The 1970s were a decade of disco balls, bell-bottoms, funky hair and an eclectic mix of music that still makes us groove.
Some artists struck gold with just one unforgettable hit as genres like rock, disco, and funk flourished. These one-hit wonders became anthems of the ’70s, not just capturing the essence of a decade that was all about pushing boundaries and having fun, but also shaping a shared musical history. Let’s take a groovy trip back to the ’70s as we revisit the one-hit wonders that made us dance, sing, and feel alive.
“Play That Funky Music” by Wild Cherry is the ultimate party anthem of the ’70s.
You’re singing it in your head now and you can’t help it. With its infectious groove, funky bassline, and commanding vocals, this track remains a staple of dance floors everywhere. The song’s vibe crystallizes the spirit of the disco era, making it impossible to sit still when you hear it.
Getty Images
“The Rapper” by The Jaggerz is a catchy, bluesy track that became an unexpected hit at the start of the 1970s.
With its funky groove, slick guitar riffs, and memorable lyrics, the song captured the playful, flirtatious vibe of the era. This Jaggerz track tells the story of a smooth-talking man, or “rapper,” who says whatever he can to charm his way into a woman’s heart.
Getty Images
“The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia” by Vicki Lawrence is an eerie Southern gothic tale set to music.
With its dark, twist-filled lyrics and haunting melody, this song captivated listeners and topped the charts in 1972. In just a few short minutes this dirge takes us through betrayal, justice, and mystery, and it’s this narrative quality that continues to keep listeners coming back for more.
Getty Images
“Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” by Looking Glass is a tune that’s as smooth as the ocean on a calm day.
The song’s catchy melody and romantic lyrics tell the story of Brandy, a barmaid in love with a sailor. Her wistful yearning of a life tied to the sea has driven listeners for decades. “Brandy” evokes those carefree, sun-soaked days of the ’70s, making it a timeless favorite for anyone who dreams of love and adventure.
Getty Images
Before it was resurrected by comedy classic Anchor Man, “Afternoon Delight” by Starland Vocal Band was a light, breezy track that surprised everyone when it became a hit in 1976.
If you’ve been out of the loop since ’76, the song celebrates the joys of a spontaneous afternoon romance with cheerful harmonies and playful lyrics. Despite its seemingly innocent sound, “Afternoon Delight” was a bit risqué for its time, adding a touch of fun to the ’70s music scene.
Getty Images
Was everyone actually Kung Fu Fighting in the 1970s?
According to Carl Douglas, the singer of “Kung Fu Fighting,” yes. This quirky high-energy track took the world by storm in 1974, inspired by the martial arts craze of the time, the song’s catchy chorus and funky beat made it an instant dance hit. If “Kung Fu Fighting” doesn’t make you want to break out your best moves in the club (martial arts or otherwise) then you need to check your pulse.
Getty Images
“Play That Funky Music” by Wild Cherry is the ultimate party anthem of the ’70s.
You’re singing it in your head now and you can’t help it. With its infectious groove, funky bassline, and commanding vocals, this track remains a staple of dance floors everywhere. The song’s vibe crystallizes the spirit of the disco era, making it impossible to sit still when you hear it.
Getty Images
“The Rapper” by The Jaggerz is a catchy, bluesy track that became an unexpected hit at the start of the 1970s.
With its funky groove, slick guitar riffs, and memorable lyrics, the song captured the playful, flirtatious vibe of the era. This Jaggerz track tells the story of a smooth-talking man, or “rapper,” who says whatever he can to charm his way into a woman’s heart.
Getty Images
“The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia” by Vicki Lawrence is an eerie Southern gothic tale set to music.
With its dark, twist-filled lyrics and haunting melody, this song captivated listeners and topped the charts in 1972. In just a few short minutes, this dirge takes us through betrayal, justice, and mystery, and it’s this narrative quality that continues to keep listeners coming back for more.
Getty Images
“Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” by Looking Glass is a tune that’s as smooth as the ocean on a calm day.
The song’s catchy melody and romantic lyrics tell the story of Brandy, a barmaid in love with a sailor. Her wistful yearning of a life tied to the sea has driven listeners for decades. “Brandy” evokes those carefree, sun-soaked days of the ’70s, making it a timeless favorite for anyone who dreams of love and adventure.
Getty Images
Before it was resurrected by comedy classic Anchor Man, “Afternoon Delight” by Starland Vocal Band was a light, breezy track that surprised everyone when it became a hit in 1976.
If you’ve been out of the loop since ’76, the song celebrates the joys of a spontaneous afternoon romance with cheerful harmonies and playful lyrics. Despite its seemingly innocent sound, “Afternoon Delight” was a bit risqué for its time, adding a touch of fun to the ’70s music scene.
Getty Images
Was everyone actually Kung Fu Fighting in the 1970s?
According to Carl Douglas, the singer of “Kung Fu Fighting,” yes. This quirky high-energy track took the world by storm in 1974, inspired by the martial arts craze of the time. The song’s catchy chorus and funky beat made it an instant dance hit. If “Kung Fu Fighting” doesn’t make you want to break out your best moves in the club (martial arts or otherwise), then you need to check your pulse.
