Get ready to turn back the clock and groove to the infectious beats of the ’70s Dance Songs – a vibrant era that gave birth to an eclectic fusion of funk, soul, rock ‘n’ roll, rhythm and blues, pop, jazz, and even the early roots of hip hop.
The 1970s music scene was a melting pot of diverse sounds, crafting a remarkable legacy of dance music that continues to set the dance floor ablaze today.
From disco anthems that defined an era to soulful melodies that stirred the heart, join us on a journey through the pulsating rhythms and euphoric tunes of the ’70s disco songs, where dance, dance, dance became the anthem of the decade.
So let’s rewind to the golden age of the seventies, and explore the ultimate compilation of iconic party songs that ignited an everlasting love for dance!
Best 70s Dance Songs
From the Bee Gees to Gloria Gaynor, the decade was full of dance hits that still get people moving today.
One of the most memorable tracks was Donna Summer’s “I Feel Love,” with its futuristic sounds and soaring vocals.
And who could forget Kool & the Gang’s “Ladies’ Night,” an anthem that’s still played at weddings and parties around the world?
But if you’re looking for something a little funkier, you can’t go wrong with Earth, Wind & Fire’s “September,” a song that’s impossible not to dance to.
Whether you’re a disco diva or a funk fanatic, the ’70s had something for everyone, and these dance songs continue to stand the test of time.
1 – Bee Gees – Stayin’ Alive
The Bee Gees – Stayin’ Alive is an iconic disco track released in 1977 that remains a classic to this day. It was written by Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb as a part of the soundtrack for the movie “Saturday Night Fever.” This song became an instant classic disco hit and peaked at number one on the charts in multiple countries.
With its infectious beat and catchy lyrics, Stayin’ Alive quickly became a discotheque favorite, transforming the Bee Gees into one of the top disco bands of the 1970s. The song’s prominent bassline, which was played by the late Maurice Gibb, is one of the most recognizable in music history.
Stayin’ Alive is a fitting title for the song as it reflects the era’s endurance and resilience, which was particularly notable in the aftermath of the previous decade’s social and economic upheavals. It became synonymous with the disco movement, which was all about having fun, letting loose, and dancing the night away.
2 – ABBA – Dancing Queen
ABBA’s “Dancing Queen” is undoubtedly one of the Best 70s Dance Songs that has ever been created. Released in 1976, this timeless classic crossed continents and has continued to captivate audiences of all ages for over four decades now.
The song was written by ABBA’s Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus, with lyrics contributed by bandmate Stig Anderson. “Dancing Queen” became an instant hit, with its infectious melody, upbeat tempo, and catchy chorus capturing the spirit of the disco era.
The song features lead vocals from ABBA’s stunning front-woman Agnetha Faltskog and Anni-Frid Lyngstad, who harmonize effortlessly throughout the track.
3 – Michael Jackson – Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough
Michael Jackson’s “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” is a classic disco funk hit that was released in 1979. Jackson wrote and composed the song himself, and produced it together with Quincy Jones.
The track, which was the first single from his album “Off the Wall,” went on to become a massive success, topping the charts in several countries around the world.
“Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” marked a significant milestone in Michael Jackson’s career, establishing him as a solo artist and showcasing his incredible talent as a musician, dancer, and performer.
4 – Village People – Y.M.C.A.
Village People’s “Y.M.C.A.” is an iconic song from the 1970s, widely regarded as one of the greatest dance hits of the decade. The song was released in 1978 and quickly became a global phenomenon, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a chart-topper in the UK, Canada, and many other countries.
The song’s catchy chorus, which spells out the letters Y-M-C-A, has become a pop culture staple, and the accompanying dance moves have been imitated and parodied countless times over the years.
The song’s upbeat disco sound and playful lyrics about the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) made it a favorite at parties and clubs, and it continues to be played at weddings, sporting events, and other celebrations.
