1. “Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” – Edison Lighthouse
This sunny little pop tune was a hit in 1970, but for decades it was the kind of song you’d hear only if you stumbled across an oldies station. With its upbeat melody and sweetly nonsensical lyrics, it seemed destined to stay tucked away in a dusty corner of music history. That is, until social media started using it in videos, and suddenly, it became a charming backdrop for everything from fashion montages to pet clips.
Its breezy, bubblegum vibe feels timeless, and younger audiences are discovering that not all love songs need to be heavy or dramatic. The rediscovery has sparked new covers, remixes, and even commercials featuring the track. There’s something undeniably uplifting about its cheery optimism, making it a perfect example of how a simple melody can stick around for generations. Now, it’s getting a second life, decades after its first run at the top of the charts.
2. “I’d Love You to Want Me” – Lobo
Lobo’s mellow 1972 hit was a slow-burn romance set to soft rock perfection, and while it was a huge success internationally, it quietly faded from U.S. playlists. The gentle guitar work and warm, earnest lyrics still strike a chord with anyone who’s ever been quietly infatuated. For a while, it seemed to belong only to vintage record collectors and the occasional easy-listening compilation.
Now, the song is enjoying a revival thanks to streaming playlists dedicated to ’70s soft rock and yacht rock. Its understated sincerity makes it feel fresh in a time when overproduced love songs are everywhere. Younger listeners are appreciating how unforced and intimate it feels, like a conversation between two people rather than a grand performance. It’s proof that sometimes, all a song needs to endure is honesty and a good melody.
3. “Mr. Blue Sky” – Electric Light Orchestra
Released in 1977, this ELO track has always been a cult favorite, but it never quite reached the mainstream recognition it deserved during its original run. Its layered harmonies and joyful arrangement made it stand out, yet it was overshadowed by flashier disco hits at the time. For decades, it mostly popped up in deep-cut collections or among die-hard fans’ playlists.
Then came its use in movies like Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, and suddenly, “Mr. Blue Sky” was everywhere. Its infectious energy feels tailor-made for montages and happy moments, and listeners new and old have embraced it. The song’s optimism and clever production are finally getting the recognition they deserve. It’s the rare case of a song being more popular now than it was when it first came out.
4. “Precious and Few” – Climax
This 1972 ballad, drenched in romantic sentiment, once topped the charts but was nearly forgotten in the decades after. Its silky vocals and dreamy arrangement capture that sweet, slightly syrupy sound of early ’70s love songs. For years, it was mostly remembered by couples who had danced to it at weddings in its heyday.
Recently, it’s been popping up again in nostalgic playlists and on TikTok, where users are pairing it with old family footage. Its simple expression of longing and commitment resonates in a way that feels refreshing today. In a music world full of irony, “Precious and Few” is unapologetically sentimental. That’s probably why it’s finding a whole new audience among people who weren’t even born when it first hit the airwaves.
5. “Lonely Boy” – Andrew Gold
When it debuted in 1977, “Lonely Boy” was a quirky, autobiographical pop-rock track with a catchy hook, but it didn’t have the staying power of Gold’s other work, like “Thank You for Being a Friend.” Its bittersweet storytelling and upbeat melody gave it a unique feel that wasn’t easily categorized. Over time, it slipped into semi-obscurity, overshadowed by more mainstream pop hits.
But streaming algorithms have a way of pulling forgotten gems back into the spotlight. “Lonely Boy” is finding new listeners who appreciate its blend of pop craft and lyrical wit. Its themes of growing up, feeling left out, and moving on are still universal. The song’s recent revival shows that good storytelling in music never really goes out of style.
6. “Fooled Around and Fell in Love” – Elvin Bishop
This 1975 classic, featuring Mickey Thomas on vocals, was a hit in its day but faded somewhat from the broader pop culture conversation. Its smooth, soulful delivery and heartfelt lyrics made it a slow-dance favorite. For years, it was more likely to be heard on classic rock stations than anywhere else.
Its inclusion in Guardians of the Galaxy reignited interest, sending it up streaming charts decades after its original release. Younger listeners have embraced it as a timeless love song, while longtime fans are thrilled to see it getting recognition again. It’s one of those tracks that proves a great performance can give a song eternal charm. Now, it’s back in rotation and sounding as fresh as ever.
7. “Magic” – Pilot
When Pilot released “Magic” in 1974, it was a feel-good anthem with a whimsical chorus that could stick in your head for days. It had a solid run on the charts but ended up as one of those songs you might hear once in a while on the radio without remembering the band’s name. For years, it seemed destined to be a one-hit wonder lost to time.
But the song has made a comeback through commercials, movie soundtracks, and streaming playlists. Its breezy optimism fits perfectly into summer playlists and feel-good compilations. The line “Oh, oh, oh, it’s magic” has even become a pop culture catchphrase again. Sometimes, all it takes is the right placement in a movie or ad to breathe new life into a song.
8. “Moonlight Feels Right” – Starbuck
This 1976 soft rock track had a unique charm thanks to its marimba solo and romantic, beachy vibe. It was a hit in its day but slipped into near obscurity over time, remembered mainly by fans of yacht rock. Its smooth, slightly whimsical style didn’t fit neatly into later musical trends, so it was left behind.
