While the 1970s may be renowned for disco balls and bell-bottoms, the decade was also bursting with musical innovations that went beyond the mainstream. Nestled in this rich era were some truly incredible yet largely forgotten 70s bands that left indelible marks on the music industry.
The good news is that they no longer need to stay forgotten now that you’ve discovered Jukebox Saturday Night. Let us take you back to your favourite music era with never-before-seen music video clips and more. Before you catch us on Foxtel, Aurora Channel 173 this Saturday night, here are seven hidden 1970s gems that will surely take you on a trip down memory lane.
Band #1: Gentle Giant
Known for their eclectic mix, Gentle Giant wove a tapestry of sounds ranging from rock to Renaissance fair. Albums like Acquiring the taste and Free hand are not just music in a seventies jukebox; they’re audacious adventures in sound that challenge the ear, stir the soul and expand the mind. Crack open their record, and you might find your new old favourite.
Band #2: Big Star
Ever wondered where those catchy, crisp pop tunes got their start? Thank Big Star, the Memphis group whose tunes were too cool for commercial charts across the globe and even around the web. Their albums #1 Record and Radio city are well-loved by power pop connoisseurs. Listening to them, you’ll realise these forgotten 70s bands laid the groundwork for much of what we bob our heads to today.
Band #3: The Raspberries
Catchy hooks, sweet harmonies and that quintessential pop-rock vibe – that’s The Raspberries for you. With hits like ‘Go all the way’, these Ohio-based 70s artists crafted the kind of tracks that get stuck in your head – in a good way.
These renowned 70s musicians bottled the essence of summer and teenage dreams into their music, making it impossible not to feel a surge of nostalgia and joy.
Band #4: Badfinger
If there was one among the forgotten 70s bands that encapsulated the highs and lows of rock ‘n’ roll, it would be Badfinger. Hailing from Wales and signed by none other than The Beatles’ label, these 70s music artists had melodies that could make you swoon and a backstory that could break your heart. Songs like ‘Come and get it’ echo the carefree spirit of a true 70s rock playlist.
Band #5: Nektar
Step into the surreal soundscape of Nektar, a band that made Germany groove to a different beat. Known for their mind-bending concept albums like Remember the future, they were the masters of blending psychedelia with progressive rock. Their 70s rock music isn’t just heard; it’s experienced – a cosmic journey that promises to transport you to another dimension.
Band #6: Dr. Feelgood
Pre-punk rockers rejoice! Dr. Feelgood delivered raw, unpolished energy that paved the way for the punk revolution. These English rockers who are certainly among the classic 70s bands weren’t about frills – they were the real deal, gritty and groovy. Albums like Stupidity serve pure adrenaline, perfect for those moments when you need the musical kick from forgotten 70s bands to get the heart racing.
Band #7: Renaissance
Immerse yourself in the lush, layered sounds of Renaissance, a band that married rock with classical in the most elegant way. Their music, found in albums like Ashes are burning, is a feast for the senses, filled with poetic lyrics and majestic arrangements.
If you’re looking for 70s music groups to add a touch of class to your rock collection, along with hits by Poison Ivy Rorschach and Darryl Sambell, Renaissance is your go-to.
Each of these forgotten 70s bands, with their distinctive sounds and pioneering spirits, brought something special to the music scene of the 70s. They may not have all grabbed the spotlight the way the Little River Band members did, but their influences linger in the echoes of today’s tunes. So, why not explore these underrated 70s bands? Your ears might just thank you for the introduction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which 70s bands are considered one-hit wonders?
In the groovy era of the 70s, some rock groups and bands popped onto the scene with tunes that stuck like glitter on disco balls but never made a second big hit.
Brownsville Station had everyone singing along to ‘Smokin’ in the boys room’ while Pilot soared with ‘Magic’. Stories gave us the dramatic ‘Brother Louie’ and Jigsaw reached high with ‘Sky high’. These bands brought us catchy one-hit wonders that defined a moment but never quite repeated the magic.
Which 70s bands had a cult following but never hit mainstream success?
Ever heard of the cool underground clubs of the 1970s where the real music magic happened? Bands like Big Star, The Stooges and The Velvet Underground rocked those spots. They didn’t hit the big time on the charts like Golden Earring hits but had a die-hard fanbase.
What are some obscure 70s rock albums worth listening to?
If you’re looking to take a wild ride through the tracks of lesser-known bands from the 70s, some might interest you. Listen to Raw power by The Stooges for some raw, electrifying tunes or maybe Can’s Tago mago to spin your head with experimental sounds. Don’t miss out on Faust IV by Faust too for a mind-bending experience.
Rediscover forgotten 70s bands and more at Jukebox Saturday Night
Step back in time with Jukebox Saturday Night and rediscover the heart and soul of 70s music, along with other classic hits from the 1950s, 1960s and 1980s. Hosted by Justin Coombes-Pearce, nephew of the legendary radio DJ Ken Sparkes, this show is your weekly ticket to relive the golden era of rock and pop.
Not just any old playlist, Jukebox Saturday Night features rare music video clips that bring visuals to those iconic tunes previously only heard on the radio. It’s a visual and auditory feast broadcast on Foxtel’s Aurora Channel 173, every Saturday night from 7.30 p.m. to 8.30 p.m.
Can’t make it on Saturday? No worries! The nostalgia continues with repeat airings on Sundays at 9 p.m. and Tuesday nights at 9.30 p.m.
So, why not join us? Tune in, kick back, and let Jukebox Saturday Night take you back to a time when music was as real as the memories it created.
Discover forgotten 70s bands and more classic artists at Jukebox Saturday Night!
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