A few weeks ago, I did a playlist heavy on the music of the 70s. Ultimate Yacht Rock featured a ton of soft rock classics, but seemed to be missing something – there were hardly any women on that playlist. The 1970s were a major time for women’s rights, particularly second-wave feminism. I included a couple, but for the most part, it was men. To rectify this, I’ve decided to dedicate this week’s playlist entirely to some of the iconic female vocalists of the 1970s. Divas of the 70s brings focus to a handful of the women making music throughout the decade.
Unlike the aforementioned Yacht Rock playlist of a few weeks back, Divas of the 70s does not focus on any specific genre. A diverse collection of artists including country, pop, soul, R&B, rock, and folk. Dolly Parton sings on the same list as Aretha Franklin. The Runaways and Karen Carpenter. ABBA, Linda Ronstadt, Gladys Knight, Cher, Patty LaBelle, Donna Summer, Barbra Streisand, Kate Bush, and many more. It’s quite a list!
Enjoy this week’s playlist, Divas of the 70s.
Which Divas of the 70s did I forget?
There were way too many iconic divas of the 70s to include, and even remember on this list. I didn’t include a ton of the New Wave and Punk artists emerging in the late 70s, though Debbie Harry (and Blondie) deserves a spot. As does Siouxsie Sioux. There were also plenty of artists on pop and folk radio that deserve a shout-out. So, who did I forget? Let me know in the comments. Maybe there will be a Divas of the 70s part two some time in the future.
Now, about that Beatles article, I keep talking about. It’s coming, but maybe not as soon as I hoped. In fact, I’m rethinking a few things. I might release a couple of shorter pieces before I dive into that long, honking piece. I have a few articles in my mind that I’ve been wanting to write for quite some time. One particular examines what I like to call “list songs.” I might also dive into something on Elton John or Billy Joel, as I’ve been listening to both artists a lot recently. We’ll see. Regardless, new content will come – hopefully soon. I feel like I’m getting to the point where I can write long-form again, but baby steps. It’s been a hard few months.
Oh, and yes, I know that Laura Nyro song was from the 60s. She was still extremely popular in the 70s, but I prefer her early work I think. So if you’re a purist, well, there’s my excuse. Besides, can you really complain about hearing Stone Soul Picnic? Pshaw!
See you next week all. As always, rock on, and rock steady!