A trip down memory lane doesn’t always lead to the big hits. You might rediscover hidden gems and songs that once topped the charts but have nearly vanished from playlists. Here are 30 such tracks from the 1970s that deserve another spin.
1. Wayne Newton – “Daddy, Don’t You Walk So Fast”
A sentimental ballad that was a big hit in 1972, loved for its heartfelt lyrics and smooth delivery. Yet nowadays it barely gets airtime and has become a true “lost hit.”
2. Chuck Berry – “My Ding-a-Ling”
This novelty song shot to number one in 1972 thanks to its playful humor, but has since faded into pop culture obscurity. Its cheeky nature makes it memorable yet seldom revisited.
3. Melanie – “Lay Down (Candles in the Rain)”
A stirring, communal folk-rock track tied to the Woodstock era, yet overshadowed by bigger 70s anthems. Its spiritual fervor and choral feel still resonate, and yet few remember it today.
4. Murray Head & Trinidad Singers – “Superstar”
A dramatic, gospel-infused rendition of the famous song, it grabbed attention in 1971 but has largely disappeared from modern retrospectives. It’s a powerful performance that deserves a second listen.
5. Paul Anka – “(You’re) Having My Baby”
A controversial but chart-topping 1974 ballad that sparked mixed reactions and has since drifted out of regular rotation. It offers a glimpse into the romantic sensibilities of the era, even if it doesn’t age gracefully.
6. Donny Osmond – “Sweet and Innocent”
A teen idol staple in 1971, this charming ballad showcased young Donny’s earnest vocals but now rarely surfaces on oldies stations. It’s a reminder of the era’s squeaky-clean pop.
7. The Osmonds – “Down by the Lazy River”
An upbeat, family-band pop hit in 1972 that captured the breezy side of 70s vocal groups. Today, its catchy hooks are largely forgotten outside fan circles.
8. Kenny Rogers & The First Edition – “Something’s Burning”
Smoky and sultry, this 1970 track highlighted a country-pop fusion that predated Rogers’s solo stardom. It’s a smooth, understated gem that doesn’t get the credit it deserves.
9. Mel & Tim – “Starting All Over Again”
A soulful reunion ballad from 1972 that perfectly expresses romantic nostalgia. Despite its emotional punch, it rarely appears in modern soul or retro playlists.
10. Starbuck – “Moonlight Feels Right”
This breezy 1976 soft rock hit, complete with a memorable marimba solo, was a summer radio favorite. Its dreamy charm has faded from the spotlight, but it still captures the carefree vibe of the decade.
11. Donny & Marie Osmond – “Deep Purple”
A tender 1976 duet with lush orchestration that spotlighted their sibling harmony. It’s a beautiful track that seldom appears in retrospective collections.
12. Shaun Cassidy – “Da Doo Ron Ron”
A cover that topped charts in 1977 for its teen idol energy and sugary pop sound. But with Shaun’s waning mainstream presence, the song is often lost to 70s nostalgia.
13. Alice Cooper – “You and Me”
A surprising soft-rock turn for the shock-rock icon in 1977, this tender love ballad showcased his vocal range. It’s an underrated piece of his catalog that rarely sees airplay.
14. England Dan & John Ford Coley – “Love Is the Answer”
A tender 1979 soft rock ballad with heartfelt lyrics and smooth harmonies that once resonated with listeners. Though it carried a hopeful message, it’s now mostly absent from classic hits radio.
15. Helen Reddy – “I Don’t Know How to Love Him”
Her dramatic 1971 rendition of the Andrew Lloyd Webber classic was powerful, but it has since slipped from public memory. It’s a striking performance that deserves rediscovery.
16. Firefall – “Strange Way”
Released in 1978, this soft rock track blended bittersweet lyrics with a smooth, melodic sound. Despite being a hit at the time, it’s rarely mentioned alongside the decade’s enduring classics.
17. Chakachas – “Jungle Fever”
A funky, Latin-tinged groove from 1972, known for its instrumental flair more than lyrics. It’s a dancefloor standout that’s rarely remembered in mainstream circles.
18. The Floaters – “Float On”
This 1977 soulful ballad is remembered for its unique spoken-word introductions and mellow groove. Though it topped R&B charts, it has mostly drifted out of mainstream consciousness since then.
19. Partridge Family – “Doesn’t Somebody Want to Be Wanted”
A sentimental pop hit from 1971 reminiscent of the TV show’s wholesome vibe. It’s sweet and nostalgic but often overshadowed by the family’s other songs.
20. Tavares – “Heaven Must Be Missing an Angel”
A vibrant disco‑funk track from 1976 that filled dance floors with its infectious beat and catchy chorus. While it was a club favorite then, it’s somewhat overlooked today compared to bigger disco anthems.
21. Mac Davis – “One Hell of a Woman”
This 1974 ballad blends country sensibility with earnest storytelling. Though emotionally rich, it’s a track that slipped through the cracks of lasting fame.
22. Helen Reddy – “You’re My World”
A dramatic and passionate 1977 performance showcasing her vocal depth. Even with her fame, this track is rarely remembered today.
23. Clint Holmes – “Playground in My Mind”
A nostalgic, kiddie-themed pop hit from 1973 with a whimsical chorus that sticks in your head. It’s fun and quirky, but usually missing from nostalgia playlists.
24. Bells – “Stay Awhile”
A mellow, sweet pop track from 1971 with folk influences. It’s gentle and inviting, yet largely forgotten outside of devoted 70s fans.
25. Jim Stafford – “Spiders and Snakes”
A playful country novelty hit from 1974 with catchy lyrics and tongue-in-cheek charm. Its humor still entertains, but radio has moved on.
26. Michael Jackson – “Ben”
Before his monumental pop breakthrough, young Michael’s 1972 song about a rat named Ben was touching and sincere. It’s heartfelt and often eclipsed by his later megahits.
27. Melissa Manchester – “Don’t Cry Out Loud”
A stirring power ballad from 1979 with emotional crescendo and dramatic lyrics. It’s a classic of theatrical pop that doesn’t often make “best of” lists.
28. Cher – “Dark Lady”
An intriguing, story-driven track from 1974 blending mystery and pop appeal with Cher’s iconic voice. Despite its narrative depth, it’s less widely remembered today.
29. Daddy Dewdrop – “Chick-a-Boom (Don’t Ya Jes’ Love It)”
A novelty pop song from 1971 with a catchy chorus and playful performance. It’s a nostalgic throwback that rarely resurfaces anymore.
30. Tony Orlando & Dawn – “Say, Has Anybody Seen My Sweet Gypsy Rose”
A colorful pop tune from 1973 with a theatrical flair and vivid storytelling. It’s infectious but tends to be skipped over when people revisit 70s mix tapes.
