I've previous considered 1966 or 1967 to be the finest years in terms of #1 hits. Well, I think 1970 might trump both of those years. With two notable exceptions, every song I reviewed was good in some regard. Some were buried gems, while others are among the finest songs ever recorded.
The biggest disadvantage with following what topped the pop charts is the fact that progressive rock, early metal, and most hard rock songs, are absent. All three of these genres flourished during 1970. The divide between AM and FM radio was in full force, and there was unfortunately no way that a seventeen minute epic or an "Iron Man" would top the pop charts.
Out of the 23 songs that topped the charts, there can only be one "Best" and "Worst". The latter category was easy for me to determine, while the former was the most difficult decision I've made so far. So, without any further adieu -
Best #1 Hit Song Of 1970 - "Bridge Over Troubled Water" by Simon & Garfunkel.
The aforementioned difficult decision was picking "Bridge" over "Let It Be", the latter of which I've often considered my all time favorite song. "Let It Be" is one of the finest pieces of music ever recorded.
The many honorable mentions: "Thank You (Fallentinme)", "American Woman", "The Long And Winding Road", "Tears Of A Clown" and "My Sweet Lord", are timeless classics that all could have easily taken the top spot for 1970.
What made me pick "Bridge Over Troubled Water" was when I compared it against "Let It Be". As much as I love the latter, I found the former to be an even more moving piece of music, with a stronger production, and more universal lyrics. I can't just pick favorites, I have to go with what is in reality, the marginally better song.
Worst #1 Hit Song Of 1970 - "Everything Is Beautiful" by Ray Stevens.
This was absolutely no contest. Only this song and "I Think I Love You" could be considered true duds of the year in my eye. Both songs contain sappy lyrics, mundane melodies, and have not stood the test of time.
However, "Everything Is Beautiful" stands miles above the Partrige Family's song in terms of awfulness because it comes across as way too preachy and serious. Normally this wouldn't be an issue if it weren't for the fact that Ray Stevens real-life views are hypocritical to what he sang about in the song. I'd rather hear a harmless bubblegum pop hit by a fictional family band than a schmaltzy serious country pop hit by a phony.
I'll be taking a few days off from reviews, so the entire month of March will be devoted to 1971. Glam Rock, singer-songwriter pop, and progressive rock define this year. Funk and soul music took over the classic 1960's Motown sound and the seeds were sown for what would eventually turn into disco. In terms of what topped the pop charts, will this be the strongest year yet? Or will it be a couple of steps backwards? Find out, next time, when we enter 1971!
First Up For 1971 - "Knock Three Times" by Dawn.
Until Next Time, I'm Dr. Rock and we'll see what ch-ch-ch-ch-changes await us in '71 -
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