Classic and hit Western pop songs from the 1970s
The 1970s were a particularly tumultuous period in music history.
Genres such as New Soul, which laid the foundation for R&B, disco featuring distinctive synthesizer sounds, and New Wave with its unconventional and striking musicality, all had their moment in the spotlight.
This time, we’re showcasing pop hits from the 1970s that took the world by storm!
From timeless classics that everyone knows, regardless of age or gender, to hidden gems frequently heard in commercials and variety shows, we’ve picked a wide selection.
Please take your time and enjoy!
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Masterpieces and Hit Songs of 70s Western Pop (1–10)
Bohemian RhapsodyQueen
Queen’s classic “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Many young people today may have discovered the song after watching the 2018 film of the same title.
While many find the melody very warm and inviting, the lyrics are heavy: they depict a boy who has committed murder, pleading with his mother for help and asking, “Why did I do such a thing?” The contrast between the melody and the lyrics is striking, isn’t it?
ImagineJohn Lennon
The song “Imagine,” released in 1971, is by John Lennon, a member of The Beatles, and is so famous that in some regions it’s even included in music textbooks.
What truly stands out about this piece are its lyrics, which sing of peace.
It’s a philosophical work that argues the futility of conflicts driven by national and religious divisions, and it deeply reflects John Lennon’s humanity.
If you’re a younger listener who isn’t familiar with The Beatles or John Lennon, be sure to check it out.
Dancing QueenABBA
ABBA is a chorus group that represents Sweden.
They specialize in disco music with a strong pop flavor and were enormously popular in the 1970s.
One of their classic hits is Dancing Queen.
As one of ABBA’s signature works, it has maintained enduring popularity from its 1976 release to the present day.
Even younger listeners today have probably heard it at least once.
The 1970s saw many bands and artists with distinctive musical styles, but if you want to start with the classics, be sure to check out this song.
Stayin’ AliveBee Gees
The Bee Gees are a male vocal group formed around the three Gibb brothers from the UK.
Known for their wide-ranging musical styles—including adult contemporary, soft rock, psychedelic pop, and disco—they produced numerous hit songs in the 1970s.
Among their works, a particularly recommended track is Stayin’ Alive.
It’s one of their signature songs, a disco masterpiece with a funky vibe centered on falsetto vocals.
I Will SurviveGloria Gaynor
Gloria Gaynor’s classic hit, “I Will Survive,” is known in Japan under the title “Koi no Survival” (Love Survival).
What makes this song stand out, above all, is its femininity.
The passionate melody and lyrics that portray a woman’s love life leave a strong impression.
Since the Bride of Frankenstein (the Bride) performs it in Universal Studios Japan’s attraction “Monster Rock ’n’ Roll Show,” many younger people are likely familiar with it as well.