Billboard's Top 30: The Greatest 70s Songs of All Time

The 1970s: a decade of musical innovation, cultural shifts, and unforgettable sounds. This era birthed iconic artists who pushed boundaries and left an indelible mark on the music industry. To celebrate this incredible legacy and introduce a new generation to the sounds that defined a generation, we've compiled a list of Billboard's best songs from the seventies. This collection showcases the incredible diversity of the decade, from the theatrical grandeur of stadium rock anthems to the infectious grooves of disco and the introspective storytelling of singer-songwriters. You'll discover a range of styles and emotions, each track a testament to the creative energy of the time. Prepare to be transported back to a time of bell bottoms, platform shoes, and music that continues to resonate today.

This list isn't just a nostalgic trip down memory lane; it's a chance to rediscover the power and artistry of a golden age of music. Whether you're a seasoned fan or a curious newcomer, prepare to be captivated by the timeless appeal of these tracks. From the soaring vocals and intricate harmonies to the infectious beats and unforgettable melodies, these songs remain as relevant and exciting as ever. Dive in and experience the magic of the 70s soundscape – you won't be disappointed.

Billboard's Top 30: The Greatest 70s Songs of All Time
SongArtistAlbumListens
1. Bohemian Rhapsody Queen A Night At The Opera (Deluxe Remastered Version) 2B+
2. Stayin' Alive Bee Gees 792M+
3. Hotel California Eagles Hotel California (2013 Remaster) 410M+
4. Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough Michael Jackson Off the Wall 405M+
5. We Are The Champions Queen News Of The World (2011 Remaster) 274M+
6. Let It Be The Beatles Let It Be (Remastered) 173M+
7. Superstition Stevie Wonder Talking Book 171M+

1. Bohemian Rhapsody - A Night At The Opera (Deluxe Remastered Version)

Few songs transcend genre and time like Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody" A six-minute epic defying conventional song structure, it seamlessly blends ballad, opera, and hard rock sections, showcasing a compositional ambition rarely matched. Its enduring popularity, evident in its continued high streaming numbers and consistent placement on greatest-songs lists, even decades after its 1975 release, attests to its masterful execution. The song's innovative recording techniques and Freddie Mercury's unique vocal performance contributed to its iconic status and lasting impact on music history, securing its place as a benchmark for audio testing and a testament to Queen's creative genius. Its chart-topping success across multiple countries solidified its place in popular culture.

Bohemian Rhapsody - Queen

2. Stayin' Alive - 1978

"Stayin' Alive" the Bee Gees' iconic disco anthem, transcends mere musicality; its infectious rhythm has even found application in CPR training, its tempo aiding in the crucial timing of chest compressions. Released in 1977 as part of the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack, the song's soaring falsetto vocals and irresistible beat propelled it to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, where it remained for an impressive 27 weeks. Its enduring popularity, marked by consistent streams and continued critical acclaim – including induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame – solidifies its status as a defining song of the 1970s and a timeless classic. The song’s energy reflects the pulse of the disco era, while its lyrics subtly hint at the resilience of urban life, resonating with listeners across generations.

Stayin' Alive - Bee Gees

3. Hotel California (Eagles)

"Hotel California" the Eagles' 1977 masterpiece, reigned at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 in May of that year, solidifying its place as a 70s landmark. This soft rock anthem, renowned for its intricate guitar harmonies and enigmatic lyrics, showcases the band's exceptional musicianship. The song's haunting melody and evocative storytelling resonated deeply with listeners, capturing the spirit—and perhaps the excesses—of the era. The Eagles' unparalleled success in the 70s, marked by other chart-topping hits, further cemented "Hotel California's" position as a cultural touchstone, remaining iconic decades later due to its enduring musical quality and lyrical depth.

