[Western Music] A roundup of debut songs by female artists from the 1970s
The 1970s were a golden era that saw the debuts of many female artists who left a brilliant mark on music history.
A distinctive feature of that time was the emergence of numerous singer-songwriters—women who wrote and composed their own music and created masterpieces that moved listeners with their remarkable expressive power.
Their debut songs, which can be considered the starting point of their journeys, brim with the radiance of young talents paving the way for a new era.
In this piece, we focus on the first singles of female singers who debuted in the ’70s, introducing a selection of gems that colored the music scene of the time.
- [1970s] Recommended Nostalgic Western Music: Female Singers
- [A Collection of Classics] Nostalgic 70s Western Hit Songs
- Classic and hit Western pop songs from the 1970s
- Love songs in Western music that were hits in the 1970s. World-famous classics and popular tracks.
- Dance music from Western artists that was a hit in the 1970s. World-famous and popular songs.
- [Golden Age of Rock] Debut Songs by Western Rock Bands of the 1970s
- The 1970s were the golden age of Western rock! Recommended classics and hit songs
- Debut songs by female Western artists from the 1980s
- [Definitive Edition] Masterpieces of 70s Disco Music
- Debut songs by female Western artists from the 1990s
- [80s Western Music] A roundup of debut songs by girl bands
- [Timeless Melodies] A Collection of Classic 70s Western Ballad Masterpieces
- [80s Western Music] Debut Songs by Male Artists
[Western Music] Debut Songs by Female Artists from the ’70s (11–20)
If Not for YouOlivia Newton-John
Olivia Newton-John, an artist who enjoyed worldwide popularity from the 1970s through the mid-1980s, was a catchy performer who drew attention from many listeners, blending contemporary and disco sounds into a pop- and country-based style.
Her debut song, If Not for You, is known as a signature track from her self-titled studio album released in 1971.
I’m Every WomanChaka Khan
Chaka Khan is an artist who gained worldwide popularity for her powerful voice and exceptional vocal ability.
It’s hard to sum up her musical style in a single word; while rooted in R&B, she’s known for a unique sound that blends elements of soul, disco, funk, and adult contemporary.
Her debut song, “I’m Every Woman,” was released in 1978 as a track on the album Chaka.
Lady Of The NightDonna Summer
The artist affectionately known as the “Queen of Disco,” Donna Summer, sadly passed away from lung cancer in 2012, but the songs she left behind still have many fans today.
Her debut song, Lady of the Night, released in 1974, gained popularity in the United States.
Since the direction of disco sound had not yet been firmly established at the time, those familiar with her music can enjoy a different side of her in this track.
Ring My BellAnita Ward
An artist who gained popularity for her distinctive voice and high-sense musicality, Anita Ward.
In Japan, she’s also known as Anita Word.
Her biggest charm is, without a doubt, her forward-thinking vocals.
Although she was active in the 1970s, she incorporated vocal runs and embellishments similar to those used in today’s R&B—perhaps she had remarkable foresight.
Her debut song, “Ring My Bell,” is a classic with many elements that resonate with contemporary R&B.
I Love The NightlifeAlicia Bridges
Alicia Bridges is an American singer-songwriter who became a major hit in the late 1970s.
She had been involved in music since childhood, and in her small hometown, she even had her own radio show called “Alicia” at the age of 12.
As an adult, she continued making music independently, and her talent was discovered by the well-known entrepreneur Bill Lowery, leading to her major-label debut.
That debut song is “I Love the Nightlife.”
Never Can Say GoodbyeGloria Gaynor
Gloria Gaynor is an American singer known as a leading female artist of disco music.
I’m sure everyone has heard her signature song, “I Will Survive,” at least once.
Her debut track is “Never Can Say Goodbye.” Released in 1975, this song already showcases a fully formed style despite being her debut.
It’s a rare track that lets you feel the strength at the core of her musicality.
[Western Music] A roundup of debut songs by female artists from the ’70s (21–30)
I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa ClausLene Lovich
An artist known in the New Wave scene as the “Queen of Quirk,” Lene Lovich used her distinctive voice and eccentric style to influence many artists who followed.
Her debut release was a cover of a Christmas song that everyone knows.
In this work, the child’s shock at seeing their mother kissing Santa Claus is expressed through Lovich’s uniquely offbeat vocals.
An innocent scene is transformed into a surreal, avant‑garde world, resulting in a truly unique piece.
Released as an EP in November 1976, this recording is a rare track not included on any studio album.
Here you can find the roots of Lovich before her later breakout hit, “Lucky Number.” For those tired of run-of-the-mill Christmas songs or curious to glimpse the spark of a maverick talent, this track might be just the thing.