10. “Funkytown” – Lipps Inc.: Although it came out in 1980 rather than at the height of disco, its keyboards, violins and horns were enough to make it an anthem. Everyone wanted to grab a partner (or two) and take a trip to Funkytown.9. “Disco Inferno” – The Trammps: There’s no doubt about it; disco was on fire in the ‘70s. This song combined the carefree disco sound with delicious guitar licks making it memorable and catchy enough to still be heard today. Soulful and hot, indeed.8. “Shake Shake Shake (Shake Your Booty)” – KC and the Sunshine Band: With its smooth vocals, strong brass section and non-stop rhythm, “Shake Shake Shake” is a sexy ode to late night dancing. KC, one of the foxiest men of this genre, made you wanna get up and, well, shake your booty.
7. “Knock on Wood” – Amii Stewart: Initially written in 1966 by Eddie Floyd, Stewart took this song, dipped it in disco and made it relevant once more. It was obvious this hit had star power as even David Bowie covered the original.
6. “The Hustle” – Van McCoy: The unmistakable piccolo melody was a call for everyone to get on their feet. Though it didn’t have the most intriguing of lyrics, it became extremely popular and brought back line dancing to both pop culture and nightclubs alike.
5. “I Will Survive” – Gloria Gaynor: The ultimate song about triumph, “I Will Survive” became an instant classic. To this day, women flock to the dance floor singing at the top of their lungs. Men might not want to admit it but Gaynor’s powerful voice makes them want to join in the fun, too.
4. “Dancing Queen” – ABBA: This hit for the Swedish quartet is likely one of the most recognizable songs of the era. Just like “I Will Survive,” it may not be a song for the guys, but ABBA sure knew how to get people up and moving. Don’t you wish you were 17 again?
3. “Stayin’ Alive” – The Bee Gees: They were three brothers from England who gave everyone Saturday night fever. As soon as the opening of this chart topper is heard, it’s impossible to remain seated. The punks of the time shouted “death to disco!” but The Bee Gees knew this genre was here to stay (alive).
2. “I Feel Love” – Donna Summer: Heralded as the Queen of Disco, Summer has a permanent place in the genre’s history – and rightfully so. Her ethereal voice is enough to give you chills. “I Feel Love” was innovative as it had more of a techno feel compared to other disco songs which had heavy orchestral influence.
1. “You Should Be Dancing” – The Bee Gees: No evening at Studio 54 would be complete without this track showcasing Barry Gibb’s unforgettable falsetto voice which defined a decade of music. Needless to say, if this trio didn’t get you on the light-up dance floor then you ain’t nothin’ but a jive turkey.
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