Billboard Number One Hits of the ’70s: Revisiting 20 Songs That Topped the Charts

This week, I’m joined by Big Rick, host of Rock Talk Studio, as he steps in as guest curator to help build an all-killer playlist celebrating Number 1 hit songs from the 1970s. From arena-sized rock anthems and chart-dominating pop classics to soul and crossover smashes, this episode is a full-on tour through one of the most competitive and influential decades in Billboard history.

As with the previous Billboard Number 1 Hits of the 1980’s &Number 1 Hits of The 1990’s episodes, there’s a strict (and slightly absurd) rule in play: the deepest cut we’re allowed to choose is still a song that reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 — even if it only held the top spot for a single week. No sleepers, no near-misses, no “should’ve been bigger” picks — just proven chart-toppers that ruled the radio, jukeboxes, and turntables of the ’70s.

The result is another unapologetic hit-fest, packed with instantly recognizable songs, era-defining artists, and the kind of tracks that immediately transport you back to AM radio, vinyl stacks, and the golden age of the pop chart. If you love classic rock, vintage pop, or digging into the history behind Billboard’s biggest moments, this 1970s Number 1 Hits playlist delivers wall-to-wall nostalgia and nonstop hooks.

🎙️ Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform—and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review to help more music fans find the show! Then, scroll down to hear all of the songs discussed in this episode. 👇