1. Ram Jam
In 1977, Ram Jam exploded onto the airwaves with their gritty, high-octane version of “Black Betty.” The song’s pounding rhythm, bluesy swagger, and instantly recognizable hook made it a quick Top 20 hit on the Billboard charts. It became a staple at sporting events, in movies, and on classic rock playlists. For a moment, it seemed like they might be one of the next big names in hard rock.
But that early momentum didn’t last long. Their follow-up singles failed to connect with audiences, and their second album came and went without much notice. By the end of the decade, the group had faded from the charts entirely. Still, “Black Betty” lives on as their loud, fast, and unforgettable claim to fame.
2. Starland Vocal Band
The Starland Vocal Band hit number one in 1976 with the sunny, harmony-filled “Afternoon Delight.” Sweet and catchy on the surface, the song also carried slyly suggestive lyrics that made people do a double-take. It earned them two Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist, and led to a short-lived variety show. For a brief time, they seemed like they’d have a long future in pop.
But lightning didn’t strike twice. Their later albums failed to produce another memorable single, and their variety show only lasted one season. By the early ’80s, the band had quietly called it quits. Today, “Afternoon Delight” is their lasting legacy, a soft rock classic with a wink.
3. Norman Greenbaum
Norman Greenbaum’s “Spirit in the Sky” came out in 1969, but it rolled into the ’70s as one of the most distinctive rock songs of the era. With its fuzzed-out guitar riff and gospel-style backing vocals, it stood out instantly. The single sold millions worldwide and became a fixture in movies and commercials. For Greenbaum, it was an unexpected and massive success.
But his follow-up singles failed to chart, and he never reached that same level of popularity again. Within a few years, he stepped away from the spotlight entirely. The song, however, has never faded from pop culture. Even today, “Spirit in the Sky” is a licensing favorite for film and TV.
4. Pilot
Scottish band Pilot struck gold in 1974 with “Magic,” a light and breezy pop-rock tune that seemed tailor-made for summer. The single climbed into the Top 10 in the U.S. and number one in Canada. Its upbeat chorus and bright production made it one of the happiest-sounding songs of the decade. The band quickly gained international attention.
But they couldn’t keep that momentum going in America. While “January” topped the charts in the UK, it barely registered in the States. By the late ’70s, Pilot had broken up, with members moving on to other projects. Still, “Magic” lives on in movies, commercials, and nostalgic playlists.
5. The Knack
In 1979, The Knack delivered “My Sharona,” a punchy, guitar-driven single that dominated the Billboard Hot 100 for six weeks. Its unforgettable riff and youthful energy turned it into one of the biggest songs of the year. The band was suddenly being compared to the Beatles in terms of hype. For a while, they were everywhere — on TV, radio, and magazine covers.
But the backlash came just as quickly. Critics accused them of being overhyped, and their next singles couldn’t match “My Sharona’s” success. By the early ’80s, their fame had fizzled out. Today, the song remains a late-’70s rock anthem and their enduring signature hit.
6. Wild Cherry
Wild Cherry’s “Play That Funky Music” hit number one in 1976, blending rock and disco in a way that felt fresh and fun. Its funky bassline and cheeky lyrics made it a dance floor favorite. The song went platinum and earned them international attention. It was one of the most memorable crossover hits of the decade.
But the group couldn’t replicate that magic. Later singles failed to chart, and by 1979, they had disbanded. Their brief run left just that one huge single behind. Even now, “Play That Funky Music” still gets people out of their seats.
7. Elvin Bishop
In 1976, Elvin Bishop scored a huge crossover hit with “Fooled Around and Fell in Love.” Featuring the smooth vocals of Mickey Thomas, the soft rock ballad climbed into the Top 5 on the Billboard charts. Its heartfelt lyrics and dreamy guitar solo made it a wedding and slow-dance favorite for decades. It was a surprising shift for Bishop, who was better known for blues-rock.
While he remained active as a musician, Bishop never had another mainstream hit of that size. His later work found an audience among blues fans, but “Fooled Around and Fell in Love” remained his signature tune. The song’s enduring popularity on movie soundtracks has kept it alive for new generations. Even now, it’s hard not to sing along when it comes on.
