The Best Disco Bands/Artists

Coley Reed
Updated May 15, 2024 146.1K views 67 items
Ranked By
23.8K votes
3.4K voters
9 reranks
Voting Rules
Upvote your favorite disco-era and nu-disco bands and artists

What separates disco bands from their pop music contemporaries is that their music is not only catchy and hip shaking, it's the sound has endured despite harsh criticism from haters. The best disco bands have become well-regarded by history. Disco artists were wildly popular during the 1970s and wherever you went, there was likely some sort of disco influence. Whether it was their flashy wardrobe, glittery personas or overall coolness, the best disco artists were seen and heard throughout the decade of excess. The best disco artists can still hear their songs played on radio today, which is quite an accomplishment.

So, that said, what are the best disco bands? Any list of disco artists must include the likes of the Bee Gees, Donna Summer and Chic to name a few. These are widely recognized as some of the biggest names in disco and the best artists in the genre. If you know disco, you'll want to have your voice heard and to ensure that this poll accurately reflects who are the greatest disco artists of all time.

Ultimately, it's up to you to determine who are the best disco artists. This list answers the questions "who are the best disco bands of all time?" and "who is the greatest disco musician ever?" If you know enough about the genre, please vote based on the quality of the band's music instead of just voting for the most popular disco bands that you might've heard of.

Most divisive: Vicki Sue Robinson
Over 3.4K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Disco Bands/Artists
  • Bee Gees
    1

    Bee Gees

    1,361 votes

    Characterized by their tight harmonies and falsetto vocals, this trio of brothers became synonymous with the dance music movement in the late 1970s. Their unparalleled songwriting abilities led to numerous chart-topping hits, solidifying their status as pop culture icons. As pioneers in the genre, they played a significant role in shaping its sound and bringing it to mainstream audiences.

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  • ABBA
    2

    ABBA

    1,175 votes

    This Swedish quartet achieved international fame with their catchy melodies, infectious beats, and captivating stage presence. Their timeless songs continue to resonate with fans around the world, earning them a place in pop culture history as one of the most beloved acts of all time. By blending elements of traditional pop music with dance rhythms, they helped lay the groundwork for future artists in the genre.

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  • Donna Summer
    3

    Donna Summer

    1,021 votes

    Known as the "Queen of Dance Music," this powerhouse vocalist was instrumental in defining the sound of the era with her sultry voice and innovative production techniques. Collaborating with legendary producer Giorgio Moroder, she pushed boundaries and helped create a unique fusion of electronic and dance music that inspired countless artists. Her influence on popular culture can still be felt today, as her groundbreaking work continues to inspire new generations.

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  • KC and the Sunshine Band
    4

    With their infectious blend of funk, R&B, and dance music, this group brought an irresistible energy to their live performances that captivated audiences worldwide. Known for their distinctive horn arrangements and catchy hooks, they were pivotal in introducing these elements into mainstream dance music. Their enduring popularity is a testament to their ability to create timeless tunes that still get people moving on the dance floor.

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  • CHIC
    5

    CHIC

    706 votes

    Led by visionary musicians Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards, this influential band combined sophisticated musicianship with irresistibly groovy rhythms that defined an era. Their expertly crafted songs showcased tight guitar riffs, syncopated basslines, and lush string arrangements that became the blueprint for countless dance hits. Their impact on popular music is still felt today, as their innovative sound continues to inspire artists across genres.

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  • Kool & the Gang
    6

    This talented ensemble of musicians brought a fresh fusion of jazz, funk, and R&B to the dance floor, creating an infectious sound that made them one of the most successful acts in music history. Known for their tight horn section and syncopated rhythms, they crafted memorable tunes that transcended generations and solidified their place in pop culture. Their lasting influence can be heard in many contemporary artists who continue to incorporate elements of their signature sound into their own work.

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  • Michael Jackson
    7

    While known primarily as the "King of Pop," this groundbreaking artist also had an undeniable impact on dance music with his innovative production techniques and unmistakable vocal style. His ability to seamlessly blend elements of funk, soul, and electronic music resulted in some of the most memorable hits of all time. His influence on popular culture cannot be overstated, as he continues to inspire countless artists across genres.

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  • Sister Sledge
    8

    Sister Sledge

    405 votes

    Comprised of four talented sisters, this group brought a unique blend of tight harmonies, soulful vocals, and infectious grooves that made them a mainstay on dance floors around the world. Working closely with legendary producers Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards, they helped shape the sound of an era with their timeless hits. Their enduring appeal is evident in the continued popularity of their music among fans both old and new.

