1. “Sister Golden Hair” by America (1975)
America had a few huge hits, but “Sister Golden Hair” never seemed to get the same long-term love as “A Horse with No Name.” That’s starting to change, though, as listeners rediscover just how strong this track really is. The blend of soft rock with just a touch of melancholy gives it an emotional edge that hits differently now. And that George Harrison-inspired guitar riff? Pure magic.
Lyrically, it’s more complex than it sounds, touching on fear of commitment and emotional vulnerability in a surprisingly honest way. For a song that once felt like a gentle radio filler, it’s now being appreciated as one of the band’s most thoughtful and well-crafted tracks. It’s the kind of song you return to and find something new in every time.
2. “The Things We Do for Love” by 10cc (1976)
At one time, 10cc was best known for their quirky hits like “I’m Not in Love,” but this one quietly hung out in the background. “The Things We Do for Love” is breezy, melodic, and emotionally honest in a way that’s really starting to resonate again. It didn’t get as much airplay over the years, but it’s recently been showing up in commercials, soundtracks, and cozy indie covers.
Its mix of pop warmth and lyrical wit is exactly what people are craving now. 10cc had a knack for crafting songs that felt simple but were secretly brilliant, and this one is finally being appreciated as a pop gem in its own right.
3. “Magnet and Steel” by Walter Egan (1978)
For a while, this one seemed like just another soft rock love song lost in the shuffle of the late ’70s. But dig a little deeper and it’s got some serious star power, with Fleetwood Mac’s Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks lending vocals and production help. That dreamy, almost hypnotic sound has aged surprisingly well and is suddenly showing up all over curated retro playlists.
There’s something undeniably romantic about the way Egan sings it, almost like he’s in a trance. It’s the kind of song that floats into your mind and lingers, and listeners are starting to give it the attention it always deserved.
4. “Do Ya” by Electric Light Orchestra (1976)
It’s wild that this one ever slipped through the cracks considering it was written by Jeff Lynne and has one of the most memorable riffs of the decade. Originally recorded with The Move, then reimagined by ELO, “Do Ya” didn’t get the same love as hits like “Mr. Blue Sky.” But lately, people are realizing just how electrifying it is.
It’s got all the hallmarks of classic ELO—huge guitars, dramatic strings, and Lynne’s distinctive voice—but with a more raw, rocking edge. The fact that it’s finally getting its due speaks to how timeless good rock and roll can be.
5. “Baby Come Back” by Player (1977)
This one had its moment when it came out, but for decades afterward, it became a bit of a punchline for soft rock clichés. That is, until it started popping up again in movies and shows where people realized it actually slaps. The groove is tight, the vocals are smooth, and the chorus is pure gold.
What’s especially fun is that younger listeners are discovering it for the first time and treating it like a brand new track. It’s the kind of song that turns a car ride into karaoke, and honestly, it’s always deserved that kind of spotlight.
6. “Somebody to Love” by Queen (1976)
It might sound strange to call a Queen song forgotten, but for a long time, this one played second fiddle to hits like “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “We Will Rock You.” But lately, “Somebody to Love” is experiencing a major renaissance, thanks to movies, TV shows, and the rise of Freddie Mercury tributes.
It showcases everything Queen did best—gospel-inspired harmonies, theatrical delivery, and Mercury pouring his whole soul into every word. People are finally recognizing it as one of their most powerful ballads, and it’s claiming its rightful place among Queen’s greatest moments.
