25 songs from the '70s that hit different today

“More Than a Feeling” is a great title to describe the listening experience of this track. Ironically enough, the song actually details the power of music and its ability to elicit strong emotions and memories. Boston is known for its catchy, energetic arena rock, and “More Than a Feeling” rings true to their signature sound. 

I thought I was so cool for performing this song in front of my class in sixth grade. (I was.) Of course, at the time, I had no idea what the lyrics meant and merely loved the melody, which is just as catchy in adulthood. Cheap Trick’s “Surrender” will forever be one of the best songs to come from the ‘70s, with many viewing it as the first true pop-punk song.

I could write a book about the impact and empowerment that “Silver Springs” by Fleetwood Mac has had, especially on women. A timeless ‘70s anthem, the hit song experienced a resurgence in popularity thanks to TikTok. Some even say there’s magic in the lyrics. 

“Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” by Edison Lighthouse is one of the most feel-good songs in history. Thanks to TikTok, it has gained recent popularity and exposure. However, this track was also a major hit in the ‘70s.

Blondie was one of the most popular ‘70s rock bands and a driving force behind the new wave genre. To this day, “Heart of Glass” remains one of the band’s most popular hits. In fact, Miley Cyrus recently covered the song in 2020. 

Nick Drake was an English folk singer-songwriter who created music throughout the late ‘60s and ‘70s. Unfortunately, he passed away during the height of his career in 1974. However, his beautiful music lives on to this day, with “Pink Moon” remaining one of his top tracks.

"Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight)" by ABBA will never go out of style. This massive hit was featured in the legendary 2008 film Mamma Mia! (In fact, the movie’s entire storyline revolves around ABBA’s discography.) Its infectious disco beat will make anyone want to get up and dance the night away. 

“Let It Be” by The Beatles is a timeless song. After changing the face of music and dominating the '60s, the song (and the album of the same name) was the band's sole output of the '70s as the band broke up in 1970. Of course, they have countless hits that remain popular to this day. But we all can use a song like “Let It Be” to provide comfort and wisdom today.

I recently listened to “Vienna” for the first time in a while, and its lyrics spoke to me in a way they never had. Billy Joel’s clean, smooth vocals are soothing to the soul, and the song’s calming melody reminds us to slow down and enjoy the present moment. It’s just as impactful as it was when it was first released back in 1977. 

David Bowie is one of the most legendary artists of his time. Popular throughout the ‘70s and ‘80s, Bowie was an innovative, influential artist whose legacy still lives on. One of his biggest hits is “Heroes,” which was released in 1977.

“Hotel California” explores the dark yet seemingly alluring sides of the California (more so Los Angeles) lifestyle in the 1970s. The Eagles gained massive traction from this track, which became their top hit. The song is still relevant (and popular) today, especially given L.A.'s lingering reputation. 

“Dancing in the Moonlight” by King Harvest is yet another ‘70s feel-good hit. The song itself was allegedly inspired by a violent near-death experience, but it speaks to an ideal place where people can escape to find peace and community. 

It would be a crime not to include The Rolling Stones on this list. Their famous song “Beast of Burden” still hits just as hard to this day. Tip: play this first thing in the morning while making your coffee. You’ll thank me later.

"Knockin' on Heaven's Door" is an original song by legendary singer-songwriter Bob Dylan, released in 1973. The song was actually written for the soundtrack of Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid, a western/action film. In the ‘90s, Guns N’ Roses produced an incredible cover of the track, gaining it even more attention.  

Talking Heads released their hit song “Psycho Killer” in 1977, and soon after, it became the band's most infamous track. Its dark, haunting lyrics—which are said to describe the mind of a serial killer—clash wonderfully with its upbeat and catchy melody. The song is still popular to this day. In fact, the band recently created a new music video for the track, which is equally as disturbing (in the best way).

I might be biased as The Cure’s No. 1 fan, but “Boys Don’t Cry” is one of the best rock songs of its time. Unfortunately, the lyrics are still relatable today, as many men still believe they must suppress their emotions due to societal pressures. Released in 1979, the song (and the band) didn’t gain much popularity until the mid-1980s.

Led Zeppelin is one of the most groundbreaking rock bands of all time. Immensely popular throughout the ‘70s until its dissolution in 1980 due to drummer John Bonham's untimely death, the band achieved significant attention for their hit song “Stairway to Heaven.” However, throughout the ‘80s, during a period of "satanic panic," the band was accused of including a hidden “satanic” message in the track. Of course, they dismissed the claims, and the song otherwise prevailed. 

In today’s dating world, “You’re So Vain” by Carly Simon hits different—in the best way. This ‘70s masterpiece is as vengeful and cathartic now as it was when it was first released. Of course, we can’t forget the iconic scene featuring this track in How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days.

“(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” by Blue Öyster Cult, released in 1976, is one of my go-to spooky season songs. However, if you read more deeply into the lyrics, you’ll learn of the beautiful sentiment behind them: that death comes for us all, but love transcends each of us. The hard rock/psychedelic rock band was known for its distinctive vibe and unique lyricism.

Everyone knows The Police was a popular reggae-rock/post-punk band during the ‘70s and ‘80s. Their hit song “Can’t Stand Losing You” was released in 1978 and became a massive success. The song describes the aftermath of a non-cordial breakup, even including a threat of suıcide due to the unbearable agony of losing a partner. 

Warren Zevon’s “Werewolves of London” was a major hit in the late 1970s. In fact, it’s still the singer-songwriter’s most famous track. Its meaning is up for interpretation, but many believe the “werewolves” represent charismatic ladies’ men with bad intentions. We all know the type.

My parents loved The Cars, so I grew up with their music and still adore it to this day. “My Best Friend’s Girl” is as catchy as it is devastating—I mean, it’s basically about a man longing for his ex, who now dates his best friend. Ouch. But for a song about love and betrayal, it’s surprisingly upbeat.  

The Modern Lovers might not have been the most popular ‘70s band, especially since they were quite short-lived, but their music is still some of my favorite. “Roadrunner” has that classic garage rock sound. Though they didn’t stick around for long, the band is still known to be proto-punk pioneers, highly influential in the punk/new wave scene.

I’d be remiss not to include Pink Floyd on this list. While the band had countless ‘70s hits, “Wish You Were Here” is one of my all-time favorites. Fans have mixed opinions about who this track is actually about, but there’s beauty in forming our own interpretations. 

Patti Smith’s “Because the Night” is as iconic now as it was back in the ‘70s. The hit song makes me want to grab my lover and dance the night away. Written by both Patti Smith and Bruce Springsteen, it’s no wonder the track is so legendary.