Can you Believe It’s Been Half a Century?
Yup, all these tunes dropped in 1975!
Right when bell bottoms were big, disco was on the rise, and Queen had just made rock very operatic. Whether you were around when these songs first hit the radio or just recently discovered them on some retro playlist, you’ve probably belted out a few (many) of these classics.
So crank up the volume, grab your air guitar (or roller skates), and prepare to feel just a little ancient (but in a good way).
"Bohemian Rhapsody" (Queen)
You already know the lyrics (and maybe even all the harmonies). Released in October 1975, Bohemian Rhapsody was a bold rock opera mashup that broke the rules—and the charts. It hit No. 1 in the UK and became one of the most iconic songs in history. From headbanging in Wayne’s World to karaoke night staples, this one’s never really gone out of style.
"Rock and Roll All Nite" (KISS – Live Version)
While the original studio version flopped in 1975, the live version from Alive! turned everything around. Released in late 1975, this amped-up anthem became KISS’s first major hit—and their party-hard legacy was sealed. You do want to rock and roll all night. Admit it.
Kiss - Rock And Roll All Nite - Rocks Vegas, KISS
"Landslide" (Fleetwood Mac)
This tender track from Fleetwood Mac’s self-titled album showed a softer side of the band. Written by Stevie Nicks in 1973 but released in 1975, Landslide became a fan favorite thanks to its heartfelt lyrics and gentle acoustic sound. It’s been covered dozens of times—but the original still hits hardest.
"Jive Talkin’" (Bee Gees)
With a funky beat and a Miami-inspired groove, the Bee Gees kickstarted their disco era in 1975 with Jive Talkin’. This single topped the Billboard Hot 100 and showed the group wasn’t just about falsetto—they had serious funk in their veins. It helped pave the way for Saturday Night Fever just two years later.
Bee Gees - Jive Talkin', beegees
"Low Rider" (War)
With that unmistakable bass and laid-back swagger, Low Rider became a West Coast anthem in 1975. War fused funk, rock, and Latin rhythms into something cool and totally unique. You’ve definitely heard it in countless movies and commercials—it’s that kind of classic.
WAR - Low Rider (Official Video) [Remastered in 4K], War
"Fame" (David Bowie)
Fame was David Bowie’s first U.S. No. 1 hit, and it came with help from none other than John Lennon. With its funky guitar riffs and sharp critique of celebrity culture, this 1975 single is peak glam-funk Bowie. It proved he could evolve—and that he wasn’t afraid to bite the hand that fed him.
"Love Will Keep Us Together" (Captain & Tennille)
This bouncy tune dominated the airwaves in 1975, becoming the top Billboard Hot 100 single of the year. Originally by Neil Sedaka, it was Captain & Tennille’s version that stuck. Love Will Keep Us Together was sugary sweet, impossibly catchy, and impossible to escape. And admit it—you kind of loved it.
ABC Television, Wikimedia Commons
"Shining Star" (Earth, Wind & Fire)
You can’t hear that opening guitar without grinning. Released in early 1975, Shining Star was Earth, Wind & Fire’s first No. 1 hit, fusing funk, soul, and a motivational message into one groovy anthem. It still lights up dance floors—and your uncle’s barbecue playlist.
Earth, Wind & Fire - Shining Star (Live), Earth Wind & Fire
"Rhinestone Cowboy" (Glen Campbell)
This one’s country-pop perfection. Rhinestone Cowboy was Glen Campbell’s massive 1975 hit that rode high on both the pop and country charts. With its catchy chorus and shiny swagger, it made cowboy hats cool again—even if you were just wearing them in the city.
Glen Campbell - Rhinestone Cowboy, Glen Campbell
"Fight the Power Part 1" (The Isley Brothers)
Before Public Enemy, the Isley Brothers dropped their own version of Fight the Power in 1975. With its funky bassline and bold lyrics, it was both a protest anthem and a dance-floor banger. Fifty years later, it still packs a punch.
Michael Ochs Archives, Getty Images
"Miracles" (Jefferson Starship)
This dreamy, sensual ballad from Jefferson Starship’s Red Octopus album climbed to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100. Written by Marty Balin, Miracles is a slow-burning love song with cosmic vibes—and it showed the band could still make magic after its evolution from Jefferson Airplane.
