The 1970s were a pivotal decade for R&B music, marking a significant shift from the soul and funk of the previous era to a more sophisticated sound that incorporated elements of jazz, rock, and disco. It was a time when artists like Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and Earth, Wind & Fire dominated the charts, creating some of the most memorable and enduring songs in the genre’s history. In this article, we will explore the top 20 best R&B songs of the 1970s, highlighting the tracks that defined the decade and continue to resonate with audiences today.
From the socially conscious lyrics of Curtis Mayfield’s “Move On Up” to the seductive melodies of Barry White’s “Can’t Get Enough of Your Love, Babe,” the R&B music of the 1970s captured the cultural and social landscape of the time. These songs not only provided a soundtrack to the decade but also reflected the changing attitudes and values of the era. Whether you’re a fan of classic soul or contemporary R&B, this list will take you on a journey through the golden age of the genre and showcase some of the greatest songs of all time.
1. Midnight Train to Georgia by Gladys Knight & The Pips
“Midnight Train to Georgia” by Gladys Knight & The Pips is a classic soul and R&B song that tells the story of a man who leaves his life in Los Angeles to return to Georgia, where he hopes to find success and happiness. With its catchy melody, powerful vocals, and emotive lyrics, the song is a timeless masterpiece that captures the essence of 1970s R&B music. Gladys Knight’s soaring voice, combined with The Pips’ impeccable harmonies, creates a soul-stirring sound that has resonated with audiences for over four decades. The song’s timeless appeal has made it a classic that continues to be enjoyed by generations of music lovers.
2. Let’s Get It On by Marvin Gaye
“Let’s Get It On” by Marvin Gaye is a sensual and soulful love song that has become an enduring classic. Released in 1973, the song was a departure from Gaye’s earlier Motown sound, showcasing his growth as an artist and his exploration of more mature themes. With its smooth, seductive melody and Gaye’s silky vocals, the song exudes an irresistible sensuality that has made it a favorite for romantic occasions. The lyrics, which speak of a desire for intimacy and physical connection, have made the song a timeless anthem of love that continues to captivate and inspire listeners today.
3. Young, Gifted and Black by Aretha Franklin
“Young, Gifted and Black” is a powerful anthem by the legendary Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. The song was written in honor of Nina Simone and celebrates the strength, beauty, and talent of black women. Released in 1972, at the height of the civil rights movement, the song was a rallying cry for black pride and empowerment. With its powerful lyrics, soaring vocals, and catchy melody, “Young, Gifted and Black” has become a timeless classic that continues to inspire and uplift listeners. The song is a testament to Franklin’s talent as a singer and her role as a cultural icon who used her music to bring about change.
4. Higher Ground by Stevie Wonder
“Higher Ground” by Stevie Wonder is a funky and soulful song that blends elements of rock, jazz, and gospel music. Released in 1973, the song was a departure from Wonder’s earlier Motown sound and showcased his growth as an artist. The song’s catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and powerful lyrics, which speak of personal transformation and spiritual growth, have made it a favorite for generations of music lovers. With its groovy bassline, electrifying keyboard riffs, and Wonder’s soaring vocals, “Higher Ground” is a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire and uplift listeners today.
5. Let’s Stay Together by Al Green
“Let’s Stay Together” by Al Green is a soulful and romantic song that has become an enduring classic. Released in 1971, the song showcases Green’s smooth and silky vocals, which glide over a catchy and romantic melody. The lyrics, which speak of a deep and abiding love, have made the song a favorite for weddings and romantic occasions. With its iconic opening guitar riff and irresistible groove, “Let’s Stay Together” is a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate and inspire listeners today. The song is a testament to Green’s talent as a singer and his ability to capture the essence of love in his music.
6. Killing Me Softly With His Song by Roberta Flack
“Killing Me Softly With His Song” by Roberta Flack is a haunting and evocative ballad that tells the story of a woman who is moved to tears by a musician’s performance. The song, which was released in 1973, showcases Flack’s exquisite vocals, which convey the emotional depth and intensity of the lyrics. With its understated arrangement and poignant melody, “Killing Me Softly With His Song” has become an enduring classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. The song’s universal theme of the power of music to move and inspire has made it a favorite for generations of music lovers.
