Fifty years ago, radio dials and turntables were spinning an uncommonly diverse mix of sounds. The charts of 1975 didn’t follow a single storyline—instead, they captured a moment when multiple musical currents were flowing with equal strength. Disco was gaining momentum but hadn’t yet dominated everything in its path. Rock was simultaneously reaching for arena-sized ambition and stripping down to raw emotion. Soul and funk were evolving into more sophisticated forms, while pop continued doing what it does best: making people hum along whether they meant to or not.
The year belonged, in many ways, to artists who understood that hooks and ambition weren’t mutually exclusive. Bruce Springsteen’s “Born to Run” arrived like a desperate prayer wrapped in Phil Spector production, while Queen’s “Killer Queen” proved that flamboyance and precision could coexist in three minutes of glam-rock perfection. Led Zeppelin stretched “Kashmir” across nearly nine minutes of Eastern-influenced grandeur, and Pink Floyd’s “Wish You Were Here” turned melancholy into an art form. Even Bob Dylan, never one to stand still, was crafting the narrative complexity of “Tangled Up in Blue.” These weren’t just songs—they were statements about how far popular music could reach while still connecting with listeners.
Meanwhile, dance floors were becoming cultural epicenters. KC and the Sunshine Band’s “That’s the Way (I Like It)” and Gloria Gaynor’s “Never Can Say Goodbye” helped establish disco as something more than a passing trend. The Bee Gees’ “Jive Talkin'” showed that the brothers Gibb could pivot from balladeers to funk-influenced hitmakers. Labelle’s “Lady Marmalade” brought New Orleans sass and unapologetic sexuality to the mainstream, while Earth, Wind & Fire’s “Shining Star” blended funk, soul, and jazz into something that felt both cosmic and grounded. The groove wasn’t just a rhythm—it was becoming a philosophy.
What’s striking about 1975 is how much sonic territory gets covered without any single approach dominating. 10cc’s “I’m Not in Love” used studio technology to create something hauntingly atmospheric, while Kraftwerk’s “Autobahn” was quietly suggesting what electronic music might become. Barry White continued orchestrating romantic opulence, Minnie Riperton’s five-octave range soared through “Lovin’ You,” and Linda Ronstadt’s “You’re No Good” proved that straightforward rock could still pack a punch. David Bowie’s “Fame,” co-written with John Lennon, showed him already moving past glam into funk-inflected territory. Glen Campbell brought “Rhinestone Cowboy” to country-pop crossover success, while Average White Band demonstrated that Scottish musicians could master American funk with “Pick Up the Pieces.”
Listening to these songs now, what emerges isn’t just nostalgia but a reminder of a particular kind of creative confidence. These artists weren’t afraid to be big or vulnerable, funky or introspective, polished or raw—sometimes all within the same track. The year didn’t belong to any single movement or sound, and that might be exactly what made it memorable. It was a time when the radio could take you from the Staple Singers’ gospel-infused soul to Sweet’s glitter-rock crunch to ABBA’s pristine pop architecture without anyone thinking twice about the journey. That kind of range feels worth celebrating.
Happy Sisters Day! There’s a unique, almost telepathic bond between sisters, and nowhere is that connection more audible than in music. When sisters sing together, they create a blend that often is simply magical—a harmony that’s been practiced over a lifetime.
In celebration of this incredible bond, I’ve curated a playlist of songs from groups that feature at least one pair of sisters. From the tough-girl cool of the ’60s girl groups to ’80s rock goddesses, ’90s pop sensations, and modern indie darlings, this playlist is a testament to the power of sisterhood in harmony. So grab your sister (or your chosen sister!), turn up the volume, and let’s dive in.
Leader of the Pack – The Shangri-Las The Sisters: Mary and Elizabeth “Betty” Weiss were the heart of this legendary girl group, alongside the identical twins Marge and Mary Ann Ganser. With their dramatic, soap-opera-in-a-song storytelling and a “tougher than the boys” attitude, the Shangri-Las stood out. “Leader of the Pack” is their definitive mini-masterpiece of teenage tragedy.