Grunt-RCA Records, Wikimedia Commons
"Tangled Up in Blue" (Bob Dylan)
From his critically acclaimed Blood on the Tracks album, Dylan’s 1975 track Tangled Up in Blue was a storytelling masterclass. With shifting perspectives and emotional depth, it marked a return to form for Dylan—and became a staple for folk-rock fans.
Bob Dylan - Tangled Up In Blue (Official HD Video), Bob Dylan
"Philadelphia Freedom" (Elton John)
A tribute to tennis star Billie Jean King, this 1975 hit had nothing to do with Philly soul—but sounded like it did. Elton John and lyricist Bernie Taupin delivered a funky, patriotic banger that went straight to No. 1. Philadelphia Freedom is still stadium singalong gold.
Elton John - Philadelphia Freedom (Million Dollar Piano), Mercury Studios
"I'm Not in Love" (10cc)
I’m Not in Love is one of the most unique soft rock ballads ever made. With its lush, layered vocals and dreamy atmosphere, it was 10cc’s biggest hit in 1975—and a breakup song masquerading as denial. Moody, melodic, and oh-so ’70s.
10cc - I'm Not In Love (1975), moondoggy
"Born to Run" (Bruce Springsteen)
The Boss went big with Born to Run, a thunderous escape anthem full of hope, heartbreak, and horsepower. Released in 1975, it became Springsteen’s signature song and helped launch him into rock legend status. Crank it up and hit the highway.
Bruce Springsteen - Born to Run (Official Video), Bruce Springsteen
"You Sexy Thing" (Hot Chocolate)
I believe in miracles… Yep, it’s that one. Hot Chocolate’s cheeky, funky hit dropped in late 1975 and still slaps. You Sexy Thing became a disco-era essential—and has been making romantic montages and commercials 100% more entertaining ever since.
Hot Chocolate - You Sexy Thing (ZDF Disco, 24.04.1976), Hot Chocolate
"Sweet Emotion" (Aerosmith)
With its talkbox intro and slow-building groove, Sweet Emotion kicked off a hot streak for Aerosmith in 1975. This was their first Top 40 hit, setting the stage for their rock stardom. It’s gritty, cool, and still a total head-nodder.
Aerosmith - Sweet Emotion, Aerosmith
"Someone Saved My Life Tonight" (Elton John)
One of Elton’s most personal songs, Someone Saved My Life Tonight told the story of a narrowly avoided marriage and an attempt to take his own life. Heavy stuff—but wrapped in a beautiful, soaring melody. In 1975, it was a Top 5 hit that gave listeners chills.
Elton John - Someone Saved My Life Tonight (Old Grey Whistle Test 1982), Elton John
"Lady Marmalade" (Labelle)
Voulez-vous coucher avec moi? This provocative line made Lady Marmalade a funky feminist smash in 1975. With Patti LaBelle’s powerhouse vocals leading the charge, the song topped charts and helped redefine what women in rock and soul could say—and sing.
Moulin Rouge - (lady marmalade) scene by Mac Mooney
"S.O.S." (ABBA)
ABBA proved they were more than just disco fluff with S.O.S., a heartbreak anthem with tight harmonies and that classic Scandinavian melancholy. Released in 1975, it was a worldwide hit and helped cement the group’s reputation as pop perfectionists.
ABBA - SOS (Official Lyric Video), ABBA
"Why Can't We Be Friends?" (War)
A little sarcastic, a little sincere—Why Can’t We Be Friends? was a funky, catchy appeal for unity that somehow felt both whimsical and wise. It became another big hit for War in 1975 and lives on in commercials, memes, and your uncle’s BBQ playlist (again).
WAR - Why Can't We Be Friends? (Official Video) [Remastered in 4K], War
"How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)" (James Taylor)
Originally recorded by Marvin Gaye, James Taylor’s 1975 version of How Sweet It Is became one of his signature songs. Smooth, easygoing, and incredibly romantic, it’s a reminder that sometimes a simple love song says everything.
"Shame, Shame, Shame" (Shirley & Company)
One of the earliest disco hits, Shame, Shame, Shame brought dance fever to the radio in 1975. With its infectious beat and no-nonsense message, it was impossible to sit still when this one came on. It’s still a favorite for vintage dance parties everywhere.
SHIRLEY & COMPANY - SHAME, SHAME, SHAME HD, morrisjrs1965
"Sky High" (Jigsaw)
This soaring soft rock jam from British band Jigsaw was released in 1975 and made its way into the U.S. Top 10. Sky High had James Bond-style strings, a dramatic flair, and serious FM radio staying power. It’s the kind of tune that feels like a movie montage.
