Marching Through the Decades: The Biggest Hits of March from the ’70s and ’80s
A Nostalgic Look at the Songs That Topped the Charts Each March
Music has a way of marking time, and every March, certain songs take over the airwaves and rule the Billboard Hot 100. From classic rock and disco to pop and R&B, these songs became No. 1 hits in March of their respective years, defining the sound of their time. Let’s look at the biggest chart-toppers from the 1970s through the 1980s.
The ’70s Soundtrack: Disco, Rock & Tearjerking Ballads
The ’70s were all about storytelling folk, soaring ballads, and the rise of disco. These songs were No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in March of their respective years:
“Bridge Over Troubled Water” – Simon & Garfunkel (1970)
- Album: Bridge Over Troubled Water
- Release Date: January 26, 1970
- Achievements: Grammy Award for Record and Song of the Year
A sweeping, gospel-influenced ballad, “Bridge Over Troubled Water” became one of Simon & Garfunkel’s most enduring hits. Its powerful lyrics and orchestral production made it a defining song of the era.
“Me and Bobby McGee” – Janis Joplin (1971)
- Album: Pearl
- Release Date: January 11, 1971
- Achievements: No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100
Initially written by Kris Kristofferson, Joplin’s bluesy, soulful rendition became her signature hit. Tragically, it was released posthumously, cementing her legacy as a rock icon.
“A Horse with No Name” – America (1972)
- Album: America
- Release Date: January 12, 1972
- Achievements: No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100
This dreamy folk-rock track captured the spirit of the ’70s with its mysterious lyrics and mellow acoustic sound, drawing comparisons to Neil Young’s style. Listen on Youtube.
“Killing Me Softly with His Song” – Roberta Flack (1973)
- Album: Killing Me Softly
- Release Date: January 1973
- Achievements: Grammy Award for Record and Song of the Year
Flack’s soulful delivery made this song a timeless classic. It later found new life when The Fugees covered it in 1996. Roberta sadly passed away in 2025.
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“Seasons in the Sun” – Terry Jacks (1974)
- Album: Seasons in the Sun
- Release Date: December 1973
- Achievements: No. 1 in multiple countries
This melancholic ballad about farewell and reflection struck an emotional chord, making it one of the decade’s biggest hits.
“My Eyes Adored You” – Frankie Valli (1975)
- Album: Closeup
- Release Date: November 1974
- Achievements: No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100
Originally recorded with The Four Seasons, this romantic ballad became one of Valli’s most beloved solo hits.
“December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night)” – The Four Seasons (1976)
- Album: Who Loves You
- Release Date: December 1975
- Achievements: No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100
A feel-good anthem, “December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night)” remains a party favorite with its upbeat rhythm and nostalgic lyrics.
Don’t just read about these iconic hits—experience them!
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“Rich Girl” – Hall & Oates (1977)
- Album: Bigger Than Both of Us
- Release Date: January 1977
- Achievements: No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100
This catchy, satirical track about wealth and privilege became Hall & Oates’ first chart-topping hit. Listen to “Rich Girl.”
“Night Fever” – Bee Gees (1978)
- Album: Saturday Night Fever Soundtrack
- Release Date: February 7, 1978
- Achievements: No. 1 for eight weeks on the Billboard Hot 100
A defining track of the disco era, Night Fever played a crucial role in the cultural phenomenon that was Saturday Night Fever. With its infectious groove and signature falsetto harmonies, the song not only dominated the charts but also became synonymous with Bee Gees’ disco takeover. Their influence on the genre was unparalleled, cementing them as harmony heroes in the music industry.
Beyond Night Fever, the Bee Gees crafted an extensive catalog of hits that showcased their versatility and songwriting genius. From their early pop ballads to their reinvention as disco legends, their journey is chronicled in The Complete Album Odyssey. Their enduring legacy continues to inspire artists today, with many paying tribute through cover versions.
For a deeper dive into the Bee Gees’ impact on music and culture, explore their iconic fame and the many ways they shaped the industry in this dedicated feature.
“I Will Survive” – Gloria Gaynor (1979)
- Album: Love Tracks
- Release Date: October 1978
- Achievements: Grammy Award for Best Disco Recording
An empowering anthem of resilience, “I Will Survive” became one of disco’s greatest songs and a symbol of strength.
Electric Dreams & Big Hair: March Hits of the ’80s
The ’80s were filled with electrifying pop, rock anthems, and early hip-hop influences. Here are the March chart-toppers from the decade:
“Crazy Little Thing Called Love” – Queen (1980)
A rockabilly-inspired hit that showcased Freddie Mercury’s versatility.
From disco divas to grunge gods, we’ve got them all.
Stream these March classics now—no time machine required!
“9 to 5” – Dolly Parton (1981)
An upbeat feminist anthem that also became a workplace rallying cry.
“Centerfold” – The J. Geils Band (1982)
A catchy new-wave track with an unforgettable chorus.
“Billie Jean” – Michael Jackson (1983)
One of the most iconic songs of all time, featuring MJ’s legendary moonwalk.
“Jump” – Van Halen (1984)
A synth-driven rock hit that remains a sports stadium favorite.
“Can’t Fight This Feeling” – REO Speedwagon (1985)
A power ballad that defined ’80s rock romance.
“These Dreams” – Heart (1986)
Heart’s first No. 1 hit, showcasing Nancy Wilson’s ethereal vocals.
“Lean on Me” – Club Nouveau (1987)
A funky remake of Bill Withers’ classic.
“Never Gonna Give You Up” – Rick Astley (1988)
The song that launched a million rickrolls!
“Lost in Your Eyes” – Debbie Gibson (1989)
A heartfelt ballad that made Gibson a teen pop sensation.
From Funk to Flack: What’s Your Favorite March Hit?
From disco and rock to pop and R&B, March has delivered some of the most unforgettable songs across decades. Which one brings back the best memories for you? Let us know!