5 – Chic – Le Freak
Chic’s “Le Freak” is without a doubt one of the best 70s dance songs. With its funky bassline and infectious beat, it has been a crowd-pleaser for decades.
The song was originally inspired by a bouncer denying Chic members Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards access to Studio 54, a famous nightclub in New York City.
Realizing they were “freaking out” over not being able to get in, they wrote “Le Freak” as a tribute to the experience.
Its popularity was also fueled by its catchy chorus – “Ahhhh, freak out!” – which has become a timeless anthem for partygoers everywhere.
6 – Rick James – Super Freak
Rick James’ “Super Freak” is a classic dance anthem that dominated the airwaves in the late 70s and early 80s. The song was originally released in 1981 and quickly became a hit, reaching number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The track’s signature bassline, funky guitar riffs, and James’ unique vocals make it an irresistibly catchy tune.
What sets “Super Freak” apart from other disco hits of the era is its edginess and provocative lyrics. James sings about a woman who is exceptionally sexually liberated and open, celebrating her freedom and independence.
The track’s chorus is particularly memorable: “She’s a super freak, super freak, she’s super freaky, yow!”
Despite its controversial content, “Super Freak” was embraced by audiences and remains a popular fixture at dance parties to this day.
Overall, “Super Freak” is an unforgettable dance hit that embodies the fun and freedom of the 70s disco era. Its funky sound and bold lyrics make it a must-have for any 70s dance party playlist.
7 – Earth, Wind & Fire – September
Earth, Wind & Fire’s hit song “September” was released in 1978 and quickly became a disco classic, known for its infectious groove and upbeat horns.
The song was co-written by band members Al McKay, Maurice White, and Allee Willis, and was recorded at the legendary Hollywood studio, Sunset Sound.
The song’s lyrics celebrate the joy and energy of a memorable night in September, with memorable lines such as “Do you remember, the 21st night of September?” and “Ba de ya, say do you remember, ba de ya, dancing in September”.
“September” was a huge commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the US R&B chart and No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100. It also received critical acclaim, with Rolling Stone including it in their list of “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time”.
Its distinctive sound has also been sampled and covered in various forms by artists ranging from Justin Timberlake to Taylor Swift. Overall, “September” is a timeless classic that continues to bring joy and energy to dance floors around the world.
8 – Gloria Gaynor – I Will Survive
Gloria Gaynor’s iconic hit, “I Will Survive,” is an upbeat and empowering disco anthem that has become a timeless classic.
At its core, “I Will Survive” is a song about resilience and perseverance. Gaynor’s powerful vocals and catchy lyrics encourage listeners to keep pushing forward, even in the face of adversity.
The song’s upbeat tempo and disco-inspired instrumentation only add to its uplifting message. Its message of resilience resonated with a community that was facing immense discrimination and prejudice at the time.
Overall, “I Will Survive” is a true testament to the power of music. It continues to inspire generations of listeners to this day, and its impact on popular culture cannot be overstated.
9 – Lipps Inc. – Funky Town
Lipps Inc. is a disco/funk band that rose to fame in the late 1970s with their catchy hit song, “Funky Town”.
Released in 1979, “Funky Town” quickly became a beloved classic among music lovers and party-goers alike. The song’s funky bassline, infectious beat, and catchy lyrics are a testament to the band’s talent and ability to create music that gets people moving.
With its disco-inspired sound and sleek production value, “Funky Town” perfectly captures the essence of the late 70s disco era. It has since become one of the most iconic dance songs of that time, and has been featured in countless movies, TV programs, and commercial advertisements.
In addition to “Funky Town”, Lipps Inc. had several other popular songs during the late 70s and early 80s, including “Designer Music” and “How Long”.
10 – The Jackson 5 – Dancing Machine
Released in 1974, this upbeat and funky track served as the title song of the group’s album, which also included hit songs like “Forever Came Today” and “Whatever You Got, I Want”.
The song’s catchy lyrics and pulsating beat captivated audiences, and was an instant hit on the charts. It debuted at number 28 on the Billboard Hot 100 and peaked at number 2 on the R&B charts.
