Some of the most important and exciting music was released in the 1970s. Punk Rock began in earnest, artists like Parliment-Funkadelic and Sly & the Family Stone changed funk and R&B forever, and the Bee Gees took disco from the dance floor to the suburbs. But that doesn’t mean that every artist had staying power. We’ve looked at one-hit wonders from the 1970s before, but there are so many one and done artists from this era, we figured we might as well take another trip back to the groovy ’70s.
“Stuck in the Middle with You” – Stealers Wheel
“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 Tarantin’s Reservoir Dogs, somehow making it an even more timeless tune.
“Hooked on a Feeling” – Blue Swede
“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.
“My Sharona” – The Knack
“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.
“Love Hurts” – Nazareth
“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.
“The Boys Are Back in Town” – Thin Lizzy
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 witht 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.