The best Rhythm and Blues albums
of the 1970s.
Where to start with 1970–1979 rhythm and blues — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1970s — rhythm and blues
Top picks from 1970–1979, ranked by where we would start.
Stevie Wonder
Music of My Mind
A rich tapestry of soul and funk woven with introspective lyrics and lush instrumentation that invites deep emotional engagement.
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Stevie Wonder
Signed, Sealed and Delivered
A vibrant blend of soul and pop that showcases Wonder's dynamic vocals and innovative arrangements.
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Herbie Hancock
Butterfly
A seamless blend of jazz-funk grooves and ethereal melodies that encapsulate the spirit of late '70s musical experimentation.
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Herbie Hancock
Thrust
A vibrant fusion of jazz, funk, and electronic textures that pushes the boundaries of improvisation and rhythm.
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Aretha Franklin
Spirit in the Dark
A vibrant fusion of gospel fervor and soul-infused melodies that captures the essence of Aretha Franklin's powerhouse vocal delivery.
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Aretha Franklin
This Girl's in Love with You
Soulful melodies intertwine with poignant lyrics, showcasing Franklin's powerful vocal delivery over lush instrumental arrangements.
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Tina Turner
Love Explosion
A vibrant blend of soulful melodies and disco rhythms, echoing the dance floor energy of late '70s pop.
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Tina Turner
Tina Turns the Country On!
A vibrant blend of country and soul, showcasing Tina Turner's dynamic vocals against lush instrumentation.
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Bee Gees
To Whom It May Concern
Melodic harmonies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a reflective soft rock tapestry that captures the essence of early '70s pop.
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Bee Gees
Mr. Natural
A smooth blend of blue-eyed soul and soft rock, infused with thoughtful lyrics and rich harmonies.
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Tom Jones
Say You'll Stay Until Tomorrow
A blend of soulful ballads and reflective country tunes showcasing Tom Jones' powerful vocal delivery.
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Tom Jones
What a Night
A vibrant blend of blue-eyed soul and pop, infused with heartfelt melodies and Tom Jones' powerful vocals.
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Rod Stewart
A Night on the Town
An exuberant blend of rock and pop, characterized by Stewart's distinctive raspy vocals and vibrant arrangements.
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Rod Stewart
Never a Dull Moment
A vibrant blend of rock and rhythm and blues infused with Stewart's unmistakable raspy vocals and lyrical charm.
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Quincy Jones
I Heard That!!
A vibrant fusion of funk, jazz, and soul that showcases Quincy Jones' expansive musical vision and innovative arrangements.
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Quincy Jones
Body Heat
A vibrant fusion of funk, jazz, and soul that immerses listeners in a sultry, rhythmic experience.
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The Moody Blues
Seventh Sojourn
A lush tapestry of orchestral arrangements and introspective lyrics woven into the fabric of progressive rock.
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The Moody Blues
Octave
A rich tapestry of orchestral arrangements and lush harmonies, exploring themes of love and existence through a progressive rock lens.
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Tina Arena
Tiny Tina and Little John
A vibrant collection of pop and soul that radiates joy with its catchy melodies and rich vocal harmonies.
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Pat Boone
Texas Woman
A blend of country storytelling with pop sensibilities, wrapped in Boone's smooth vocal charm and vibrant arrangements.
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George Benson
Bad Benson
A vibrant fusion of jazz and funk, where intricate guitar solos dance atop tightly woven rhythms.
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George Benson
In Flight
A seamless blend of jazz and pop, where intricate guitar work meets soulful vocal melodies in a smooth, laid-back atmosphere.
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Taj Mahal
Mo' Roots
A vibrant fusion of blues, Caribbean rhythms, and folk storytelling, evoking a rich tapestry of cultural influences.
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Taj Mahal
Music Fuh Ya'
A vibrant fusion of blues and rhythm and blues with Caribbean influences, rich in storytelling and rhythmic grooves.
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