June is a month of vibrant celebration and profound reflection as we honor Black Music Month, a time dedicated to acknowledging and appreciating the invaluable contributions of Black artists to the global tapestry of music. From the spirituals that powered resilience to the revolutionary beats of Hip-Hop, Black musicians have consistently pushed boundaries, innovated genres, and provided the soundtrack to cultural movements. As we delve into this rich legacy, one decade stands out for its transformative power, its undeniable groove, and its potent blend of social commentary with pure musical genius: the 1970s.
BET recently curated a definitive list of the "20 Best Songs of All Time – The 1970s" for Black Music Month, a collection that serves as a powerful time capsule, showcasing the era's boundless creativity and its enduring influence on music today. The 1970s witnessed a profound evolution in Black music, moving beyond the Motown sound of the 60s into more expansive, experimental, and often socially conscious territory. It was the decade where Funk solidified its dominance, Soul found new depths, and the very foundations of Hip-Hop were laid.
Let's unpack some of the monumental tracks that defined this incredible era, as highlighted by BET:
Kicking off the decade with a bang was James Brown's "Funky Drummer" (March 1970). While it initially peaked modestly on the R&B charts, this track has since earned its legendary status as the most sampled song of all time. Clyde Stubblefield's iconic drum solo became the literal backbone for countless Hip-Hop anthems, proving that sometimes, the true impact of a song isn't measured in its initial chart performance but in its foundational influence on an entire genre. Brown’s subsequent "Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine" (1970) further solidified his status as the architect of Funk, with its infectious groove and raw energy laying the groundwork for a musical explosion.
The Jackson 5, with their effervescent energy, gave us "I'll Be There" (August 1970). While sharing lead vocals with Jermaine, it was 11-year-old Michael Jackson's poignant delivery that truly made this song a timeless classic. A testament to his burgeoning genius, this track foreshadowed a solo career that would redefine pop music. It's no surprise it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
Perhaps no song better encapsulates the spirit of the early 70s than Marvin Gaye's "What's Going On" (January 1971). Famously, Motown head Berry Gordy initially resisted Gaye's vision for a "protest" album, but Gaye's persistence gifted the world a masterpiece. This poignant anthem, deeply rooted in the Black experience in America, tackled war, poverty, and environmental decay, resonating with millions and becoming an enduring soundtrack to social change. Its blend of soulful melodies with profound lyrical depth set a new standard for artistry with a message.
Isaac Hayes' "Theme from Shaft" (September 1971) not only soared to #1 on the pop charts but also earned him an Oscar for Best Original Song in 1972, making him the first African American to achieve this feat. Its lush orchestrations and undeniable cool perfectly captured the gritty essence of the blaxploitation era. Similarly, Curtis Mayfield's "Superfly" (July 1972) soundtrack was quintessential. Beyond its funky grooves, it unflinchingly exposed the harsh realities of drug addiction, showcasing Black creative talent collaborating to produce a powerful cinematic and musical experience.
The Temptations delivered a definitive song about parental abandonment with "Papa Was a Rolling Stone" (May 1972). This psychedelic soul epic, brimming with social commentary, became a #1 hit and earned two Grammys, marking a significant moment in Motown's evolution. Gladys Knight and the Pips, after leaving Motown, found their first #1 record with the inspired "Midnight Train to Georgia" (1973), a song originally inspired by Farrah Fawcett that resonated deeply with themes of loyalty and love.
The 1970s also gifted us with the introspective brilliance of Donny Hathaway's "Someday We'll All Be Free" (1973), the gentle power of Roberta Flack's "Killing Me Softly With His Song" (January 1973), and the global reggae influence of Bob Marley's "I Shot the Sheriff" (February 1973). Aretha Franklin's enduring vocal prowess shone on "Until You Come Back to Me (That's What I'm Gonna Do)" (November 1973), while Labelle's "Lady Marmalade" (November 1974) brought a sassy, unforgettable anthem to the disco era's burgeoning energy.
Tracks like The O'Jays' "For the Love of Money" (April 1973) and William DeVaughn's "Be Thankful for What You Got" (March 1973) offered insightful social commentary. Minnie Riperton's ethereal vocals on "Lovin' You" (January 1974) provided a moment of tender romance. As the decade progressed, Earth, Wind & Fire's spiritual and uplifting "That's The Way Of The World" (June 1975) and Stevie Wonder's incredibly intricate and joyful "I Wish" (November 1976) continued to showcase the diverse genius of Black artists. The decade closed out with disco's undeniable rise, represented by Chic's "Good Times" (1979) and Sister Sledge's empowering "We Are Family" (April 1979), even as The Sugarhill Gang's "Rapper's Delight" (September 1979) laid the undeniable groundwork for Hip-Hop's explosion in the 80s.
The 1970s were more than just a decade of fantastic music; they were a crucible of cultural transformation. Black artists used their platforms to address critical social issues, celebrate Black identity, and explore new musical frontiers. Their innovations in funk, soul, R&B, and the nascent sounds of Hip-Hop didn't just top charts; they reshaped the entire landscape of popular music and continue to influence generations of artists across all genres. As we celebrate Black Music Month, let us truly appreciate the profound and lasting legacy of these 70s trailblazers, whose music continues to inspire, move, and resonate with us today.
