4 Songs From 1974 That Even Modern Music Fans Can Get Behind
Four songs released in 1974 are presented as enduring choices for listeners whose usual tastes are more modern: ABBA’s “Waterloo”, Joni Mitchell’s “Free Man in Paris”, Elton John’s “The Bitch Is Back” and Stevie Wonder’s “Boogie On Reggae Woman”. Together, they show the range of pop and rock from that year, from Eurovision-winning pop to a groove-led track with a harmonica solo.
ABBA found international success after “Waterloo” won Eurovision in Brighton, and the song reached No. 1 in Belgium, where the historic battle it references took place. Mitchell wrote “Free Man in Paris” about music executive David Geffen and the pressures of his work; John described “The Bitch Is Back” as his theme song. Wonder’s 1974 album *Fulfillingness’ First Finale* won three Grammys, including one for his vocal performance on “Boogie On Reggae Woman”.
In short
- ABBA’s “Waterloo” won Eurovision in 1974 and topped Belgium’s chart.
- Joni Mitchell’s song drew on David Geffen’s work pressures.
- Stevie Wonder’s album won three Grammys that year.
Explained simply
In 1974, pop and rock covered a wide range of styles, from polished pop to songs shaped by soul, reggae and rock. The four tracks here were recorded by ABBA, Joni Mitchell, Elton John and Stevie Wonder, artists who had very different approaches to writing and performing music.
ABBA became internationally known after winning the Eurovision Song Contest with “Waterloo”; its title refers to the 1815 battle in Belgium. Mitchell’s “Free Man in Paris” was inspired by music executive David Geffen, while John called “The Bitch Is Back” his theme song. Wonder’s album *Fulfillingness’ First Finale* won three Grammy Awards, including one recognising his vocal performance on “Boogie On Reggae Woman”.
These songs offer a snapshot of how varied popular music was in the 1970s. Their continued appeal can be heard in their different melodies, rhythms and performances.