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 (11–20)
You’ve Got a FriendCarole King
Carole King’s classic, “You’ve Got a Friend.” This song is one of her signature works and has been covered by many artists.
The fact that each cover has charted highly shows it was an excellent song from the moment it was written.
It’s an achievement only someone like Carole King—who originally worked as a songwriter—could accomplish, isn’t it? The original is, of course, wonderful, and the covers are fantastic too, so be sure to compare them.
A Song For YouDonny Hathaway
One of the artists who helped popularize the genre that laid the foundation for neo-soul, Donny Hathaway stood out from other neo-soul artists as a conservatory-trained musician whose soul music incorporated classical elements.
His “A Song for You” especially showcases those classical influences, resulting in an exceptionally beautiful melody.
Moreover, at a time when racial discrimination against Black people was severe, his decision to cover a song by white singer Leon Russell shocked the public.
In that sense as well, it can be considered a historically significant work.
Heart Of GlassBlondie
The 1970s saw the emergence of a wide range of musical styles.
Among them, one of the most unconventional was a genre known as New Wave.
Blondie, who perform “Heart of Glass,” are one of the representative bands of New Wave.
The highlight of this song is, above all, its unique melody that encapsulates the appeal of New Wave.
Since it’s also used in commercials, many younger listeners will likely find it familiar.
Let’s Stay TogetherAl Green
Al Green, a singer-songwriter who gained popularity in the genre of “new soul,” which blends soul music with various other styles.
Unlike fellow new-soul singers like Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and Donny Hathaway, he took a different path, and aspects of his musicality connect to today’s neo-soul.
One of Al Green’s masterpieces is “Let’s Stay Together.” Depending on how you listen, it can even sound like neo-soul: it has a relaxed tempo yet exudes a stylish atmosphere.
It’s impressive how he was essentially two decades ahead of his time.
Incidentally, I believe D’Angelo’s “Send It On,” a hallmark of neo-soul, was heavily inspired by this track.
SuperstitionStevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder is an artist who’s hugely popular in Japan as well.
He has released numerous classic songs and is highly acclaimed around the world.
Among his works, one 1970s masterpiece I especially recommend is “Superstition.” In Japan, it’s known by the title “Meishin,” which literally means “superstition,” and as the title suggests, it takes superstition as its theme.
The lyrics portray the dangers of living by superstition, making it valuable both as a musical work and as a life lesson—so be sure to give it a listen.