6 70s Music Icons Who Lost Their Edge
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The 1970s brought out some of the most daring, trendsetting musicians in history, but not every artist managed to hold onto the edge that made them famous. Here are six music icons from the ’70s who are still with us today, though their creative spark isn’t quite what it used to be.
1. Rod Stewart
Rod Stewart was a rock powerhouse in the ’70s, known for his raw vocals on hits like “Maggie May” and “Stay With Me.” His raspy sound and rebellious style made him a fan favorite. Over the years, though, he shifted to softer, pop-friendly ballads, a change that left some of his early fans longing for the grittier Rod.
By the time he embraced the Great American Songbook, Stewart had veered far from his rock roots, moving into a polished style that felt worlds away from his wild early days. Though still performing, his edge has softened with time.
2. Cher
Cher conquered the ’70s with hits like “Half-Breed” and “Dark Lady.” Her mix of rock and pop, along with her bold, theatrical persona, set her apart. But as her music shifted toward mainstream pop, especially from the ’80s onward, she lost some of the grit that defined her early work.
While she remains a pop culture icon, the boundary-pushing style she embodied in the ’70s evolved into a more polished, commercial sound. Fans of her edgier years noticed the change, even as her popularity endured.
3. Elton John
Elton John’s catchy rock anthems, from “Rocket Man” to “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” made him a global superstar in the ’70s. His vibrant outfits and bold piano performances were part of his appeal. But with time, his music became more mainstream, and the daring spirit that set him apart softened.
Though still touring and producing new music, his approach feels less experimental compared to his earlier years. Elton’s creative peak in the ’70s remains his most unforgettable period.
4. Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder redefined soul music in the ’70s, with albums like Innervisions and Songs in the Key of Life showcasing his blend of soul, funk, and social commentary. But as the years went on, some fans felt his music lost the boundary-pushing spirit that made him a star.
While Wonder’s influence remains undeniable, his later music moved toward smoother, more traditional R&B, leaving fans of his innovative period wanting more of the daring sounds he once pioneered.
5. Diana Ross
As the lead singer of The Supremes and then a solo artist, Diana Ross dominated the music scene, especially in the ’70s with hits like “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “Touch Me in the Morning.” However, as she entered the ’80s and ’90s, her music evolved to a more polished pop style.
Her glamorous performances and timeless hits have continued, but some fans of her soulful early work miss the edgier sound she once had. Ross’s focus shifted to acting and producing, leaving the bold soul of her early career behind.
6. Carlos Santana
Carlos Santana’s guitar skills made him a rock legend in the ’70s, blending Latin rhythms with rock and blues in hits like “Black Magic Woman.” Santana’s style was daring and distinct, and his 1999 album Supernatural was a big success. But his work since then has taken a more mainstream approach.
While Santana’s recent music includes collaborations with pop artists, some fans feel his raw, boundary-pushing energy of the ’70s is harder to find. His innovative guitar style is still celebrated, but the experimental spark has faded.
