Disco Duck and 4 other 1970s hits that time should’ve forgotten

Many people believe that the 1970s were the golden age for music, and while others might argue for different decades, I personally think it was unparalleled. This is likely because I remember so many of those songs as fresh and groundbreaking when they first came out. Listening to tunes from that era always stirs up a flood of nostalgic memories.

Generally, those memories are joyful, even though the quality of the song wasn’t exceptional. Despite the 1970s being musically outstanding, there were numerous songs that missed the mark compared to that high standard. A recurring issue is an awkward factor that many of these tunes share.

It might be shocking to note, but several of these tracks were extremely popular in the past. However, unlike certain tunes that become more appealing as time passes or demand a second look, this isn’t the case with the five songs mentioned below – they remain just as bad today.

5 popular songs from the 1970s that are still awful now

In general, it’s puzzling why these were successful when they first came out, and they haven’t improved over time. It’s concerning that they might only represent the top part of a larger trend. Unfortunately, the 1970s produced many more like these, but we can only handle so much at once, so let’s focus on the five examples given for now.

“Disco Duck” – Rick Dees and his cast of idiots

Indeed, let’s kick things off by discussing a song that might not be everyone’s cup of tea – I wouldn’t recommend giving it a listen, as it could linger in your mind for quite some time. It certainly lived up to its title in the most ironic way possible. The genre was disco, and the unusual element was a vocalized talking duck, reminiscent of Donald Duck trying to dance, with an orchestral backing and a pulsating rhythm.

Rick Dees, a disc jockey from Memphis, was responsible for this whole thing. He recognized its potential, pointing out that it only took a day to write, but nearly three months to find someone willing to perform it. The song eventually reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in October 1976. Moreover, it also charted within the top 20 on the Billboard Hot Soul list.

Back in 1977, a tune of mine somehow managed to slip into a scene within the iconic movie “Saturday Night Fever.” However, it didn’t make it onto the mega-selling soundtrack album that eventually sold over 40 million copies. I can’t help but ponder how long his representation lasted after advising against its inclusion in such a monumental record!

“(You’re) Having My Baby” – Paul Anka

Instead of moving from one awkward tune to another, let’s explore Paul Anka’s 1974 hit “(You’re) Having My Baby”. Despite Anka’s impressive musical portfolio as both a performer and a writer, this particular song is quite different in quality. It’s almost surprising to think that the man who penned the English lyrics for the Frank Sinatra classic “My Way” could produce such a tune.

Beyond being overly sweet, melodramatic, and excessively emotional, Anka’s interpretation of the lyrics seemed off-base. Critics have labeled it as sexist due to his use of ‘my’ instead of ‘our’ when referring to the baby. Additionally, there’s a line that seems to imply the mother chose not to terminate her pregnancy.

I might not be the best singer when it comes to my lyrics, but amazingly enough, they reached the top spot in the USA and beyond. However, I’d advise others to steer clear of it, just like Anka sometimes did during his later performances.

My Ding-a-Ling” – Chuck Berry

Although Chuck Berry is well-known for many hits, “My Ding-a-Ling” was the only one to reach number one. It might not have been foolish of him to release this seemingly simple song after all. Interestingly, it was a live version that was unintentionally recorded during a concert in Coventry, UK, in 1972. Since Pink Floyd were being filmed at the same event, his impromptu performance with the audience was also captured on tape.

At that moment, it was awkward unless you were a teenager with a rebellious streak, who might find amusement in blasting a song with double meanings. Frankly, the tune isn’t impressive; it lacks the distinctive guitar riffs or depth that make a song memorable. Instead, it feels more like an unfunny joke being shared aloud and doesn’t get any funnier over time.

“Chirpy Chirpy Cheep Cheep” – Middle of the Road

As a music enthusiast, I’d say that back in the early ’70s, the Scottish band Middle Of The Road was making waves, and one of their most successful tracks was “Chirpy Chirpy Cheep Cheep.” This tune reached number one on the charts and earned them a gold disc. It’s a cheerful, catchy melody that seems to embody a sense of contentment, perfect for a sing-along session!

Instead of being grandiose, the song’s words may not initially strike one as particularly profound. However, upon realizing that they portray a child discovering their parents have disappeared, there emerges a subtle yet chilling air of mystery and foreboding.

If you disregard the lyrics, it could still function as a classic dance track at gatherings or events. However, its distinctive vocals and straightforward pop style can become quite grating after a while. Yet, despite this, it’s likely to be familiar and irresistible when played, causing many to want to sing along. Nevertheless, we should strive to resist joining in whenever possible.

“Brand New Key” – Melanie

The story “1971 Tale” by Melanie wasn’t about “Sk8r Boi” style skating, but rather a unique take on roller skating. Even though we might not have recognized its heatiness at the time, it certainly added some sizzle to the sport. Upon closer inspection, many readers have found Freudian themes and suggestive undertones in Melanie’s writing, although she seems to have written it innocently initially.

The tune remains a bit unconventional, possibly due to its simple lyrics and narrative. Additionally, it’s significantly marked by the singer’s youthful, slightly nasal voice during performance. At first, it’s appealing and adorable, but eventually becomes grating and annoying. However, she has performed far superior songs. Yet, this particular hit single is what she is most recognized for.

In the United Kingdom, a few years after its original release, The Wurzels gave a unique spin to the song by incorporating elements of rural life such as cider-drinking villagers and a new tractor, thus giving it a distinct countryside flavor.

2025-06-24 13:00