Soft rock throughout the 70s always seemed to bring out good feelings in you. Perhaps no other time period and form of music is as powerful in that way. I grew up in the 70s and I can tell you that when I hear a soft 70s hit, it puts me right back in that time period. I can easily close my eyes and feel as though I have been transported right back to that innocent time in my life. Some of the soft rock hits of the 70s are absolutely iconic for me. These are the top five soft rock hits of the 70s for me:
Kansas - “Dust In The Wind” - This song is absolutely haunting for me but in a very good way. The song simply washes over you and I remember that every time I heard it as a child, I thought of a tumbleweed blowing across the desert. As an adult I have learned to appreciate the words as well.
Leo Sayer - “When I Need You ” - Leo Sayer was a pretty popular act back in the 70s, and this song was the absolute best in my opinion. The song is as powerful today as it was all those years ago. From the opening sequence, you are in a romantic mood. Sayer’s voice is absolutely quintessential 70s.
Starland Vocal Band - “Afternoon Delight” - The Starland Vocal Band sits right on the edge of being called “rock” but when you add the soft part to it, they qualify. This particular song was banged into my head over and over when we were kids, and now it is a radio classic to my heart. I could listen to this song over and over again with no problems at all now. There was something so innocent in the music back then.
Bread - “Baby I’m A Want You” - Again, this song is one that absolutely puts a romantic spin on the world as soon as it starts playing. For some reason, however, the song sounds a million times better on my old record player than on CD. I guess those grooves in the vinyl just can not be replaced. Bread had a huge hit with this one, and I still love it to this day.
Styx - “Babe” - This song is one that would be a huge hit even today if it came out new. The song is absolutely one that tugs at your heart strings. From the opening lines, you recognize that it is Styx and nobody else. Styx went on to have other hits, and they are among the greatest bands of all time, but this song will always remain their best in my view. This song was the backdrop of many dates in my lifetime, and brings back tons of wonderful memories for me.
