35 Best 70s Dance Songs

The 70s was a time of significant change and evolution – especially in the world of music.

The best 70s dance songs reflect this change with a mix of disco, funk, soul, and pop.

Here are our picks for the best 70s dance songs.

1. “Good Times” by Chic

Song Year: 1979

The song “Good Times” by Chic is a disco classic. It has a catchy beat that is impossible to resist dancing to.

The lyrics are about enjoying the moment, feeling grateful for the present, and not worrying about the future. Many artists have sampled this song, such as Sugarhill Gang in “Rapper's Delight.”

2. “Get Down Tonight” by KC and the Sunshine Band

Song Year: 1975

“Get Down Tonight” is one of the most famous disco songs of all time, and for good reasons.

It's about dancing, making love, and having the time of your life tonight and every night!

The beat is exciting, high-energy, and has the ability to turn any dance floor into a vibrant, happy place.

3. “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor

Song Year: 1978

Gloria Gaynor's “I Will Survive” song has more profound lyrics than many other popular disco songs of that decade.

It's about overcoming and moving past a broken relationship. Gloria empowers listeners who have been through tough heartbreak, ensuring they will also survive lost love and love again in the future.

4. “Stayin' Alive” by Bee Gees

Song Year: 1977

“Stayin' Alive” is one of those songs that many people recognize the moment it comes on.

The high-pitched vocals, groovy instrumentals, and catchy, repetitive lyrics work together to make this song a timeless classic.

“Stayin' Alive” truly does make listeners feel, well, alive! And it makes the dance floor come to life as well.

5. “YMCA” by Village People

Song Year: 1978

“YMCA” is arguably one of the most well-known and well-respected songs of all time. Village People's “YMCA” has been used in countless movies, parodies, and commercials.

The song is about the YMCA – an organization that provides support and opportunity for young people.

The lyrics convey the fun, positive atmosphere of the YMCA, which is reflected in the song's upbeat tempo.

6. “Le Freak” by Chic

Song Year: 1978

Another dance hit by Chic in the 70s is called “Le Freak,” but many people might simply refer to it as “freak out!” as that is the main lyric in the chorus.

The song is about a party at the famous disco Studio 54 that was so exclusive that many people were turned at the door.

But once you got in, you could release the pressure of getting in by participating in the new dance crazes.

7. “Don't Leave Me This Way” by Thelma Houston

Song Year: 1976

“Don't Leave Me This Way” starts relatively slow and smooth, making it seem like more of a ballad than a party song.

However, it gradually picks up the pace and becomes a disco anthem about heartbreak and begging for somebody to stay.

Thelma Houston's powerful vocals carry the emotional lyrics and provide solidarity for anyone feeling lost and alone.

8. Lady Marmalade by (Patti) Labelle

Song Year: 1975

“Lady Marmalade” is a fun, sassy song about, well, ladies of the night!

The lyrics are quite risqué, and some are in French, but neither of those aspects makes the song any less popular. If anything, they improved the song's performance.

Christina Aguilera, Lil' Kim, Pink, and Mya sang a cover of “Lady Marmalade” for the movie Moulin Rouge, and their version also became incredibly famous.

9. “We Are Family” by Sister Sledge

Song Year: 1979

Sister Sledge's “We Are Family” is one of the best 70s dance songs for weddings, reunions, and other family gatherings.

Along with the title lyrics conveying familial status, the song also has other uplifting messages, such as discovering strength in love, having faith in yourself, and understanding the importance of unity.

The feel-good vibes of this song make it perfect for celebrating family bonds.

10. “Hot Stuff” by Donna Summer

Song Year: 1979

“Hot Stuff” is Donna Summer's anthem for anybody looking for a good time. The lyrics are all about dancing the night away and being with somebody who can make you feel “hot stuff.”

The “Hot Stuff” title phrase is repeated over and over again throughout the song, so it's easy to remember and sing along to when you're getting down on the dance floor.

Many artists and creatives have used this song or made covers to it, one of the most popular being Kygo's remix.