10 Motivational Songs from the 70s: Grooving to Greatness!

Meander Man
Nov 23
4 min read

They say music is the soundtrack of our lives, but sometimes, it’s also the fuel.

The 1970s was a decade of grit, groove, and transformation. It was an era that moved from the psychedelic idealism of the 60s into a reality that was harder, faster, and funkier. For the "Meander Man"— the guy navigating the winding path of life — the 70s offer a specific brand of motivation. It isn't just about being happy; it's about survival, resilience, and finding your rhythm when the world feels chaotic.

Whether you are facing a career pivot, a personal struggle, or just a pretty hard Monday , these 10 tracks from the 70s are scientifically proven (well, practically) to lift your spirit.

Turn the volume up. Let’s get motivated.

1. I Will Survive – Gloria Gaynor (1978)

It is the ultimate anthem of resilience. While usually associated with breakups, the lyrics apply to any failure or rejection life throws at you. It transitions from fear ("I was petrified") to realizing your own strength.

The Takeaway: You are not defined by who leaves you or what you lose. You are defined by your ability to rebuild.

2. Don't Stop Me Now – Queen (1978)

Sometimes, motivation isn't about overcoming a struggle; it's about riding a wave of pure energy. Freddie Mercury captures the feeling of "flow state" perfectly here. It is high-octane confidence.

The Takeaway: When you feel the momentum building, don't self-sabotage. Lean into your wins. Let yourself have a good time.

3. Three Little Birds – Bob Marley & The Wailers (1977)

Anxiety is the enemy of action. It paralyzes us. Bob Marley offers the antidote in three simple minutes of reggae. It is a reminder that worrying rarely changes the outcome, but it always steals today's joy.

The Takeaway: Control what you can, and release the rest. "Every little thing is gonna be alright" isn't a wish; it's a mindset.

4. Higher Ground – Stevie Wonder (1973)

Written shortly before a near-fatal car accident, this song is about second chances and spiritual persistence. The funk groove is undeniable, but the lyrics are about keeping on pushing until you reach your highest potential.

he Takeaway: Keep writing. Keep working. Keep trying. You have one more "highest ground" to reach before you’re done.

5. Mr. Blue Sky – Electric Light Orchestra (1977)

This song is the sonic equivalent of the sun coming out after a week of rain. It acknowledges that things were bad ("Hey you with the pretty face, welcome to the human race"), but celebrates the arrival of better days.

The Takeaway: Dark periods are temporary. When the "Blue Sky" finally appears, take a moment to actually enjoy it rather than waiting for the next storm.

6. Heroes – David Bowie (1977)

Bowie teaches us that you don’t need to be a superman to be significant. The song is about two lovers meeting at the Berlin Wall—a hopeless place—and finding dignity in their connection.

The Takeaway: You can be a hero "just for one day." You don't need to change the whole world; you just need to show up bravely in your own small corner of it.

7. Lovely Day – Bill Withers (1977)

Have you ever woken up feeling heavy, looked at your partner or a friend, and felt the weight lift? That is this song. It features one of the longest sustained notes in chart history (18 seconds!), proving that endurance can sound beautiful.

The Takeaway: Gratitude is a tool. When your internal monologue is negative, look outward at the people who support you to reset your perspective.

8. Stayin' Alive – The Bee Gees (1977)

Ignore the parodies; listen to the lyrics. This is a gritty song about survival in a tough city. "Life goin' nowhere, somebody help me." It’s about walking with your head high even when you're being kicked around.

The Takeaway: Sometimes, just "stayin' alive" is a victory. Fake the confidence until you feel it. Use the "New York City walk" to change your psychology.

9. Ain't No Mountain High Enough – Diana Ross (1970)

While the Marvin Gaye version is a classic duet, Diana Ross’s 1970 solo version is a six-minute epic of spoken word and crescendo. It builds slowly, mimicking the actual effort of climbing a mountain, exploding into triumph at the end.

The Takeaway: Determine your goal. Acknowledge the mountain. Then climb it. No wind, no rain, and no river should stop you from getting to where you need to be.

10. Born to Run – Bruce Springsteen (1975)

For every man who feels stuck in a rut, trapped in a dead-end town, or working a job that crushes his soul—The Boss is here for you. This is the song of the hunger for more.

The Takeaway: We are all "born to run." Do not settle for a life that feels like a cage. Rev the engine and hit the highway.

Summary

The 70s taught us that life isn't always pretty, but it's always got a rhythm. Next time you feel stuck, throw on this playlist.

Sometimes, the best self-help isn't a book—it's a bassline.