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)
Bad BloodNeil Sedaka
Neil Sedaka, a quintessential American singer-songwriter who made a dramatic comeback in the mid-1970s.
The track I’d recommend as a work where he embraced rock elements and broke new ground is “Bad Blood.” Its appeal lies in the sound where the groove created by pounding piano lines interlocks with his energetic vocals.
It’s also known for featuring his close friend Elton John on backing vocals.
The hook in the chorus, where their voices blend, is unforgettable after just one listen.
Released as a single in September 1975, it achieved overwhelming success, including three consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the U.S.
Billboard chart.
It’s also included on the U.S.
edition of the album The Hungry Years.
Perfect for when you want to lift your spirits or savor classic pop-rock.
Yesterday Once MoreCarpenters
The Carpenters are a brother-and-sister pop duo known for their classic, quintessential pop sound.
While they have global hits, they are especially popular in Japan, and their songs are still used in various media here today.
Among their works, the track I particularly recommend is Yesterday Once More.
Karen’s lower vocal register is exceptionally soothing, making it a great choice as a chill song.
Kiss and Say GoodbyeThe Manhattans
The Manhattans are a legendary R&B vocal group that has been active from the 1970s to the present.
Given the era, their works from the 1970s have a strong soul music flavor, yet you can still hear elements that connect to today’s R&B.
Among them, Kiss and Say Goodbye is particularly popular, featuring an extremely heartfelt melody.
If you love Black music, be sure to check it out.
Hot StuffDonna Summer
Donna Summer, the legendary female singer known as the “Queen of Disco.” Her disco music is strongly influenced by soul and R&B, with a soulful arrangement on every track.
Among her works, the most famous is “Hot Stuff.” Released in 1979, it has continued to be used widely across various media to this day.
At Universal Studios Japan’s “Monster Rock and Roll Show,” the graveyard groupies Hip and Hop perform this song, so even younger audiences may find it familiar.
Don’t Go Breaking My Heart (with Kiki Dee)Elton John
Elton John is a British singer-songwriter who has been active for many years.
Recently, he’s taken on something of an elder-statesman role in the music world, and his bold remarks often make headlines.
Even among younger listeners who only occasionally listen to Western music, many probably know his name.
One of his signature works is Don’t Go Breaking My Heart (with Kiki Dee).
Released in 1976, this classic was nominated for a Grammy.
It’s pure, mainstream pop music, so be sure to give it a listen.
Lovin’ YouMinnie Riperton
Minnie Riperton is known as a singer with an exceptionally wide vocal range of five to five and a half octaves.
She has many classic songs, but in Japan her most famous track is probably Lovin’ You.
It’s a piece woven with a soothing melody, punctuated by soulful phrases here and there.
The whistle register after the chorus is especially striking, so if you want to experience skillful vocals, be sure to check it out.
Masterpieces and hit songs of Western pop music from the 70s (21–30)
RoxanneThe Police
The Police are a rock band from the United Kingdom.
Their vocalist, Sting, still appears on the scene today, so many of you may already know him.
One of the band’s classic songs is Roxanne.
Its lyrics, which depict the feelings of a man who has fallen in love with a prostitute, are especially striking.
The melody has a deliberately worn, desolate atmosphere, and the distinctive performance—inspired by tango—is part of its appeal.
It’s a highly sophisticated track, so be sure to give it a listen.