Emmylou – First Aid Kit The Sisters: Swedish folk duo Klara and Johanna Söderberg are revered for their breathtaking, otherworldly harmonies. On “Emmylou,” they pay beautiful tribute to their country music heroes (Emmylou Harris, Gram Parsons, June Carter, and Johnny Cash), creating a modern folk classic that feels utterly timeless.
Be My Baby – The Ronettes The Sisters: The iconic lead vocals of Veronica “Ronnie” Bennett (later Spector) were backed by the harmonies of her older sister, Estelle Bennett, and their cousin Nedra Talley. This song, with its legendary drum intro and Phil Spector’s Wall of Sound production, is pure pop perfection and a benchmark for the girl group era.
C’est la Vie – B*Witched The Sisters: This infectiously cheerful Irish pop group featured identical twin sisters Edele and Keavy Lynch (whose brother, Shane, was in the boy band Boyzone). “C’est la Vie,” with its jig-dancing, double-denim aesthetic, and suggestive lyrics, is a pure shot of late-’90s bubblegum pop nostalgia.
We Are Family – Sister Sledge The Sisters: It’s right there in the name! Debbie, Joni, Kim, and Kathy Sledge are the four sisters who became a global phenomenon with this timeless anthem. Written and produced by Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards of Chic, the song wasn’t just a disco smash; it became a universal hymn for families, teams, and communities everywhere.
Move Ya Body – Nina Sky The Sisters: Identical twin sisters Nicole and Natalie Albino make up the duo Nina Sky. This dancehall-infused debut single was a massive summer smash in 2004, and its infectious “Diwali Riddim” beat still fills dancefloors today.
Walk Like an Egyptian – Bangles The Sisters: Vicki and Debbi Peterson (guitar and drums, respectively) were the sibling core of the Bangles. While Susanna Hoffs often took the lead, the Petersons’ rock-solid rhythm and harmonies were essential to the band’s sound. This quirky, chart-topping hit became one of the most memorable songs of the ’80s.
Closer – Tegan And Sara The Sisters: Canadian identical twin sisters Tegan and Sara Quin have been indie-rock mainstays for years. “Closer” marked their brilliant pivot into synth-pop, a shimmering, exhilarating track about the thrill of a crush before a relationship even begins. It’s a masterclass in pop songwriting.
I’ll Take You There – The Staple Singers The Sisters: Gospel and soul royalty, The Staple Singers were a true family affair led by patriarch “Pops” Staples. His daughters Mavis, Cleotha, and Yvonne Staples provided the heavenly, soul-stirring harmonies. This song, with its iconic bassline borrowed from a reggae track, is a blissful invitation to a better place.
I Love How You Love Me – The Paris Sisters The Sisters: Albeth, Sherrell, and Priscilla Paris were known for their incredibly tight, close-miked, whispery harmonies. Produced by Phil Spector before his Wall of Sound days, this dreamy, delicate ballad perfectly captures the sweet innocence of young love.
Best of My Love – The Emotions The Sisters: Wanda, Sheila, and Pamela Hutchinson are the Chicago-born sisters behind The Emotions. This joyous, soaring disco-soul classic was co-written and produced by Earth, Wind & Fire’s Maurice White, and it showcases their absolutely flawless, exuberant harmonies. It’s impossible not to smile while listening.
Hippychick – Soho The Sisters: This one-hit wonder from 1990 was fronted by twin sisters Jacqueline “Jacqui” and Pauline Cuff. The song’s laid-back groove is built around a genius sample of The Smiths’ “How Soon Is Now?,” creating a track that’s instantly recognizable and quintessentially of its era.
Never Ever – All Saints The Sisters: The ’90s British girl group All Saints, known for their cooler, more casual style, included sisters Natalie and Nicole Appleton. “Never Ever” was their biggest hit, a soulful, melancholic R&B ballad that became one of the best-selling singles by a girl group in the UK.
Nothing But A Heartache – The Flirtations The Sisters: Though their lineup shifted, this American vocal group (who found fame in the UK) was founded by sisters Shirley and Pearly Pearce. “Nothing But a Heartache” is a prime cut of Northern Soul—up-tempo, dramatic, and deeply soulful, it’s a crate-digger’s treasure.
