[70s Western Music] Timeless Masterpieces and Popular Songs by Female Singers

Boulder to BirminghamEmmylou Harris

Emmylou Harris – Boulder to Birmingham (Lyrics) [HD]

When it comes to the key figure who masterfully fused country and rock to establish the genre known as Americana, isn’t Emmylou Harris the first name that comes to mind? She debuted in 1970, but it was the 1975 album Pieces of the Sky that brought her widespread recognition.

The sensibilities she honed through her work with Gram Parsons blossomed on classic albums like Elite Hotel.

It’s astonishing that an artist of her caliber has won the Grammy Awards 14 times.

In 2018, she also received a Lifetime Achievement Award.

In fact, she’s deeply committed to animal welfare as well, having founded a dog rescue organization in 2004.

If you’re looking for quality songs regardless of genre, be sure to check out her work.

Open Your Eyes You Can FlyFlora Purim

Open Your Eyes, You Can Fly

Flora Purim, known as the Queen of Brazilian jazz, is a female singer who captivates listeners with her distinctive scat.

She began her career in her home country in the early 1960s, and in the 1970s gained international acclaim through her work with Chick Corea’s Return to Forever.

One of her signature works is the 1974 album “Stories to Tell.” Featuring collaborations with her husband, percussionist Airto Moreira, the album’s fusion of intricate rhythms and vocals is breathtaking.

It received high praise, including topping the DownBeat readers’ poll, and she was awarded a decoration in 2002.

Her music, endowed with expression that transcends words, is highly recommended for those who want to delve deeply into Latin jazz and fusion.

Young Hearts Run FreeCandi Staton

Candi Staton – Young Hearts Run Free (Official Music Video) [HD]

When it comes to Southern soul divas known for gospel-infused vocals, surely Alabama-born Candi Staton comes to mind.

She began her career in the late 1960s and drew attention in 1970 with her cover of the country song “Stand By Your Man.” Later, the title track of her 1976 album “Young Hearts Run Free” became a worldwide hit.

With multiple Grammy nominations, her talent is beyond question.

Her greatest appeal lies in her urgent, convincing vocals, which seem to reflect her tumultuous personal life.

She’s a singer you’ll want to hear if you resonate with strong, independent women or are seeking soul music that truly moves the heart.

At SeventeenJanis Ian

At Seventeen

Singer-songwriter Janis Ian began her professional career in the 1960s and drew attention with socially conscious message songs.

In Japan, she’s also known for providing the theme song for the drama “Kishibe no Album,” but the track that truly cemented her global reputation is “At Seventeen.” Featured on the acclaimed 1975 album “Between the Lines,” this song lays bare her insecurities about her appearance and the loneliness of youth, earning her a Grammy Award.

Its blend of a gentle, bossa nova–tinged melody with deeply affecting lyrics still feels timeless today.

If you’re seeking a voice that offers intimate comfort, this is a song you should definitely hear.

Best of My LoveThe Emotions

The Emotions – Best of My Love (Official Audio)

The Emotions are a sister group from Chicago known for their powerful gospel-honed vocals and sophisticated harmonies.

After debuting in 1969, they entered their golden era by teaming up with Maurice White of Earth, Wind & Fire.

Their signature song is undoubtedly “Best of My Love,” released in 1977 and a No.

1 hit in the U.S.

This track, which also won at the 20th Annual Grammy Awards, features a bright, breezy sound emblematic of the disco boom.

If you’re looking to lift your spirits or enjoy the glittering dance numbers of the ’70s, be sure to give their music a listen.

Move OverJanis Joplin

Janis Joplin – Move Over (Official Lyric Video)

Janis Joplin, an iconic figure of the rock world who became a legend with her overwhelming vocal power and performances that could be called cries from the soul.

Known for her unique style that fused blues and soul into rock, she began pursuing her career in earnest around 1966.

Despite a brief but intense career, she left many masterpieces, including the classic album Pearl released in 1971 and Me and Bobby McGee, which posthumously reached No.

1 in the U.S.

Her contributions to music have been highly acclaimed, including receiving a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2005.

Her ability to transform loneliness and pain into strength in her singing profoundly moves listeners’ hearts.

She is a highly recommended artist for those who want to feel authentic rock and blues, and for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in a voice that lays bare raw emotion.

Car WashRose Royce

Rose Royce – Car Wash

Rose Royce is a soul-funk band that achieved worldwide success with the soundtrack to the film Car Wash.

Their sound—melding the band’s powerful performances with Gwen Dickey’s lustrous vocals—brightly colored the music scene of the late 1970s.

Their signature song is, of course, Car Wash, which topped the U.S.

charts.

Produced as the theme song for the 1976 film of the same name, it’s notable for its handclap-inducing rhythm.

Their prowess is beyond question, having won in related categories at the 19th Annual Grammy Awards in 1977.

Beyond dance numbers, their ballads are exquisite too—highly recommended for anyone seeking deeply moving, authentic soul.