Picture yourself at 90, still humming the same catchy melodies from the 1970s that first stole your heart – that's the magic of truly timeless music! In an era when so many hits from that decade have faded into obscurity, a select few continue to captivate listeners even in today's world. And let's face it, some of these classics are destined to be on repeat for me long into my golden years, maybe even as I approach the end. But here's where it gets controversial – not everyone agrees on what makes a song 'classic.' Stick around as we dive into my personal top three picks from the '70s, exploring why they resonate so deeply, and why they might just spark a debate or two.
"Life On Mars?" by David Bowie: A Glam Rock Gem That Transcends Time
David Bowie was a whirlwind of creativity in the 1970s, churning out an endless stream of chart-toppers that still inspire awe today. Glam rock, for those new to the term, is a flashy style of rock music popular in the '70s, emphasizing theatrical performances, bold costumes, and catchy, rebellious vibes – think over-the-top shows that pushed boundaries and celebrated individuality. Bowie embodied this perfectly, and while many of his anthems could easily land on this list, my heart belongs to "Life On Mars?" from his 1971 album Hunky Dory. This track became my go-to right after Bowie's passing in 2016; it's a mesmerizing blend of ethereal beauty, optimism, and deep existential pondering that leaves you reflecting on life's bigger questions. And this is the part most people miss – it's not just a song; it's a sonic journey that redefined glam rock, proving why Bowie was a true innovator. No one else captured that magical essence quite like he did.
"Silver Springs" by Fleetwood Mac: The Underrated B-Side That Deserves a Spotlight
I still can't wrap my head around why the other members of Fleetwood Mac didn't insist on including "Silver Springs" on their iconic Rumours album in 1977. This Stevie Nicks masterpiece stands as one of her finest compositions, brimming with emotional depth and poetic lyrics that explore heartbreak and longing in a way that's both raw and haunting. To clarify for beginners, a B-side is typically the less prominent track on a single, often overlooked, but "Silver Springs" feels far too powerful for such a humble spot – it's practically begging to be a standalone hit. In fact, it should have been part of the original Rumours lineup and released as a single. Don't get me started on the live version (which I've embedded above for your listening pleasure); it's goosebump-inducing every single time, showcasing the band's chemistry in full force. But here's the controversy: was this exclusion a major oversight by the band, or did it add to the song's mystique? Fleetwood Mac fans, weigh in – did they drop the ball here?
"Les Fleurs" by Minnie Riperton: Soulful Operatic Perfection That Defies Charts
Minnie Riperton's soulful voice has always held a special place in my music collection, and while her mega-hit "Lovin' You" gets all the praise, I'll forever be loyal to "Les Fleurs." It's baffling how this 1970 gem from Come To My Garden never cracked the charts – it's simply extraordinary, weaving in operatic flourishes that elevate it to something almost otherworldly. If you're unfamiliar, opera here refers to classical singing styles with soaring, dramatic notes, which Riperton blends seamlessly with soulful R&B to create an unforgettable experience. For anyone who hasn't listened yet, grab your headphones and give it a spin; I genuinely envy you getting to discover it fresh, as it's pure auditory bliss. This track, in my book, tops my list of all-time '70s favorites – a hidden treasure that's as relevant today as ever.
Photo by Richard McCaffrey/ Michael Ochs Archive/ Getty Images
These selections aren't just nods to nostalgia; they're reminders of how certain songs capture universal emotions that keep them alive across generations. But I have to wonder – do you agree that "Silver Springs" was unfairly sidelined, or do you think some classics gain value from being under the radar? What about Bowie's influence on glam rock – revolutionary or overrated? And is "Les Fleurs" the overlooked masterpiece it seems? Share your opinions in the comments; I'd love to hear if these resonate with you or if you have your own '70s must-haves. Let's keep the conversation going – after all, music is meant to be debated!
