The 1970s: a decade of polyester, bell bottom jeans, turbulent political climates and incredible music. This playlist is a compilation of some of the smash hits from the decade. There’s nothing like David Bowie and the Clash to make you wish for the past. “Heart of Glass” - Blondie This hit by Blondie was released towards the end of the decade in 1979. It’s got the pop-y elements of the early ‘80s we’ve come to know and love, as well as a disco beat that first became popular in the ‘70s. “September” - Earth, Wind & Fire This song is one of the most popular funk hits of all time. Released in 1978, this song is disco in music form. Earth, Wind & Fire is perfect to dance to as well as sing along to, if you can hit the high notes. “Fortunate Son” - Creedence Clearwater Revival This song was actually released in 1969, but it continued to be wildly popular throughout the ‘70s. This is one of the classic anti-war songs of the decade released in opposition to the Vietnam War. It is a great song, not only musically but also in cultural significance. “Life on Mars?” - David Bowie This song appears on Bowie’s 1971 album “Hunky Dory.” It’s a classic Bowie hit as well as a staple of the decade. “Barracuda” - Heart Released in 1977, this song is a powerful, driven hit. This is a classic rock song with a great, aggressive guitar riff throughout. Heart is a band that not only serves as a heavy rock band of the ‘70s, but as a girl power standard. “More Than a Feeling” - Boston Rock band Boston came out with this song in 1976. Together with compelling guitar solos and traditional ‘70s rock sound, this tune is great for any occasion because of its feel-good vibes. “London Calling” - The Clash This hit by punk-rock staple The Clash is another hit containing political themes. It’s angsty, musically complex and one of the great releases of 1979. “What’s Going On?” - Marvin Gaye “War is not the answer, for only love can conquer hate.” Marvin Gaye released this song in 1971, inspired by a episode of police brutality. This is a soulful, important song of the decade. “Don’t Stop Me Now” - Queen Everyone loves Queen, right? Even if you don’t, you can’t deny that this 1978 hit is a masterpiece. Freddie Mercury’s electric style and energy shines through this song. “Another Brick in the Wall” - Pink Floyd Another protest song? I’m into it. This 1979 release’s lyrics aren’t hard to find meaning in. This rock hit is about strict schooling and the boxes that students are put into in school. “Don’t Fear the Reaper” - Blue Oyster Cult Released in 1976, this classic rock hit is one of Blue Oyster Cult’s most popular songs. You may know this song from the Saturday Night Live sketch in which Christopher Walken repeatedly demands, “MORE COWBELL!” as the band plays. “ABC” - The Jackson 5 It’s hard not to smile when listening to The Jackson 5. This song, released in 1970, is a fun pick me up.
