The ’70s, ’80s and ’90s were a musically powerful moment in history where artists like David Bowie, 2Pac, Queen, The Bee Gees and Dr. Dre paved the way to our current modern hits. Here is a list of must have ’70s, ’80s and ’90s music that should always find a place in your music playlist.

1. “Changes” by David Bowie (1971)

“Changes” is arguably one of Bowie’s most well-known songs. The lyrics speak about the movement of time and the legacy we leave for our children and their children. This song is a reminder as time ticks away. It is inevitable for change to occur.

2. “American Pie” by Don McLean (1971)

According to The Washington Post, on a cold February day in 1959, Buddy Holly charted a plane that was meant to fly himself, Ritchie Valens and J.P. Richardson, aka “The Big Bopper,” even though weather conditions did not permit it. Unfortunately the plane crashed, and McLean created a tribute with his lyrics, because it really was “the day the music died.”

3. “December, 1963” by The Four Seasons (1975)

According to Songfacts, this catchy dance rock disco number was originally written by The Four Seasons keyboard player and backing vocalist Bob Gaudio and initially was titled “December 5th, 1933.” The lyrics were essentially commenting on the Prohibition, but were later changed to a nostalgic memory about an affair taking place and the dynamic relationship Gaudio shares with his wife. “Oh what a night,” indeed it was!

4. “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” by Natalie Cole (1975)

The daughter of Nat King Cole had a lot to live up to with her father’s name, but her first original single was nothing short of impressive to say the least. Her father died when she was 15 years old, but the music tells a story of its own.

5. “You’re My Best Friend” by Queen (1975)

According to Songfacts, the bass guitarist John Deacon wrote this hit song for his wife Veronica Tetzlaff. This pop rock single was—and still is—considered a greatest hit.

6. “Stayin’ Alive” by The Bee Gees (1977)

What could be better than the Gibb brothers and disco music? Their hit single “Stayin’ Alive” that would later be known as one of their most recognized songs.

7. “Don’t Stop” by Fleetwood Mac (1977)

According to Songfacts, Fleetwood Mac’s keyboard player Christine McVie wrote this song to reflect how she felt after her marriage with John McVie came to an end. This song hit No. 3 on the Billboard singles chart. The lyrics are raw and listeners can interpret her struggles as a new chapter marked in her life; but regardless this tune has an uplifting beat, which always reminds us that tomorrow is a new day filled with better things to come.

8. “Always Something There to Remind Me” by Naked Eyes (1983)

This song was written in the perspective of a man going through a breakup and his constant struggle of being reminded of her wherever he goes. Naked Eye members Burt Bacharach and Hal David wrote this song, and Tony Mansfield produced it.

9. “It Was a Good Day” by Ice Cube (1992)

This West Coast hip-hop song is from the album The Predator by artist Ice Cube, who raps about his life and the benefits of his success. Ice Cube’s lyrics reflect the importance of appreciating his past, and acknowledging the hard work and efforts that led him to his future successes.

10. “California Love” by 2Pac ft. Dr. Dre (1995)

After 2Pac was released from prison in 1995, he created this hit single that would later be nominated for a Grammy as a Best Rap Solo Performance. The song mentions multiple California hometown cities such as Compton, Watts and Long Beach, and the background beat is so catchy and original that even 20 years since its release, this song is still being blasted from coast to coast.

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