7 Rock Ballads from the 70s That Were Cheesy Then and Cheesy Now

The 1970s gave us some classic rock ballads, but not all have aged gracefully. Some tracks, loved back in the day, now come across as over-the-top and sappy. These ballads might still be catchy, but their lyrics and melodies can feel a bit cheesy today. Here are 7 that fit the bill.

1. “Beth” – KISS

KISS may be known for their wild stage antics, but “Beth” showed a softer side. The ballad, about a man apologizing to his partner, strayed from the band’s hard rock roots. The slow piano and sentimental lyrics made it a fan favorite, even if it felt out of place for the group.

Today, “Beth” is remembered as one of KISS’s most famous songs, but also one of their cheesiest. Its earnest tone stands in stark contrast to their usual style. While it remains a nostalgic hit for many, its overly sentimental nature has kept it from being taken too seriously by modern listeners.

2. “Baby, I Love Your Way” – Peter Frampton

Peter Frampton’s “Baby, I Love Your Way” became a go-to love song during the ’70s. With its gentle guitar and romantic lyrics, it quickly captured the hearts of many listeners. Frampton’s smooth delivery made it a staple at dances and weddings, where its sweet melody charmed audiences.

Decades later, the song’s lovey-dovey nature can feel a bit heavy-handed. Its earnestness comes off as dated, especially compared to more nuanced love songs that followed. While it still holds a special place for Frampton fans, its sentimental tone can make it sound overly sappy to new ears.

3. “I’d Really Love to See You Tonight” – England Dan & John Ford Coley

This song by the soft rock duo became a radio favorite in the late ’70s. It tells a story of a casual reunion, with the narrator downplaying any deeper emotions. The breezy melody and simple guitar made it easy to sing along, turning it into an easy listening hit.

But for many, the lyrics and relaxed delivery now feel a little too casual. The repeated refrain of “I’m not talking ‘bout moving in” sounds less like a genuine connection and more like a cheesy excuse. Its simplicity, once its strength, now makes it feel a bit light on substance.

4. “Lady” – Styx

Styx’s “Lady” combined rock with orchestral elements, aiming for a grand, emotional sound. With soaring vocals from Dennis DeYoung and sweeping piano, the song quickly became a fan favorite. Its heartfelt lyrics and dramatic melody set the stage for many ‘70s power ballads that followed.

Yet, its heavy-handed style has made it a prime example of ’70s cheese. The over-the-top delivery, once seen as passionate, can come across as overly dramatic. While “Lady” is still a staple on classic rock stations, its blend of romance and grandeur feels more nostalgic than fresh.

5. “All by Myself” – Eric Carmen

Eric Carmen’s “All by Myself” is a song that pulls out all the stops. With its heart-wrenching lyrics about loneliness and a sweeping orchestral arrangement, it aimed to be a powerful ballad. The dramatic piano and Carmen’s vocal delivery made it a tearjerker that resonated with many listeners.

Today, it’s hard not to hear the song’s melodrama. The sheer emotion, especially in the high notes, feels more like a performance than a heartfelt confession. While it’s still an anthem for those feeling down, its theatrical style can make it seem a little over-the-top and dated.

6. “You Light Up My Life” – Debby Boone

Debby Boone’s “You Light Up My Life” dominated the charts in the ’70s, becoming a massive hit. Its message of gratitude and love, paired with a soft melody, struck a chord with audiences. The song’s sweet sentiment made it a favorite on radio playlists and at weddings.

But over time, its earnestness has become its most divisive trait. The song’s simple lyrics and heartfelt delivery can feel a bit too sugary for today’s tastes. While it remains a symbol of its era, “You Light Up My Life” is often seen as a prime example of ’70s ballad cheesiness.

7. “Feelings” – Morris Albert

Morris Albert’s “Feelings” is a song that lays out raw emotion with little restraint. Its repetitive lyrics and slow, emotional delivery became a hallmark of ’70s ballads. The song was covered by many artists, turning it into a staple of easy-listening stations throughout the decade.

However, the endless repetition of the word “feelings” has made it a target for parody over the years. Its sincerity now seems almost exaggerated, making it feel more like a guilty pleasure than a serious ballad. For many, it’s a song that’s easy to remember—and just as easy to poke fun at.