The Sign – Ace Of Base The Sisters: This Swedish pop group that dominated the airwaves in the ’90s was fronted by sisters Jenny and Linn Berggren. Their distinct voices—Jenny’s powerful and clear, Linn’s ethereal and soft—were the perfect vehicle for this insanely catchy reggae-pop confection that took over the world.
Popsicles and Icicles – The Murmaids The Sisters: Sisters Carol and Terry Fischer were two-thirds of The Murmaids. This sweet, dreamy tune, written by a young David Gates (who would later form the band Bread), became a surprise hit in 1963 and remains a perfect example of the innocent charm of the era.
Chapel of Love – Dixie Cups The Sisters: New Orleans trio The Dixie Cups featured sisters Barbara Ann and Rosa Lee Hawkins, along with their cousin Joan Marie Johnson. Their version of “Chapel of Love” knocked The Beatles out of the #1 spot in 1964.
Boogie Fever – The Sylvers The Sisters: The Sylvers were a large family band, similar to the Jacksons. On their biggest hit, “Boogie Fever,” the lead vocals are handled by Edmund Sylvers, but the shimmering, essential background harmonies come courtesy of sisters Olympia and Charmaine Sylvers.
My Boyfriend’s Back – The Angels The Sisters: This sassy girl-group classic was powered by sisters Barbara “Bibs” and Phyllis “Jiggs” Allbut. The song is a perfect slice of early ’60s pop, a warning to a would-be suitor that her boyfriend is back in town and “gonna save my reputation.”
Eres Tu (Touch the Wind) – Mocedades The Sisters: This Spanish group featured three sisters in its classic lineup: Amaya, Izaskun, and Estíbaliz Uranga. “Eres Tú” was Spain’s entry in the 1973 Eurovision Song Contest. It didn’t win, but it became a massive global hit, showcasing the group’s lush, soaring vocal arrangements.
Cannonball – The Breeders The Sisters: A cornerstone of ’90s alternative rock, The Breeders were formed by Kim Deal (of the Pixies) and her identical twin sister, Kelley Deal. “Cannonball,” with its iconic slithering bassline, nonsensical lyrics, and explosive chorus, is a blast of pure, raw, and effortlessly cool rock and roll.
The Ketchup Song (Aserejé) – Las Ketchup The Sisters: Say it out loud: The Ketchup sisters! This one is wonderfully literal. Spanish sisters Lola, Pilar, and Lucía Muñoz are the daughters of a flamenco guitarist known as “El Tomate” (The Tomato). Their nonsensical smash hit, complete with a viral dance, was inescapable throughout Europe in the summer of 2002.
The Wire – HAIM The Sisters: Este, Danielle, and Alana Haim are the quintessential modern sister act. The multi-instrumentalist siblings from California burst onto the scene with a sound that blended ’70s soft rock with ’80s pop. “The Wire” is a perfect introduction to their intricate rhythms and impeccable harmonies.
Hammond Song – The Roches The Sisters: Maggie, Terre, and Suzzy Roche were a trio of sisters from New York known for their astonishingly complex, intricate, and often quirky folk harmonies. “Hammond Song,” from their debut album produced by King Crimson’s Robert Fripp, is a haunting and beautiful display of their unique vocal chemistry.
Not Ready To Make Nice –The Chicks The Sisters: Martie Maguire (fiddle) and Emily Strayer (banjo, dobro) are the instrumental powerhouses and harmony singers of this trailblazing country trio. This fiery, defiant anthem was their response to the backlash they faced for speaking out against the Iraq War, and it earned them three Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year.
Respectable – Mel & Kim The Sisters: British sisters Melanie and Kim Appleby were a vibrant pop duo who worked with the hitmaking team of Stock Aitken Waterman. “Respectable” is a sassy, high-energy dance-pop track that champions self-respect and fun. Tragically, Mel passed away from cancer in 1990 at the peak of their fame.
Alone – Heart The Sisters: Ann and Nancy Wilson are rock and roll royalty. With Ann’s powerhouse vocals and Nancy’s virtuosic, dynamic guitar work, they have been the unwavering core of Heart for decades. While “Alone” is a cover, their rendition transformed it into one of the greatest power ballads of all time.
