20 Famous Male Singers of the 1970s

The 1970s was a decade of musical experimentation and change, marked by the emergence of a new generation of male singers who helped to shape the sound and style of popular music. These singers ranged from soulful crooners to flamboyant rockers, and they each brought their own unique perspective and voice to the musical landscape of the time.

Many of these male singers achieved widespread fame and success, thanks to their ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level, and their willingness to push boundaries and take risks in their music. They became icons of the era, embodying the hopes, fears, and aspirations of a generation.

Whether they were singing about love, politics, or personal struggle, these male singers captured the spirit of the times and left an indelible mark on the music of the 1970s. Today, their music remains a powerful reminder of the cultural and social changes that took place during this dynamic and transformative period in history.

1. Marvin Gaye

Marvin Gaye was an American singer, songwriter, and record producer born in 1939. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential musicians of the 20th century, known for his smooth and soulful voice, as well as his ability to blend different musical genres.

Gaye began his career as a session musician before signing with Motown Records in the early 1960s. He quickly became one of the label’s most successful artists, with hits like “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)” and “I Heard It Through the Grapevine.”

In the 1970s, Gaye’s music took on a more socially conscious tone, with albums like “What’s Going On” and “Let’s Get It On” addressing issues like poverty, war, and racism. These albums solidified Gaye’s status as a cultural icon and cemented his place in the pantheon of soul and R&B music.

Tragically, Gaye’s life was cut short when he was shot and killed by his father in 1984. However, his music continues to resonate with audiences to this day, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest singers and songwriters of all time.

2. Freddie Mercury

Freddie Mercury was a British singer, songwriter, and musician who rose to fame as the lead vocalist of the rock band Queen. Born in Zanzibar in 1946, Mercury grew up in India and later moved to England, where he formed Queen in 1970 with Brian May, Roger Taylor, and John Deacon.

Mercury’s powerful and versatile voice, flamboyant stage presence, and dynamic songwriting helped to make Queen one of the most popular and successful bands of the 1970s and 1980s. He wrote many of the band’s biggest hits, including “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Somebody to Love,” and “We Are the Champions.”

Mercury’s theatrical style and flamboyant costumes made him an iconic figure in popular culture, and his performances were legendary for their energy, charisma, and showmanship. Despite his larger-than-life persona, Mercury was also known for his vulnerability and sensitivity, which were reflected in many of his songs.

Mercury’s life was tragically cut short when he died of AIDS-related complications in 1991 at the age of 45. However, his music and his legacy continue to inspire and entertain fans around the world, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest singers and performers in the history of rock music.

3. Bruce Springsteen

Bruce Springsteen, born in 1949 in New Jersey, is an American singer, songwriter, and musician who has become one of the most iconic figures in rock and roll history. Known for his poetic lyrics, energetic live performances, and working-class ethos, Springsteen’s music has touched the hearts of millions around the world.

Springsteen first gained widespread recognition with his breakthrough album, “Born to Run”, released in 1975. Since then, he has released over 20 albums and has sold more than 150 million records worldwide. Springsteen’s music is characterized by its storytelling quality, often focusing on the lives and struggles of everyday people.

Beyond his music, Springsteen is also known for his passionate advocacy for social justice, including his support for various political causes and his charitable work for organizations such as the Bob Woodruff Foundation and the Robin Hood Foundation.

With his distinctive gravelly voice, driving rhythms, and powerful lyrics, Bruce Springsteen has cemented his place as one of the most influential and enduring figures in popular music. His music continues to inspire and connect with new generations of fans, and his impact on the cultural landscape of America and beyond is nothing short of monumental.

4. David Bowie

David Bowie was an English musician, singer, songwriter, and actor born in 1947. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential and innovative artists in the history of popular music, known for his distinctive voice, theatrical stage performances, and constantly evolving persona.

Bowie began his musical career in the late 1960s, releasing his debut album in 1967. However, it wasn’t until the early 1970s, with the release of his album “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars,” that he achieved mainstream success. The album, which tells the story of an alien rock star, established Bowie as a cultural icon and helped to popularize glam rock.

