[Definitive Edition] Masterpieces of 70s Disco Music
In the 1970s, various forms of Black music such as soul, funk, and R&B began to draw attention.
Disco music is a genre with a somewhat vague definition.
Generally, it refers to upbeat tracks—often heard in discos—within genres like soul, funk, and R&B.
This time, we’ve picked out some disco music classics.
You’ll find plenty of famous songs you’ve probably heard at least once, so be sure to read to the end!
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[Definitive Edition] Classic 70s Disco Music Hits (21–30)
The BumpThe Communards
This is another song by the Commodores, a band that epitomized the ’70s, and it became hugely popular for its funky sound and soulful vocals.
The early lead vocalist was none other than Lionel Richie, and this band marked the start of his career as a musician.
The sound is striking for its prominently featured funky guitar, and the vocal style feels great—an irresistibly groovy track.
No More TearsBarbra Streisand & Donna Summer
This is a song that moves you with its intro piano chord progression and a lyrical style that gently, patiently sings from the very first line.
If you’re a fan of Western music from the ’70s, you might know it: a track by the actress and singer Barbra Streisand.
Or so you think—midway through, it makes a dramatic shift, transforming into a super funky, danceable tune.
It’s a legendary track that had a profound influence on later generations.
[Definitive Edition] Classic 70s Disco Music Masterpieces (31–40)
You’re The First, The Last, My EverythingBarry White
Barry White, a quintessential soul and R&B singer of the ’70s.
His deep, resonant voice and irresistibly soulful delivery make this a top-tier disco number you can’t get enough of.
The performance—featuring a beautiful ensemble of orchestral arrangements, an eight-beat drum groove, and lush backing vocals—is superb, and the track still feels perfectly timeless and wonderfully pleasing today.
Love HangoverDiana Ross
A single released in 1976.
It was Diana Ross’s fourth solo single.
It shot to number one on Billboard and other charts, quickly becoming a hit.
The producer recorded the music first and then considered whether to have Marvin Gaye or Diana Ross sing it.
In the end, he felt Diana fit the song better, so she became the vocalist.
Considering how big a hit it turned out to be, it shows that there really is such a thing as compatibility between a song and its singer.
Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)The Jacksons
The Jacksons, the legendary vocal group centered around Michael Jackson.
They’ve left behind many classic songs, and among them are some disco hits.
One I especially recommend is Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground).
In terms of genre, it’s like a blend of disco and funk, but Michael Jackson’s smooth vocals also give it an R&B essence.
Best of My LoveThe Emotions
A track from the 1977 release “Rejoice” by an American girl band.
Members of Earth, Wind & Fire were involved in writing and composing the song.
It topped the charts in five English-speaking countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.
It won a Grammy Award for top honors as well as American music awards, becoming a top classic soul number of the disco era.
The trio harmonies of the members shine, and it features a positive melody.
This ChristmasDonny Hathaway
Released as a single in 1970, this song differs a bit from traditional Christmas tunes, packing in “soul” and “R&B” elements.
It’s still popular today and is often sung at karaoke.
When you sing This Christmas, be mindful of the pauses and the groove.
In addition to bass and drums, there’s also a brass section, so those instruments are very important.
If you rely only on listening, your vocal entries may come in slightly late, so try moving your body back and forth and bring your voice in just a touch earlier.
That way, you should come in cleanly without lagging behind the band.
When singing at karaoke, getting everyone to clap along will help you lock into the feel and make it more fun.
Just be careful not to drift off the beat.