7. Ain’t No Sunshine by Bill Withers
“Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers is a soulful and introspective song that has become an enduring classic. Released in 1971, the song features Withers’ raw and emotive vocals, which convey the pain and longing of the lyrics. With its sparse arrangement and haunting melody, “Ain’t No Sunshine” captures the essence of loneliness and heartache. The song’s repeated refrain, “I know, I know, I know,” has become an iconic phrase that conveys the depth of the singer’s emotion. “Ain’t No Sunshine” is a testament to Withers’ talent as a songwriter and his ability to capture the essence of the human experience in his music.
8. If You Don’t Know Me by Now by Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes feat. Teddy Pendergrass
“If You Don’t Know Me by Now” by Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes feat. Teddy Pendergrass is a soulful and heartfelt ballad that has become an enduring classic. Released in 1972, the song features Pendergrass’ powerful and emotive vocals, which convey the pain and vulnerability of the lyrics. With its lush orchestration and poignant melody, “If You Don’t Know Me by Now” captures the essence of love and commitment. The song’s message of the importance of communication and understanding in relationships has resonated with listeners for decades, making it a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire and uplift.
9. The Ghetto by Donny Hathaway
“The Ghetto” by Donny Hathaway is a soulful and powerful song that speaks to the experiences of inner-city life. Released in 1970, the song features Hathaway’s impassioned vocals, which convey the struggles and challenges of life in the ghetto. With its haunting melody and poetic lyrics, “The Ghetto” captures the harsh realities of poverty, racism, and social injustice. The song’s message of hope and resilience has resonated with listeners for decades, making it a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire and uplift. “The Ghetto” is a testament to Hathaway’s talent as a songwriter and his ability to use music to shed light on important social issues.
10. You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine by Lou Rawls
“You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine” by Lou Rawls is a soulful and romantic song that has become an enduring classic. Released in 1976, the song features Rawls’ smooth and silky vocals, which glide over a catchy and romantic melody. With its infectious groove and memorable chorus, “You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine” is a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate and inspire listeners today. The song’s message of undying love and commitment has made it a favorite for weddings and romantic occasions. “You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine” is a testament to Rawls’ talent as a singer and his ability to capture the essence of love in his music.
11. Me and Mrs. Jones by Billy Paul
“Me and Mrs. Jones” by Billy Paul is a soulful and passionate song that speaks to the thrill and danger of forbidden love. Released in 1972, the song features Paul’s smooth and sultry vocals, which convey the intensity and urgency of the lyrics. With its seductive melody and powerful chorus, “Me and Mrs. Jones” is a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate and inspire listeners today. The song’s message of the risks and rewards of illicit affairs has made it a favorite for romantics and lovers. “Me and Mrs. Jones” is a testament to Paul’s talent as a singer and his ability to use music to explore the complexities of human relationships.
12. That Lady, Pts. 1 & 2 by The Isley Brothers
“That Lady, Pts. 1 & 2” by The Isley Brothers is a soulful and funky song that features the band’s signature blend of rock, R&B, and funk. Released in 1973, the song features the Isley Brothers’ smooth and powerful vocals, which glide over a catchy and groovy melody. With its infectious beat and memorable chorus, “That Lady, Pts. 1 & 2” is a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate and inspire listeners today. The song’s message of infatuation and desire has made it a favorite for parties and dance floors. “That Lady, Pts. 1 & 2” is a testament to the Isley Brothers’ talent as a band and their ability to fuse different musical genres to create a unique sound that has stood the test of time.
13. Shining Star by Earth Wind & Fire
“Shining Star” by Earth, Wind & Fire is a joyful and uplifting song that celebrates the power of positive energy and self-confidence. Released in 1975, the song features the band’s trademark blend of funk, R&B, and jazz, as well as their signature horn section and tight vocal harmonies. With its infectious beat and inspiring lyrics, “Shining Star” is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and motivate listeners today. The song’s message of embracing one’s unique gifts and talents has made it a favorite for graduation ceremonies and motivational events. “Shining Star” is a testament to Earth, Wind & Fire’s talent as a band and their ability to use music to spread positivity and joy.