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  • Gloria Gaynor
    9

    Gloria Gaynor

    425 votes

    With her powerful voice and commanding stage presence, this iconic singer epitomized the spirit of empowerment and resilience that defined the genre. Her anthemic hits resonated with listeners worldwide, helping to elevate her status as a true pop culture icon. As a trailblazer for female artists in dance music, she paved the way for future generations to follow in her footsteps.

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  • The Trammps
    10

    The Trammps

    384 votes

    Known for their energetic performances and distinctive blend of soul, funk, and R&B influences, this Philadelphia-based group became one of the defining acts of the genre. With their tight horn arrangements and driving rhythm section, they crafted unforgettable tunes that continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Their lasting impact on popular culture is evident in the continued popularity of their music among fans both old and new.

  • The Pointer Sisters
    11

    This dynamic group of sisters brought a unique blend of vocal harmonies, soulful melodies, and infectious rhythms to the dance floor. Their versatile sound allowed them to effortlessly move between genres, from R&B and funk to electronic dance music. As pioneers for female artists in the industry, they helped pave the way for future generations to make their mark on popular culture.

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  • Village People
    12

    Featuring six charismatic members dressed as iconic American figures, this group took the world by storm with their catchy tunes and unforgettable stage presence. Their clever use of humor and satire helped break down barriers and challenge societal norms, making them a beloved fixture in popular culture. By infusing traditional disco beats with elements of pop, rock, and funk, they created a unique sound that continues to inspire artists today.

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  • Diana Ross
    13

    Diana Ross

    437 votes

    As both a member of The Supremes and a successful solo artist, this legendary singer's impact on popular music is immeasurable. Her powerful voice and glamorous image made her a symbol of the era, while her innovative use of orchestration and production techniques helped push the boundaries of what dance music could be. Her enduring influence can still be heard today in countless contemporary artists who continue to draw inspiration from her groundbreaking work.

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  • Boney M
    14

    Boney M

    413 votes

    With their infectious blend of Caribbean rhythms, Euro-disco beats, and catchy pop melodies, this multinational vocal group achieved massive success around the world during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Their visually striking performances and memorable hits have made them a staple of pop culture history, while their innovative fusion of diverse musical styles helped pave the way for future artists in the genre.

  • Stevie Wonder
    15

    Stevie Wonder

    213 votes

    As one of the most celebrated musicians of all time, this multi-talented artist transcended genres with his innovative approach to songwriting, production, and performance. His ability to seamlessly blend elements of funk, soul, jazz, and electronic music resulted in some of the most memorable hits of all time. His influence on popular culture cannot be overstated, as he continues to inspire countless artists across genres.

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  • Rose Royce
    16

    Rose Royce

    174 votes

    This Los Angeles-based group became synonymous with the smooth, sophisticated sound of disco thanks to their expertly crafted tunes that blended elements of funk, soul, and R&B. Known for their tight musicianship and impressive vocal harmonies, they scored numerous chart-topping hits that continue to captivate audiences today. Their lasting impact on popular culture is evident in the countless artists who continue to draw inspiration from their timeless sound.

  • Love Unlimited Orchestra
    17

    Led by legendary producer and composer Barry White, this 40-piece ensemble brought a lush, cinematic sound to dance music with their sweeping string arrangements and intricate orchestrations. Their groundbreaking work helped redefine what was possible within the genre, inspiring countless artists to experiment with new sonic textures and production techniques. Today, their influence can still be heard in the lush soundscapes that permeate contemporary electronic and dance music.

  • Heatwave
    18

    Heatwave

    172 votes

    With members hailing from various countries around the world, this multicultural group brought a fresh fusion of R&B, funk, and soul to the dance floor during the late 1970s. Known for their tight harmonies and infectious rhythms, they crafted memorable tunes that transcended generations and solidified their place in pop culture. Their lasting influence can be heard in many contemporary artists who continue to incorporate elements of their signature sound into their own work.

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  • Sylvester
    19

    Sylvester

    376 votes

    With his powerful falsetto voice and flamboyant stage presence, this trailblazing artist was a pioneer for LGBTQ+ representation in popular music. His innovative fusion of gospel, soul, and electronic influences helped create a distinctive sound that resonated with fans around the world, earning him a place in pop culture history as one of the most influential figures in dance music.

