In the final year of the groovy ’70s, the music scene was an eclectic mix of pop, rock, disco, and the burgeoning new wave. From the synth-infused tunes to the guitar-driven anthems, 1979 was a year of monumental hits that left a significant impact on the music industry. In this blog post, we take a melodious journey back in time to explore the top songs of 1979.
- “My Sharona” – The Knack
Kicking off our list is the infectious power pop track “My Sharona” by The Knack. The band’s debut single, with its unforgettable guitar riff and catchy chorus, quickly rose to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming one of the biggest hits of the year.
- “Heart of Glass” – Blondie
Blondie’s “Heart of Glass” was a groundbreaking track that beautifully blended the worlds of disco and new wave. Front woman Debbie Harry’s unique vocal delivery, coupled with a pulsating beat, made this song a defining moment in the band’s career and a standout hit of 1979.
- “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” – Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson’s “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” signaled his arrival as a solo superstar. The opening track of his Off the Wall album, this disco-funk song with infectious energy and Jackson’s distinctive vocal performance, was a commercial and critical success.
- “I Will Survive” – Gloria Gaynor
This enduring disco anthem has since become a symbol of resilience. Gloria Gaynor’s “I Will Survive” was not only one of the biggest hits of 1979 but has also stood the test of time, continuing to inspire and empower listeners worldwide.
- “Hot Stuff” – Donna Summer
The Queen of Disco, Donna Summer, delivered another dance floor filler with “Hot Stuff.” With its sultry lyrics, energetic beat, and Summer’s powerful vocals, this track was a surefire hit and a staple in discotheque playlists.
- “London Calling” – The Clash
The Clash’s “London Calling” became an anthem for the punk rock movement and remains one of their most recognized songs. Its gritty lyrics, combined with its aggressive musicality, encapsulated the energy and rebellious spirit of the punk scene in 1979.
Loving 1979
1979 was a year of remarkable diversity in the music industry, providing us with hits that continue to resonate with music lovers. These top songs were not only memorable in their melodies and lyrics but also represented the cultural and musical shifts happening at the time. From the disco fever to the rise of punk and new wave, the tunes of 1979 laid the foundation for many of the musical trends we’d see unfold in the 1980s and beyond. As we look back, we can appreciate the enduring influence these hits have had on the music that followed. So, why not dust off that old record player, drop the needle, and let the good times roll!