The Jackson 5’s Dancing Machine was more than just a song, it was a movement. The song’s iconic robotic dance moves, performed by the Jackson brothers, became a cultural phenomenon that inspired generations of dancers to follow in their footsteps.
11 – Bee Gees – You Should Be Dancing
The Bee Gees’ hit single “You Should Be Dancing” released in 1976, became an instant dance classic and is still a favorite amongst disco dancers worldwide.
The uptempo electric guitar riff and funky beat combined with the brothers’ falsetto vocals make it impossible not to get up and groove along.
The song spent eight weeks at number one on the U.S. charts and was used in the famous “disco inferno” scene in the movie “Saturday Night Fever.”
The Bee Gees became an integral part of the disco era with their distinct sound and superb songwriting abilities. “You Should Be Dancing” is considered one of the best 70s dance songs and a timeless piece of music that contributed significantly to the rise of disco music in popular culture.
12 – The Jacksons – Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)
The Jacksons – Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground) is undeniably one of the best 70s songs that still gets people moving today.
Released in 1978, this dance-floor anthem features the quintessential Jackson sound with pulsating bass, electrifying synths, and irresistible beats.
The track showcases the distinctive vocal harmonies of the Jackson brothers, especially Michael and Jermaine, and their exceptional dance moves, which are as mesmerizing as ever.
The catchy chorus “Shake it, shake it, baby” encourages everyone to get up and dance. The rhythms of Shake Your Body are a clear indication of the disco era, but the Jacksons’ unique sound elevated it beyond the typical genre conventions.
The music video for Shake Your Body features all the Jacksons performing their signature dance moves in a futuristic disco club.
The video is a feast for the eyes with its glitzy costumes, trippy visuals, and pulsating lights. It’s no wonder the video received heavy rotation on MTV, solidifying the Jacksons as icons of pop culture.
Even today, Shake Your Body remains a classic dance track that has stood the test of time. It continues to inspire dancers and musicians around the world, making it a timeless masterpiece of 70s disco music.
13 – Rose Royce – Car Wash
Rose Royce’s “Car Wash” hit the airwaves in 1976 and quickly became a disco and funk classic and a staple in the 70s dance scene. The song was a huge success in the US and worldwide, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning a gold certification.
The infectious beat, catchy lyrics, and fun melody made it an instant party favorite that still resonates with audiences today.
“Car Wash” showcases Rose Royce’s signature sound, which is a fusion of R&B, funk, and disco. The band’s horn section plays a prominent role in the song, creating a lively and upbeat vibe that gets people moving.
Overall, Rose Royce’s “Car Wash” is a quintessential 70s song and a timeless classic that continues to inspire a new generation of music lovers. Its fun melody, lively beat, and memorable lyrics make it a must-have in any disco or funk playlist.
14 – Earth, Wind & Fire with The Emotions – Boogie Wonderland
Earth, Wind & Fire is an American band known for their unique blend of funk, R&B, and soul music. Their collaboration with The Emotions resulted in the hit single “Boogie Wonderland,” which became a classic ’70s song.
“Boogie Wonderland” showcases Earth, Wind & Fire’s signature sound, with a catchy melody and intricate instrumental arrangements. The Emotions’ powerful vocals add another layer of energy to the song, creating a perfect dance anthem.
The song has since become a staple in pop culture, appearing in various movies, TV shows, and commercials.
The success of “Boogie Wonderland” solidified Earth, Wind & Fire’s status as one of the most influential bands of the ’70s. They won numerous awards, including six Grammys, and sold over 90 million records worldwide.
Their music continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans, making them one of the most beloved groups in music history.
15 – Wild Cherry – Play That Funky Music
In this high-energy disco classic, Wild Cherry delivers a funky groove that’s impossible to resist.
With a driving bass line, infectious guitar riffs, and a group chorus that practically begs you to get up and dance, “Play That Funky Music” is a staple of 70s parties and still gets crowds moving today.
