The 1970s was a vibrant decade for music, filled with unforgettable songs and legendary artists. From disco to rock, funk to punk, this era brought a wide variety of sounds that changed the way we listen to music. Artists like David Bowie, Fleetwood Mac, and the Bee Gees were at the top of their game, creating hits that still play on the radio today. With so many different styles and iconic moments, the ’70s remains an important time in music history.
Today, we will share some fun and interesting trivia about the music of the 1970s. You might learn who released the best-selling album of the decade, or which song became the anthem of a generation. We’ll also look at how different genres influenced each other and transformed the music scene. Whether you are a big fan of the ’70s or just curious about this exciting period in music, there’s something here for everyone. Get ready to impress your friends with some cool facts about the amazing tunes that defined a decade!
1970S Music Trivia
Funky Beats and Groovy Melodies of the 1970s
1. Which song by the Bee Gees became a disco anthem in 1977? (Answer: Stayin’ Alive)
2. Who is known as the “Godfather of Soul”? (Answer: James Brown)
3. What band had a hit with “Hotel California”? (Answer: The Eagles)
4. Who sang “I Will Survive”? (Answer: Gloria Gaynor)
5. What style of music combines Rock and Roll with rhythm and blues? (Answer: Funk)
6. Which British glam rock artist was known for hits like “Ziggy Stardust”? (Answer: David Bowie)
7. What group became famous for their harmonies and soft rock sound? (Answer: Fleetwood Mac)
8. Who had a hit with “Dancing Queen”? (Answer: ABBA)
9. What genre evolved from the blending of rock, disco, and funk? (Answer: Dance Music)
10. Which band is known for their elaborate stage shows and costumes? (Answer: KISS)
Rockin’ Through the Decade: 1970s Rock Music
1. Which iconic band released “Led Zeppelin IV”? (Answer: Led Zeppelin)
2. What legendary guitarist was known for his performances at Woodstock? (Answer: Jimi Hendrix)
3. Who was the lead singer of Queen? (Answer: Freddie Mercury)
4. What rock band is famous for the song “Sweet Emotion”? (Answer: Aerosmith)
5. Who released “Born to Run” in 1975? (Answer: Bruce Springsteen)
6. What song by Pink Floyd features the phrase “We don’t need no education”? (Answer: Another Brick in the Wall)
7. What band is known for their concept album “The Wall”? (Answer: Pink Floyd)
8. Who sang “Take It Easy”? (Answer: The Eagles)
9. Which rock band is known for their hit “American Pie”? (Answer: Don McLean)
10. What genre of music did the band Lynyrd Skynyrd represent? (Answer: Southern Rock)
Disco Fever: The Rise of 1970s Disco Music
1. Which 1977 film highlighted the disco culture? (Answer: Saturday Night Fever)
2. Who is known as the disco queen? (Answer: Donna Summer)
3. What group performed the hit “Disco Inferno”? (Answer: The Trammps)
4. What was the name of the iconic disco dance club in New York City? (Answer: Studio 54)
5. Who sang “I Love the Nightlife”? (Answer: Alicia Bridges)
6. Which song was a major hit for Chic in 1978? (Answer: Le Freak)
7. What was the main dance style associated with disco music? (Answer: Disco dancing)
8. Who released “Last Dance” in 1978? (Answer: Donna Summer)
9. What famous disco group is known for the song “Y.M.C.A.”? (Answer: Village People)
10. Who had a hit with “Funkytown”? (Answer: Lipps Inc.)
Those Soulful Sounds of the 1970s
1. Which singer is known for “Let’s Get It On”? (Answer: Marvin Gaye)
2. What famous band featured the singers Isaac and Phillip Bailey? (Answer: Earth, Wind & Fire)
3. Who sang “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough”? (Answer: Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell)
4. What iconic group is known for “Sitting on the Dock of the Bay”? (Answer: Otis Redding)
5. Who had a hit single with “Superstition”? (Answer: Stevie Wonder)
6. What genre of music features artists like Ray Charles and Aretha Franklin? (Answer: Soul)
7. Who released the song “Midnight Train to Georgia”? (Answer: Gladys Knight & the Pips)
8. Which 1970s hit is known for its catchy refrain “I Want You Back”? (Answer: The Jackson 5)
9. Who was known for the song “Lady Marmalade”? (Answer: Labelle)
10. What 1970s artist was known for mixing funk and soul influences? (Answer: Curtis Mayfield)
Invasion of the 1970s Punk and New Wave Scenes
1. Which band is credited with starting the punk rock movement in the 1970s? (Answer: The Ramones)
2. What British band is known for their hit “Anarchy in the U.K.”? (Answer: Sex Pistols)
3. Who is the lead singer of the band Blondie? (Answer: Debbie Harry)
4. Which song features the lyric “I want to be sedated”? (Answer: Sheena Is a Punk Rocker)
5. Who is known for the New Wave smash “Don’t You (Forget About Me)”? (Answer: Simple Minds)
6. What influential punk band released “London Calling”? (Answer: The Clash)
7. Which female artist is known for her punk and new wave music, including “Because the Night”? (Answer: Patti Smith)
8. Who sang “Rock Lobster”? (Answer: The B-52’s)
9. What genre is characterized by its rebellious and anti-establishment attitude? (Answer: Punk Rock)
10. What song by The Police helped popularize reggae influences in rock music? (Answer: Roxanne)
Iconic 1970s Music Collaborations
1. Which duet featuring Elton John and Kiki Dee became a hit in 1976? (Answer: Don’t Go Breaking My Heart)
2. Who sang the hit “Islands in the Stream”? (Answer: Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton)
3. What musical collaboration featured the songs “Fame” and “Young Americans”? (Answer: David Bowie)
4. Who performed together in “You’re the One That I Want” from Grease? (Answer: John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John)
5. Which band featured the lead singers from Jefferson Airplane and KBC Band on “I Got You Babe”? (Answer: The Mamas and the Papas)
6. Who collaborated with Michael Jackson on the charity single “We Are the World”? (Answer: Various Artists)
7. What singer-songwriter duo is known for their songwriting prowess in the 70s? (Answer: Carole King and James Taylor)
8. Which legendary guitarist worked with Paul McCartney on “My Love”? (Answer: Denny Laine)
9. What duo is known for their soft rock hits like “Bridge Over Troubled Water”? (Answer: Simon & Garfunkel)
10. Who collaborated on the 1977 hit “You’re So Vain”? (Answer: Carly Simon)
Final Thoughts
The 1970s shaped the music landscape in ways few decades have matched. From the emergence of disco and punk to the soulful tunes that captivated audiences, there was something for every music lover. Legends like David Bowie, Fleetwood Mac, and the Bee Gees still inspire musicians today and remain vital in the music community. The trivia we’ve shared highlights the vast and variegated field of ’70s music, showcasing how it continues to influence music lovers worldwide.
If you found this trivia exciting, consider exploring more on 1970s trivia, or delve deeper into specific genres and artists from that remarkable era by checking out our 70s music trivia! There are countless stories and facts waiting to be discovered.