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Dance music from Western artists that was a hit in the 1970s. World-famous and popular songs.

The 1970s gave birth to many genres and values that hadn’t existed in the music world before, such as distinctive melodies using electronic music and performances that emphasized visuals.

This time, I’d like to introduce dance music from the 1970s.

Even in the context of global music history, this era is packed with eccentric tracks, making a powerful impact.

With the disco boom in full swing, danceable music that you could really move to became all the rage.

We’ll be featuring several classics that capture the atmosphere of the time, so please sit back and enjoy until the very end.

Dance music of Western songs that were hits in the 1970s. World-famous and popular songs (11–20)

Yes Sir, I Can BoogieBaccara

Baccara – Yes Sir, I Can Boogie (Starparade 02.06.1977)
Yes Sir, I Can BoogieBaccara

Baccara is a female vocal duo from Spain.

Their song “Yes Sir, I Can Boogie” was their debut single and became a global hit.

While the structure is quite eccentric—reflecting the height of the New Wave era—it’s ultimately crafted as an easy-to-listen-to disco track.

It features sounds widely used in the 1970s, so if you’d like to savor the atmosphere of that time, be sure to give it a listen.

Got To Give It UpMarvin Gaye

Marvin Gaye, a soul singer who had a tremendous influence on contemporary R&B.

In the 1970s, a new style called “neo-soul,” which blended soul music with elements from other genres, became a major trend, and Marvin Gaye was one of the artists who helped ignite that movement.

His track “Got to Give It Up” is celebrated as one of his signature songs, crafted as a lively soul number that embodies the characteristics of neo-soul.

The HustleVan McCoy

Van McCoy – The Hustle (Official Music Video) [HD]
The HustleVan McCoy

In the 1970s, an eccentric style of music called New Wave was trending.

Although “The Hustle” isn’t New Wave but rather falls under disco music, it’s a striking piece with a quirky structure that’s almost on par with New Wave.

In Japan, many people may know it from its use in a Suntory commercial.

Despite its highly distinctive arrangement, it also conveys shades of R&B and soul in places, making it a recommendation for fans of Black music.

You Sexy ThingHot Chocolate

Hot Chocolate – You Sexy Thing (ZDF Disco, 24.04.1976)
You Sexy ThingHot Chocolate

Hot Chocolate is a British soul band that was active from the 1970s through the 1990s.

It’s no exaggeration to say they were one of the most successful soul bands of the 1970s, releasing a hit song every year from 1970 to 1984.

Among their works, their biggest hit was “You Sexy Thing.” It’s an extremely catchy, classic soul track, and highly recommended for fans of Black music.

You’re The One That I WantJohn Travolta And Olivia Newton John

John Travolta And Olivia Newton John – You’re The One That I Want
You're The One That I WantJohn Travolta And Olivia Newton John

The classic song “You’re The One That I Want,” performed by John Travolta—who also thrived as a dancer—and Australian singer Olivia Newton-John, was created for the musical film Grease and became a worldwide smash hit.

In Japan, it’s known under the title “Ai no Duet” (Love Duet).

The track is captivating for its catchy blend of pop, disco, and rock elements.

The GhettoDonny Hathaway

Donny Hathaway – ‘The Ghetto’
The GhettoDonny Hathaway

One of the great artists who supported the New Soul boom, Donny Hathaway.

When it comes to New Soul, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Curtis Mayfield, and Donny Hathaway are famously known as the “Big Four,” but Hathaway stood apart from the rest with a style that incorporated classical and folk influences.

His track The Ghetto is packed with his unique appeal, putting an African groove front and center.

It’s an exceptionally sophisticated work—be sure to check it out.

Dance music from Western countries that became hits in the 1970s. World-famous songs and popular tracks (21–30)

That’s The Way (I Like It)KC and The Sunshine Band

KC & The Sunshine Band – That’s The Way (I Like It) [HQ with lyrics]
That's The Way (I Like It)KC and The Sunshine Band

It’s a legendary song that became a global hit.

While it has a strong, groove-heavy funk sound, it’s also a miraculous track with a disco vibe.

Above all, the interplay between the chorus and the horns is outstanding, making it an indispensable classic of 1970s dance music.