10 Motivational Songs From the 1970s
What gets you fired up and ready to conquer the world? Sometimes, the perfect catalyst is a tune that taps into your deepest well of perseverance.
Granted, the 1970s had no shortage of upbeat tracks like Elton John’s “Bennie and the Jets” and inspirational peace songs such as John Lennon’s “Imagine” and “Let It Be” by Paul McCartney.
But if you need an extra push to charge across the finish line, it’s time to look for something a bit more empowering.
This list highlights 10 of the best 1970s motivational songs to help you find just what you need to ignite that fire!
1. Bill Conti – “Gonna Fly Now” (1976)
Nothing says ’70s motivation and inspiration like Sylvester Stallone’s Rocky. And nothing shows Rocky’s peak motivational vibes like the theme song, Conti’s “Gonna Fly Now.”
With a driving disco beat, soaring strings, and those brief yet unforgettable lyrics, it’s impossible not to feel energized when listening to this score.
Whether you’re lacing up your dancing shoes or facing an uphill battle, this classic soundtrack from the 1976 American sports drama film can be the spark that propels you forward.
2. Queen – “We Are the Champions” (1977)
Queen’s “We Are the Champions” (featured on the band’s sixth studio album) is an adrenaline-pumping rock anthem made for champions of all kinds.
The uplifting lyrics are all about persevering through struggle. Overall, the sing-along choruses provide an electrifying sense of determination and very little empathy for “losers.”
It’s no wonder this ’70s upbeat song has become a staple at sporting events—those triumphant harmonies and Mercury’s bravado practically demand you sing along at the top of your lungs!
Similar stuff could be said about “We Will Rock You,” which is actually the first track on the same album. However, the lyrics in “We Are the Champions” are just too powerful to ignore!
3. Earth, Wind, and Fire – “Shining Star” (1975)
This disco-funk masterpiece radiates pure positivity with its empowering message: “You’re a shining star, no matter who you are.”
The groovy basslines and guitar sounds create a journey that’s as joyful as it is musically rich. Between Maurice White and Philip Bailey’s vocals, you’ll find yourself getting lost in the disco song’s blissful affirmations of self-belief.
4. Cyndi Grecco – “Making Our Dreams Come True” (1976)
This infectiously upbeat 70s tune was the theme song for the sitcom Laverne & Shirley.
Songwriters Norman Gimbel and Charles Fox perfectly captured the spirit of the two working-class heroines with lyrics that radiate unstoppable determination. You know, the sort of people whose vocabulary just doesn’t include “impossible.”
5. Jim Croce – “I Got a Name” (1973)
Jim Croce’s “I Got a Name” oozes defiance, individuality, and perseverance.
Although he didn’t pen the folk-rock track himself, you’d never know it from the conviction he brings to the recording. The lyrics must have felt relatable for Croce, a first-generation immigrant with a skeptical academic father.
The acoustic guitar-driven melody swells with proud resilience as Croce vows to blaze his own trail no matter what naysayers think and against all odds.
Croce didn’t get to see the monster success of this hit song, but it did sit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for 17 weeks!
6. Curtis Mayfield – “Move On Up” (1970)
Clocking in at nearly nine minutes, this track makes ideal motivational background music for morning walks and workout routines.
Mayfield comes across as a cool, trusted uncle dishing life advice over the melodies. By weaving in calls for progress and unity, the American singer transforms “Move On Up” into something truly uplifting.
There’s a shortened release of the inspiring song, but we think you’ll enjoy the original, extended LP version for maximum motivation boost!
7. Aerosmith – “Dream On” (1973)
“Dream On” was released in 1973 but truly blew up two years later after the band re-released it.
Maybe people finally noticed the raw, youthful determination pulsing through every soulful tone of Steven Tyler’s lead vocals on this ’70s hit.
While it can be interpreted in various ways, Tyler himself said it represented Aerosmith’s ravenous ambition and determination in their early years.
Some people believe it delivers a bittersweet message about aging. But we’d rather go with Tyler’s positive take and consider “Dream On” an uplifting song.
8. Johnny Nash – “I Can See Clearly Now” (1972)
This reggae gem is all about the feeling you get when you overcome adversity. It’s a reminder that we have to push through the pain to get to the “bright” days.
9. McFadden and Whitehead – “Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now” (1979)
Inspired by their own success, the American R&B duo released this pure shot of motivational energy.
It’s the perfect pre-game pump-up to boost your confidence. In fact, McFadden and Whitehead performed it live for the Sixers. “Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now” was also chosen as the semi-official anthemic track for the Phillies. So, it’s an all-around great inspirational song for sporty folks!
10. Bob Marley & the Wailers – “Get Up, Stand Up” (1973)
Mick Jagger named “Get Up, Stand Up” as one of his favorite reggae songs, and it’s easy to see why. It resonates so powerfully as a call to stand against oppression and injustice.
Plus, the rumor that this song was in Marley’s (who was ill at the time) last performance makes the message even more compelling. After all, Marley summoned every ounce of perseverance to sing this song live one last time!
Final Thoughts
Any of these ’70s music hits can refuel your fire, from Rocky’s “Gonna Fly Now” to Queen’s “We Are the Champions” anthem. Better yet, put them all in a playlist and play it in a loop!