If you were a little Black girl who grew up in the Seventies, you already know how much of a “Boogie Wonderland” the decade was. It was a vibe.
Doesn’t thinking of the “Good Times” you had in the 70s conjure nostalgic memories of Soul Train lines, Afro Sheen-ed Afro puffs, roller skating rinks, a wardrobe full of cool polyester threads, bell bottoms and platforms, and a groovy music soundtrack that ranged from disco and funk to smooth R&B and blue-eyed soul.
So, let’s flashback to what felt like a kinder and gentler time, and “Ease on Down the Road” to “Memory Lane" with this playlist packed with 40 hot tracks by out of sight artists that were probably in heavy rotation on your 8-Track player.
We’re talkin’ about Earth, Wind & Fire and The Emotions (“Boogie Wonderland)”; Stevie Wonder (“Superstition”); Peaches & Herb (“Reunited”); the Commodores (“Brick House)”; Barry White (“You’re The First, The Last, My Everything”); Al Green (“Let’s Stay Together”); KC & The Sunshine Band (“That’s the Way (I Like It)”); Rose Royce (“Wishing On a Star”); The Bee Gees (“How Deep is Your Love”); Teddy Pendergrass (“Close the Door”), and more.
And since Sisters from AARP is always down for a festive “Ladies Night,” classic hits by your favorite disco divas, foxy mamas and soul sirens also heat up the mix, including: Donna Summer (“Bad Girls” and “Last Dance”); Labelle (“Lady Marmalade”); Sister Sledge (“He’s the Greatest Dancer”); Diana Ross (“The Boss”); Gloria Gaynor (“I Will Survive”); Evelyn “Champagne” King (“Shame”); Rufus featuring Chaka Khan (“Sweet Thing”); A Taste of Honey (“Boogie Oogie Oogie”); Gladys Knight & the Pips (“Midnight Train to Georgia”); and Love Unlimited (“I’m So Glad That I’m a Woman”).
Are you ready to “Rock Steady,” sis? Crank this playlist up when you’re in the car, cooking, cleaning the house or anytime you need a boogie break.
This special issue of Sisters From AARP is devoted to music and how it shapes — and strengthens — our memories. For more on this topic from AARP, including videos, events and memory games, visit aarp.org/musicandmemory
Mora Vieytes
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