[Western Music] A roundup of debut songs by female artists from the 1970s
The 1970s were a golden era that saw the debuts of many female artists who left a brilliant mark on music history.
A distinctive feature of that time was the emergence of numerous singer-songwriters—women who wrote and composed their own music and created masterpieces that moved listeners with their remarkable expressive power.
Their debut songs, which can be considered the starting point of their journeys, brim with the radiance of young talents paving the way for a new era.
In this piece, we focus on the first singles of female singers who debuted in the ’70s, introducing a selection of gems that colored the music scene of the time.
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[Western Music] Summary of debut songs by female artists of the 70s (1–10)
Les FleursMinnie Riperton
From an epic orchestral opening that feels like the start of a film, a one-of-a-kind voice rings out.
The singer is the legendary Minnie Riperton, known for her five-octave range.
After her work with a psychedelic soul band, she made her solo debut in September 1970 with the classic album Come to My Garden.
This piece is the track that opens the album, sung from the perspective of a flower about the renewal and rebirth of life.
Its dreamlike sound—where gospel and psychedelia meld—seems to draw listeners into a grand, story-like world.
Though it was not a commercial success at the time, it was later reassessed after being used in the films Us and Back to Black.
It’s a song to play when you want to step away from the everyday and immerse yourself fully in a musical world.
Ring My BellAnita Ward
An artist who gained popularity for her distinctive voice and high-sense musicality, Anita Ward.
In Japan, she’s also known as Anita Word.
Her biggest charm is, without a doubt, her forward-thinking vocals.
Although she was active in the 1970s, she incorporated vocal runs and embellishments similar to those used in today’s R&B—perhaps she had remarkable foresight.
Her debut song, “Ring My Bell,” is a classic with many elements that resonate with contemporary R&B.
Think It OverCheryl Ladd
Actress Cheryl Ladd, who became a global star through the hit TV drama Charlie’s Angels.
While she’s best known for her acting, she actually made her debut as a singer in 1978, right at the peak of her popularity.
This track marks her first true step as a solo vocalist.
It’s a pop tune that embodies the late-’70s LA sound, crafted with shimmering strings and a breezy rhythm that feels just right.
In contrast to its glamorous arrangement, the lyrics seem to express a delicate plea to a drifting partner: “Please think it over one more time.” Released in July 1978, the song was also included on the album Cheryl Ladd and reached No.
34 on the U.S.
charts.
Its sparkling sound is perfect for an afternoon drive.
[Western Music] Debut Songs by Female Artists from the ’70s (11–20)
I’ve Cried The Blue Right Out Of My EyesCrystal Gayle
Crystal Gayle, who is also known as the younger sister of country music icon Loretta Lynn, is an artist famed for her strikingly beautiful floor-length hair.
Her debut song was a single released in August 1970, written and composed by her sister Loretta.
The lyrics portray an achingly pure and poignant heartbreak—crying until the blue in her eyes has all washed away—brought to life by Gayle’s clear, luminous vocals.
Unlike her later, more polished country-pop style, this work is characterized by a traditional sound so classic it earned the nickname “Little Loretta.” Interestingly, after Gayle’s popularity became unshakable, the single was reissued in 1978 and re-entered the charts.
It’s a precious track that lets you feel the very starting point of a great singer’s brilliant career.
Torn Between Two LoversMary MacGregor
Mary MacGregor, a talented singer discovered by Peter Yarrow of Peter, Paul & Mary, made her breakthrough with a debut song that lays bare the anguish of a woman torn between her husband and her lover.
Even knowing it’s a forbidden relationship, she can’t choose just one—a poignant inner conflict exquisitely conveyed by her clear, transparent voice.
Released in 1976, the track became a massive hit, reaching No.
1 on the U.S.
charts in February 1977.
In Japan, she is also known for performing the theme song of the animated film “Farewell to Space Battleship Galaxy Express 999.” It’s a perfect recommendation for nights when you want to sink into the gentle sway of soft rock and feel just a touch sentimental.
FreeDeniece Williams
Deniece Williams, known for her four-octave range and crystalline voice, first worked as a backup singer for Stevie Wonder.
Her talent caught the eye of Maurice White, leading to her solo debut.
This is her debut song, included on the classic 1976 album “This Is Niecy.” It expresses a longing for liberation from constraints and the pursuit of independence.
Set against a minimal arrangement, her soaring, spectacular vocals were so acclaimed that the track reached number one on the UK charts.
Warm and dreamlike, the song gently resonates with anyone who wishes to stay true to themselves.
This Will BeNatalie Cole
Nat King Cole is known as a great jazz singer—many of you are probably familiar with him.
The artist featured here, Natalie Cole, who sings this debut track, is his daughter, a vocalist who inherited her father’s exceptional expressive power.
In this work, her soulful voice and gospel-rooted strength blend beautifully with a lively pop sound.
It feels as if she’s singing about the exhilarating joy and happiness of finding eternal love.
Released as her 1975 debut, it won two awards at the 18th Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist.
You may also recognize it from the film “While You Were Sleeping.” It’s a perfect song for a weekend morning when you want to lift your spirits!