Hotel California - Eagles

4. Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough (Off the Wall - 1979)

Michael Jackson's "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough" released July 10, 1979, is a quintessential disco track that showcases the artist's already-perfected artistry at just 21 years old. Reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and dominating charts internationally, the song's infectious rhythm and undeniable energy propelled it to become a cultural phenomenon. Its success cemented Jackson's status as a solo artist, following his earlier achievements with The Jackson 5. "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough" remains a timeless classic, its enduring legacy a testament to Jackson's unparalleled talent and the song's infectious groove. The track's impact is undeniable, securing its place amongst the best songs of the 70s Billboard charts and earning Jackson his first Grammy Award.

Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough - Michael Jackson

5. We Are The Champions

Released in 1977 by Queen, "We Are the Champions" is an anthem of triumph and resilience. Originally conceived as a personal declaration of overcoming challenges, the song evolved into a celebratory epic, quickly adopted by sports teams and fans worldwide. Its soaring vocals and powerful instrumentation, combined with Freddie Mercury's charismatic performance, cemented its place as a timeless classic. The song's enduring popularity is evidenced by its continued presence on charts and streaming services, a testament to its powerful message of perseverance and victory. While initially a self-referential statement from the band, its universal theme of overcoming adversity resonates deeply with listeners across generations.

We Are The Champions - Queen
  • Let It Be
    6

    Let It Be

    The Beatles

    1970

    Let It Be (Remastered)

  • Superstition
    7

    Superstition

    Stevie Wonder

    1972

    Talking Book

  • Let's Get It On
    8

    Let's Get It On

    Marvin Gaye

    1973

    Let's Get It On

  • I Will Survive
    9

    I Will Survive

    Gloria Gaynor

    1978

    Future Bound

  • Brandy
    10

    Brandy

    Looking Glass

    1972

    Looking Glass

  • Rhinestone Cowboy
    11

    Rhinestone Cowboy

    Glen Campbell

    1975

  • December, 1963
    12

    December, 1963

    The Four Seasons

    1976

  • Bridge Over Troubled Water
    13

    Bridge Over Troubled Water

    Simon , Garfunkel

    1970

  • The Joker
    14

    The Joker

    Steve Miller Band

    1973

    The Joker

  • My Sharona
    15

    My Sharona

    The Knack

    1979

    Get The Knack

  • Me and Bobby McGee
    16

    Me and Bobby McGee

    Janis Joplin

    1971

    Pearl (Legacy Edition)

  • Le Freak
    17

    Le Freak

    CHIC

    1978

    The 50th Anniversary Collection

  • Kung Fu Fighting
    18

    Kung Fu Fighting

    Carl Douglas

    1974

    Kung Fu Fighter

  • Bennie And The Jets
    19

    Bennie And The Jets

    Elton John

    1974

    Goodbye Yellow Brick Road (Remastered)

  • Rock Your Baby
    20

    Rock Your Baby

    George McCrae

    1974

  • Maggie May
    21

    Maggie May

    Rod Stewart

    1971

    Every Picture Tells A Story

  • Crocodile Rock
    22

    Crocodile Rock

    Elton John

    1972

    Don't Shoot Me I'm Only The Piano Player

  • Play That Funky Music
    23

    Play That Funky Music

    Wild Cherry

    1976

    Wild Cherry

  • Brown Sugar
    24

    Brown Sugar

    The Rolling Stones

    1971

    Sticky Fingers (Remastered)

  • Love Will Keep Us Together
    25

    Love Will Keep Us Together

    Captain , Tennille

    1975

  • Killing Me Softly With His Song
    26

    Killing Me Softly With His Song

    Roberta Flack

    1973

    Killing Me Softly

  • Alone Again
    27

    Alone Again

    Gilbert O'Sullivan

    1972

  • American Woman
    28

    American Woman

    The Guess Who

    1970

    American Woman

  • Raindrops Keep Fallin' on My Head
    29

    Raindrops Keep Fallin' on My Head

    B.J. Thomas

    1969

  • Joy To The World
    30

    Joy To The World

    Three Dog Night

    1971

    Naturally