3 Lost 1971 Songs You Probably Don’t Remember

The year 1971 might seem like a lifetime ago, but the music from that era still hits hard today. With rock, soul, blues, and country all competing for space on the charts, it’s no wonder some great tracks slipped through the cracks. While a few songs became eternal classics, others—despite their success at the time—have slowly faded from memory. Let’s take a trip back and shine a spotlight on three tunes from 1971 that deserve another listen.

“Sweet City Woman” – The Stampeders
When The Stampeders released “Sweet City Woman” in May 1971, they delivered a catchy country-rock track full of charm. Written by Rich Dodson, the song originally appeared on the band’s debut record Against the Grain (which was renamed Sweet City Woman in the U.S.).

The highlight? That unforgettable banjo riff. As Dodson once said, “That banjo just can’t be beat.” Listeners clearly agreed—the single spent a month at No. 1 in Canada and climbed to No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. It proved that Canadian country rock had more to offer than many people realized at the time. While the Stampeders aren’t often mentioned today, this track still feels fresh and fun over 50 years later.

“Never Ending Song of Love” – Delaney & Bonnie
Next up is a soulful, blues-inspired love song that deserves far more recognition. Delaney & Bonnie, the husband-and-wife duo, released “Never Ending Song of Love” in May 1971, and it quickly found a spot on the Hot 100, peaking at No. 13.

Delaney Bramlett is officially credited as the songwriter, though some believe Bonnie Bramlett contributed more to the track than she received credit for. Sadly, their story didn’t live up to the song’s title. By the following year, the couple had divorced, and the act came to an end. Still, this song stands as a warm reminder of the unique blend of blues and country soul they brought to the scene.

“Smiling Faces Sometimes” – The Undisputed Truth
For anyone who craves a mix of psychedelic soul and funk, “Smiling Faces Sometimes” by The Undisputed Truth is a forgotten treasure. Written by Motown legends Barrett Strong and Norman Whitfield, the song was originally recorded by The Temptations. But it was The Undisputed Truth’s haunting version that truly resonated with listeners.

The single soared to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and even reached No. 1 on the Cash Box Top 100. With its eerie groove and cautionary lyrics, the track had a vibe unlike anything else on the radio. Unfortunately, the group never replicated its success with another Top 40 hit. Still, as one music writer put it, “What a fine song to be known for, I’d say.”

A Year Worth Revisiting

1971 was filled with iconic releases, but these three songs prove that hidden gems still exist in music history. Whether it’s the banjo-driven joy of “Sweet City Woman,” the tender harmonies of “Never Ending Song of Love,” or the funky, thought-provoking groove of “Smiling Faces Sometimes,” each track deserves another spin today. Sometimes, the best songs are the ones just waiting to be rediscovered.