8. Mungo Jerry
Mungo Jerry’s “In the Summertime” was released in 1970 and became one of the best-selling singles of all time. Its playful rhythm and easygoing lyrics made it a seasonal anthem. The track was an instant hit across multiple countries. It was everything a summer song should be — light, catchy, and fun.
While they enjoyed more chart success in the UK, they couldn’t match that level in the U.S. Changing trends and shifting lineups didn’t help. They’ve continued performing in various forms over the years. But “In the Summertime” is still the song most people associate with their name.
9. Redbone
Redbone’s 1974 hit “Come and Get Your Love” blended funk, rock, and Native American influences into one smooth groove. It climbed into the Top 5 and became a crossover favorite. The track’s infectious beat and warm harmonies gave it a lasting charm. It stood out from almost everything else on the radio at the time.
Though they had a few smaller hits, none reached the same heights. By the late ’70s, their mainstream chart days were over. Decades later, the song found new fans thanks to blockbuster movie soundtracks. Today, it’s a pop culture staple, but still their signature tune.
10. Sweet
Sweet scored a U.S. Top 5 hit in 1973 with “Little Willy,” a playful glam rock single that stood out from typical American radio fare. Its bouncy rhythm and fun lyrics made it a hit with younger listeners. The band’s over-the-top style made them memorable. It also helped open the door for glam rock in the States.
Although they had bigger hits like “Ballroom Blitz” in other countries, “Little Willy” remained their highest-charting American single. Internal tensions and lineup changes followed. By the late ’70s, their popularity had waned in the U.S. Still, “Little Willy” is a staple on oldies playlists.
11. Free
In 1970, Free released “All Right Now,” a blues-rock anthem that became a global hit. Paul Rodgers’ powerful vocals and Paul Kossoff’s guitar work gave it a timeless edge. It reached the Top 5 in the U.S. and cemented the band’s place in rock history. It remains one of the most played tracks in classic rock radio.
But they couldn’t match that same success with later singles in America. Internal struggles and health issues contributed to their breakup in 1973. Rodgers went on to form Bad Company, but “All Right Now” remains Free’s signature track. Its riff still gets crowds cheering decades later.
12. Player
In 1977, Player took the soft rock scene by storm with “Baby Come Back.” The smooth, romantic ballad shot to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and became one of the most recognizable love songs of the decade. Its polished harmonies and heartfelt lyrics made it a staple on radio and in countless mixtapes. For a while, Player seemed poised to join the ranks of other big-name soft rock acts.
But their follow-up singles never reached the same level of success. By the early ’80s, the group’s chart presence had faded, though they continued to perform. “Baby Come Back” remains their lasting legacy, still popping up in commercials, movies, and nostalgic playlists. Even today, it’s hard to resist singing along when it plays.
13. The Ozark Mountain Daredevils
The Ozark Mountain Daredevils broke into the mainstream in 1974 with “Jackie Blue,” a mellow, catchy tune that perfectly blended country-rock and pop. The song reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and gave the band nationwide recognition. Its laid-back vibe fit perfectly with mid-’70s radio playlists, and it became a go-to track for easy listening.
Although they enjoyed regional popularity and a loyal fan base, they never replicated that massive chart success. By the end of the decade, their mainstream presence had cooled considerably. “Jackie Blue” remains their most famous track, still heard on classic hits stations. It’s a song that instantly transports listeners back to the mid-’70s.
14. Ace
Ace hit it big in 1974 with “How Long,” a soulful soft rock single driven by Paul Carrack’s smooth vocals. The song climbed into the Top 5 in the U.S. and became a favorite for both rock and pop audiences. Its mix of laid-back groove and bittersweet lyrics gave it staying power. At the time, it seemed like the start of a promising run.
But the band never scored another hit on the same scale. By the late ’70s, Ace had broken up, with Carrack going on to greater success with groups like Squeeze and Mike + The Mechanics. “How Long” remains their calling card, a soft rock gem that still feels fresh decades later.
