20 Songs That Bring Back Memories of the 70s

A decade of legendary music that shaped the planet for next generations was the 1970s. From disco rhythms to vintage rock anthems, the music of this age still arouse cultural change and nostalgia. Here we review twenty remarkable songs that transport us to the magic of the '70s.

Tricia Quitales
February 21, 2025
6 min read

20 Songs That Bring Back Memories of the 70s — Matthias Groeneveld on Pexels

With a variety of genres and enduring tunes being heard today, the 1970s were a period of metamorphosis in music. Whether your taste was for the soul-stirring tunes of rock or the groovy rhythms of disco, every one of these songs catches the spirit of the 1970s. We’ll share songs in this post that not only defined the decade but also still clearly mark our recollections. These songs provide us with a strong relationship to the past and act as a soundtrack for the energetic changes in society, fashion, and emotions of the time.

1. “Stayin’ Alive” – Bee Gees

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With its distinct pulse, this disco song marks the height of “1970s dance music.” “Stayin’ Alive” was permanently etched in the film Saturday Night Fever and came to represent the disco age. People still find motivation to hit the dance floor today from its appealing tune and lively words.

2. “Imagine” – John Lennon

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John Lennon’s “Imagine” turned become a worldwide peace and togetherness anthem. Published in 1971, the song is ageless because of its strong hope message and soft piano melody. Listeners all around are still motivated to see a better, more harmonic society.

3. “Bohemian Rhapsody” – Queen

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Combining rock, opera, and ballad in an approach never heard before, “Bohemian Rhapsody” was a revolutionary work of music. Written by Queen’s Freddie Mercury, this legendary song came to define rock history. Both reviewers and listeners favored the song because of its dramatic changes in tone and distinctive chorus.

4. “Le Freak” – Chic

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One of the most popular disco songs of the late 1970s, “Le Freak” was Chic’s It became a dance floor classic right away with its funky pulse and contagious rhythm. The iconic “Freak out!” cry of the song still rings true at bars and parties, reminding us of the disco craze that ruled the decade.

5. “Hotel California” – Eagles

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Originally released in 1976, “Hotel California” is sometimes regarded as among the best rock songs ever. Reflecting the darker side of the American dream, its eerie tune and beautiful words investigate ideas of excess and despair. The enigmatic atmosphere of the song combined with its unforgettable guitar solo made it an enduring classic.

6. “Dancing Queen” – ABBA

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The “Dancing Queen” by ABBA is a happy celebration of youth and dance’s freedom. Published in 1976, the song became a worldwide smash right away for its lively tune and appealing lyrics. Often playing at parties and events, decades later it is still one of the most popular disco songs of all time.

7. “I Will Survive” – Gloria Gaynor

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“I Will Survive” evolved into the best song of freedom, resiliency, and empowerment. Published in 1978, this disco hit stayed an uplifting song for decades since it connected with those conquering hardship. Its inspirational message never fails, especially for people negotiating trying circumstances.

8. “Superstition” – Stevie Wonder

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“Superstition” by Stevie Wonder is a unique song from the 1970s since it combines soulful melodies with funky beats. Published in 1972, its original usage of clavinet and Wonder’s strong voice produces a sound that still feels new now. One of Wonder’s most recognizable songs is this one with its amazing rhythms.

9. “American Pie” – Don McLean

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Don McLean’s “American Pie” investigates the changing social environment of America during the 1960s and 1970s. Published in 1971, the song’s somber tone and enigmatic words evoked grief and melancholy. Because of its emotional depth and narrative quality, “American Pie” became for many their anthem.

10. “Let It Be” – The Beatles

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“Let It Be” by The Beatles offered the world in 1970 peace and acceptance. This song is ageless because of the comforting piano melody and Paul McCartney’s sincere vocals. For the venerable band, it signals the end of an era as its strong message still speaks to audiences now.

11. “Rapper’s Delight” – Sugarhill Gang

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Many attribute “Rapper’s Delight” as the song that first made hip-hop popularly known. Published in 1979, it presented a fresh, highly energetic and rhythmic kind of musical expression. The song changed the music business because its catchy rhythms and playful lyrics.

12. “Good Times” – Chic

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Another single by Chic, “Good Times,” caught the celebratory and joyful attitude that typified Disco. The fast rhythm and funky bassline of the song became defining sound of the late ’70s. Modern music still shows its impact, particularly in the dance and electronic music genres.

13. “Born to Run” – Bruce Springsteen

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“Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen is the hymn of young revolt and escape longing. Published in 1975, it follows the aspirations of two young lovers seeking for a better life outside their little town. The song’s hopeful liveliness and soaring saxophone solo have made it a constant favorite.

14. “Brick House” – Commodores

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A funk-filled track, “Brick House” by Commodores has evolved into a mainstay in both pop and soul music. It’s a lively and empowering song with a strong, fast tempo and lighthearted lyrics on confidence and beauty. The appealing chorus of the song still rings true in dance halls and clubs nowadays.

15. “The Joker” – Steve Miller Band

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Combining lighthearted lyrics with a relaxed rock sound, Steve Miller’s “The Joker” became among his most famous compositions. Published in 1973, the song’s quirky melody and appealing chorus made it a smash on many different radio stations. Among Steve Miller Band’s most timeless songs is still “The Joker”.

16. “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” – Michael Jackson

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Originally a disco-infused song, Michael Jackson’s “Don’t Stop ’til You Get Enough” unveiled his famous vocals and aggressive dance moves. Published in 1979, it signaled his start towards superstardom. Jackson’s explosive performance and the song’s irresistible rhythm define pop music history.

17. “Let’s Stay Together” – Al Green

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A seamless and beautiful love ballad, Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together” became an immediate classic. Published in 1971, its rich production and Green’s velvet voice gave the ’70s a romanticized touch. Still, this is regarded as among the best soul songs of all time.

18. “Heart of Glass” – Blondie

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Combining disco, punk, and new wave into one remarkable song, Blondie’s “Heart of Glass” was a genre-bending hit. Published in 1979, its appealing chorus and original style mix helped it to distinguish out in the music landscape. The contagious enthusiasm of the song drove Blondie toward worldwide recognition.

19. “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” – Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell

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This great duet between Tammi Terrell and Marvin Gaye evolved into an everlasting love and endurance anthem. Published in 1967 but much loved all through the 1970s, its inspirational words and strong voices make it unforgettable. The song’s continuing lesson about conquering challenges is still pertinent today.

20. “My Sharona” – The Knack

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The catchy melody and joyful lyrics of The Knack’s rock classic “My Sharona” appeal to people of all ages. Published in 1979, the song’s catchy chorus and fast tempo helped it to become quite well-known. It catches the vivid young excitement of the late ’70s music scene.