Mr. Lee – The Bobbettes The Sisters: This groundbreaking group included sisters Jannie and Emma Pought. In 1957, The Bobbettes became the first all-female group to write their own #1 R&B hit. “Mr. Lee,” a song originally written to tease a teacher they disliked, is a fun, foundational piece of rock and roll history.
Automatic – The Pointer Sisters The Sisters: Anita, June, Ruth, and Bonnie Pointer began by singing a mix of jazz, soul, and country before reinventing themselves as sleek, synth-pop superstars following Bonnie’s departure from the group. This ’80s classic is a prime example of their funky, high-tech sound, driven by Ruth Pointer’s incredibly deep and sultry lead vocal.
I Wanna Love Him So Bad – The Jelly Beans The Sisters: This gem from the golden age of girl groups featured the powerful harmonies of sisters Maxine and Betty Smith. Discovered while still in high school, The Jelly Beans were teamed with legendary songwriters Jeff Barry and Ellie Greenwich. The result was this classic expression of teenage devotion, a perfect slice of 1964 pop.
I hope you enjoyed this journey through the history of sister acts in music. Share this playlist with your sister and have a wonderful, music-filled Sisters Day!
The music of 1971 was shaped by a world in transition. The optimism of the ’60s had given way to a more complicated reality—political upheaval, the Vietnam War, and shifting cultural norms weighed heavily on society. In response, many artists channeled these changes into their music, whether through protest, storytelling, or deeply personal reflection. The result was a year that produced enduring songs across multiple genres, from confessional singer-songwriter fare to hard-hitting rock and infectious soul.
Some of the most memorable hits of the year leaned into personal themes rather than overt social commentary. Carole King’s “It’s Too Late” and Elton John’s “Your Song” exemplified the rise of the singer-songwriter era, blending lyrical vulnerability with sophisticated melodies. Al Green’s “Tired of Being Alone” showcased his effortless mix of longing and smooth Southern soul, while Rod Stewart’s “Maggie May” became his breakthrough solo hit, telling the story of youthful romance with a blend of folk and rock. At the same time, Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On” took a broader view, addressing war, inequality, and injustice in a way that felt both urgent and timeless.
Rock music remained as dominant as ever, though it took on new forms. Led Zeppelin’s “Immigrant Song” showcased their thunderous power, while The Who’s “Won’t Get Fooled Again” harnessed synthesizers and political defiance to craft an enduring anthem. The Rolling Stones’ “Brown Sugar,” released without much controversy at the time, has since been reevaluated due to its lyrical content. Meanwhile, The Doors painted a dark, atmospheric landscape on “Riders on the Storm,” and Paul & Linda McCartney’s “Uncle Albert/Admiral Halsey” leaned into whimsical experimentation, proving that rock still had room for playfulness.
Soul and funk made significant strides in 1971, with Sly & The Family Stone’s “Family Affair” pioneering a more subdued, groove-heavy sound. The Staple Singers’ “Respect Yourself” and Curtis Mayfield’s “Move On Up” carried messages of empowerment, while Honey Cone’s “Want Ads” and Jean Knight’s “Mr. Big Stuff” infused attitude into their infectious rhythms. The Jackson 5’s “Never Can Say Goodbye” demonstrated a maturing sound beyond their bubblegum pop beginnings, while Cher’s “Gypsies, Tramps and Thieves” and Melanie’s “Brand New Key” brought storytelling into the pop realm with memorable melodies and an enduring campiness.
Fifty-plus years later, the music of 1971 still resonates. Whether through the social commentary of “What’s Going On,” the country-rock warmth of “Me and Bobby McGee,” or the swampy energy of Ike & Tina Turner’s “Proud Mary,” these songs remain essential listening. They serve as both a time capsule and a reminder that great music doesn’t just reflect its era—it continues to shape the generations that follow.
