Back in Time Today
The 1970s was a remarkable decade for female singers, who not only dominated the charts but also influenced the music industry with their unique styles, powerful vocals, and memorable performances.
This era produced some of the most iconic female voices, who left an indelible mark on music history.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the 20 best female singers of the 70s, celebrating their achievements and contributions to the world of music.
1. Stevie Nicks
Stevie Nicks rose to fame as a member of Fleetwood Mac, captivating audiences with her raspy voice and mystical stage presence. Her songwriting, characterized by poetic and emotional lyrics, added depth to the band’s hits.
Known for her bohemian style, Nicks’ influence extended beyond music to fashion, making her a cultural icon of the 70s. Her solo career, launched in the early 80s, further cemented her status as a rock legend.
Today, Stevie Nicks remains a beloved figure, inspiring countless artists and fans across generations with her timeless music.
2. Aretha Franklin
Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul, continued her reign in the 70s, delivering powerful performances that resonated with emotion and authenticity. Hits like “Spanish Harlem” and “Rock Steady” showcased her vocal prowess.
Franklin’s influence extended beyond music, as she became a symbol of empowerment and equality. Her ability to convey deep emotions through her music earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards.
Even today, Aretha’s legacy remains unmatched, and her impact on the music industry and society as a whole is undeniable.
3. Joni Mitchell
Joni Mitchell’s unique blend of folk, rock, and jazz set her apart as one of the most innovative artists of the 70s. Her introspective lyrics and distinct voice resonated with listeners, earning her a dedicated fanbase.
Albums like “Blue” and “Court and Spark” are considered masterpieces, showcasing her skill as both a songwriter and musician. Mitchell’s influence is evident in the work of many contemporary artists.
Her ability to convey complex emotions and tell compelling stories through her music has cemented her place in music history.
4. Janis Joplin
Janis Joplin, with her raw, powerful voice, became a rock and blues icon during the late 60s and early 70s. Known for her electrifying performances, she captivated audiences with her emotional delivery and unique sound.
Songs like “Me and Bobby McGee” and “Piece of My Heart” remain timeless classics. Joplin’s untimely death in 1970 marked the end of a brief but impactful career.
Her influence on rock music and female artists continues to be felt, and she is remembered as one of the greatest vocalists of her time.
5. Diana Ross
Diana Ross, former lead singer of The Supremes, achieved phenomenal success as a solo artist in the 70s. Her charismatic stage presence and smooth vocals made her a favorite among fans.
Hits like “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “Touch Me in the Morning” showcased her versatility and range. Beyond music, Ross ventured into acting, earning acclaim for her role in “Lady Sings the Blues.”
Diana Ross’s impact on the music industry and popular culture is profound, and she remains a symbol of glamour and talent.
6. Linda Ronstadt
Linda Ronstadt’s career in the 70s was marked by versatility and vocal brilliance. Her ability to cross genres, from rock to country to pop, set her apart as a unique talent.
Songs like “You’re No Good” and “Blue Bayou” became major hits, showcasing her powerful vocal range. Ronstadt’s collaborations with other artists further demonstrated her adaptability and skill.
As one of the best-selling artists of the decade, Linda Ronstadt’s influence continues to be celebrated, and her contributions to music are enduring and significant.
7. Donna Summer
Donna Summer became known as the “Queen of Disco” in the 70s, with her sultry voice and infectious dance hits. Songs like “Last Dance” and “Hot Stuff” ruled the dance floors worldwide.
Her collaboration with producer Giorgio Moroder resulted in groundbreaking music that set the standard for future dance tracks. Summer’s stage presence and powerful vocals made her a standout performer.
Her influence on the disco genre and dance music as a whole is lasting, and her legacy in the music industry is celebrated by fans and artists alike.
8. Barbra Streisand
Barbra Streisand’s multi-faceted talent shone brightly in the 70s. Known for her remarkable vocal range and emotive delivery, she captivated audiences with both her music and acting.
Hits like “The Way We Were” and “Evergreen” became classics, earning her critical acclaim and numerous awards. Streisand’s influence extended beyond music to film, where she achieved success as an actress and director.
Her contributions to entertainment are vast, and her status as a legendary figure in both music and film remains unchallenged.
9. Carly Simon
Carly Simon emerged as a prominent singer-songwriter in the 70s, known for her introspective lyrics and velvety voice. Her hit “You’re So Vain” became an anthem of the decade.
Simon’s ability to craft relatable songs with emotional depth resonated with fans worldwide. Her music, characterized by a blend of pop and rock, showcased her unique style and storytelling ability.
Beyond her music, Carly Simon’s influence extends to her advocacy for women’s rights, making her a respected and admired figure in the industry.
10. Patti Smith
Patti Smith, known as the “Godmother of Punk,” revolutionized the music scene with her raw sound and poetic lyrics. Her debut album “Horses” became a seminal work in rock history.