Getty Images
“Stuck in the Middle with You” by Stealers Wheel is a folk-rock classic with a catchy, upbeat sound that belies its sarcastic lyrics.
The song, which became a hit in 1973, pokes fun at the music industry’s pressures and pitfalls, wrapped in a catchy melody that made it a favorite on the radio. The song took on an ironic sheen thanks to Quentin Tarantino’s Reservoir Dogs, somehow making it an even more timeless tune.
Getty Images
“Hooked on a Feeling” by Blue Swede is a feel-good anthem that’s as catchy as quirky.
With its iconic “ooga-chaka” chant and upbeat rhythm, the song became a massive hit in 1974. “Hooked on a Feeling” is one of those tracks that instantly lifts your spirits, transporting you back to a time when music was about having fun and enjoying the ride.
Getty Images
“My Sharona” by The Knack is an all-time power-pop anthem that closed out the ’70s with a bang.
With its driving beat, catchy angular guitar riff, and unforgettable chorus, the song became a massive hit and a staple of the era. “My Sharona” is a blast of youthful energy, and we can’t help but pogo up and down whenever we hear it.
Getty Images
“Love Hurts” by Nazareth is a power ballad that became the anthem for broken hearts everywhere.
With its soulful vocals and emotional lyrics, the song resonated with listeners who had experienced the pain of love. This raw emotional AM radio staple hits all of us in our heartache, making it a timeless reminder of the highs and lows of love.
Getty Images
How are you not singing the opening riff to “The Boys Are Back in Town” right now?
This classic Thin Lizzy rock anthem remains synonymous with good times and getting back together with the boys. With its chugging riffs and all-timer of an anthemic chorus, the song became a hit in 1976, and immediately captured the vibe of getting up to no good in a post-Vietnam era.
Getty Images
“Dancing in the Moonlight” by King Harvest is a dreamy, feel-good track that took the early ’70s by storm.
The song perfectly captures the carefree, magical moments of dancing under the stars with its laid-back groove and joyful lyrics. This beatific song brings back memories of warm summer nights and life’s simple pleasures, making it a timeless anthem of happiness and togetherness.
Getty Images
“Vehicle” by The Ides of March is a bombastic, horn-driven rock track released in 1970.
With its bold brass section, gritty guitar riffs, and dynamic vocals, the song quickly became a hit, showcasing the band’s unique blend of rock and soul. The lyrics tell the story of a man offering a ride to a woman, with the catchy chorus proclaiming, “I’m your vehicle, baby!” It’s pretty in your face for 1970 if you ask us, but it’s that kind of infectious energy that made “Vehicle” a radio favorite. This song’s raw, unapologetic sound perfectly encapsulates the era’s love for bold, high-energy music.
Getty Images
Here. We. Go. “Black Betty” by Ram Jam is a hard-hitting rock track that became an instant hit in 1977.
Its driving rhythm and raw energy helped the song rise above its blend of rock and blues influences. It captures the rebellious spirit of the ’70s and continues to rock audiences to this day.
Getty Images
“Seasons in the Sun” by Terry Jacks is one of those sad yet uplifting songs that can’t help but become a massive hit in 1974.
The song hit listeners hard worldwide with its poignant lyrics about saying goodbye and reflecting on life’s fleeting moments. “Seasons in the Sun” reminds us of the bittersweet beauty of life, making it a timeless anthem for anyone who’s ever had to say farewell.
Getty Images
“Makin’ It” by David Naughton is a disco-pop hit that became a favorite at the tail end of the ’70s.
The song captures the upbeat, celebratory vibe of the disco era with its infectious beat and feel-good lyrics. It reminds us of the excitement and optimism of the late ’70s, making it a perfect anthem for anyone chasing a dream.
Getty Images
Mungo Jerry’s “In the Summertime” is the ultimate ’70s summer anthem.
With its laid-back, skiffle-inspired sound and carefree lyrics, the song became a worldwide hit and a staple of mix tapes and summer playlists. Hearing the song today, it’s hard not to be instantly transported back to those warm, sunny days and the freedom of the summer.
Getty Images
“Rock On” by David Essex is a moody, atmospheric track that remains one of the more unique one-hit wonders of the 1970s.
The track’s cool, detached vibe captures the decade’s darker, more reflective side, making it a timeless anthem for those who march to the beat of their own drum.
Getty Images
“Come and Get Your Love” by Redbone is a funky, feel-good track that became a massive hit in 1974 and continues to play on classic rock radio to this day.
Thanks to its catchy chorus and upbeat rhythm, the song quickly became a favorite on the radio and the dance floor. “Come and Get Your Love” continues to drive listeners to shake their boogie shoes whenever it plays.
Getty Images
If you haven’t heard “Magic” by Pilot then you’ve never lived.
This bright, uplifting pop song became a hit in the mid-’70s thanks to its infectious melody and feel-good lyrics, capturing the whimsical, carefree spirit of the decade. “Magic” brings back memories of sunny days and endless possibilities, making it a timeless anthem for anyone who believes in the power of a bit of magic.
Getty Images