Four terrifically underrated songs from the 1970s that deserve more attention

The 1970s were fantastic, right? Sure, there were a bunch of overly saccharine songs, but there were some barebone greats, too. In other words, there was a lot of versatility.

There was disco (ick!) and punk and everything in between. Some artists that became all-time greats came to us as well. Elton John and David Bowie were two such artists, and each has a song on the list below.

Another on the list never became big enough. Pun intended. Well, maybe two of the artists fit that description.

Four underrated gems from the 1970s

Big Star - "September Gurls"

Big Star was one of those bands who should have been bigger than they ever were but had a heavy influence on many bands that were come after. Forming in Memphis in the early 1970s, they were influenced by bands such as the Beatles and the Byrds, but their sound became something few would doubt was Southern. Their versatility to play nearly any kind of rock and do well might have actually held them back.

"September Gurls" is power pop but not the kind of music fans would get used to in the 1980s. The song is not overproduced. It's cut to perfection. You will be humming the tune for days.

David Bowie - "Be My Wife"

One of the more straightforward songs on Low musically, the words are also a lot more direct than most in Bowie's catalog from the 1970s. Does he fully believe what he is delivering? Maybe or maybe not, but it doesn't matter. The only issue with the song is that the title sounds a bit too happy and loving.

The lyrics are different, however. They are just a play on different themes, even though there are only two verses. What makes this song great is that it never stops moving forward, propelled by a fantastic rhythm and driving guitar. It's pure fun. (The words will get stuck in your head, however.)

Richard and Linda Thompson - "Dimming of the Day"

If you have ever wondered about the best song ever written about unrequited love, look no further. This is it. There is a hint that the narrator has spent time with the person they adore but that they have been spurned. Yet, they still long for the person even as they see the person on the street with someone else.

It's overwhelming sad and elaborately beautiful. The original features Linda's vocals with Richard's immaculate pacing on his acoustic guitar. The tune is simple, but the execution is anything but.

Elton John - "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters"

Bernie Taupin gets a bit of credit, of course, for how successful John became, and he should. But he likely does not get enough credit, and he likely never could. This song marries Taupin's brilliantly descriptive words of a scene in New York City with John's unnatural ability to create an aching melody that seems far too easy and yet unmatchable.

The chorus is slowly cathartic unto itself. Just a list of words and jobs and yet we feel as if we are being wound through a street in New York and living a story. It's beautiful and somehow uncomfortable. Just the way Taupin wanted it.

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