Throughout his career, Bowie constantly reinvented himself, experimenting with different musical styles and personas. He was known for his bold fashion choices, from his androgynous look in the 1970s to his sharp suits in the 1980s. His music explored themes of identity, alienation, and transformation, and he was revered for his songwriting skills.

Bowie’s impact on popular culture is immeasurable, and his music continues to inspire artists across genres. He passed away in 2016, but his legacy lives on through his music and the countless artists he influenced.

5. Al Green

Al Green is an American soul singer and songwriter who is widely regarded as one of the greatest voices in the history of popular music. Born in Arkansas in 1946, Green began his music career in the late 1960s and quickly became known for his powerful and emotive voice, his smooth and sensual delivery, and his ability to infuse his music with deep emotion and spirituality.

Green’s music is characterized by its soulful, gospel-inspired sound, as well as its themes of love, loss, and faith. His hits include “Let’s Stay Together,” “Tired of Being Alone,” and “I’m Still in Love with You,” among many others.

Green’s music has had a lasting impact on popular music, influencing countless artists across a wide range of genres. His smooth and soulful style has been emulated by everyone from R&B singers to pop stars, and his songs continue to be popular and well-loved decades after they were first released.

In addition to his music, Green is also known for his philanthropy and his activism. He has been involved in various charitable causes throughout his career, and he has also been a vocal advocate for social justice and civil rights.

6. Paul McCartney

Paul McCartney is a British singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist who rose to fame as a member of the Beatles, one of the most successful and influential bands in the history of popular music. Born in Liverpool in 1942, McCartney began his music career in the late 1950s and quickly became known for his catchy melodies, clever lyrics, and distinctive vocal style.

With the Beatles, McCartney helped to revolutionize popular music, introducing new sounds and styles that would influence generations of musicians to come. After the band’s breakup in 1970, McCartney went on to have a successful solo career, releasing a string of critically acclaimed albums and hit singles.

Throughout his career, McCartney has remained a beloved and influential figure in the world of music. He has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice, first as a member of the Beatles and then as a solo artist. He has also been recognized for his contributions to music with numerous awards and honors, including an appointment as a Companion of Honour by Queen Elizabeth II.

Paul McCartney’s enduring legacy as a songwriter and performer has made him one of the most important figures in the history of popular music, and his music continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.

7. Willie Nelson

Willie Nelson is an American singer, songwriter, musician, actor, and activist, born in 1933. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential and iconic country music artists of all time, and has had a career spanning over six decades.

Nelson began his music career in the 1950s as a songwriter, penning hits for other artists before releasing his debut album in 1962. However, it wasn’t until the mid-1970s that he achieved mainstream success, with the release of his album “Red Headed Stranger.” The album was a commercial and critical success, and established Nelson as a major force in country music.

Throughout his career, Nelson has released numerous hit songs and albums, and has collaborated with a wide range of artists from different genres. He is known for his distinctive voice, his guitar playing skills, and his signature bandana and braids hairstyle.

Nelson is also a political activist, and has been involved in various causes throughout his life, including environmentalism and the legalization of marijuana. He has won numerous awards and accolades for his music, and continues to tour and record new music to this day.

8. Bob Marley

Bob Marley was a Jamaican singer, songwriter, and musician who is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential musicians in the history of popular music. Born in 1945 in Jamaica, Marley began his music career in the late 1950s and quickly became known for his powerful voice, his catchy melodies, and his socially and politically conscious lyrics.

Marley’s music is characterized by its fusion of reggae, ska, and rock influences, as well as its themes of love, peace, and social justice. His hits include “One Love,” “No Woman, No Cry,” and “Redemption Song,” among many others.

Marley’s music has had a profound impact on popular music, and his legacy continues to inspire musicians and fans around the world. His songs have been covered by countless artists across a wide range of genres, and his message of peace, love, and unity remains as relevant today as it was during his lifetime.

