8 Forgotten Songs of the 70s

The 1970s was a decade of musical innovation and diverse sounds. This article explores eight iconic songs that defined the era, from the raw rock energy of John Lennon to the smooth stylings of Kenny Rogers.

We’ll delve into the stories behind the music, the artists’ creative journeys, and the lasting impact these tracks continue to have today.

They may have been forgotten for a while, but we’re here to re-ignite the flame. Here are eight forgotten songs of the 70s

1. John Lennon – Instant Karma (We All Shine On) (1970)

A driving rock song with a message that resonates even today, “Instant Karma (We All Shine On)” is a prime example of John Lennon’s post-Beatles artistic fire.

Written, recorded, and released in a whirlwind of 10 days, the song captures the essence of karma – the idea that our actions have consequences. Lennon’s lyrics are simple yet powerful, urging listeners to consider the impact of their choices.

The music, featuring the signature “Wall of Sound” production of Phil Spector, is a dynamic mix of pounding drums, layered guitars, and Lennon’s instantly recognizable vocals. “Instant Karma” became a surprise hit, reaching the top five in both the UK and US charts, and remains a classic of the rock genre.

2. Paul McCartney – Maybe I’m Amazed (1970)

“Maybe I’m Amazed” is a song written by English musician Paul McCartney and first released on his 1970 debut solo album McCartney. The song is a powerful ballad that expresses feelings of love, amazement, and insecurity. It has been praised for its beautiful melody, heartfelt lyrics, and soaring vocals.

The song was never released as a single, but a live performance by McCartney’s band Wings from the live album “Wings Over America” was a top 10 hit in the United States, easily making it among one-hit wonders in the 1970s. 

“Maybe I’m Amazed” is considered one of McCartney’s greatest songs. It was ranked number 347 on Rolling Stone magazine’s “500 Greatest Songs of All Time” list and is the only solo McCartney song to make the list.

3. David Bowie – Rebel Rebel (1974)

David Bowie’s “Rebel Rebel” (1974) is a glam rock song that marked a turning point in his career. It was the lead single from his album Diamond Dogs, which introduced a new character, Halloween Jack, a gritty, dystopian figure.

The song is considered a proto-punk track, with its driving beat and aggressive guitar riff. The lyrics are about rebellion against gender norms and societal expectations. Bowie himself plays guitar on the track, a first for him since 1969.

4. Diana Ross – Love Hangover (1976)

Diana Ross’s “Love Hangover” (1976) is a song that perfectly captures the energy and vibe of the disco era. Released in March of that year, it became a massive hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying Ross’s status as one of the best 1970s female singers. 

The song itself is a catchy, upbeat tune with a pulsating rhythm section and swirling strings. Ross’s vocals are powerful and emotive, conveying the lyrics about the lingering effects of a passionate night of love.

Some interpretations suggest the “Love Hangover” is more than just romantic, referencing the euphoric feeling of being on the dance floor.

5. Kenny Rogers – Lucille (1977)

Kenny Rogers’ 1977 hit “Lucille” is a country ballad that spins a tale of a chance encounter gone awry. The song unfolds in a bar in Toledo, Ohio, where the narrator meets a woman named Lucille. Clearly unhappy in her marriage, Lucille drowns her sorrows in alcohol and expresses a yearning for escape. Fueled by the night’s atmosphere, their connection intensifies.

The situation takes a sharp turn when Lucille’s husband, a large and intimidating man, enters the bar. We learn that Lucille has four children back home, and her absence creates hardship on the farm. Despite this sobering reality, Lucille and the narrator impulsively end up in a hotel room.

“Lucille” became a defining moment in Kenny Rogers’ career. It marked his first major hit as a solo artist, topping the Country charts and reaching a high spot on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s success not only established Rogers’ signature smooth baritone voice but also helped bridge the gap between country and pop music in the late 1970s.

6. Roberta Flack – Killing Me Softly with His Song (1973)

Roberta Flack’s “Killing Me Softly with His Song” (1973) is a song etched in music history. It wasn’t just a hit, it was a landmark.

The song topped the charts in the US, Canada, and Australia, making Flack a household name. Her powerful performance was recognized by the Grammys in 1974, where she won both Record of the Year and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.

The song’s influence continues to this day. It’s been covered by countless artists, with The Fugees’ 1996 version achieving similar success. Both Flack’s and The Fugees’ renditions are included on the prestigious “500 Greatest Songs of All Time” list by Rolling Stone magazine.

7. Minnie Riperton – Loving You (1974)

Minnie Riperton’s “Lovin’ You” might be a song you mistakenly remember from 1975. Though it achieved peak popularity in that year, “Lovin’ You” actually debuted in March of 1975 as the fourth single from Riperton’s 1974 album “Perfect Angel.”

The song’s success was monumental. It became Riperton’s biggest hit and held the distinction of being the first number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100 for a female artist on the Epic label. “Lovin’ You” wasn’t just a chart-topper in the US; it also reached number two on the UK Singles chart.

8. Todd Rundgren – Hello It’s Me (1972)

Todd Rundgren’s “Hello It’s Me” has an interesting backstory. Though most people associate the song with its 1972 release, it actually has an earlier life. Believe it or not, “Hello It’s Me” was the very first song Rundgren ever wrote, back in 1967.

Originally, it appeared as a slow ballad on the B-side of his band Nazz’s debut single “Open My Eyes” in 1968. However, a funny thing happened. A radio station in Boston preferred “Hello It’s Me” to the A-side and started playing it more. This unexpected airplay caught on, and the song charted modestly in the US and Canada.

Fast forward to 1972. Rundgren was now a solo artist and decided to revisit “Hello It’s Me” for his album “Something/Anything?” This time, he gave the song a mid-tempo makeover. This new version of “Hello It’s Me” resonated with audiences and became a massive hit in 1973, reaching number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Final Words

These eight tracks are just a taste of the rich musical gumbo that was in the 1970s. From John Lennon’s urgent call for karma to Kenny Rogers’ tale of star-crossed lovers in a smoky bar, these songs paint a vivid picture of the decade.

We hear the raw energy of the post-Beatles era, the pulsating rhythms of discotheques, and the smooth melodies that tug at the heartstrings.

The stories behind these songs are just as captivating. We learn about the unexpected radio play that propelled “Hello It’s Me” to fame, the creative fight that ensured “Lovin’ You” transcended genre, and the enduring power of a song like “Killing Me Softly with His Song,” covered and celebrated by generations.