Initially released in 1976, the song quickly skyrocketed to the top of the charts and earned Wild Cherry a well-deserved spot among the decade’s greatest musical acts.
As one of the best 70s songs, “Play That Funky Music” showcases the era’s vibrant, energetic spirit and continues to inspire new generations of music lovers to get down and boogie.
Other Popular 70s Songs
The 70s was an iconic era filled with amazing music that we still love to listen to today. There were numerous songs that topped the charts and held a special place in our hearts.
One such song was “American Pie” by Don McLean. Its poignant lyrics and catchy tune made it an instant classic that has stood the test of time.
Another popular 70s song was “Dancing Queen” by ABBA. With its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, it became an instant dance floor anthem that had everyone grooving along.
And we can’t forget “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees, a disco staple that had everyone strutting their stuff on the dancefloor with their iconic finger-point dance move.
These songs and many other 70s classics have continued to inspire and captivate us even today.
Here are some other great hits from the 70s:
- KC and the Sunshine Band – Get Down Tonight
- Donna Summer – Hot Stuff
- Bee Gees – Night Fever
- ABBA – Mamma Mia
- Kool & The Gang – Jungle Boogie
- The Trammps – Disco Inferno
- Chic – Good Times
- Michael Jackson – Rock with You
- Boney M. – Rasputin
- Diana Ross – Upside Down
- Wild Cherry – Play That Funky Music
- Sister Sledge – We Are Family
- Earth, Wind & Fire – Boogie Wonderland
- The Bee Gees – How Deep Is Your Love
- Village People – In the Navy
KC and the Sunshine Band – Get Down Tonight
This upbeat disco track originally released in 1975 became an instant party anthem that is still popular today.
The song earned the band its first number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 Chart and peaked in the top 10 in several countries around the world.
Boasting a catchy bassline, lively horns, and funky rhythm guitar, “Get Down Tonight” has stood the test of time and has been covered by many artists.
The song’s infectious chorus and upbeat tempo make it impossible not to dance to, and it remains a popular choice at weddings, parties, and other events to this day.
KC and the Sunshine Band went on to release many other hits after “Get Down Tonight” but none quite captured the magic of their first major success.
However, this track solidified their status as disco legends and remains a classic that continues to get people moving.
Famous Artists and Bands from the 70s
The 1970s was an era in music marked by a plethora of legendary bands and iconic artists.
The decade saw the rise of disco, funk, country, rock & roll songs each with their own unique sound and contribution to the music industry.
One of the most prominent artists of the time was Barry White, known for his deep, soulful voice that captivated audiences and produced timeless love songs like “Can’t Get Enough of Your Love, Babe.”
Another iconic song from the era was “Lady Marmalade” by Labelle, a classic dance hit that inspired multiple versions and covers.
Thin Lizzy, Blondie, and The Rolling Stones were just some of the other rock bands that dominated the charts during this period, with hits like “Heart of Glass,” “Beast of Burden,” and “Whiskey In The Jar.”
The Beatles, Carole King, Grand Funk Railroad, and Elvis Presley, on the other hand, continued to leave their mark on the industry with their catchy tunes and powerful vocals. Burnin’ Love and Boogie Oogie Oogie were also popular hits that had everyone on their feet.
Thelma Houston’s “Don’t Leave Me This Way” and “You Sexy Thing” by Hot Chocolate – were just a few examples of the fantastic disco songs that filled dance floors across the world.
Meanwhile, The Commodores and Anita Ward’s “Ring My Bell” were highlights of any Ladies’ Night.
And who could forget “Rocket Man” by Elton John, “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen, or the piano magic of Billy Joel’s “Piano Man”?
Adding to the mix were the distinctive voices of Janis Joplin and James Brown, who rocked the boat with their powerful vocals and electrifying performances.
Moreover, Neil Young’s “Heart of Gold” and Kate Bush’s “Wuthering Heights” were just a few of the many fantasy-themed songs that added to the creative diversity of the era.
