At MDLBEAST, we see that the 1970s were iconic for several reasons, namely: 

• The rise of the disco and psychedelic era (and the subsequent popularization of bell-bottom pants, platform shoes, and big hair),

• Passionate activism, which inspired political change,

• Being an era of entertainment abundance. 

The 70s saw the release of groundbreaking movies and TV shows that would forever alter the course of modern culture. Shows like "Happy Days," "MAS*H," and "Charlie's Angels," and films like "Star Wars," "The Godfather," and "Rocky" became immortal cultural touchstones.

The era also marked an important chapter in music history, with many 70s singers rising to global stardom. These influential artists and the timeless hits they created continue to inspire generations - evidenced by the fact that two out of six of the best-selling albums of all time were released in the late 70s.

From the groundbreaking psychedelic rock of Pink Floyd to the disco fever of Donna Summer, 70s music was bustling with diversity and innovation, laying the foundation for some of today’s musical styles as a timeless inspiration to the contemporary musical landscape of our generation.

Pioneering Artists and Timeless Hits

The 70s music scene witnessed the rise of iconic singers and bands who carved a name for themselves in music history and contributed to the list of record-breaking 70s music hits.

Led Zeppelin, with their groundbreaking album "Led Zeppelin IV," served as the voice of the era's rock scene, defining a generation with legendary tracks like "Stairway to Heaven." 

Meanwhile, Stevie Wonder’s fame soared with his masterpiece album "Songs in the Key of Life," which showcased a profoundly soulful, genre-defying piece of work that remains an unmatched testament to his artistry. 

Disco fever took the world by storm with the arrival of Donna Summer's "I Feel Love," a revolutionary track that dominated dance floors and revolutionized electronic music production. 

The Bee Gees and their album "Saturday Night Fever" became synonymous with disco and pumped out the chart-topping tracks "Stayin' Alive" and "Night Fever." As a result, they grew into legacies that withstood the test of time and defined the era of best 70s songs.

70s Music’s Influence on Contemporary Music

The impact that 70s music had extends far beyond the confines of its decade, to inspire contemporary sounds and styles. 

Artists like David Bowie, known for his unapologetic experimentalism and flamboyant persona, not only shaped the music of his own time, but also inspired future generations of musicians to challenge stylistic conventions with albums like "The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the “Spiders from Mars."

The funk-infused sounds of Parliament-Funkadelic and their leader, George Clinton, established a blueprint that continues to influence today's hip-hop, R&B, and funk music. Their innovative use of rhythm, instrumentation layering techniques, and cosmic themes set them apart as pioneers of their time, inspiring countless artists across various genres.

Included in our list of the five best music collaborations of all time is Nile Rodgers’ (a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee from the 70s music scene) iconic collaborative effort with Daft Punk and Pharrell Williams - “Get Lucky.” This track embodies harmonious cross-generational collaboration - mixing a classic 70s music style with a contemporary one.