In recent years, however, its mellow groove has been rediscovered by streaming audiences. It’s popping up on chill-out playlists and retro-themed radio shows. The song’s easygoing feel makes it perfect for warm-weather listening. It’s the kind of track you didn’t realize you missed until you hear it again and suddenly feel transported to a summer evening in the ’70s.
9. “Baker Street” – Gerry Rafferty
When “Baker Street” hit the airwaves in 1978, that smooth, unforgettable saxophone riff instantly set it apart. The song’s mix of introspective lyrics and polished production made it a staple of late-’70s radio. For years, it was hard to escape — then, almost as suddenly, it drifted into the background, remembered mainly by those who grew up with it.
Lately, it’s been making a strong return through streaming playlists and TV and movie soundtracks. That iconic sax line has also found new life in memes and short-form videos, introducing it to listeners who weren’t even alive when it first topped the charts. The moody yet uplifting feel still resonates, proving why it became a classic in the first place. “Baker Street” is once again turning heads, decades after its original run.
10. “You’re So Vain” – Carly Simon
Released in 1972, “You’re So Vain” became one of the most talked-about songs of the decade thanks to its sly, pointed lyrics and Simon’s velvety delivery. The mystery over who the song was actually about kept it in headlines, but as time passed, it started to slip off heavy radio rotation. Even though it was a massive hit, it seemed to belong more to ’70s nostalgia than everyday playlists.
In the last few years, it’s made a strong return through streaming services, movie soundtracks, and social media debates about the song’s subject. New listeners are charmed by its mix of sass and sophistication, while older fans relish its sharp wit. It’s the perfect example of how a song with personality can remain relevant long after its debut. Now, it’s back in the spotlight — and still making people guess.
11. “Love Will Keep Us Together” – Captain & Tennille
This 1975 chart-topper was everywhere for a time, but like many bright, bubbly hits, it eventually became more of a memory than a regular radio staple. Its upbeat tempo and affectionate lyrics made it a pop anthem of its day. As musical tastes shifted, it slowly slipped into the background.
Now, it’s reappearing in commercials and wedding playlists. Its message of lasting love is just as appealing now as it was in the ’70s. The catchy chorus still hooks people instantly, no matter their age. It’s the kind of feel-good pop that never truly goes out of style, just waits for the right moment to return.
12. “American Pie” – Don McLean
In 1971, “American Pie” captured the cultural mood with its sprawling, poetic verses and unforgettable chorus. Its references to “the day the music died” and the shifting tides of rock ’n’ roll gave it a mythic quality. The song was a chart-topper, but its eight-and-a-half-minute run time meant it wasn’t played as often once radio leaned toward shorter hits.
Today, it’s making a comeback with renewed sing-along appeal at events and in films. Its layered lyrics are sparking new discussions about their meaning, introducing McLean’s masterpiece to listeners who weren’t around for its debut. It’s part history lesson, part timeless folk-pop epic — and it’s finding fresh ears all over again.
13. “Listen to the Music” – The Doobie Brothers
When The Doobie Brothers released “Listen to the Music” in 1972, it was a sunny invitation to let go of your worries and enjoy the moment. Its feel-good guitar riffs and harmonies made it a staple of the era, though it eventually gave way to the band’s later hits in radio rotation. For years, it felt like the kind of song you’d only hear on certain oldies stations.
Its revival has been boosted by TV ads, streaming playlists, and a growing appreciation for ’70s soft rock. Younger listeners love its breezy optimism, while longtime fans are happy to see it get attention again. It’s one of those tracks that works in any setting, from a road trip to a backyard party. Once again, people are taking the Doobie Brothers’ advice — and listening to the music.
14. “Let’s Stay Together” – Al Green
This 1971 soul classic was smooth, romantic, and effortlessly cool, making it an instant hit upon release. Over the years, it remained beloved among soul fans but was heard less frequently outside that circle as newer love songs took over the airwaves. Still, Al Green’s silky voice and the song’s perfect groove never really disappeared from memory.
In recent years, it’s been rediscovered thanks to appearances in movies, TV shows, and even political speeches. Its timeless message and laid-back charm resonate just as much now as they did in the ’70s. It’s the kind of song that can set the mood in seconds, proving why it’s one of the most enduring tracks of the decade.
15. “Sweet Home Alabama” – Lynyrd Skynyrd
This Southern rock anthem from 1974 was once inescapable, with its instantly recognizable guitar riff and sing-along chorus. Over time, though, it became more of a regional classic than a global staple, fading slightly from everyday playlists. For many, it was a song they knew by heart but hadn’t heard in a while.
Its comeback has been fueled by movies, commercials, and sporting events, where its energy and familiarity hit just right. Younger generations are discovering it as a party staple, while longtime fans are embracing the nostalgia. Whether you’re from Alabama or not, it’s hard not to belt out that chorus when it kicks in.
16. “Hotel California” – Eagles
When “Hotel California” came out in 1976, it was mysterious, moody, and unforgettable — and it quickly became one of the Eagles’ signature songs. Its haunting lyrics and epic guitar solo made it a rock radio fixture, but over time, even this classic became less common in daily rotation. It was the kind of track you might hear only on classic rock nights or greatest hits collections.
Now, it’s enjoying a new wave of appreciation, popping up in films, live covers, and viral guitar tutorials. Younger listeners are drawn to its storytelling, while older fans know every note of that iconic solo. It’s a reminder that some songs aren’t just hits — they’re experiences. And “Hotel California” remains one of the most unforgettable trips in rock history.
