From funky grooves to sensual pop, disco music of the 1970s left its mark across dance floors worldwide. Boasting unstoppable funk hits, bouncy pop confections, and strut-inducing rockers kept audiences dancing away – creating a global party atmosphere!
From Van McCoy’s 1975 song “The Hustle” to Joe Tex’s 1977 track “Ain’t Gonna Bump No More (With No Big Fat Woman), these tracks stand as testament to the captivating, upbeat nature of R&B music.
Bee Gees – “Stayin’ Alive”
“Stayin’ Alive” was an unforgettable dance hit of the 70s. With its groovy bassline and catchy guitar riffs creating an irresistibly funky rhythm that compels audiences to move, as well as its smooth soulful vocal melody encouraging listeners to get down and move with abandon on the dance floor, this upbeat tune was an essential addition for any disco party or festival – sure to get your crowd moving and singing along!
As much of the dance music of the 1970s was written with lyrics depicting heartbreak or troubled times in mind, much simply encouraged listeners to have fun and dance! This was especially true of disco songs with elements of both soul and funk such as Carl Douglas’ iconic “Kung Fu Fighting,” an upbeat track renowned for its funky beat and memorable lyrics about martial arts. This timeless classic remains popular to this day!
“We Are Family,” by Sister Sledge, is another disco song perfect for dancing at weddings or other family-related events. Though some of its lyrics may be provocative, this anthem celebrates familial bonding while becoming an international cultural phenomenon due to its inclusion in 1977 film Saturday Night Fever.
The Jackson 5 was one of the most iconic dance bands of the 70s, and their signature hit “ABC” is an accessible way for children to dance along. This chart-topping single was their initial step on their path to stardom; while Michael would go on to find great success as a solo act later, all other members found great success throughout their careers as Jackson 5.
The Village People’s version of “YMCA” has become an enduring classic that has been featured in movies and parodies alike, but the original remains most beloved. Perfect for dance parties of any sort, its upbeat disco sounds offer the ideal set piece to get any party started right. It isn’t hard to see why its fame endures!
Billy Ocean – “Love Really Hurts Without You”
The 70s was an age of musical creativity and experimentation. This period produced numerous timeless dance tunes which are still relevant today. If you are hosting a party and looking for ways to ensure guests have an amazing time, add some classic 70s tunes from Kool and the Gang and Michael Jackson as part of your playlist and dance away the night!
“Love Really Hurts Without You” by Billy Ocean is an enduring disco classic that perfectly captures the feel of 1970s disco. This song boasts a catchy bassline and unforgettable guitar riff that will have everyone on the dance floor shaking their hips; The Bee Gees’ trademark harmonies and falsetto vocals add extra danceability, becoming popular after being featured in Saturday Night Fever movie.
“Disco Inferno,” by the Trammps, is another timeless dance tune from the 70s that will get your feet moving with its infectious beat and catchy chorus lyric, “burn baby burn”. Don’t be fooled into thinking dancing all night is impossible! This track has infectious groove that will have you tapping your feet and shaking with excitement all night long.
Though many associate the 70s with disco music, there was also an abundance of rock and new wave that featured danceable tracks such as Gary Numan’s groundbreaking track “Cars”, which remains an icon from both new wave and synthpop genres; further paving the way for future electronic artists.
The Village People’s “YMCA” will have you wanting to break out your moves! This timeless hit has become an international anthem, featured in movies, commercials, and parodies alike – not to mention it’s catchy melody and lyrics which makes it such an irresistibly catchy dance hit that your audience will surely join you in singing along!
Heart – “Barracuda”
At a time when hard rock was predominantly the domain of men, sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson made history with hit albums that broke gender barriers and confronted misogyny head on. “Barracuda” remains an iconic feminist anthem to this day; its catchy riff draws listeners right in. However, if this song becomes overused as an activist anthem against sexism in music it might lose its power as an anti-sexist statement and become something generic a writer could easily use as part of their writing without adding new meaning or significance to their work.
Written after an insensitive comment made by a record promoter about Heart’s female members, their sisters penned this classic rock hit in response to such comments in 1977. With its barrage of fitful fists it has since become one of Heart’s signature tunes and remains an essential staple on classic rock playlists and as an extremely popular karaoke track.
At their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony in 2013, Heart’s original lineup closed their three-song set with “Barracuda.” Although Heart’s sisters vowed not to reunite again, they performed this song alongside Seattle-based musicians including Chris Cornell, Mike McCready and Jerry Cantrell of Alice in Chains.
Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy features this song too, where its music serves as the backdrop to Harley Quinn’s memorable battle scene with her mercenaries – instantly iconic thanks to a guitar riff that gets your foot tapping from start to finish!
No matter the occasion, America’s Heart Tribute’s lively hits will have you dancing or remembering good times with loved ones. Make sure not to leave home without them! Their talented performers offer a world-renowned concert presentation of Heart’s greatest hits that brings the music alive! Each member boasts years of experience and expertise that brings the songs alive!
Carl Douglas – “Kung Fu Fighting”
The 70s saw disco, funk and soul reign supreme on the charts. While some songs featured lyrics about heartbreak or trying times, most encouraged listeners to get up and dance! As such, dance music from this period continues to inspire and entertain listeners today.
For an authentic taste of 1970s music, take a listen to O’Jays hit song “Love Train”. This infectious tune exudes relaxation and celebration; perfect for dancing along to. It will have you up on your feet moving.
Carl Douglas’ “Kung Fu Fighting” was another beloved dance song from the 1970s. A fun and energetic number celebrating martial arts culture, this hit track became an international symbol of Asian influence and influencer.
Martial arts like karate and kung fu remain immensely popular today, and can often be found at schools located throughout a city or town. Many schools provide various levels of instruction for these martial arts as well as being an excellent way to learn how to kick and punch properly.
Creedence Clearwater Revival are well-known for their Southern rock sound, with one of their most memorable songs being “Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door.” While too slow for dancing, this song makes an excellent song to sing along to or share with loved ones.
One of the best songs to dance to is Derek And The Dominoes’ “Layla”, an upbeat love ballad with an unforgettable melody that will have you up on your feet and moving. “Layla” serves as an uplifting reminder that love truly can change lives; so get up and dance while listening!
Carl Douglas’ tragedy lies in his immense talent as a singer; however, his legacy will always be linked with “Kung Fu Fighting,” one of the more memorable artifacts from 1970s disco music that combined disco with martial arts movies in an amusing and memorable manner.