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  • Giorgio Moroder
    20

    Often referred to as the "Father of Disco," this Italian-born producer and composer revolutionized dance music with his innovative use of synthesizers and electronic instrumentation. His groundbreaking work with artists like Donna Summer pushed the boundaries of what was possible within the genre and inspired countless musicians to experiment with new sounds. Today, his enduring influence can still be heard in the diverse array of artists who continue to draw inspiration from his pioneering approach to production.

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  • The Gap Band
    21

    The Gap Band

    275 votes

    This Oklahoma-based trio brought a unique blend of funk, soul, and R&B to the dance floor with their infectious grooves and tight musicianship. Known for their distinctive use of synthesizers and driving basslines, they were instrumental in introducing these elements into mainstream dance music. Their enduring popularity is a testament to their ability to create timeless tunes that still resonate with fans today.

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  • The Stylistics
    22

    With their smooth falsetto harmonies and polished production, this Philadelphia-based group brought a touch of elegance to dance music during the 1970s. Their timeless tunes showcased their impressive vocal abilities and impeccable musicianship, earning them a dedicated following that continues to celebrate their music today. By incorporating elements of soul, R&B, and pop into their sound, they helped shape the future of dance music and inspired countless artists in the process.

  • Queen
    23

    Queen

    312 votes

    While primarily known as a rock band, this legendary British group also made their mark on dance music with their innovative fusion of rock, pop, and electronic elements. Their groundbreaking work in the studio and on stage pushed musical boundaries and inspired countless artists across genres. Today, their influence can still be heard in the diverse sounds that permeate contemporary dance music.

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  • Lipps Inc
    24

    Lipps Inc

    188 votes

    Best known for their catchy hooks and infectious grooves, this Minneapolis-based group achieved massive success during the late 1970s and early 1980s thanks to their unique fusion of funk, soul, and electronic elements. Their visually striking performances and memorable hits have made them a staple of pop culture history while inspiring countless artists in the genre. Their innovative approach to blending diverse musical styles continues to resonate with fans both old and new.

  • Yvonne Elliman
    25

    Yvonne Elliman

    214 votes

    Known for her powerful vocals and emotive performances, this talented singer enjoyed widespread success during the height of the disco era. Her ability to seamlessly blend elements of pop, rock, and soul into her dance-infused tunes helped distinguish her from other artists at the time. Today, her influence can still be heard in the work of contemporary singers who continue to push boundaries within the genre.

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  • The S.O.S. Band
    26

    This Atlanta-based ensemble captivated audiences with their infectious blend of funk, soul, and R&B during the height of their popularity in the 1980s. Known for their tight musicianship and powerful vocals, they scored numerous chart-topping hits that continue to captivate listeners today. Their lasting impact on popular culture is evident in the countless artists who continue to draw inspiration from their signature sound.

  • The Three Degrees
    27

    This talented trio of female vocalists brought a unique blend of soulful harmonies and infectious beats to the dance floor during the height of their popularity in the 1970s. Their timeless tunes showcased their impressive vocal range and emotive performances, earning them a place in pop culture history as one of the most beloved acts of all time. By seamlessly blending elements of traditional pop music with dance rhythms, they helped lay the groundwork for future female artists in the genre.

  • Prince
    28

    Prince

    242 votes

    Though primarily known for his contributions to rock and pop music, this legendary artist's influence on dance music is undeniable. With his innovative use of synthesizers, drum machines, and electronic elements, he pushed the boundaries of what was possible within the genre and inspired countless artists to experiment with new sounds. His enduring impact on popular culture can still be felt today in the diverse array of artists who continue to draw inspiration from his groundbreaking work.

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  • Shalamar
    29

    Shalamar

    244 votes

    This dynamic group, created by legendary producer and promoter Dick Griffey, combined elements of funk, soul, and R&B with infectious dance beats to create a unique sound that captivated audiences around the world. Known for their tight musicianship and impressive vocal harmonies, they scored numerous chart-topping hits that continue to resonate with fans today. Their lasting impact on popular culture is evident in the countless artists who continue to draw inspiration from their signature sound and innovative approach to blending diverse musical styles.

  • Evelyn King
    30

    Evelyn King

    214 votes

    With her sultry voice and infectious grooves, this R&B singer became a mainstay on dance floors during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Her innovative fusion of funk, soul, and electronic influences helped pave the way for future artists in the genre, while her timeless hits continue to captivate fans around the world. Her lasting impact on popular culture is evident in the enduring popularity of her music among both old and new listeners.