Jigsaw - Sky High [HQ], NAOYALENNON
"December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night)" (The Four Seasons)
It hit U.S. airwaves in late 1975 and topped the charts in early 1976. Oh, What a Night was a playful, funky departure for The Four Seasons and became their biggest hit ever.
Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons - December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night) (Official Music Video), RHINO
"Thunder Road" (Bruce Springsteen)
Another gem from Born to Run, Thunder Road wasn’t a chart smash, but it became a fan-favorite for life. Released in 1975, it’s got romance, rebellion, and a harmonica intro that breaks your heart in the best way. The screen door slams… and you’re hooked.
DoD News Features, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
"Feelings" (Morris Albert)
Love it or mock it, Feelings was everywhere in 1975. This melodramatic ballad by Brazilian singer Morris Albert became a Top 10 hit—and a punchline in dozens of sitcoms. But behind the cheesiness is a genuinely sad little song that’s stood the test of time (sort of).
Morris Albert - Feelings, Danno
"At Seventeen" (Janis Ian)
Released in 1975, At Seventeen was a brutally honest ballad about teenage awkwardness, loneliness, and growing up. Janis Ian’s haunting vocals struck a chord with listeners of all ages, earning her a Grammy and timeless respect. Painfully real—but beautifully done.
Janis Ian - At Seventeen, nyuv02
"Black Friday" (Steely Dan)
Steely Dan launched their jazzy, cryptic Katy Lied album with this funky 1975 single. Black Friday grooves hard, telling the tale of someone skipping town during a market crash. Cynical? Always. Catchy? Definitely. And those guitars? Chef’s kiss.
"Sister Golden Hair" (America)
With help from George Martin on production, Sister Golden Hair became America’s second No. 1 hit in 1975. A little folk, a little rock, and a lot of emotional ambiguity, it’s still a favorite for fans of breezy ’70s tunes with bittersweet vibes.
Sister Golden Hair - America | The Midnight Special, The Midnight Special
"Jackie Blue" (Ozark Mountain Daredevils)
Released in 1975, Jackie Blue was a surprise Top 10 hit. With its smooth vocals and bittersweet lyrics, it sounded a bit like the Eagles—but weirder, in a good way. It was the band’s biggest hit and remains a soft rock sleeper gem.
IFA-International Famous Agency/ A&M Records, Wikimedia Commons
"Swearin’ to God" (Frankie Valli)
Frankie Valli went disco in 1975, and Swearin’ to God was the result. This romantic, groovy track made it to the Top 10 and showed the former Four Seasons frontman still had the pipes—and the charm. Cue the mirror ball.
"Bad Blood" (Neil Sedaka ft. Elton John)
Before Taylor Swift did it, there was this 1975 Bad Blood duet between Neil Sedaka and Elton John that soared to No. 1. It's a bouncy, bitter breakup jam with a touch of camp and a whole lot of charisma. And yes—that's Elton on background vocals, sneaking in some flair.
Elton John - Rocket Man (Royal Festival Hall, London 1972), Elton John
"Rockin’ Chair" (Gwen McCrae)
Rockin’ Chair was Gwen McCrae’s biggest hit, topping the R&B charts in 1975. With its sultry groove and confident delivery, it’s a standout in the soul-funk space—and a favorite for crate-diggers and dance floor connoisseurs alike.
Gwen McCrae – Rockin' Chair (live, 1975), RnBSoulMusic
"Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds" (Elton John)
Yes, it’s a Beatles cover—but Elton’s 1975 version (with John Lennon secretly playing guitar!) was a No. 1 hit in its own right. Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds gets the glam-rock treatment here, and somehow, it totally works.
Elton John - Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds (Live On The Old Grey Whistle Test), Elton John
"Only Women Bleed" (Alice Cooper)
Speaking of Alice, Only Women Bleed was shockingly tender for a guy known for snakes and guillotines. Released in 1975, the ballad tackled domestic violence with a seriousness that caught listeners off guard—and became a surprise Top 20 hit.
"Can’t Get It Out of My Head" (Electric Light Orchestra)
From ELO’s 1974 album Eldorado, this single didn’t really take off until early 1975, when it cracked the Top 10. Can’t Get It Out of My Head showcased the band’s orchestral ambition and Jeff Lynne’s dreamy songwriting. Still a stunner.