14. Ain’t Gonna Hurt Nobody by Brick
“Ain’t Gonna Hurt Nobody” by Brick is a funky and upbeat song that encourages listeners to let loose and have fun. Released in 1977, the song features a catchy groove and a driving bassline that is sure to get people dancing. With its upbeat tempo and memorable chorus, “Ain’t Gonna Hurt Nobody” is a feel-good anthem that has become a favorite for parties and events. The song’s message of living life to the fullest and not worrying about the opinions of others has made it a timeless classic that continues to inspire and energize listeners today. “Ain’t Gonna Hurt Nobody” is a testament to Brick’s talent as a band and their ability to create infectious and groovy music.
15. Sideshow by Blue Magic
“Sideshow” by Blue Magic is a soulful and emotional song that tells the story of a man who is struggling to come to terms with his lover’s infidelity. Released in 1974, the song features the group’s trademark vocal harmonies and a beautiful melody that perfectly captures the mood of the lyrics. With its heartfelt message and poignant lyrics, “Sideshow” is a classic slow jam that continues to resonate with listeners today. The song’s message of heartbreak and betrayal has made it a favorite for romantic situations and has cemented its place in the canon of classic soul music.
16. Love or Let Me Be Lonely by The Friends Of Distinction
“Love or Let Me Be Lonely” by The Friends of Distinction is a catchy and upbeat song that tells the story of a lover who is torn between their desire for independence and their longing for companionship. Released in 1970, the song features a memorable melody and a funky, upbeat groove that perfectly captures the mood of the lyrics. With its catchy chorus and fun-loving vibe, “Love or Let Me Be Lonely” is a classic feel-good song that has become a favorite for dance parties and gatherings. The song’s message of self-discovery and self-love has made it a timeless classic that continues to inspire and uplift listeners today.
17. Show and Tell by Al Wilson
“Show and Tell” by Al Wilson is a soulful and romantic song that explores the highs and lows of falling in love. Released in 1973, the song features Wilson’s smooth and powerful vocals, a catchy melody, and a grooving rhythm section that perfectly captures the mood of the lyrics. With its uplifting chorus and heartfelt lyrics, “Show and Tell” is a classic love song that has become a favorite for weddings and romantic occasions. The song’s message of vulnerability and honesty in love has made it a timeless classic that continues to inspire and move listeners today.
18. I Can’t Stand the Rain by Ann Peebles
“I Can’t Stand the Rain” by Ann Peebles is a soulful and bluesy song that captures the feeling of heartbreak and loss. Released in 1973, the song features Peebles’ powerful and emotive vocals, a driving beat, and a catchy guitar riff that perfectly captures the mood of the lyrics. With its powerful chorus and raw, honest lyrics, “I Can’t Stand the Rain” is a timeless classic that has been covered by countless artists over the years. The song’s message of heartache and resilience in the face of loss has made it a favorite of music fans and critics alike.
19. O-o-h Child by The Five Stairsteps
“O-o-h Child” by The Five Stairsteps is a soulful and uplifting song that encourages listeners to stay positive and look towards a brighter future. Released in 1970, the song features the powerful and soulful vocals of the group’s lead singer, Clarence Burke Jr., and a catchy, upbeat melody that has made it a favorite of music fans for decades. With its uplifting message and memorable hook, “O-o-h Child” has been covered by countless artists and has become a staple of the soul and R&B genres. The song’s timeless message of hope and resilience continues to inspire listeners today.
20. Everybody Plays the Fool by The Main Ingredient
“Everybody Plays the Fool” by The Main Ingredient is a soulful and poignant ballad about the universal experience of heartbreak and the lessons we learn from it. The song, released in 1972, features the smooth and emotive vocals of lead singer Cuba Gooding Sr. and a lush orchestral arrangement that perfectly complements the song’s heartfelt lyrics. With its relatable message and timeless melody, “Everybody Plays the Fool” has become a classic of the soul and R&B genres, and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the enduring power of soulful music to connect with listeners on a deep and emotional level.
Darren Jamison is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