In addition to his music, Marley was also known for his activism and his commitment to social justice. He was a vocal advocate for the rights of the oppressed and marginalized, and he used his music as a tool for raising awareness and inspiring change. Marley died in 1981 at the age of 36, but his music and his message continue to live on.

9. Robert Plant

Robert Plant is a British singer, songwriter, and musician who rose to fame as the lead vocalist of the legendary rock band Led Zeppelin. Born in West Bromwich, England in 1948, Plant began his music career in the mid-1960s, performing with a number of bands before joining Led Zeppelin in 1968.

With Led Zeppelin, Plant became known for his powerful, soulful vocals and dynamic stage presence, helping to establish the band as one of the most influential and successful rock groups of all time. He wrote and co-wrote many of the band’s most iconic songs, including “Stairway to Heaven,” “Kashmir,” and “Whole Lotta Love.”

After Led Zeppelin disbanded in 1980, Plant went on to have a successful solo career, exploring a wide range of musical styles and collaborating with a diverse array of artists. He has released numerous critically acclaimed albums, including the Grammy-winning Raising Sand, a collaboration with Alison Krauss.

Throughout his career, Plant has remained a beloved and influential figure in the world of rock music. He has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame both as a member of Led Zeppelin and as a solo artist, and he continues to tour and perform to enthusiastic audiences around the world.

10. Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson was an American singer, songwriter, dancer, and actor, born in 1958. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential and iconic figures in the history of popular music, and is often referred to as the “King of Pop.”

Jackson began his music career in the 1960s as a member of the Jackson 5, a Motown group formed by his family. He later embarked on a solo career in the 1980s, and released some of the most successful albums of all time, including “Thriller,” “Bad,” and “Dangerous.” His music videos, choreography, and live performances were groundbreaking and influential, and he was known for his distinctive voice and his trademark moonwalk dance move.

Jackson’s personal life was often the subject of media scrutiny, including his changing appearance and controversial allegations of child sexual abuse. However, his music and legacy continue to inspire and influence countless artists and fans around the world.

Jackson has won numerous awards and accolades for his music, including 13 Grammy Awards, and has sold over 350 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time. He died in 2009 at the age of 50, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most successful and innovative artists in the history of popular music.

11. Elton John

Elton John is a British singer, songwriter, and pianist who rose to fame in the 1970s with his unique blend of rock, pop, and glam influences. Born Reginald Dwight in 1947, he began playing piano at a young age and showed a prodigious talent for music. After changing his name to Elton John and teaming up with lyricist Bernie Taupin, he released a string of hit albums in the 1970s, including “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” “Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy,” and “Honky Chateau.”

Known for his flamboyant stage presence and elaborate costumes, Elton John became one of the most iconic and beloved performers of his era. His music has spanned a wide range of styles and genres, from the infectious pop of “Crocodile Rock” to the emotional balladry of “Candle in the Wind.”

Throughout his career, Elton John has sold over 300 million records worldwide and won numerous awards, including multiple Grammys, Brit Awards, and an Academy Award. He has also been a prominent philanthropist, particularly in his efforts to combat HIV/AIDS, and was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1998 for his contributions to music and charity.

Elton John’s music continues to inspire new generations of fans and his legacy as one of the greatest pop performers of all time remains secure.

12. Stevie Wonder

Stevie Wonder is an American singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist who became one of the most successful and influential musicians of the 20th century. Born Stevland Hardaway Judkins in 1950 in Saginaw, Michigan, Wonder began playing music at a young age and signed his first record deal at the age of 11.

Over the course of his career, Wonder became known for his incredible vocal range, his innovative use of technology, and his ability to blend a wide variety of musical styles, including R&B, soul, funk, and jazz. He wrote and recorded many of his own songs, including classics like “Superstition,” “Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours,” and “Isn’t She Lovely.”

In addition to his successful music career, Wonder has been an outspoken advocate for social justice and civil rights. He has used his platform to promote awareness and raise funds for causes like poverty, famine, and disability rights, and he has been recognized with numerous awards for his humanitarian work.