Today is World Kindness Day. While every day would be a great day to practice basic human decency, some people are nasty assbags with no regard for others. If you’re one of those walking masterpieces of jackholery, here’s a wild idea: try being kind for ONE WHOLE DAY and see what it does. For example, let’s say you’re the personal assistant to someone who lives in a building with other residents. When you’re walking out of the building’s front door just in front of a neighbor who is holding his 17-year-old blind dog and leading his other pupper on a leash, maybe – and I’m just spitballing here – don’t let the door slam in their face, you self-absorbed piece of human garbage. And if said neighbor thoughtfully moves your precious Tesla charging cable to prevent damage (gasp – the audacity of helping!), perhaps, don’t show up at his door and berate him for protecting your property. Wild concept: Show some gratitude for his thoughtfulness. Consider saying “thank you,” you self-important, unreasonable, entitled, high-handed weenie.
FFS people, be kind! Rewind!
(Any resemblance to persons unfortunately living is purely intentional.)
1972. The Vietnam War raged on, Watergate loomed, and the social landscape shifted beneath our feet. Amidst this backdrop of upheaval, our ears tuned in to a soundtrack that transcended mere melodies—it pulsed with the countercultural spirit and the burgeoning individuality of an era. Let us step back in time, dust off the record player, and explore the timeless tunes that wove themselves into the fabric of our lives—a kaleidoscope of genres and voices that defined a generation.
Al Green crooned “Let’s Stay Together,” his velvet voice weaving an unwavering plea for commitment.
Roberta Flack tenderly sang “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” etching raw vulnerability into our hearts.
Don McLean painted a poignant picture of a generation in transition with his epic “American Pie.”
Alice Cooper’s rebellious anthem “School’s Out” became the rallying cry for youth liberation, its raucous energy echoing through high school corridors.
Across the pond, T. Rex electrified listeners with glam rock swagger in “Bang a Gong (Get It On).”
Johnny Nash offered optimism with “I Can See Clearly Now,” a beacon of hope cutting through the haze.
Meanwhile, Elton John’s cosmic odyssey “Rocket Man” and David Bowie’s otherworldly anthem “Starman” transported us to distant galaxies, reflecting the era’s fascination with space exploration and introspection.
Jimmy Cliff addressed racial injustice and social struggles in “The Harder They Come.”
Big Star captured the bittersweet angst of adolescence in “Thirteen.”
The bluesy, swaggering classic “Tumbling Dice” by The Rolling Stones left an indelible marks on musical history.
And let’s not forget Elvis Presley, who still had magic to spare with “Burning Love.”
From the introspective musings of Lou Reed’s “Perfect Day” to the raw energy of Led Zeppelin, each track on this playlist embodies the spirit of its time while transcending it—a symphony that continues to resonate across generations.
The music of 1972 continues to evoke nostalgia and stir emotions across generations. These iconic tunes remind us of the enduring legacy of artists who dared to push boundaries and challenge the status quo. So turn up the volume and let these timeless tunes whisk you back to celebrate the enduring beauty of music that transcends generations.
Today’s playlist celebrates the December 26 birthdays of The Hues Corporation’s Fleming Williams, Metallica’s Lars Ulrich, The Shins’ James Mercer, producer Phil Spector, and Uncle Tupelo/Son Volt’s Jay Farrar; the December 27 birthdays of The Incredible String Band’s Mike Heron, Foreigner’s Mick Jones, and Paramore’s Hayley Williams; and the December 28 birthdays of Big Star’s Alex Chilton, The Staple Singers’ Pops Staples, Johnny Otis, Edgar Winter, Black Box guest vocalist Martha Wash, John Legend, Lonnie Liston Smith, Kym Sims, 2 Unlimited’s Anita Doth, and Terrace Martin.
Today’s Throwback Thursday playlist revisits the music of 1975. Each of the 30 songs below made the pop top 40. I miss the days before radio became so segmented and one could hear Eagles rubbing up against Minnie Riperton next to Bob Dylan followed by Labelle with Bruce Springsteen’s first hit playing with The Captain & Tennille’s first hit on deck. It satisfies the musical omnivore that I am.
Today is International Day of Happiness. Do something that makes you feel like a room without a roof. As long as you don’t impinge on someone else’s happiness, it’s all good.
Today’s playlist consists of thirty songs with the word happy in the title.