Lou Reed’s “Walk on the Wild Side,” and Gary Numan’s “Cars,” were a couple of examples of the music that paved the way for the electronic sound to come.
The 70s were, undoubtedly, a time when music and trends merged in a way that reflected the times like never before, as music became inseparably intertwined with social and political changes.
Here are some additional notes about the 1970s music scene:
- Disco was the dominant genre in the early 1970s, with hits like “Can’t Get Enough of Your Love, Babe” by Barry White and “Lady Marmalade” by Labelle.
- Funk also emerged as a popular genre in the 1970s, with artists like James Brown, Parliament-Funkadelic, and Earth, Wind & Fire.
- Rock music continued to evolve in the 1970s, with new subgenres emerging like heavy metal, punk rock, and progressive rock.
- Country music also enjoyed a resurgence in popularity in the 1970s, with artists like Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, and Willie Nelson.
The 1970s was a time of great musical diversity, and the artists of this era created some of the most iconic and enduring music of all time.
Our Favorite 70s Songs
Taking a trip down memory lane to the 70s can be so much fun! Even if you weren’t alive to experience this unique era, its influence on pop culture today is undeniable.
There’s something special about 70s music that gets us all dancing and singing along. It could be its roots in funk or soul, its catchy beats, or just the overall fun vibe it creates.
Our Handpicked Selection of Beloved 70s Songs
- KC & the Sunshine Band – [Shake, Shake, Shake] Shake Your Booty
- Ram Jam – Black Betty
- Fleetwood Mac – Dreams
- The Eagles – Take It Easy
- Van Halen – Dance The Night Away
- Boston – More Than a Feeling
- AC/DC – Highway to Hell
- Eagles – Hotel California
- Simon & Garfunkel – Cecilia
- Billy Joel – Just the Way You Are
- Blue Swede – Hooked on a Feeling
- Stevie Wonder – Superstition
- Elton John – Your Song
- The Eagles – Take It Easy
- Eric Clapton – Knocking on Heaven’s Door
- Electric Light Orchestra – Don’t Bring Me Down
- Creedence Clearwater Revival – Have You Ever Seen The Rain
Some of the best songs of all time came from this decade, making it a go-to source for wedding songs, greatest hits, and recognizable songs that are still played today.
One of the most popular genres of music during the decade was 70’s disco music. With its upbeat tempo and catchy melody, it quickly became a phenomenon in the music world.
Some of the most memorable disco songs to come out of the decade include “Dancing Machine” by Allman Brothers Band, “Ramblin’ Man” by Earth, Wind, and Fire, “Pick Up The Pieces ” by Average White Band and “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees.
While disco was taking the world by storm, 70s music was also on the rise.
Songs like “Dance, Dance, Dance” by Chic, “Burning Love” by Elvis Presley, and “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor were just a few of the chart-toppers that had people packing the dance-floor.
But the 70s wasn’t just all about dancing, slow dance songs like “Annie’s Song” by John Denver and “Just the Way You Are” by Billy Joel became popular wedding songs, and bands like Three Dog Night and Rare Earth were known for their rock songs.
Some of the most iconic artists of the 70s also emerged during this decade, including Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder.
McCartney’s “Live and Let Die” was the theme song for the James Bond film of the same name, while Wonder’s “Superstition” and “Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours” are still recognized as some of the best dance songs in history.
Conclusion
The 70s truly had it all when it came to amazing songs. It’s clear that the songs of this era aren’t just filled with nostalgia but also have an energy and a quality that simply can’t be beaten.
So, if you’re ever looking for a good selection of fun and upbeat songs, give some of this decade’s hits a try – your next party is sure to be a big hit!
With such vast array of choices, anyone can find something they like; take your pick and start dancing away!
From discovering new songs to getting more gigs, I’m excited to share the wealth of knowledge I’ve gained through many years of DJing. Ryan@mobiledjbasics.com