Electric Light Orchestra - Can't Get it Out Of My Head (1975) • TopPop, TopPop
"Run Joey Run" (David Geddes)
A one-hit wonder with major teen drama energy, Run Joey Run was like a soap opera in song form. Released in 1975, it told a wild Romeo-and-Juliet-style tale—and somehow made it to No. 4. Over-the-top? Definitely. Memorable? Oh yes.
David Geddes - Run Joey Run (1975) • TopPop, TopPop
"Fallin’ in Love" (Hamilton, Joe Frank & Reynolds)
Fallin’ in Love hit No. 1 in 1975, delivering smooth harmonies and romantic vibes in pure soft rock form. It’s the kind of song that plays in the background of a vintage love scene—and it’s been stuck in people’s heads ever since.
Dunhill Records, Wikimedia Commons
"Wildfire" (Michael Murphey)
If you remember Wildfire, you remember the ghost horse and the heartbreaking lyrics. Released in 1975, this haunting ballad reached the Top 5 and became Michael Murphey’s signature song. Saddle up—and bring tissues.
Michael Martin Murphey & the Rio Grande Band -
"Chevy Van" (Sammy Johns)
Chevy Van was the quintessential 1970s road-trip jam, dripping with mellow vibes and suggestive lyrics. Released in 1975, it became an unlikely Top 10 hit—and a love letter to shag carpet, sunsets, and… casual encounters in vans.
Chevy Van by Sammy Johns Cover by PetRock, PetRock TV
"Let’s Do It Again" (The Staple Singers)
With Let’s Do It Again, the Staple Singers brought soulful seduction to the charts in 1975. Written by Curtis Mayfield and featured in the film of the same name, this track topped both the R&B and Hot 100 charts. Smooth doesn’t even cover it.
Unknown Author, Wikimedia Commons
"L-O-V-E (Love)" (Al Green)
Al Green’s 1975 single L-O-V-E (Love) was a funky, joyful expression of pure soul. Riding high off the success of earlier hits, this track proved the Reverend could still get feet tapping—and hearts melting.
Mike Douglas Show, Wikimedia Commons
"The Hustle" (Van McCoy & the Soul City Symphony)
Do it! The Hustle was disco before disco blew up. Released in 1975, it hit No. 1 and kicked off a dance craze that swept the globe. Even if you don’t know the steps, you know that iconic flute line.
Van McCoy - The Hustle (Official Music Video) [HD], Reservoir Recordings
"Poetry Man" (Phoebe Snow)
Released in early 1975, Poetry Man was Phoebe Snow’s breakout hit. With jazzy phrasing and delicate emotion, it showcased her one-of-a-kind voice. The song still feels like an intimate secret you stumbled into on a rainy afternoon.
Phoebe Snow~Poetry Man, jassblue
"Lady" (Little River Band)
Little River Band’s Lady was first released in Australia in 1975 before finding U.S. success later. A soft rock sleeper hit, it was just the beginning for a band that would soon dominate yacht rock playlists. This one feels like summer love.
"Slippery When Wet" (The Commodores)
Before Lionel Richie became a ballad king, he was funking it up with the Commodores. Slippery When Wet, released in 1975, was their first Top 40 hit, full of grit, horns, and infectious energy. A funky forecast of hits to come.
Slippery When Wet - Commodores | The Midnight Special, The Midnight Special
"Saturday Night Special" (Lynyrd Skynyrd)
Saturday Night Special was Lynyrd Skynyrd's anti-handgun anthem, released in 1975 with Southern rock power and lyrical bite. It may not be their most famous song, but it’s one of their boldest. Still packs a punch 50 years later.
Motown Records, Wikimedia Commons
"He Don’t Love You (Like I Love You)" (Tony Orlando & Dawn)
Released in April 1975, this tearjerker remake of a Jerry Butler song became a No. 1 hit for Tony Orlando & Dawn. It’s got drama, heartbreak, and enough vocal flair to make you shout along in the car (or the shower). Proof that ’70s pop knew how to go there emotionally, with full harmonies and a velvet touch.
He don't love you like I love you Tony Orlando & Dawn 1975, Galveston_blue
"Dance With Me" (Orleans)
Released in 1975, Dance With Me became Orleans’ breakout soft rock hit. It’s got breezy harmonies, sunny vibes, and that instantly recognizable acoustic riff. A gentle reminder that AM radio in the ’70s was undefeated when it came to heartfelt singalongs.
Orleans - Dance With Me, KlassikRocker
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