Best Songs for 70s Funk

Funk music in the 1970s wasn’t just a genre, it was a feeling. It was bold basslines, unstoppable rhythm guitars, joyful horns, and music that made people move without even thinking about it. The best songs for 70s funk still sound fresh today because they were built on real musicianship, positive energy, and pure groove. These tracks didn’t chase trends, they created them.

This era gave us songs that crossed generations, cultures, and dance floors. Whether you’re rediscovering funk for the first time or deepening your love for it, the 70s stand tall as the golden age. The music was confident, uplifting, and irresistibly fun, with clean lyrics that celebrated life, togetherness, and creativity.

Below is a carefully curated list of the best songs for 70s funk, chosen for their musical impact, cultural influence, and lasting appeal. Each track includes the artist and release year, and every song brings something special to the funk table. Turn the volume up and let the groove take over.

Why 70s funk still matters today

The best songs for 70s funk continue to dominate playlists, movies, commercials, and live performances because they are timeless. Funk from this era was recorded with live bands, real instruments, and musicians who played with feel. The result is music that breathes, moves, and connects instantly.

Modern pop, hip-hop, R&B, and electronic music all borrow heavily from 70s funk. Producers still sample these tracks because the grooves are unbeatable. Funk also brought people together, creating joyful spaces where everyone could dance, smile, and feel good.

What makes a great 70s funk song

A great 70s funk song usually starts with the rhythm section. Basslines are front and center, drums are tight and playful, and guitars add sharp, rhythmic accents. Horn sections punch through with energy, while vocals are confident, catchy, and often call-and-response in style.

The best songs for 70s funk are upbeat, positive, and full of personality. They make you tap your foot within seconds and dancing becomes almost unavoidable. That’s the magic of funk.

The 20 best songs for 70s funk

Here are 20 essential tracks that define the era. Each one delivers groove, joy, and unforgettable rhythm.

Superstition – Stevie Wonder – 1972
This song is pure funk brilliance. The instantly recognizable clavinet riff drives the entire track, supported by tight drums and confident vocals. It’s funky, fun, and endlessly replayable.

September – Earth, Wind & Fire – 1978
Few songs capture happiness like this one. Bright horns, smooth vocals, and an unstoppable rhythm make it one of the most beloved funk songs ever recorded.

Give Up The Funk (Tear The Roof Off The Sucker) – Parliament – 1976
This is funk at its most joyful and communal. The chant-along chorus and deep groove make it a party classic that still fills dance floors today.

Le Freak – Chic – 1978
Slick, stylish, and infectious, this song blends funk and disco perfectly. The rhythm guitar and bassline are instantly iconic.

Get Down On It – Kool & The Gang – 1981
Although released just after the 70s, its sound and spirit are pure funk. The groove is smooth, inviting, and impossible to resist.

Low Rider – War – 1975
Laid-back but deeply funky, this track features a signature cowbell pattern and a groove that feels cool, confident, and timeless.

Boogie Wonderland – Earth, Wind & Fire – 1979
This song brings high energy funk with disco sparkle. It’s joyful, vibrant, and perfect for uplifting any mood.

I Want Your Love – Chic – 1978
Elegant and groove-heavy, this track shows how funk can be smooth, romantic, and rhythmically rich without crossing any lines.

Brick House – Commodores – 1977
Driven by one of the most famous basslines of all time, this song is confident, catchy, and full of classic funk swagger.

Shining Star – Earth, Wind & Fire – 1975
Positive lyrics and uplifting melodies meet a tight funk groove. This song radiates optimism and good vibes from start to finish.

Flash Light – Parliament – 1977
Featuring a pioneering synthesizer bassline, this track pushed funk into new territory while keeping the groove front and center.

Love Rollercoaster – Ohio Players – 1975
Dynamic, playful, and energetic, this song mirrors its title perfectly with ups, downs, and nonstop funk excitement.

Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now – McFadden & Whitehead – 1979
Motivational, uplifting, and groovy, this track became an anthem of positivity powered by a smooth funk rhythm.

Best Of My Love – The Emotions – 1977
Bright vocals and a breezy groove make this song feel light, happy, and endlessly enjoyable.

Dance To The Music – Sly & The Family Stone – 1968
While late 60s, its influence shaped 70s funk entirely. It’s joyful, inclusive, and bursting with rhythm.

Car Wash – Rose Royce – 1976
Fun, upbeat, and playful, this song proves funk can be lighthearted and catchy while staying musically strong.

More More More – Andrea True Connection – 1976
A funky disco crossover that dominated dance floors with its driving rhythm and upbeat energy.

Pick Up The Pieces – Average White Band – 1974
An instrumental funk masterpiece. The horns, bass, and drums work together flawlessly, proving vocals aren’t required to bring the funk.

That’s The Way (I Like It) – KC and the Sunshine Band – 1975
Pure feel-good funk with a bright groove that invites everyone to dance along.

Good Times – Chic – 1979
This bassline changed music forever. Smooth, funky, and endlessly influential, it’s one of the most important songs of the decade.

How to enjoy the best songs for 70s funk today

These songs shine in any setting. They’re perfect for road trips, workouts, parties, background music, or focused listening sessions. The best way to experience them is with good speakers or headphones so you can really hear the basslines and rhythmic details.

Creating a playlist that blends these tracks together brings instant joy and momentum. Funk works best when it flows, so let the grooves roll one into the next.

Why this list stands out

This collection focuses on clean, positive, and uplifting songs that highlight the heart of 70s funk. Each track was chosen for its musical excellence, cultural influence, and lasting appeal. These songs continue to inspire musicians, energize listeners, and bring smiles across generations.

If you’re searching for the best songs for 70s funk, this list delivers the grooves that truly define the era. It’s music that makes you feel good, move freely, and appreciate the timeless power of rhythm.

Final thoughts on 70s funk

The 1970s gave the world something special. Funk music from this era remains joyful, confident, and endlessly fun. These songs don’t just sound good, they feel good. They remind us that music can be uplifting, unifying, and full of life.

Whether you’re building the ultimate funk playlist or simply exploring the roots of modern groove, these tracks are essential listening. Turn them on, let the rhythm take over, and enjoy the timeless magic of 70s funk.