today.

Here’s our list of the 20 greatest female singers!

12. Walk On The Wild Side By Lou Reed

RCA Records, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

“Walk on the Wild Side” is a song by American rock musician Lou Reed from his second solo studio album, Transformer (1972) following his departure from The Velvet Underground. Lou teamed up with the great David Bowie and Mick Ronson on its production and the song was released as a double A-side with “Perfect Day”.

The song tells the stories of several New York City characters, including a transgender woman, a male prostitute, and a drug addict. On release, it became a hit, peaking at number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

The song was praised for its groundbreaking lyrics and its raw, unflinching portrayal of the seedy underbelly of New York City. It has been cited as one of the most important songs of the 1970s and has been sampled on numerous songs including A Tribe Called Quest’s 1990 hit “Can I Kick It?”

The song was controversial at the time of its release for its references to transgender people, drugs, and prostitution. However, it has since been embraced as a classic of the era and a powerful statement about the freedom to be oneself.

13. Paranoid by Black Sabbath

Diego Torres Silvestre from Sao Paulo, Brazil, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Released in 1970, Paranoid is an ambitious and timeless proto-metal hard-rock classic. Paranoid was released in 1970 as a single, and is regarded as a pioneering work in the sub-genre.

The song’s driving riff and Ozzy Osbourne’s angst-ridden vocals perfectly captured the sense of anxiety and paranoia that it tries to portray. It was an immediate hit, reaching number 4 on the UK Singles Chart and peaking at number 41 on the US Billboard Hot 100.

It was also praised by critics, with Rolling Stone magazine calling it “the definitive heavy metal anthem.” Years later, in a 2013 interview, Ozzy said, “Basically, it’s just about depression. [That’s] because I didn’t really know the difference between depression and paranoia.”

14. Psycho Killer by Talking Heads

Harrison and Wemouth by Michael Markos, Byrne and Frantz by Jean-Luc, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

written by David Byrne, “Psycho Killer” is a song by American rock band Talking Heads. It was released on their debut studio album Talking Heads: 77 (1977).

Psycho Killer is a dark and unsettling exploration of the mind of a serial killer. The song’s detached and matter-of-fact lyrics, combined with its catchy melody and funky rhythm, made it a hit with critics and fans alike.

It reached number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and was certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

The song was released in the midst of a wave of serial killer panic in the United States, and its association with these real-world events led to some controversy. However, the song’s dark humor and its exploration of the dark side of human nature ultimately made it a classic of the 1970s.

“Psycho Killer” has been sampled in numerous songs by other artists, including Selena Gomez, The Hood Internet, and Jazzw4ve.

15. Heart Of Gold by Neil Young

“Heart of Gold” is a song by Canadian singer-songwriter Neil Young. It was released in 1972 as the lead single from his fourth album, Harvest.

The song is a folk-rock ballad with a simple melody and lyrics about a man searching for love and happiness. It was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States.

“Heart of Gold” is considered to be one of the most iconic songs of the 1970s. It captures the spirit of the era with its optimistic message and its simple, yet beautiful melody.

The song has been covered by many artists, including Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. It was and remains a simply beautiful and moving ballad that resonated with people of all ages.

16. Rapper’s Delight By The Sugarhill Gang

Sugarhill Records (Sugar Hill Records), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

“Rapper’s Delight” was released in 1979. After its release, the song was not very popular, but the catchy tune quickly won the masses.

In January 1980, it cracked the Billboard Top 40, officially becoming the first hip-hop song to achieve mainstream success. The song also reached number one in Canada and number three in the United Kingdom.

It is credited with introducing the genre (hip-hop) to a wider audience. The song was praised for its catchy melody and innovative use of sampling, but it was also criticized for its sexually suggestive lyrics.

“Rapper’s Delight” has been sampled in numerous other songs, including “Gangsta’s Delight” by 50 Cent (2009), “Hotel Room Service” by Pitbull (2009), and “The Ketchup Song (Aserejé)”, by Las Ketchup (2002).

The song captured the spirit of the 1970s in a number of ways. First, it was a product of the disco era, with its catchy melody and danceable beat. Second, it reflected the growing popularity of hip-hop music, which was emerging as a new form of expression for African Americans.