Despite facing health challenges in recent years, Wonder continues to perform and create music, and his influence on popular music can still be felt today. He has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame, among others.

13. Ozzy Osbourne

Ozzy Osbourne is an English singer, songwriter, and actor who rose to fame as the lead vocalist of the pioneering heavy metal band Black Sabbath. Born John Michael Osbourne in 1948 in Birmingham, England, Osbourne began his music career in the late 1960s, first with the band Rare Breed and later with Black Sabbath.

As the frontman of Black Sabbath, Osbourne helped to define the sound of heavy metal music with his distinctive vocals and theatrical stage presence. The band’s success paved the way for Osbourne’s solo career, which began in the 1980s with the release of his debut album, “Blizzard of Ozz.”

Throughout his career, Osbourne has been known for his wild and often controversial behavior, both on and off stage. He has struggled with addiction and faced numerous legal issues, but has also remained a beloved and influential figure in the rock music world.

In addition to his music career, Osbourne has also dabbled in acting, with notable roles in films like “Trick or Treat” and “Little Nicky.” He has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and has won multiple Grammy Awards for his contributions to music.

14. The Bee Gees

The Bee Gees were a British-Australian pop group consisting of three brothers: Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb. They rose to fame in the late 1960s and early 1970s with their distinctive harmonies, catchy melodies, and falsetto vocals. Their music blended elements of pop, soul, funk, and disco, and their influence can still be heard in contemporary pop music.

The Bee Gees had a string of hits throughout the 1970s, including “Stayin’ Alive,” “How Deep Is Your Love,” and “Night Fever.” They were also known for their contributions to the soundtrack of the 1977 film “Saturday Night Fever,” which became one of the best-selling albums of all time.

Despite a decline in popularity in the 1980s, the Bee Gees continued to record and tour throughout the following decades, and their music has remained a beloved part of pop culture. Their legacy has been recognized with numerous awards, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997.

Sadly, both Maurice and Robin Gibb passed away in the 2000s, but the legacy of the Bee Gees lives on, and their music continues to inspire and entertain new generations of fans.

15. Ronnie Van Zant

Ronnie Van Zant was an American singer, songwriter, and musician, best known as the lead vocalist and founding member of the Southern rock band, Lynyrd Skynyrd. Born in 1948 in Florida, Van Zant grew up in a musical family and began singing at a young age. He formed Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1964 with his younger brother, guitarist Allen Collins, and over the years, the band gained a reputation for their hard-driving sound and Van Zant’s powerful vocals.

Lynyrd Skynyrd achieved great success in the 1970s, with hits like “Sweet Home Alabama,” “Free Bird,” and “Simple Man.” Van Zant’s lyrics often dealt with social issues and the struggles of the working class, and he was known for his gritty, bluesy voice and charismatic stage presence.

Tragically, Van Zant and several other members of Lynyrd Skynyrd were killed in a plane crash in 1977, cutting short a promising career and leaving a lasting impact on the world of rock music. Van Zant’s legacy lives on through his music and the continued popularity of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s catalog. He is remembered as a talented and influential singer and songwriter, and a key figure in the Southern rock movement.

16. Barry White

Barry White was an American singer, songwriter, and record producer, known for his deep, rich voice and romantic ballads. Born in 1944 in Galveston, Texas, White began his music career in the 1960s as a producer and arranger for various artists, but it wasn’t until the 1970s that he achieved major success as a solo artist.

White’s music was characterized by lush orchestration, heavy basslines, and his distinctive baritone voice. His romantic ballads, such as “Can’t Get Enough of Your Love, Babe” and “You’re the First, the Last, My Everything,” became signature songs of the era and cemented his status as a sex symbol and heartthrob.

White’s success continued into the 1980s and 1990s, with hits such as “Never, Never Gonna Give You Up” and “Practice What You Preach.” He won multiple Grammy Awards throughout his career and was inducted into the Dance Music Hall of Fame in 2004.

White’s music has had a lasting impact on popular culture and has been sampled by numerous artists in various genres. His soulful, romantic style and deep, expressive voice continue to inspire and move listeners today.

