Best Children’s Songs 1970s
The bell-bottom era had plenty of cheery tunes that sparkled with imagination and taught valuable lessons to little tots.
Today, these sing-along classics and toe-tapping favorites still bring joy to kids and the young at heart.
So, step into our time machine and rediscover the best children’s songs 1970s!
1. William Wants a Doll by Marlo Thomas and Friends
Marlo and her musician friend Alan Alda broke stereotypes with this song about a 5-year-old boy who wants a doll for his birthday.
This well-loved classic celebrates uniqueness and teaches kids to embrace what makes them happy. It’s also a perfect reminder for grown-ups that it’s okay to go against the grain and follow your heart, no matter what others say.
2. Jabberwocky by Donovan
This folk song features original melodies from Scottish singer-songwriter Donovan and lyrics from Lewis Carroll’s original poem Jabberwocky.
You’ll love the playful words that make zero sense but are 100% fun! Beamish? Frapjous? Uffish?
This song will have your kids giggling and you grinning from ear to ear.
3. Have a Happy by Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley’s feel-good anthem has brought smiles to little Amanda and millions of kids worldwide. The King of Rock and Roll takes you to a sunshiny place filled with promises of ice cream, carousels, and wishing wells!
You’ll definitely “have a happy” after listening to this song!
4. The Hokey Pokey by Larry Groce
It’s time to put your right foot in, shake it all about, and do the Hokey Pokey dance with Larry Groce. This timeless jam still keeps the party alive and the smiles wide.
Don’t forget to learn the steps, so you can boogie-woogie to your heart’s content!
5. Comin’ Down the Chimney by Raffi
Raffi brings Christmas cheer with a twist in this joyful song about Santa sneaking in through the chimney. Prepare for tons of cookies, goodies, and reindeer!
The song starts slow before bursting into a finger-snapping beat inspired by the traditional folksong “She’ll Be Coming ‘Round the Mountain.”
6. The Chipmunk Song by Alvin and the Chipmunks
Get ready for a high-pitched adventure with Alvin and the Chipmunks in their timeless Chipmunk Song!
Their speedy chatter and upbeat tunes will have you laughing and tapping your feet!
7. C is for Cookie by Sesame Street
Join Cookie Monster on a deliciously fun alphabetical review as he celebrates his love for cookies in his signature style!
It’s a sweet treat for the ears and a reminder that sometimes, the simplest pleasures (like cookies!) bring the biggest smiles.
8. She’ll Be Coming ‘Round the Mountain by Larry Groce
Yee-haw!
Prepare for a rollicking ride as Larry Groce sings “She’ll Be Coming ‘Round the Mountain”! The American singer-songwriter’s version puts a country spin on the 1920 camp song.
Whoever she is, expect exciting things with her arrival, from six white horses to a big blue sky!
9. Hugga Wugga by The Muppet Show
You’re in for some Muppet mayhem from The Muppet Show! This crazy catchy tune is filled with gibberish (except for the “You are my sunshine” part), a crackling arrangement, and plenty of wah-wahs.
Try to sing along with it while standing before an electric fan to get the full experience!
10. One and One Makes Two by Johnny Cash
Another 70s music for kids comes from the man with the deep voice himself, Mr. Johnny Cash!
The country singer uses simple lyrics to teach your children math in the most delightful way!
11. People in the Neighborhood by Sesame Street
This piece of bubble gum pop music will make you hum along long after it ends.
Bob and the grocer team up to celebrate colorful characters in the neighborhood, including the postman, fireman, and, okay, Santa Claus!
12. Mahna Mahna by The Muppet Show
Bip Bippadotta and the Snowths belt out their quirky tunes with just as nonsensical lyrics in Mahna Mahna. It’s absolute nostalgia tipping its hat to the funky 70s American music.
Fun fact: The kid’s song is a spoof of an Italian composition made for a film based on real stories in Sweden.
13. Rubber Duckie by Sesame Street
Squeak along with Ernie as he professes his fondness for his yellow bath time buddy, Rubber Duckie.
Because tubby time just isn’t complete without some rub-a-dub-dubby!
14. Cotton Candy Land by Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley’s bubble gum pop song is a sugary delight, like a cotton candy swirl.
His marshmallowy voice will send you to a candy-filled dreamland where every note is a sweet treat for the ears.
15. A Bicycle Built for Two by Larry Groce
Who lives for sunny days and carefree moments?
Hop on a musical bicycle built for two with Larry Groce’s cheery melody! You can almost feel the wind listening to the entertainer’s calming voice.
16. Glad to Have a Friend Like You by Marlo Thomas and Friends
You’ll be glad for this hidden gem from the 1970s!
It celebrates the joy of having a best pal who’s up for cooking gooey chocolate cakes, sharing secret codes, and diving into imaginative play.
17. Ragtime Cowboy Joe by Alvin and the Chipmunks
Ready for a hoedown of ragtime rhythms and cowboy charm that’ll have you stomping your boots and swinging your partner?
Alvin and the Chipmunks bring the Wild West to life with their playful rendition of Ragtime Cowboy Joe.
18. Six Little Ducks by Raffi
Round up your little ducklings, folks!
Follow Raffi on a quack-tastic journey with Six Little Ducks, a perfect little song for counting and singing along.
19. Five Sleepy Heads by Elvis Presley
Play the greatest showman’s soothing lullaby as you gather your little ones for bedtime snuggles.
There’s no chance of playing possum with Elvis Presley’s velvety voice. Before the song wraps up, those kids will be nodding off to sleep, leaving you to enjoy a peaceful night (if you’re not asleep yourself!).
20. Charlie Drake by Puckwudgie
Whenever you hear a sudden bang, creak, ring, or shriek, remember—it’s just Puckwudgie, your tiny guardian living in the garden.
This comedy song will chase away your childhood jitters and nighttime fears.
Final Thoughts
That wraps up our best children’s songs 1970s! If you still have time, check out our list of best children’s music albums from the decade of disco balls and lava lamps!