[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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- A collection of nostalgic hit songs and classics from the 70s
- Debut songs by female artists from the 1980s
- Debut songs by female Western artists from the 1980s
- A roundup of debut songs by Japanese female artists from the 1970s
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[Western Music] Debut Songs by Female Artists from the ’70s (11–20)
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.
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.
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!
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.
I need a manGrace Jones
Grace Jones is an artist who began her career as a model and went on to forge a singular artistic vision as a singer and actress.
Rooted in disco while incorporating reggae and new wave, her innovative sound became her hallmark and influenced countless artists.
Her debut song was released in France in 1975, then remixed in 1977, when it reached No.
1 on the U.S.
dance chart.
This track is a number that rides a glittering disco-funk beat to express, with directness and passion, a heart yearning for a partner.
It beautifully fuses club-shaking exhilaration with a heartfelt, urgent cry from deep within.
Also included on the album “Portfolio,” it’s a song that reveals the origins of her artistry.