17. Steven Tyler

Steven Tyler is an American singer, songwriter, and musician, best known as the lead vocalist of the rock band Aerosmith. Born in 1948 in New York, Tyler formed Aerosmith in the early 1970s with guitarist Joe Perry, bassist Tom Hamilton, drummer Joey Kramer, and guitarist Ray Tabano.

Tyler’s distinctive vocal style, which combines powerful screaming with bluesy inflections, helped establish Aerosmith as one of the most successful and influential rock bands of the 1970s and beyond. With hit songs such as “Dream On,” “Walk This Way,” and “Sweet Emotion,” Tyler and Aerosmith helped shape the sound of American rock music.

Tyler is also known for his flamboyant stage presence and charismatic personality. He has a reputation for being one of rock’s most energetic and entertaining performers, with a dynamic and unpredictable stage presence that has made him a favorite of audiences worldwide.

In addition to his work with Aerosmith, Tyler has released solo albums and collaborated with other musicians. He has also appeared as a judge on the television singing competition show American Idol.

With his powerful voice, dynamic stage presence, and enduring influence on American rock music, Steven Tyler has become a beloved and iconic figure in the world of music.

18. Bob Seger

Bob Seger is an American singer-songwriter and musician known for his distinctive raspy voice and his ability to blend rock, folk, and soul influences into his music. He first gained national attention in the late 1970s with his album “Night Moves,” which included the hit title track as well as “Mainstreet” and “Rock and Roll Never Forgets.”

Seger continued to produce hit albums throughout the 1980s, including “Against the Wind,” which won a Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1981. Other popular songs from this period include “Old Time Rock and Roll,” “Like a Rock,” and “Shakedown,” which was featured in the film “Beverly Hills Cop II.”

Despite a decline in popularity in the 1990s, Seger continued to tour and release new music, including the 2014 album “Ride Out,” which was his first album of new material in eight years. He has been recognized with numerous awards, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004 and a Billboard Icon Award in 2015.

Seger’s music has influenced generations of musicians and fans, and his songs continue to be a staple of classic rock radio.

19. Billy Joel

Billy Joel is an American singer, songwriter, and pianist who rose to prominence in the 1970s and 1980s with hits such as “Piano Man,” “New York State of Mind,” and “Uptown Girl.” Born in 1949 in New York, Joel began studying piano at a young age and was influenced by a wide range of musical styles, including classical, rock, and blues.

Joel’s music often reflects his personal experiences, with themes of love, loss, and the struggles of everyday life. He has been praised for his ability to craft catchy melodies and his skillful piano playing, and has sold millions of records worldwide.

Over the course of his career, Joel has won numerous awards, including six Grammy Awards and a Tony Award for his musical theater work. He has also been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Today, Joel is regarded as one of the most successful and respected singer-songwriters of his generation, with a legacy that continues to inspire and influence new generations of musicians.

20. John Fogerty

John Fogerty is an American singer, songwriter, and musician, best known as the lead vocalist and guitarist for the rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival. Born in 1945 in Berkeley, California, Fogerty formed Creedence Clearwater Revival in the late 1960s with his brother Tom Fogerty, bassist Stu Cook, and drummer Doug Clifford.

As the primary songwriter for the band, Fogerty wrote and sang hits such as “Proud Mary,” “Bad Moon Rising,” and “Fortunate Son,” which became anthems of the Vietnam War era. His distinctive voice, twangy guitar sound, and socially conscious lyrics helped define the sound of American rock music in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

After Creedence Clearwater Revival disbanded in the early 1970s, Fogerty embarked on a successful solo career. His solo hits include “Centerfield,” “The Old Man Down the Road,” and “Rock and Roll Girls.” He has also collaborated with other musicians, including the likes of Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band.

Fogerty’s influence on American rock music has been widely recognized, and he has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice – once with Creedence Clearwater Revival and once as a solo artist. His distinctive guitar playing and powerful vocals continue to inspire and influence musicians today.