Third, the song’s sexually suggestive lyrics were a reflection of the more liberated attitudes of the 1970s and the soon-to-come 80s.

17. Big Yellow Taxi by Joni Mitchell

Released in 1970, “Big Yellow Taxi” is a classic that has stood the test of time. It was not a commercial success at first but would peak at number 67 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States after some time.

It became a popular choice for live performances, eventually becoming a classic. The song is an environmental ballad that laments the destruction of nature, and it was seen as a prescient warning about the dangers of pollution and development.

The song’s lyrics, such as “They paved paradise and put up a parking lot,” have become iconic. It has been covered by many artists, including Counting Crows and Bob Dylan, and sampled on “Got ‘Til It’s Gone” by Janet Jackson feat. Q-Tip and Joni Mitchell (1997)

The song was controversial in some circles because of its environmental message. Some people felt that it was too negative and pessimistic, while others praised it for its honesty and urgency.

Ultimately, “Big Yellow Taxi” is a powerful song that has stood the test of time and continues to resonate with listeners today.

18. Good Times by Chic

Atlantic Records, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

“Good Times” is a disco soul song by American R&B band Chic from their third album Risqué (1979). It was written by Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards, and produced by the duo.

The song was released in February 1979 and became a number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It also reached number one in the United Kingdom and several other countries.

“Good Times” is a quintessential disco song, with its catchy melody, funky bassline, and soaring vocals. The song’s lyrics, as the song suggests, are about having a good time and enjoying life, which perfectly captured the carefree spirit of the 1970s.

The song was also praised for its innovative use of synthesizers and electronic drums, which helped to define the sound of disco music. “Good Times” ranks highly as one of the most sampled songs of all time.

Some famous tracks that sampled this classic include “Rapper’s Delight” by The Sugarhill Gang (1979) and “Rock the Bells” by LL Cool J (1985).

The song was not without its controversy. Some critics accused it of being too commercial and formulaic, while others argued that its lyrics were too suggestive.

However, “Good Times” remains one of the most popular and influential disco songs of all time. It is a timeless classic that captures the spirit of the 1970s and continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages.

19. Let It Be by The Beatles

LBJ Library from Austin, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Released in March 1970 as a single, “Let It Be” is also the title track of the Beatles’ twelfth and final studio album. Written by Paul McCartney, the song is a gentle ballad with a message of hope and resilience.

It was inspired by a dream that McCartney had, in which his mother, Mary, appeared to him and spoke words of wisdom. The song was a commercial success, reaching number one in the United States and the United Kingdom.

It was also critically acclaimed, winning two Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year. “Let It Be” has been covered by many artists, including Elvis Presley, Nina Simone, and Aretha Franklin. It has also been sampled in several songs, including “No Diggity” by Blackstreet and “Imagine” by John Lennon.

The song’s message of hope and resilience resonated with people during a time of social and political upheaval. It was seen as a message of comfort and peace, and it helped to define the spirit of the 1970s.

Here are some fun facts about The Beatles!

20. Zombies by Fela Kuti & Africa 70

Released in 1976, “Zombies” by Fela Kuti & Africa 70 is a poignant reminder of the socio-political turbulence in Nigeria in the 70s. Fela Kuti’s distinctive blend of funk, jazz, and African rhythms creates an entrancing backdrop for his scathing lyrics in Yoruba.

This afrobeat masterpiece is a powerful critique of the Nigerian military regime at the time and the blind obedience of soldiers, depicted metaphorically as “zombies,” who mindlessly follow orders without question.

The song’s unapologetic commentary on government oppression and its call for citizens to rise against tyranny contributed to its reception as both an anthem of defiance and a rallying cry for change. On release, it stirred up fury among the Nigerian police and military, culminating in the burning of Fela’s Kalakuta Republic compound to the ground.

The song became a hit very quickly and the Nigerian government banned it from radio and television. Fela Kuti was also arrested and imprisoned several times for his political activism. However, the song’s popularity only grew, and it is now considered one of the most important songs in Nigerian history.

Here are some remarkable facts about Fela Kuti!

The songs above represent only a section of some of the most famous songs of the decade. There are other songs from the same artists as above and even new entries. Therefore, if you couldn’t find a favorite of yours, understand that some tough calls had to be made.