Blending punk rock with poetry, Smith’s music challenged conventions and inspired a new generation of artists. Her stage presence and unique voice set her apart as a trailblazer in the 70s.
Patti Smith’s influence on music and culture is profound, and she remains a symbol of artistic rebellion and innovation.
11. Olivia Newton-John
Olivia Newton-John’s sweet voice and charming persona made her a beloved figure in the 70s. Her hit songs “Let Me Be There” and “I Honestly Love You” showcased her vocal talent.
Transitioning from country to pop, Newton-John’s versatility was evident in her varied musical styles. Her role in the film “Grease” further solidified her status as a cultural icon.
Olivia’s contributions to music and film continue to be celebrated, and her impact on pop culture remains significant and enduring.
12. Chaka Khan
Chaka Khan’s dynamic voice and energetic performances made her a standout artist of the 70s. As the lead singer of Rufus, she delivered hits like “Tell Me Something Good” with charisma.
Khan’s ability to blend funk, soul, and R&B set her apart as a versatile and influential artist. Her powerful vocals and stage presence captured audiences worldwide.
Known as the “Queen of Funk,” Chaka Khan’s legacy in music is celebrated, and her influence continues to inspire artists across genres.
13. Ann Wilson
Ann Wilson, lead singer of Heart, became known for her powerful voice and commanding stage presence. Her vocal range and emotive delivery set her apart as a rock icon.
Hits like “Barracuda” and “Magic Man” showcased her ability to deliver both hard rock and ballads with equal intensity. Wilson’s influence on rock music is profound.
Her contributions to the genre, alongside her sister Nancy, have made Heart a beloved band, and Ann continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest female rock vocalists.
14. Roberta Flack
Roberta Flack’s smooth and soulful voice earned her acclaim in the 70s. Known for her emotive ballads, she captivated audiences with hits like “Killing Me Softly with His Song.”
Flack’s ability to convey deep emotion through her music earned her numerous awards and accolades. Her collaborations with other artists highlighted her versatility and talent.
Roberta Flack’s influence on soul and R&B music is significant, and her contributions to the genre continue to be celebrated by fans and artists alike.
15. Nina Simone
Nina Simone’s influence on music and civil rights was profound in the 70s. Known for her distinctive voice and emotive performances, she captivated audiences with her powerful messages.
Songs like “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” highlighted her commitment to social justice and equality. Simone’s ability to blend jazz, blues, and soul set her apart as a unique artist.
Her legacy as a musician and activist continues to inspire, and she remains a symbol of artistic integrity and resilience.
16. Gladys Knight
Gladys Knight, known as the “Empress of Soul,” achieved success with her group, The Pips, in the 70s. Her rich, soulful voice delivered hits like “Midnight Train to Georgia.”
Knight’s ability to convey emotion and connect with audiences earned her acclaim and numerous awards. Her influence on soul music and R&B is profound.
As a performer, Gladys Knight remains a beloved figure, and her contributions to the music industry continue to be celebrated by fans worldwide.
17. Tina Turner
Tina Turner’s electrifying performances and powerful voice made her a standout artist of the 70s. Her dynamic stage presence and hits like “Proud Mary” captivated audiences.
Known for her resilience and strength, Turner’s personal and professional journey inspired countless fans. Her ability to cross genres made her a versatile and enduring artist.
Tina Turner’s legacy in rock and soul music is unmatched, and she remains a symbol of empowerment and talent in the music industry.
18. Emmylou Harris
Emmylou Harris’s ethereal voice and blend of country and folk music made her a beloved figure in the 70s. Her collaborations with artists like Gram Parsons showcased her versatility.
Hits like “Boulder to Birmingham” highlighted her storytelling ability and emotive delivery. Harris’s influence on country music is significant, and her contributions are celebrated.
Known for her purity of tone, Emmylou Harris continues to inspire artists across genres, and her legacy in music is enduring.
19. Karen Carpenter
Karen Carpenter’s soft, melodic voice made The Carpenters one of the most successful bands of the 70s. Her ability to convey emotion through her singing captivated audiences worldwide.
Songs like “Close to You” and “We’ve Only Just Begun” became timeless classics. Carpenter’s unique voice and musical talent set her apart as an iconic figure.
Despite her untimely death, Karen Carpenter’s influence on pop music remains profound, and she continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest vocalists of her time.
20. Kate Bush
Kate Bush emerged as a groundbreaking artist at the end of the 70s, known for her distinctive voice and artistic innovation. Her debut single “Wuthering Heights” captivated listeners.
Bush’s ability to blend theatrical elements with music set her apart as a unique talent. Her influence on art-rock and pop music is significant, and her creativity continues to inspire.
Kate Bush remains a beloved figure in the music industry, celebrated for her originality and contributions to the world of music.